Honda plans more R&D in China

Shanghai Daily - Honda Motor Co is gearing up to make further inroads in China by boosting the localization of its research and development.

By the end of 2015, Honda plans to introduce 12 new models to China as it further pushes localization from styling and design to testing, the company said yesterday.

Models already set for roll-out in China this year include the mid-size sedan Crider, developed mainly by Chinese staff for China, and the multi-purpose vehicle Jade.

Honda plans to produce hybrid models in China within three years, which it says will result in cheaper prices.

"By accelerating introduction of new technologies and localization of our research and development operations, we are targeting 1.3 million unit sales annually in the Chinese market before the end of 2015," said Seiji Kuraishi, president of Honda Motor (China) Investment Co.