The event, which took place on the ground where Haldex’s European Technical Centre will be located, was also marked by the announcement that the firm has already filled several of its technical roles to be based at the Centre.

The Technical Centre, expected to open during the final quarter of 2014 will create a European research and development base for Haldex’ global product offer, and will include laboratory facilities as well as providing Haldex engineers direct access to MIRA’s own test facilities and engineering expertise.

Bo Annvik, President and CEO at Haldex, said: “Our new UK R&D Centre will reflect our dedication in creating innovative solutions with the highest safety standards. MIRA’s test track is one of the most used test tracks within Haldex today. With the new building in place engineering and testing will be co-located which will result in shorter development cycles and improved customer responsiveness. We are thrilled that the construction now has started.”

George Gillespie, CEO at MIRA Ltd, said: “Haldex is a great addition to the fast developing technology cluster within the Technology Park, and we are delighted that several of the high tech jobs required at the site - which include design and software engineers - have already been filled.

Haldex, by deciding to be based at MIRA Technology Park, really are placing themselves at the very heart of Europe’s automotive research and development community. We are certainly very excited to watch their journey as they build, and then run, their state-of-the-art new European Technical Centre here at the site.”