Dubai, July 23, 2003 -- General Electric has broken new ground with the opening of a US$52 million research facility in Munich, the company's first in Europe and the fourth worldwide. The new state-of-the-art research and development centre, located on the campus of the University of Munich (TUM), will develop advanced research and technology for all of GE's businesses.
"With innovation and technology at the heart of everything we do at GE, customers in the Middle East and worldwide will benefit tremendously from additional research and development facilities," said Abdullah Taibah, Corporate Regional Executive for GE in the Middle East.
GE Global Research, one of the world's most diversified industrial research labs, will employ 150 scientists and researchers at the new 107,600-square foot research facility. The new centre in Europe, which will be operational in 2004, will join GE's other three research and development facilities located in New York, Bangalore and Shanghai, and will specialise in the development of new GE technologies and breakthroughs in such diverse industries as medical imaging, aircraft engines, power generation, materials, lighting and locomotives. The three existing facilities currently employ approximately 2,200 scientists cumulatively.
"Technology is the key driver for GE's future growth, and GE Global Research - Europe will be a welcome addition to our world-class technology team," said Jeffrey R. Immelt, Chairman and CEO, General Electric. "To have the best products and services, you have to have the best technology, and that's what we deliver to our customers throughout the world."
GE Global Research - Europe will focus on developing new technologies in four main areas, including alternative energy systems, sensor technology, advanced medical imaging and automotive technology. At GE's R&D facility, researchers will aim to develop clean energy system technologies including wind energy, microturbines, fuel cells and hydrogen energy systems, which will have applications in numerous industries. In the field of medical diagnostics, research will be conducted on real-time 3D ultrasound, mammography and MRI imaging technology.
In addition, GE will focus on developing new applications for automotive technology including power electronics, emissions and control sensors, as well as advanced thermoplastics and next-generation lighting and hydrogen storage systems. All industries will also benefit from GE's sophisticated sensor technology, which will develop miniature devices capable of providing monitoring, protection and control for a number of applications including biomedical, water purification, automotive and industrial processes.
Construction of the new facility will continue through the first quarter 2004 and will begin operations in summer 2004. The team of GE researchers at the new research centre in Munich will be led by Dr. Armin Pfoh, a 13-year GE veteran. Dr. Pfoh has led a variety of medical imaging programs at GE Global Research headquarters in Niskayuna, New York and has worked as a physicist for GE Medical Systems.
"One of our key strengths is our relentless emphasis on research, which is felt by our customers and is reflected in our innovative and competitive products - whether in the aviation, energy, consumer goods, healthcare or any other industry. At GE, we strive to maintain our position as a leader in technology and customer service - our edge is innovation and the uncompromising passion of the people behind GE to achieve this," added Taibah.
Since its founding in 1892 by Thomas Edison, GE's hallmark has been technological leadership. In its 111-year history, GE has registered more than 70,000 patents in the United States alone, and has had two Nobel prize winners. During that time, GE has brought to life innovations such as the first medical X-ray tube, man-made diamonds, Lexan¨ polycarbonate, the digital X-ray system, and the world's most powerful jet engine.
GE has been active in the Gulf since 1933. Its activities in the region are conducted through direct presence, joint ventures, strategic alliances, and a wide network of distributors. GE has completed strategic projects in various hi-tech industrial sectors, defence-related contracts and major infrastructure developments.
GE is a diversified technology, manufacturing and services company based on more than a century of achievement and innovation. Today, it is the only company listed in the Dow Jones Industrial Index that was also included in the original listing of 1896. GE operates in more than 100 countries and employs nearly 300,000 people worldwide.
GE Global Research is one of the world's most diversified industrial research labs, providing innovative technology for all of GE's (NYSE: GE) businesses. Global Research has been the cornerstone of GE technology for more than 100 years, developing breakthrough innovations in areas such as medical imaging, energy generation technology, jet engines and lighting. GE Global Research is headquartered in Niskayuna, New York and has facilities in Bangalore, India; Shanghai, China; and Munich, Germany. Visit GE Global Research at www.research.ge.com.
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