GM launches new R&D center in Beijing

General Motors Chief Executive Rick Wagoner was in Beijing recently to announce the launch of a new research center to develop energy-efficient transportation. He said work has begun on GM’s Center for Advanced Science and Research, a US$250 million facility in Shanghai. The first phase of construction would be completed in 2008, he said. Kevin Wale, head of GM China, added that the company plans to introduce a new hybrid car to the Chinese market in 2008, but did not provide further details. (October 29, 2007)