Navistar International Corporation’s joint-venture manufacturing concern with Chinese OEM Anhui Jianghuai Automobile has started producing diesel truck engines at its new plant in Hefei, China. Navistar announced the launch of Anhui Jianghuai Navistar Diesel Engine Co., Ltd. four years ago, a venture with Chinese truck builder Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Co. Ltd., each one holding equal shares in the estimated $500-million project.
"We are excited to celebrate this important milestone with our partner JAC and our collaborative efforts to bring the latest in clean-engine technology to China have resulted in a strong, successful and profitable operation from the very start," stated Troy Clarke, president and CEO of Navistar International. "We look forward to supporting China's clean-energy and fuel efficiency efforts as we pursue additional growth opportunities with JAC."
At the time of the initial announcement, the partners planned to produce the JAC series of diesel engines, though Navistar’s MaxxForce engines also were mentioned. Manufacturing of the JAC-designed 2.8-liter diesel engine with Navistar emissions-control technology started in May 2013 at a JAC operation in Hefei, in order to begin supplying engines that comply with the Euro IV and V emissions standards. Last fall, production started for 3.2- and 4.8-liter engines.
Those operations will be relocated now to the new, 1-million-square-feet plant that includes engine block machining and assembly for 200,000 Euro IV- and V-compliant engines per year.
Plans call for the venture to start producing a 7.2-liter diesel engine in 2016 and will continue to explore the possibility of adding more engine products
The new plant also includes administrative operations and an R&D center, and the plant design incorporates energy-reducing heating and cooling features, targeting 30- percent savings.
"Through our partnership with Navistar, JND is bringing advanced diesel technology and vehicle integration to our customers," according to An Jin, JAC Motors chairman. "These products offer enhanced durability and higher fuel efficiency to enable JAC to export globally and continue leading in China's commercial vehicle market."
