Changan Auto Starts Third Overseas R&d Centre

Chongqing Changan Automobile Co Ltd, the third-largest automaker in China, started its third overseas research and development center at Nottingham Science Park in England, source reported. 
 
Prior to the new R&D centre, Changan Auto has built its first two overseas R&D centers in Turin, Italy and in Yokohama, Japan. The new establishment will be the eighth Chinese overseas auto R&D centers.
 
The move is to make use of England's strength in engines and transmissions, and improve the firm's design and development capability of the powertrain system. The new centre will also enhance Changan Auto's capability in automotive interior and exterior design, and will employ 25-30 employees in its initial period. The total staff may reach 200 by the end of 2013.
 
In addition, the Nottingham center is likely to become the firm's global core R&D center, according to source in the firm.
 
Currently, many automakers such as Ford, Nissan, Toyota, Rolls Royce, Aston Martin, Lotus and Tata have set up R&D centers in England, attracted by its rich local resources in auto design and human resource.