YASA, an electric motor business wholly owned by Mercedes-Benz, has agreed to pre-let three buildings at Bicester Motion’s new Innovation Quarter for its UK headquarters.
Once complete, the £60 million Innovation Quarter will occupy 215,000 sq ft of the 444-acre Oxfordshire estate – 88,000 sq ft of which has been set aside for YASA on a 15-year lease.
With Cherwell District Council currently considering a reserved matters application, construction is due to start on-site in Summer 2024 with practical completion expected next spring.
All three buildings will target BREEAM Excellent certification and EPC A rating, with dedicated ecology and biodiversity areas, green space amenities for staff health and wellbeing and bicycle parking spaces.
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They’ll also be prepared for the creation of solar PV technology.
Markus Keicher, CEO of YASA, said: “Having grown out of an Oxford University PhD in 2009, YASA’s home has always been in Oxfordshire.
“It’s 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.
“Bicester Motion is the right place for this and we’re excited for the next stage of our journey as part of Mercedes-Benz.”
YASA joined Mercedes-Benz in 2021 and currently employs more than 400 people across several Oxfordshire sites – many of whom are due to relocate to the new Bicester Motion HQ in January 2026.
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Daniel Geoghegan, chief executive of Bicester Motion, added: “This is significant news for not just Bicester Motion, but also the town, Oxfordshire and UK PLC.
“YASA’s 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 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.”
That plan involves significant infrastructure improvements throughout and beyond the site, including cycle routes and connections to Bicester North station and the surrounding area.
Bicester Motion expects the Innovation Quarter development to create more than 500 construction jobs in a boost for the local economy.
Adalta Real represented Bicester Motion on the deal with YASA. Adalta Real and Bidwells are the commercial leasing agents.
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