Mega-city safety research is on the agenda.
General Motors Company has established a China Science Lab in Shanghai. The “unique” facility will carry out research projects in a number of automotive-related fields for General Motors.
GM claims the first major science lab established by a global automaker in China will contribute to technological innovation, both domestically and on a worldwide basis.
China is the largest auto market in the world, and General Motors is now, arguably, a more successful company in China than in its home market where share continues to decline.
“Our vision for the China Science Lab is to be recognized as a world-class R&D organization that will help drive GM’s automotive business into the future,” said Alan Taub, GM’s new Vice President of Global Research and Development.
“Our aim is to develop breakthrough technologies that will differentiate GM vehicles in the marketplace and build on GM’s long history of industry firsts. The China Science Lab’s opening demonstrates that GM is moving aggressively to maintain leadership in breakthrough technological research globally,” Taub said.
GM says the China Science Lab’s initial concentration will be on research related to advanced propulsion technology and joining technology. The China Science Lab will also focus on battery cells, mega-city safety research, advanced vehicle development, and light materials.
It will engage in additional activities in accordance with market conditions and as its own research capability increases. The China Science Lab will carry out collaborative work with universities and government-run scientific institutions across China. It is expected to employ up to 100 staff during its early stage of operation.
John Du, who has 20 years of professional experience in technology research management, will lead the China Science Lab. He will oversee research and technology development.
“I am very excited to be able to leverage my many years of experience conducting research in China at General Motors,” said Du. “The China Science Lab’s launch will contribute to technological innovation, collaboration and management at GM, while helping GM maintain its technology leadership position.”