FAW-VW begins building largest automobile testing track in China

Gasgoo.com (Shanghai June 12) - FAW Volkswagen has officially begun work on its new automobile 'proving ground' test site in Changchun, Jilin, Beijing Business Today reported today. The state-of-the-art site will reportedly be the largest of its kind in the country. In an official statement, FAW Group Board Chairman Xu Jianyi said that the site is the result of close cooperation between his company and Volkswagen Group. It will help increase the joint venture's product development and go a long way in improving the local economy, Mr. Xu added.

The site is located in Nong'an County, approximately 70 km from the center of Changchun. A total of 140,000 sq. m. has been set aside for the site, with its facilities taking up 16,000 sq. m. The site will possess 670,000 sq. m. of test track, which will include high-speed and other tracks. It is scheduled to be fully operational by 2014. According to internal sources, the site represents an important step forward for FAW-VW's research and development ability.

VW China Executive Vice President Klaus Dierkes stated that the site is being built in adherence with the strictest of standards laid out by the German manufacturer. Upon completion, it will be China's largest and most technologically advanced testing center, and will play a key role in developing vehicles aimed specifically at Chinese consumers. The site will also help solidify VW's position as one of the leading manufacturers in the Chinese and Asia-Pacific automobile industries.