European plane maker Airbus on Friday unveiled a research center in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, pushing forward the technological infrastructure through digitalization, a fresh step showing European companies are further expanding tech investment in the country.
The move also came after French President Emmanuel Macron made a state visit to China last week, along with packages of trade deals signed by European companies including Airbus during the trip, which has shown that the European companies are rejecting "decoupling with China" with concrete efforts.
Strategically positioned in the Yangtze River Delta Region of China, the center, named Airbus China Research Center, will gain from its proximity to the region's strong aeronautical and hydrogen supply chain. Research will be undertaken in manufacturing innovation, hydrogen infrastructure, cabin experience and new technologies, said Airbus.
The center will also push forward the transformation and modernization of the aviation industry through digitalization and AI. In addition, the center will nurture research and innovation projects with forward-looking technology and good market prospects.
Besides its promising aviation market, China offers advanced technological advantages in many fields. Airbus is working with partners and with China in particular to nurture technologies, discovering different resources, introducing alternative fuels, and developing the hydrogen ecosystem as the company works toward sustainable aviation, said Sabine Klauke, Airbus Chief Technical Officer.
The center will better serve the Tianjin facility to improve the product efficiency, and it will also provide sustainable development with Chinese aviation market, Klauke said.
