Midea opens emerging Technology Center in Silicon Valley

Leading Global Manufacturer of Air Conditioners and Home Appliances Opens New Facility Dedicated to Research and Development

SAN JOSE, CA, April 27, 2017– Midea – a leading global player in consumer appliances, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems, and robot and Industrial automation systems – is expanding its footprint in Silicon Valley with a new Emerging Technology Center (ETC) in San Jose, CA. The facility will focus primarily on Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, chips, sensors, and more, intending to provide technological support as Midea transforms itself from a home appliance enterprise to a high-tech industrial leader. The ETC is part of Midea’s overall expansion in North America which also includes a new customer service center and expanded corporate office spaces. Midea plans to invest $250 million dollars in the Silicon Valley ETC over the next five years.

A grand opening ceremony is being held today at the ETC, with Dr. Ziqiang Hu, vice president，Chief Technology Officer of Midea Group and president of Midea Corporate Research Center, and Dr. Dongyan Wang, vice president and general manager of the ETC, both scheduled to speak. Additional speakers will include the mayor of San Jose, Sam Liccardo, and officers from Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in San Francisco.

“Technology and innovation never stand still, so it’s essential that Midea keeps driving ahead to remain globally competitive,” said Dr. Ziqiang Hu, vice president and Chief Technology Officer of Midea Group. “The new ETC will leverage the creative energy in Silicon Valley to help Midea to continue to grow and deliver innovative products to its customers.”

The addition of the ETC is part of Midea’s global corporate strategy to expand its U.S. presence and to leverage Silicon Valley’s ecosystem which is focused on innovation and development. It is Midea’s second research and development center in the U.S., following the launch of the Midea America Research Center (MARC), which is located in Louisville, KY. Midea has also established research centers in Japan, Italy and Germany, with other locations on the horizon. Through continuous scientific research and a more balanced global development strategy, Midea will become a world-class leader in both products and technology.