FAW Group to pump RMB139 million to enhance intelligence & connectivity strength

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- China's state-owned automaker FAW Group plans to invest RMB139 million in a technical retrofit project to enhance the group's strength in auto intelligence and connectivity, according to  an environmental impact report recently released by the Bureau of Ecology and Environment of Changchun.

The capital will be pumped to improve FAW R&D headquarters' capabilities in product testing and verification, so as to better meet the demands for the development of Hongqi-branded new models, according to the file.

（Photo source: FAW Hongqi)

Under the project, a facility covering an area of 2,100 square meters is scheduled to be set up and start operation in May, 2020. The report said the facility is designed to satisfy the automaker's demands in the independent development of controller-used hardware & software, network tests, virtual simulation test for intelligent driving and the test drive on open roads. Specific works will include the self-development of DHT (dedicated hybrid transmission), Ethernet hardware test, LTE-V data agreement test, simulation on the objective tested, smart sensor test as well as data collection.

Founded in 1950, FAW Group's R&D headquarters is currently dedicated to developing the Hongqi-branded vehicles, the platform for Besturn brand, and building the PV-focused R&D system for the whole group.

（Photo source: FAW Hongqi)

FAW Group achieved its highest-ever monthly sales of Hongqi brand with a total of 12,500 vehicles sold last month, a surge of 178% over the year-over period. With a series of new models, such as the Hongqi E-HS3, HS5 and HS7, hitting the market, the FAW-owned premium brand saw its Jan.-Nov. sales skyrocket 211% year on year to 88,220 units. As of November, 2019, Hongqi has gained year-on-year growth for the 21th month in a row.

Additionally, Hongqi intends to plow a whopping capital of RMB150 billion in the R&D of NEVs and intelligence & connectivity technologies to build a world-class full-scenario architecture for ICV.