Mazda Motor Corporation has announced that the joint venture operation, Changan Ford Mazda Engine Co., Ltd. (CFME) in Nanjing has started mass production of the first BZ series engines to be built in China.
Smooth completion of the project, funded and managed by the joint venture established by Changan Automotive Group, Ford Motor Company and Mazda Motor Corporation, symbolizes the three partners’ mutual commitment and close cooperation. With the beginning of this mass production, CFME will continue to grow at a steady pace, with a production capacity of 350,000 units per year.
With a project investment of over RMB 2.5 billion, CFME began construction in September 2005, and has now completed three major production lines for casting, machining, and assembly. Five key components of the engine: the cylinder block, cylinder head, crankshaft, camshaft, and connecting rod, will be all manufactured on-site. As one of the largest engine manufacturing plants in China, CFME will supply engine products to each party’s vehicle manufacturing operations in China.
“Mazda is committed to succeed in the China market and become a prominent contributor in the auto industry”, says Director and Senior Managing Executive Officer of Mazda Corporation, Mr. Kiyoshi Ozaki. “The Changan Ford Mazda Engine Company is significant in regard to three aspects. First of all, we will produce engines which are actually the “heart” of the vehicle. Second, it is a joint venture company with Changan, Ford and Mazda, through which we can further strengthen our strategic partnership in China. Third, with its operation in Nanjing, we can contribute to the development of the local economy and society. By exploring the full utilization of this plant, we will provide the best products to satisfy our customers here in China. ”
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