AGR auto holding, China's Defetoo establish R&D center in Russia

MOSCOW. Aug 13 (Interfax) - The AGR automobile holding and China's Defetoo, which manufactures and sells Tenet vehicles and several other brands, have established an automotive research and development center (ARDC) in Russia, registered at the former GM site in St. Petersburg.

The new engineering center will be a key platform for developing expertise in automotive engineering, localization, quality, and developing modern products for the Russian market, according to the group's press service.

"Establishing ARDC is an important stage in developing the two companies' strategic partnership. ARDC specialists will initially focus on component localization, vehicle certification, product testing and validation, and engineering modifications to vehicle designs and individual systems. The center will subsequently expand its activities to include projects to modernize and restyle models, develop body and interior components, improve powertrains, and create new vehicles for the Russian market," the holding company said in a press release.

ARDC will also place a particular emphasis on product quality. The group reports that an experimental and technical center has already begun operations, designed to assess vehicle quality comprehensively at all stages of the life cycle, from development and testing to serial production and operation.

"The platform will allow us to identify potential defects at the development stage, quickly test components and assemblies, analyze vehicle performance, and promptly implement necessary engineering changes. This approach will ensure the prevention of defects even before the product enters mass production," AGR said.