ANN ARBOR, Mich. - Tecumseh Products Co. announced that it will create a state-of-the-art Tecumseh Technology Center within a recently-purchased, newly-constructed 48,000-square-foot building in Ann Arbor. Slated for completion in summer 2011, Tecumseh’s new facility will join certified Tecumseh labs in France, Brazil, and India to form the backbone of a global engineering strategy with increased focus on research, development, and applications. Much of the current lab in Tecumseh, Mich., also will be relocated to the Ann Arbor facility and its capabilities significantly upgraded.

“The creation of the Tecumseh Technology Center is a significant investment in the future that benefits our customers, shareholders, employees, and the environment,” said Jim Wainright, president and CEO. “It allows us to strategically focus on the changing needs of the refrigeration and air conditioning marketplace, developing the most energy-efficient and eco-friendly products possible.”

The Tecumseh Technology Center will meet Energy Star® accreditation qualifications, as well as continue to be fully UL® and ISO certified. It will have complete hydrocarbon development and testing capability and enhanced environmental simulation facilities.

In addition to striving for energy efficiency in product development, Tecumseh also will pursue LEED certification on the lab facility build-out as part of its commitment to new technologies and improving the environment.

“We fully expect the new center to attract highly-skilled technicians and engineers, as well as partnerships to help Tecumseh develop new technologies and bring our customers a steady stream of next-generation applications,” Wainright said. “We’re pleased to solidify our commitment to the Ann Arbor area, one of the key research hubs of the United States. We also want to acknowledge the supportive partnership we’ve enjoyed with the city of Tecumseh throughout our history.”

Publication date: 01/10/2011