Aston Martin extends Chinese trade deal with university collaboration

Fresh from announcing a £600m investment drive to grow its business in China, Aston Martin has revealed it intends invest in a new design and innovation partnership in the country.

The Warwickshire-based manufacturer is linking up with The College of Design and Innovation, Tongji University in Shanghai.

The sports car manufacturer said Tongji was one of the world’s leading universities for the study of design and innovation.

The deal will see Aston Martin’s executive vice-president (EVP) and Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman become a visiting professor at the institution, where he will share his knowledge with the students via lectures and workshops.

The first project of this new partnership is a collaboration on designs for future colour and trim projects.

The College of Design and Innovation at Tongji University is headed by Professor Dr Lou Yongqi, a leading figure in sustainable interdisciplinary design education, research, and practice.

Mr Reichman said: “This is a very exciting opportunity for Aston Martin, collaborating with industry leaders and talented students in China will ensure we are focused on the needs of our Chinese customers.

“I’m looking forward to working with the professors and students at Tongji University, this partnership further demonstrates the importance of the Chinese luxury car market to the global success of Aston Martin.”

Aston Martin has also announced a new partnership with Sinomach Automobiles. This new partnership will see the two companies collaborate in the areas of Electric Vehicles and Technical Development, with a number of junior engineers from Sinomach travelling to work at Aston Martin’s global headquarters in Gaydon.