Innovation is a key element of our entire value chain. It is integrated into each of our processes and activities and used to open up our business and drive it forward, contributing to ongoing Applus+ growth and development.
In 2015, Applus+ undertook 133 R&D projects plus nine additional IT projects developed at corporate level. These projects involved 434 Applus+ staff, around 266,880 hours of work and a further 23,500 subcontracted hours on other projects carried out in collaboration with external entities.
Applus+ has made particular efforts to develop innovative solutions for the aerospace, oil & gas and automotive sectors, with emphasis on the areas of safety and security, as well as sustainable mobility.
In addition, Applus+ collaborates actively with external entities such as technological centres, universities, research institutes and other innovative companies. In 2015, Applus+ entered into agreements with 97 external bodies.
One of our key goals in terms of innovation is to remain at the cutting-edge of technology; to be a global reference in our fields. Throughout 2015, Applus+ has taken part in 78 events worldwide, as well as contributing to 53 technical papers and 38 training sessions. Furthermore, Applus+ holds 57 patents in 27 different families as well as several applications.
For further information, see the full Applus+ CSR Report or the Executive CSR summary.