Daimler to expand Chinese JV capacity

German automaker Daimler is set to expand production capacity at its Chinese joint venture (JV) with local partner Beijing Automotive Industry Holding (BAIC), Beijing Benz-Daimler (BBD), reports China Daily. Ulrich Walker, chief executive of Daimler Northeast Asia, revealed that capacity at the BBD Beijing facility will be raised from 75,000 to 100,000 units per annum (upa), depending on shift patterns. Daimler will introduce four or five new Mercedes-Benz models in China in 2010 and expand its vehicle dealership network to 180 outlets during the period, Walker added. (December 15, 2009)