The project covers a total building surface area of around 36,000 square meters, with the facilities to be operational from 2017 to develop the powertrains of the future. The new centre will also house 43 newest-generation performance test benches.

CEO Dr Karl-Thomas Neumann said: ‘Our model offensive is in full swing – and engines are a very important part of this offensive.’

The construction project is part of the investment announced last year that earmarks €230m euros for new testing and engineering facilities at the International Technical Development Center (ITDC) and at the Test Center Rodgau-Dudenhofen. Of this figure, €210m is being invested in the Rüsselsheim site.

Steven Kiefer, head of GM Powertrain, said: ‘Important new engine generations will be created in Rüsselsheim, including their applications for all markets where GM is present. The new facilities meet globally uniform technical standards and increase the flexibility, development speed and efficiency of the entire group.’

The construction project forms part of the Opel engine offensive. To 2018, Opel will introduce 27 new models and 17 new, economical engines to the market in line with its plans to increase market share in Europe to 8% by 2022.

Board Member for Engineering Michael Ableson said: ‘We are looking at the whole diverse variety of future propulsion technologies that are more economical and environmentally friendly. The combustion engine maintains an important role, as it still has a lot of potential. As one of the pioneers of clean propulsion, it is Opel’s goal to not only undercut the future stringent CO2 barriers, but to also ensure driving fun and best performance at the same time.’