PR98550

GUANGZHOU, China, Oct. 31, 2022 /PRNewswire=KYODO JBN/ --

GAC Group recently announced the opening of GAC Research and Development Center

Europe (R&D Center Europe) in Milan, Italy. As part of GAC's ongoing mission to

go global, the launch of R&D Center Europe marks another milestone in the

company's expansion strategy. The hub pools together the world's top industry

resources including leading suppliers and R&D institutions, forming an

ecosystem of global excellence to strengthen overall innovative and design

capabilities.

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The Milan facility plays a pivotal role in implementing the company's R&D

scheme abroad. As per the long-term strategic move of "Design First, Other

Fields to Follow", the team plans to prioritize prospective research in the

design of concept cars and pre-production models and explore the field of

emerging technologies at a later stage.

Zhang Fan, Vice President of GAC R&D Centre, said: "Design is one of the most

important values for the GAC Group and, in today's market, a key decision

factor for customers. We have chosen the city of Milan as our first European

design hub for its strong cultural and creative identity, which combines ideas

in motion, innovation, and heritage of style and design. "

Stephane Janin, Director of GAC Advanced Design Europe, will oversee operations

at the new facility in Milan. Janin is known as "the master of concept cars" in

the design industry and was a former lead of Renault's concept car department.

Janin will head a team of "Made in Europe" talent, joined by members of GAC

Design studios in China and the US. Together, they will play an active part in

Milan's creative community, facilitating the exchange of innovative ideas and

practices on a global level.

With the support of the new team, GAC MOTOR can leverage Europe's sophisticated

culture and talent, as well as the region's extensive experience in production,

R&D network and progressive design outlook to maximize GAC MOTOR vehicles'

appeal and perceived value.

The carmaker exported 23,544 units between January and September of 2022, up

84% year-on-year. Since entering international markets, GAC MOTOR has

established a network of overseas distribution system in over 28 countries and

regions.

In view of the automobile industry's promising export potential, the

inauguration of GAC R&D Center Europe will offer a rare opportunity to gain

deeper access to customers abroad with the variety of resources now available

to the brand.

Source: GAC MOTOR