Chinese manufacturer GAC Group announced last week an important technical cooperation contract with the federal universities of Santa Catarina (UFSC), Santa Maria (UFSM) and the state universities of Campinas (Unicamp). The agreement aims to boost research and development of flex and hybrid flex engines for its vehicles.
Headquartered in the city of Guangzhou, southern China, GAC Group revealed that the total investment in this project will be 120 million reais, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and sustainability in the Brazilian market. The partnership includes the development of advanced technologies for intelligent automotive engines and systems, internship opportunities for students and professionals, as well as joint capacity building and training programs.
“Brazil is a priority for the GAC Group,” said Alex Zhou, CEO of GAC Brasil. The company’s office in São Paulo opened on December 4, and the Chinese automaker plans to invest 5.8 billion reais in the country over the next five years.
“The Brazilian subsidiary will be the third unit outside China, joining operations already established in Thailand and Malaysia. In the Chinese market, we are the fifth largest automaker, with an annual production of 2.52 million vehicles in 2023”, highlighted Wei Haigang, president of GAC Internacional.
The Chinese manufacturer is still evaluating the location of future production lines in Brazil, and is also considering the possibility of acquiring existing factories. A similar strategy has already been adopted by other Chinese automakers. BYD acquired the Ford factory in Camaçari, Bahia, while Great Wall Motor purchased the Mercedes-Benz plant in Iracemápolis, São Paulo.
From the first half of 2025, GAC Group intends to launch at least seven models on the Brazilian market, including hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles.
Source: https://www.chinahoje.net/montadora-chinesa-faz-parceria-com-universidades-brasileiras-para-pesquisar-motores-hibridos/
