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Despite
the
different
institutional
backgrounds, universityindustry relations
show similar patterns in both countries
due to the strategies of MNEs. To show
these patterns, we have chosen two short
examples from the automotive industry:
the relations of Audi and University
of Gy}or (Hungary), and the Skoda
University (Czech Republic).
Audi established its site in Gy}or (North-Western Hungary) in 1993 led by motives of
effective manufacturing possibilities. Counting 5,845 employees and realizing 5872 million
euro income in 2007, this is the second biggest private company in Hungary. Initially, the
profile of the site was mechanical manufacturing producing engines for the global network of
Audi.
The cooperation with the local university started in the field of recruiting human
resources, experts from the university helped to work out the process of appraisal
(Lengyel et al. 2006) The university proved to be very open to company needs. Audi had
subjects and even classrooms in the university building. Moreover, Audi launched a grant for
PhD students. In the course of time, close personal connections, mutual trust, was developed
among the company and university leaders. Audi began to locate R&D projects in Gy}or in
2001.
between Audi and the university has been enhanced by qualitative changes in existing
mutual relations.
Audi Hungary established one institute at the University of Gy}or. This step suits the
global strategy of Audi, which already has institutes at German universities. In addition to
this, the Hungarian subsidiary has begun development of common projects with
Budapest universities as well.