The Nardò Technical Center (NTC) in Apulia, southern Italy, is a central location for vehicle development and testing for Porsche and many other car manufacturers worldwide. The NTC was acquired by Porsche Engineering Group in 2012, and since then it has been continuously modernised in order to further optimise the testing of future mobility technologies.
In order to expand its range of services, Porsche presented a development plan for NTC. In March 2024, the Apulia Region decided to suspend the programme agreement for the approval of the development plan, most recently until the end of March 2025. Porsche has now decided not to proceed with the development plan.
Porsche says its decision is the result of “comprehensive reflection and intensive discussions” with various stakeholders over the past months. The considerations included social, environmental and economic perspectives, especially the currently challenging industry environment and the changed circumstances for the global automotive industry.
The NTC will remain as an important part of the integrated development and testing capabilities of Porsche as well as a partner for the international automotive industry. Vehicle testing will continue to be conducted at the site year-round, accelerating innovative mobility technologies.
The NTC extends over 700 hectares, with facilities including a 12.6km-long circuit, a 6.2km-long handling course and many other test options. Since 2023, a software unit in nearby Lecce has been expanding its technological competencies in southern Italy.
