Automotive Energy Storage Development Likely in Hungary

Hungary and China may establish a research, development, testing and certification center for smart, new energy vehicles and their energy storage systems in Zalaegerszeg, ZalaZONE Vehicle Testing Track announced to MTI on Wednesday.

According to a letter of intent, a joint investment by the China-U.S. Green Fund, Zhongzhi Zhitong Testing Technology Co. Ltd., and the Hungarian test track operator Autóipari Próbapálya Zala Ltd. will build an ecosystem focused on alternative energies around ZalaZONE, which will include joint development and validation activities by Far Eastern and European vehicle manufacturers and suppliers, as well as further energy applications.

According to the announcement, the participants in the cooperation are striving to ensure that the results of research and development are utilized in industrial production as quickly as possible. The center is expected to not only accelerate technological innovation in the automotive and energy industries, but also bring new jobs, supplier opportunities, and international investment to Hungary, they added.

Based on previous information, ZalaZONE's development has reached a stage where, in addition to its research goals, market-oriented operations are becoming increasingly important, and for its further development, it is essential to establish cooperation with universities, research institutes, state developers and private companies through research in the fields of energy, automotive, agriculture and defense. The track, which is suitable for testing electric and autonomous vehicles, was built on 265 hectares based on a decision made by the government in 2016, and its newest track element was handed over in May.