Changan Auto to build facility for small vehicles

Chongqing Changan Automobile Co said on Wednesday it plans to build a new production facility for small vehicles with an initial investment of 2.5 billion yuan ($366.2 million).

The facility, based in the southwestern city of Chongqing, is expected to have an annual production capacity of 300,000 units when it starts operations in 2012, it said in a statement.

Vehicle capacity will be increased to 600,000 units eventually, with engine capacity expected to double to 2 million units, it added.

Changan is a Ford Motor China partner. The plant plan still needs the approval of the company's board.