Ontario Embraces Siemens’ $150 M Investment to Launch New Technology Centre

Ontario Embraces Siemens' $150 Million Investment to Launch New Technology Centre in Oakville 
This investment is expected to generate up to 90 new jobs and reinforce Ontario's position in battery manufacturing. 

Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade 

GERMANY — The government of Ontario is pleased to announce a $150 million investment from Siemens, a prominent technology firm, aimed at establishing a Global AI Manufacturing Technologies Research and Development (R&D) Center for Battery Production at its Oakville headquarters. This initiative will concentrate on the advancement of artificial intelligence manufacturing technologies to enhance electric vehicle (EV) battery production, resulting in the creation of up to 90 well-paying jobs throughout the province and significantly contributing to the enhancement of value and innovation within Ontario's EV battery supply chain. 

"Siemens' recent investment in Ontario reflects a strong endorsement of our exceptional workforce, our business-friendly environment, and our expanding comprehensive EV supply chain," stated Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario. "I am excited to welcome this investment and to further strengthen our long-standing partnership with Siemens, which has been in place for over a century." 

The R&D center established by Siemens will prioritize the development of innovative AI manufacturing technologies aimed at improving battery efficiency and optimizing production methods. This investment was revealed during Ontario's mission to Germany, where a delegation of more than 30 Ontario companies is presenting the province's industrial innovation and creativity at the Hannover Messe trade show.

According to Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, "Ontario remains a premier global hub for investment and job creation, especially in the electric vehicle (EV) and EV battery sectors, thanks to our exceptional workforce and favorable business climate. We are excited to announce Siemens' latest investment, which will generate up to 90 well-paying jobs in Ontario."

Once it becomes operational, the center will facilitate partnerships between battery manufacturers and academic institutions to enhance the skills of the province's automotive workforce. The anticipated results from the research and development center include improved and consistent quality in battery manufacturing, enhanced workforce productivity and capacity, reduced battery waste, and better recycling and circular economy practices. To support this initiative, Ontario is allocating $7.2 million in funding through the Invest Ontario Fund.

The automotive sector in Ontario has historically been a significant driver of economic growth, fostering innovation and generating quality employment opportunities for residents throughout the province. Since 2020, Ontario has successfully attracted over $46 billion in new investments from international automakers, thereby reinforcing its manufacturing foundation and ensuring that products are made in Ontario by local workers.

Key Facts:
Siemens has a long-standing presence in Canada, with operations spanning over a century and currently encompassing 37 offices and manufacturing sites nationwide.
Annually, more than 70,000 students graduate from STEM programs at post-secondary institutions in the province, contributing to one of the most skilled workforces globally.
With a global network of 14 Trade and Investment Offices (TIOs) in key markets such as Germany, Ontario is actively pursuing new investments, partnerships, and market access for local businesses while enhancing the province's international profile.
Investing in Ontario provides companies with access to a well-educated workforce, a diverse supply chain, a cost-competitive business environment, and a stable economic and political landscape.

Invest Ontario serves as the province's primary agency for attracting investments. Since its establishment, it has facilitated over $4.1 billion in investments, resulting in the creation of more than 4,000 well-paying jobs.

Quotes
"The creation of a Global AI Manufacturing Technologies R&D Center for Battery Production in Canada will significantly enhance the nation's battery and electric vehicle ecosystem. It will promote collaboration between higher education institutions and battery manufacturers, driving innovation within the industry. With backing from Siemens and support from both provincial and federal governments, this initiative will not only boost Canada's competitiveness in the global battery market but also contribute to the nation's economic development."

- Faisal Kazi 
President and CEO, Siemens Canada

"Our choice to establish the Global AI Manufacturing Technologies R&D Center in Canada was influenced by the country's highly skilled workforce and robust partnerships with leading universities. This new center for Battery Production will position Siemens as a pivotal player in the global battery industry, enabling the development of essential technological advancements to meet the rising demand for these products."

- Rainer Brehm 
CEO, Factory Automation, Siemens Digital Industries

"Siemens Canada's global R&D center will provide Ontario's battery manufacturers with the necessary technology to maintain a competitive edge in a rapidly changing industry. This investment represents a significant milestone for Ontario's emerging leadership in battery manufacturing and underscores the province's prominence in the automotive sector."

- Khawar Nasim 
CEO, Invest Ontario

"Siemens Canada's $150 million investment in Oakville highlights Ontario's leadership in advanced manufacturing and innovation. This new global research and development center will propel cutting-edge AI manufacturing technologies, fortify our province's position in the expanding electric vehicle and battery supply chain, and generate up to 90 high-quality jobs. This investment strengthens Oakville's status as a center for technological innovation and economic development, contributing to the creation of a more sustainable and prosperous future for Ontario.

- Stephen Crawford 
MPP for Oakville
Edited by Olatunbosun Ibrahim