Leading German automotive manufacturer Continental AG announced to build a research and development center in Chongqing's Liangjiang New Area on June 8.

Continental AG plans to invest a total of 280 million yuan ($41.2 million) in its new R&D center. The center will focus on developing products and solutions for powertrain and chassis components, automotive safety and interior electronics.

The first stage of project is projected to be put into operation at the end of 2018, employing more than 400 engineers by 2020 with the number increasing to 1,000 by 2025. The R&D center will add new energy and vigor to the Liangjiang New Area and the local government will provide a convenient investment environment for Continental AG, according to Chen Lyuping, deputy mayor of Chongqing.

"The automobile industry is booming in western China. Chongqing, in particular, is the most important area for it. The new R&D center will help our company establish a closer relationship with our Chinese clients and meet the increasing demand of China's auto market," said Tang En, CEO of Continental AG (China).

The groundbreaking ceremony for Continental AG's Chongqing R&D Center is held in the Liangjiang New Area on June 8. [Photo/liangjiang.gov.cn]

Chen Lyuping, deputy mayor of Chongqing, meets with Tang En, CEO of Continental AG (China), to discuss future cooperation on June 8. [Photo/liangjiang.gov.cn]

Edited by Zachary Dye