Volvo to open new BRIC technology centre

Volvo is planning to build a US$ 40 million design and technology centre that will focus on developing products and components especially for the Brazilian, Russian, Indian and Chinese (BRIC) markets.

The new centre will be located in Jinan, the capital city of Shangdong Province, in China. A city of six million, it is home to a talent pool of engineers drawn from its universities and engineering focused industries.

Volvo said a temporary design centre will be established in rented premises in Jinan during the construction phase, with the new centre becoming fully operational in 2012.

Recruitment of engineers will begin during the third quarter of 2010, with 20 people in place by the end of the year, rising to 60 by the end of 2011, 120 engineers by the end of 2012 and ultimately reaching its full complement of 180 people during 2013.

Anders P. Larsson, head of technology for Volvo Construction Equipment said, "This investment builds on our existing strength in product design, and is a significant vote of confidence in the competence of Chinese designers.

"It also creates a closer bond between the Volvo and Lingong organisations, leveraging synergies as well as reinforcing the company's strategic commitment to producing products tailored to the needs of customers in the BRIC countries."