Virtual Reality is the key in Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Since 2013, the Bosch Engineering Center in ClujNapoca has been playing a central role in shaping the mobility of tomorrow. Boasting expertise in software, hardware, mechanical engineering and sales planning, the center develops solutions for automated driving, electric vehicles and connected mobility – powered by artificial intelligence.

The center is located at the site of a former clothing factory in the heart of Cluj. Over the years, a modern campus with a canteen, gym, offices and laboratories, surrounded by an urban garden, has been built there. The passage that runs through the site is open to both associates and the public.

The first construction phase, which offers space for 550 associates, was completed in February 2020. Due to the growing global demand for high-end software, sensor and hardware solutions, construction of a second building started in 2021 and was completed at the end of 2023. The expansion has created an additional 550 to 600 modern workplaces and largely eliminated the need to rent space.

The new building extends over nine floors aboveground and has a basement that offers 70 underground parking spaces. The net floor area amounts to 10,150 m². Workshops with vehicle test benches are located on the first floor, while open-space offices, laboratories, coworking areas and test zones for sensors and simulations are housed on the upper floors.

Between the fifth and sixth floors, there is a two-level forum, which offers space for events, workshops and communication. The two buildings are connected by footbridges on the second and fifth floors. An almost completely glass-paneled façade with centrally controlled solar shading provides plenty of daylight and a pleasant working environment. Sustainability is also a top priority: A 85-kWp photovoltaic system on the roof supplies part of the energy, while the air conditioning system is operated with a refrigerant that has a very low impact on global warming.

A first for Bosch: The project was planned using virtual reality technology for the first time. Associates were able to use VR headsets to take a virtual tour of the building before construction began and were asked to provide feedback.

The result: Thanks to this approach, around 65% of the costs that would otherwise have been spent on external planning services were saved, making this project a huge success!