By General Motors Corporation
Shanghai – General Motors Company announced today the establishment of its China Science Lab in Shanghai. The unique facility will carry out important research projects in a number of automotive-related fields for General Motors. As the first major science lab established by a global automaker in China, it will contribute to technological innovation, both domestically and on a worldwide basis.

“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.”

“GM has long been an active supporter of all aspects of China’s automotive industry,” according to Kevin Wale, President and Managing Director of the GM China Group. “Through the China Science Lab, we will leverage the country’s outstanding research talent together with GM’s extensive resources to come up with new innovations for the benefit of vehicle users around the globe.”

The China Science Lab’s initial focus will be on research related to advanced propulsion technology and joining technology. The China Science Lab will also focus on battery cells, megacity safety research, advanced vehicle development, and light materials. It will engage in additional activities in accordance with market conditions and its own research capability as it ramps up. 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.”