Dongfeng Nissan motor company laid the foundation for its Research and Development (R&D) Center in Guangzhou's Huadu district yesterday (Dec.  6).

Dongfeng Nissan motor company is a joint venture between China's Dongfeng motor company and the Japan-based Nissan Motor Company. This will be the 3rd overseas R&D center for Nissan.

Secretary of Guangzhou CPC committee Lin Shusen, Guangzhou mayor Zhang Guangning and vice mayor Chen Mingde attended the foundation-laying ceremony.

Chen Mingde pointed out that establishment of the center shows Nissan's confidence in the Chinese auto market.

According to the plan, the center will cover 200,000 square meters. The first phase of construction will cost 330 million yuan and is scheduled to be complete by the end of 2005.

Editor: Olivia