Founded in 1998, the Volkswagen of America Electronics Research Laboratory (ERL) focuses on providing customers with smarter cars, sooner. The firm is a part of the global research and development network that supports the Volkswagen Group brands. These brands include Audi, Bentley, Bugatti, Lamborghini and VW. Located in Silicon Valley, the firm draw upon its innovation spirit to build new concepts and technologies for its future vehicles. It aims to identify new technologies and accelerate their development into future production vehicles.