Detroit-based General Motors Co. is expanding and upgrading its GM China Advanced Design Center in Shanghai, more than doubling current studio space and milling capacity.
The design center is adjacent to GM China’s headquarters and will grow to more than 53,819 square feet. The upgrade is scheduled to begin this month and be completed in the second quarter of 2021.
“Shanghai has become home to some of the world’s top automotive design talent,” says Julian Blissett, executive vice president of GM and president of GM China. “We have been seeing many stunning car designs. With our improved capability and world-class resources, the Advanced Design Center will attract more of these outstanding local designers.”
The company plans to adopt new technology and incorporate a more flexible and multifunctional use of space. It will include a new color and material studio, paint shop, virtual reality lab, and a second clay modeling studio. The current virtual reality room, viewing patio, clay modeling studio, and other facilities will also see upgrades
“Since opening in 2012, the GM China Advanced Design Center has become an important and trusted source of creativity and insight into the Chinese auto market,” says Ken Parkinson, vice president of design for GM China and GM International. “This has led to significant programs and assignments being given to our talented creative team, which has stretched our current resources, leading to this expansion plan.”
The GM China Advanced Design team has an average age under 32.
“Inspired by Shanghai’s vibrant and progressive energy, our mission is to create innovative and exhilarating designs across GM global brands to capture the imaginations of future customers,” says Harry Sze, director of design at the GM China Advanced Design Center. “Our new studio is designed to encourage new ways of working and collaborating, empowering our talented creatives to truly push the boundaries of future mobility experiences.”
