GM grows connected and autonomous vehicle engineering and software work in Canada

Jun. 10, 2016 – Today, General Motors — along with prime minister Justin Trudeau and Ontario premier Kathleen Wynne — announced a major expansion to its engineering and software work in Canada, focusing on “innovative” new automotive systems and technologies for the future.

GM said it intends to expand its Canadian engineering base to reach a total of 1,000 positions over the next few years and will open a new Automotive Software Development Centre in Markham, Ont., to accommodate the growing team. A statement from the automaker noted that hiring for the new positions has already commenced.

The new work will focus on: autonomous vehicle software & controls development; active safety and vehicle dynamics technology; infotainment and connected vehicle technology, “all important areas for the development of new connected, autonomous and shared vehicles and mobility systems,” the company said in a statement.

“We selected Canada for this expansion because of its clear capacity for innovation, proven talent and strong ecosystem of great universities, startups and innovative suppliers,” said Mark Reuss, GM executive vice-president, global product development, purchasing and supply chain. “With this expansion, GM Canada will play an important role in our evolution toward vehicles that are connected, autonomous, shared and electric.”

Headquartered in Oshawa, Ont., General Motors of Canada employs more than 9,000 people across the country.

“A dynamic new innovation cluster is emerging here to support some of the most exciting work in our global industry,” added Steve Carlisle, president and managing director at General Motors Canada. “We look forward to working with Canada’s leaders and innovation partners to place Canada at the forefront of the key transportation technologies that are changing our world for the better.”

The automaker also announced it will be investing $10 million in its Kapuskasing Cold Weather testing facility where it conducts testing for a range of new GM products and technologies.

“The investments announced today will create good paying jobs, grow Canada’s middle class, and ensure a brighter future for all Canadians. Meeting with CEO Mary Barra at the World Economic Forum, I made the case for investing in Canada. I applaud GM for choosing Canada to be the home base for its global centre for advanced vehicle software development,” said Trudeau.