Ford's Joint Venture in China

12/10/96

Reuters reports that Jiangling Motors Corp Ltd has announced its intent to develop a new line of automobiles in 1997 with Ford Motor Company. The company hopes the move will help it improve its competitive edge in China's domestic market.

The statement said Jiangling and Ford will begin producing Ford's newly designed Transit series, which includes buses, vans and trucks. Jiangling spokesman Xiong Zhongping said Jiangling and Ford would initially make buses powered by Jiangling engines equipped with Japanese technology. Xiong said that the buses will improve Jiangling's competitiveness, but didn't give details. Jiangling currently makes light trucks.

Xiong said Jiangling will streamline its management, upgrade its production technology, and increase its light truck exports. Xiong said, "Jiangling began exporting a small portion of its trucks to Egypt and the Middle East this year, which was fairly successful. With Ford's help in technology and marketing, Jiangling will see its operations gradually improving in the coming years."

Paul Dever -- The Auto Channel