Sensata’s new R&D centre in Co Antrim puts Northern Ireland on the global innovation map

Pictured at Sensata Technologies’ new Northern Ireland Technology Centre in Antrim are (L-R) Darren Walker, site leader at Sensata NI, deputy First Minister Emma-Little Pengelly and Stephan von Schuckmann, CEO of Sensata Technologies.

Sensata Technologies has officially opened its new multi-million-pound research and development (R&D) facility in Newtownabbey, reinforcing the region’s growing reputation as a centre for advanced manufacturing and technological innovation.

The newly launched Northern Ireland Technology Centre (NITC) consolidates Sensata’s 360-strong team of engineers and support staff into a single, purpose-built hub at Global Point Business Park.

The move marks the culmination of a five-year project and reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to Northern Ireland, where it also employs over 250 people at its manufacturing site in Antrim.

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, who attended the official opening alongside senior Sensata executives, Invest NI’s CEO, and the Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, praised the development as a significant economic milestone.

“The opening of this new R&D facility highlights Northern Ireland’s position as a leader on the world stage,” she said.

“Sensata is a global company but this investment shows what can be achieved when multinational ambition meets local talent.

“This multi-million-pound facility will provide high-value jobs and drive economic growth, all of which is vital in ensuring a positive future for everyone.”

The site spans 67,000 sq. ft. across two BREEAM-accredited sustainable buildings, housing high-tech research laboratories, testing facilities, a demonstration garage for both HGV and automotive vehicles, and flexible working spaces including bookable offices and collaborative meeting areas.

Sensata Technologies is a $4 billion global leader in sensor solutions, and its Northern Ireland operations generate £236 million in annual revenue.

Locally, the company specialises in Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) and electric vehicle charging technologies, contributing to safer and more sustainable mobility solutions worldwide.

Driving global innovation from Northern Ireland

Stephan von Schuckmann, CEO of Sensata Technologies, hailed the launch of the NITC as a “major milestone” for the company’s global operations.

“The opening of the Northern Ireland Technology Centre marks a major milestone for Sensata Technologies—both locally and globally,” he said.

“Designed by our teams, for our teams, this facility brings together colleagues who were previously spread across five separate sites, creating a single hub to foster creativity, collaboration, and innovation.”

“Sensata is driven by precision and powered by people. Our Northern Ireland teams play a vital role in shaping global product innovation—transforming ideas into prototypes, prototypes into samples, and samples into scalable production. This new R&D centre will be instrumental in accelerating our innovation pipeline and strengthening our global capabilities.”

Sensata’s Northern Ireland team includes experts in systems engineering, software, hardware, verification and vehicle testing, all working to develop cutting-edge products from concept through to manufacturing.

A hub for advanced manufacturing

The NITC is situated within Global Point Business Park, a strategic location owned by Invest Northern Ireland, offering prime transport links and serving as a gateway for customers, suppliers, and international visitors.

Global Point is also set to host the forthcoming Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC), a flagship Belfast Region City Deal project scheduled for completion in 2026, further bolstering Northern Ireland’s status as an innovation powerhouse.

Construction of the new Sensata facility was carried out by JH Turkington & Sons Ltd, supporting 150 local jobs over a two-year build phase. The project reflects a strong commitment to sustainability, having been developed to meet BREEAM environmental performance standards.

With this strategic investment, Sensata Technologies not only consolidates its Northern Ireland operations but also positions the region as a key player in the global shift towards cleaner, smarter and more efficient vehicle technologies.