GM Opens China Science Lab

China is playing a key role in GM's global revival so the company today opened the so-called China Science Lab in Shanghai. This is the first major science lab established by a global car manufacturer in China, GM claims, with the facility to conduct a number of very important activities for GM's evolution in the auto sector.

It will initially focus on propulsion technology but will also help improving battery cells, megacity safety research, advanced vehicle development, and light materials, the US-based manufacturer said in a press statement. The center, which will employ around 100 workers, will also collaborate with universities and government scientific institutions.

“Our vision for the China Science Lab is to be recognized as a world-class R&D organization that will help drive GM’s automotive business into the future,” said Alan Taub, GM’s new Vice President of Global Research and Development. “Our aim is to develop breakthrough technologies that will differentiate GM vehicles in the marketplace and build on GM’s long history of industry firsts. The China Science Lab’s opening demonstrates that GM is moving aggressively to maintain leadership in breakthrough technological research globally.”

The new science lab will be led by John Du who's been working in the technology research management sector for around 20 years.

“I am very excited to be able to leverage my many years of experience conducting research in China at General Motors,” said Du. “The China Science Lab’s launch will contribute to technological innovation, collaboration and management at GM, while helping GM maintain its technology leadership position.”