Physical Access Cruising at DaimlerChrysler

The larger the facility, the greater the benefits of standardization in door hardware. A prime example is the ever-expanding Detroit-based DaimlerChrysler Technical Center. The facility, which was planned almost 15 years ago with 7,500 doors, has almost tripled in size since then. Dedicated as the Chrysler Technology Center in 1981, the facility grew to become home to the company’s entire vehicle making functions, as well as its world headquarters. Among the functions and facilities housed within the complex are the design office, vehicle platform engineering and evaluation facilities, scientific laboratories and education center. At its dedication, the $1.1 billion, 4.4-million sq. ft. Auburn Hills complex was touted as the largest facilities investment in the corporation’s history. The technical center represented $900 million of the investment. After the merger of Europe’s largest industrial company and one of the America’s largest automotive manufacturers, Lynn Brancheau, CML, DaimlerChrysler physical security, a 30-year security veteran—18 for Chrysler and 14 years before Chrysler as a proprietary locksmith dealing with larger corporations doing locking hardware, specifying, early access control/burglar alarm systems—notes that the DC technical center covers is what is probably one of the largest areas under one roof.