Gasgoo.com (Shanghai December 9) - Zhengzhou Nissan has begun construction work on its brand new 280 million yuan ($44.17m) research and development center, the Beijing Times reported today. The center will be ready for work by 2013.

Zhengzhou Nissan's 300 acre R&D center will lead the Japanese manufacturer's work on light commercial vehicles. Dongfeng Motor has also invested in the site. Both the Japanese and Chinese companies will work together in establishing a R&D team with the goal of furthering Nissan's sales in the country, Dongfeng President Lu Feng said.

The center will ensure future Nissan models will be more suitable to Chinese tastes. The center will help develop Dongfeng pickup trucks, SUVs and minivans, among other vehicles. Upon completion, the center will help support the joint venture's production sites.