In 2005, the average was 12 applications each working day. Bosch’s patent applications rose 9 percent in 2006 to 3,056 patents, exceeding its prior year level of 2,803.

"These figures underscore the Bosch Group's innovative strength, which results in beneficial solutions that improve the quality of life," said Dr. Siegfried Dais, deputy chairman of the board of management, whose responsibilities include research and advance engineering at Bosch.  In 2006, Bosch invested 5.2 billion USD, or 7.6 percent of its sales, in research and development.

In North America, the Bosch Group manufactures and markets automotive original equipment and aftermarket products, industrial automation and mobile products, power tools and accessories, security technology, thermotechnology, packaging equipment and household appliances. Bosch employs 24,750 associates in more than 80 primary and 20 associated facilities throughout the region with reported sales of $8.8 billion in 2006.