Area Development
Perrone Robotics, a developer of autonomous car software, will invest $3.8 million to expand its research and development operation in Albemarle County, Virginia. The project will add to its test track and facilities. The company expects to create 127 new jobs over the next three years.

“Having fallen in love with the area during my college years, I relocated back to Charlottesville in 2003 to establish a robotics company,” said Perrone Robotics CEO Paul Perrone. “For me, this region offered the perfect blend of high tech energy and a cultured university town with arts, high quality of living, and natural beauty that is unmatched in the U.S. “

“As a pioneering high-tech robotics and autonomous vehicle company, we’ve been able to establish a development center here with a private driverless vehicle test track, large robot maker space and workshop, and flexible office space. All this complete with the Blue Ridge Mountains as a backdrop and proximity to the emerging Crozet downtown mall. These facilities and work environment give us not only a tremendous competitive edge to create autonomous vehicles and robotics, but also attract high tech staff who want to be part of the historic gold rush in robotic vehicles while embracing the rich and diverse lifestyle in the heart of Virginia,” he added.

Virginia Economic Development Partnership will support Perrone Robotics’ new job creation through its Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP).

“Entrepreneurial companies like Perrone Robotics are putting Virginia on the map for cutting-edge industry and the jobs that come with it,” said Governor Terry McAuliffe, speaking at the event. “This expansion is a testament to Virginia’s stellar technology workforce and competitive business climate, particularly for high-tech companies in sectors like autonomous vehicles. Perrone Robotics’ impressive growth is a great example of the success that companies large and small are having in the new Virginia economy, and we are proud to have this industry leader on our corporate roster.”

“Today's announcement marks another huge win for Virginia's nationally recognized and expanding autonomous and unmanned vehicle industries,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Todd Haymore. “Perrone is a true Virginia entrepreneurial success story. The company, which began 14 years ago as a small business, is growing its team significantly. I'm confident it will continue to attract a strong pipeline of talent, and Albemarle County will greatly benefit from these new, 21st century jobs.”

“Albemarle County is pleased to have partnered with the Economic Development Authority to support this important economic development initiative in our community,” said Ann Mallek, District Representative for the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors. “Working with the EDA to match funds provided through the VJIP grant, we have creatively and collaboratively leveraged our assets to support Perrone Robotics’ successful growth and expansion in our community, thereby providing access to employment opportunities and upward mobility for local residents.”