NOVI, Mich., July 17, 2008 – Harman Becker Automotive Systems, Inc., the world’s largest supplier of high-end automotive audio and infotainment systems, announced the company will consolidate its North American acoustic development group from two out-of-state locations to a location in Novi.

The new 51,536-square foot facility will include office space, research and development areas and labs. Harman Becker Automotive plans to invest up to $10 million in the project. The new facility is expected to create 135 jobs in Novi and will be located in the Haggerty Corridor Corporate Park.

"Harman Becker chose Novi knowing it is an excellent community and because it is centrally located to our other operations in the region," noted Chris Rau, Senior Manager of Human Resources for Harman Becker Automotive Systems. "We look forward to becoming more involved with the community as we move forward."

Harman Becker Automotive Systems is a unit of Harman International Industries. The German-based corporation is a leader in the field of home and auto audio and cinema products. The company has audio products that carry the Harman Kardon®, Infinity®, JBL®, Mark Levinson®, Lexicon®, Revel®, Soundcraft®, Studer®, Digitech®, dbx® and AKG® names and employs over 8,600 people worldwide.

"Harman Becker is one of the foremost companies in producing the infotainment systems that we take for granted in our vehicles," commented Ara Topouzian, City of Novi Economic Development Manager. "This new R&D facility will be the perfect addition to our growing high tech business community in Novi."

For more information about doing business in Novi, visit investnovi.org.