YASA, the wholly owned Mercedes-Benz subsidiary electric motor specialist, has agreed to pre-let three landmark connected buildings for its UK HQ in the new Innovation Quarter at Bicester Motion, the 444-acre estate in Bicester, Oxfordshire, home to mobility businesses past, present and future to help pioneer a sustainable mobility future.
Bicester Motion’s new Innovation Quarter is a £60 million investment to boost pioneering future mobility discovery and will deliver seven prestigious HQ buildings with views across the airfield and will total 215,000 sq ft (19,698 sq m).
YASA has taken a 15 year lease for the first phase across three interconnected buildings which total 88,000 sq ft (8,220 sq m).
A reserved matters application has been submitted to Cherwell District Council with bespoke detailed designs, layout and landscaping to enable YASA to continue its pioneering R&D and growth strategy. Construction is due to start on-site in summer 2024 and practical completion is targeted for spring 2025.
The carbon-efficient buildings will target BREEAM Excellent certification and EPC A rating. They will be prepared for solar PV technology creation and include dedicated ecology and biodiversity areas, green space amenities for staff health and wellbeing, and bicycle parking spaces.
YASA was founded in 2009, a spin out from the University of Oxford, by the founder and chief technology officer, Dr Tim Woolmer. In 2021, YASA became a wholly owned subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz, pioneering new electric drive technology for the whole Mercedes-Benz Group.
The company is leading the way in the electric propulsion evolution with its axial flux Technology, a more compact, lightweight, powerful and efficient alternative to the standard radial electric motors used in most EVs today.
YASA employs over 400 people across several sites in Oxfordshire, and includes teams in innovation, engineering, prototyping, operations, and business support functions. Many of these teams will be due to relocate to Bicester Motion in January 2026 upon completion of their new headquarters premises.
Markus Keicher, chief executive officer, YASA said: “Having grown out of an Oxford University PhD in 2009, YASA’s home has always been in Oxfordshire. It is important for the company and staff that YASA maintains a strong foothold in the area, which is seen as a heartland of automotive technology in the UK. In order to meet the next stage of YASA’s growth, we need a new facility that matches our ambition and Bicester Motion is the right place for this and we are excited for the next stage of our journey as part of Mercedes-Benz.”
Daniel Geoghegan, chief executive, Bicester Motion said: “This is significant news for not just Bicester Motion but also the town, Oxfordshire and UK PLC that pioneering electric motor specialist YASA has chosen Bicester Motion for their new HQ as they continue accelerating their business. Their new headquarters will form a focal point for our latest phase of construction to showcase their impressive sustainable advanced technology innovation and secure local training and jobs.
“By joining us, YASA’s new headquarters will enhance our already established and thriving community of 50+ companies as well as Bicester and Oxfordshire’s important role as the home to world leading automotive technology and mobility brands.
“This significant pre-let is also a catalyst for our wider masterplan vision and delivery to include hotels and the Experience Quarter.”
Bicester Motion has also committed to significant infrastructure improvements including cycle and connectivity to Bicester North station and the surrounding area. It is anticipated that more than 500 construction jobs will be created as result of the Innovation Quarter which will enhance GVA to the local economy. Adalta Real represented Bicester Motion. Adalta Real and Bidwells are the commercial leasing agents.
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