Changan Automobile is reportedly interested in doing more business with Japanese suppliers as part of an initiative to raise quality and improve its position in key emerging automotive technologies,
A Nikkei report said that Changan is inviting 60-100 Japanese companies to a tech fair it is hosting next June and is seeking collaboration with suppliers for the development phase of new models.
"Small- and mid-size Japanese companies are known for their technological strengths. We want to build cooperative relations with them," Zhao Hui, vice president of the automaker's engineering research institute told Nikkei.
The report said that Changan currently sources roughly half its parts from overseas suppliers. The move to involve more Japanese suppliers will also put competitive pressure on Changan's existing supply base.
The Nikkei report added that Changan is especially interested in suppliers with capabilities in fuel efficiency, connectivity and automated driving technologies.
Changan also operates joint ventures with Japan's Suzuki Motor and Ford.
