What is the Immendingen Test Center?
Tucked into the lush terrain of southern Germany lies one of the most advanced automotive testing facilities in the world. Known officially as the Testing and Technology Centre in Immendingen, this site is where Mercedes-Benz develops the next generation of mobility. At Mercedes-Benz of Scottsdale, we’re often asked: what is the Immendingen Test Center? The answer reveals far more than just test tracks and prototypes—it’s a look into the brand’s global commitment to innovation, sustainability, and intelligent design.
What’s a Vehicle Test Center?
Opened in phases since 2018, the Immendingen facility sits roughly 130 kilometers south of Stuttgart. But its reach extends across the entire lineup of Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The question what is the Immendingen Test Center isn’t just about geography—it’s about purpose.
This 520-hectare site includes over 68 kilometers of testing tracks, simulating everything from city streets to mountain climbs. It’s where combustion engines get refined and where electric and hybrid drivetrains are rigorously tested. Moreover, this is also the proving ground for breakthroughs in Mercedes-Benz technology such as autonomous systems, advanced connectivity, and sustainable driving solutions.
Where Does Mercedes-Benz Test New Cars?
While public roads still play a role in validation, many development trials now happen at this purpose-built location. So, if you’re wondering where does Mercedes-Benz test new cars, the answer is increasingly—right here in Immendingen.
Mercedes-Benz engineers utilize more than 30 specialized circuits to replicate real-world driving conditions. From high-speed straights to tight urban-style loops, each test segment is tailored for specific needs, such as:
- Braking and emergency handling
- Rough-road durability
- Off-road capability and hill climbs
- Long-distance endurance runs
- Low-traction and winter simulation
Each test supports rapid iteration and real-time feedback, allowing engineers to push boundaries without ever leaving the grounds.
A Model of Eco-Conscious Development
Interestingly, the Immendingen site is not just an answer to where does Mercedes-Benz test new cars—it’s also a case study in responsible construction. Built on a repurposed military base, it represents a €200 million investment not just in mobility, but in environmental balance.
Mercedes-Benz ensured:
- All soil (3.4 million cubic meters) stayed on-site to reduce environmental disruption.
- Most timber removal used rail to limit emissions.
- Over 5,000 hours went into biological diversity mapping.
- Wildlife bridges and tunnels preserve regional animal migration paths.
- Long-term ecological monitoring ensures lasting sustainability.
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Driving the Future of Mercedes-Benz Technology
Mercedes-Benz uses the Immendingen center to test not only hardware but software—especially with growing emphasis on electric and autonomous vehicles. The site supports extensive data capture and vehicle-to-vehicle communication trials, laying the foundation for safer, smarter driving.
In short, it’s a testbed for:
- Electric vehicle range and charging behavior
- ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)
- Car-to-infrastructure communication
- User experience trials, from infotainment to biometric access
If you’ve ever marveled at the intelligence inside a GLE or S-Class, chances are it was perfected here.
The Human Side of a High-Tech Hub
Over 300 people now work at Immendingen, with roles in transportation, research, logistics, and infrastructure. Their goal? Shape the future of driving with rigorous, real-world testing.
For those curious about where Mercedes-Benz technology comes to life, the answer is clearer than ever. What is the Immendingen Test Center? It’s where innovation meets integrity—turning ideas into vehicles you can experience firsthand at Mercedes-Benz of Scottsdale. For your own rigorously tested Mercedes-Benz experience, contact us today!
