Gasgoo Munich- German automotive supplier Webasto announced plans to sign an agreement with Chinese glass manufacturer Zhejiang Fujia Technology Co., Ltd. (FJT) to establish a joint venture. Webasto will hold a 30% stake in the JV, pending approval from China's anti-monopoly regulators.
Image Source: Webasto
The joint venture will focus on fixed glass roofs, or Fixed Transparent Modules (FTM). The two sides will collaborate on glass pre-processing and system integration to jointly develop and manufacture FTM products tailored for the Chinese market.
Webasto said the partnership extends its value chain in glass processing — from pre-treatment to technical integration — creating a more comprehensive engineering capability. FJT brings manufacturing expertise and local market resources in glass production, while Webasto contributes its system integration prowess in roof systems.
The partners plan to develop cost-competitive FTM solutions for domestic OEMs, with a focus on integrating ambient lighting, intelligent sunshades, solar technology, and in-car entertainment functions.
Joerg Buchheim, Webasto's global CEO, noted that technical requirements and development cycles in China are unique. This investment is a concrete move to build competitiveness in the FTM segment. He also pointed out that Webasto's capabilities in openable roof systems complement its FTM offerings.
On the demand side, domestic automakers are increasingly seeking fixed glass roofs and large openable panoramic sunroofs. While these products meet the need for design integration and expanded functionality, there is also a clear mandate for cost control.
Webasto entered the Chinese market in 2001 and established an R&D center in Shanghai in 2004. It currently operates production bases in Shanghai, Changchun, Shenyang, Wuhan, Chongqing, Guangzhou, and Hangzhou. This joint venture will further strengthen Webasto's localized development and manufacturing capabilities in the FTM sector, deepening its collaboration with domestic OEMs.
