Chinese autos adopt high-end tech - Celanese

05 February 2008 18:11  [Source: ICIS news]

HOUSTON (ICIS news)--Chinese automakers are rapidly adopting high-end technological features, which could increase demand for polymers produced by a Celanese subsidiary, the company's chief executive said on Tuesday in a conference call.

"The Asian manufacturers want the latest and greatest technology, and they are willing to pay for it," said David Weidman, company chief executive.

"There is very rapid acceptance," he said. "There is very rapid prototyping and putting it in a new vehicle. "

China already is the third largest automobile maker in the world, Weidman said. It could become the largest by 2012.

Until recently, Chinese automakers made models that had basic features and few creature comforts, Weidman said.

However, companies are now quickly adding additional features that address safety, emissions and fuel economy, Weidman said.

Moreover, the Chinese companies are adopting such features at faster rates than their US and European counterparts, he said. 

One product that took three years to incorporate for a European company took nine months for a Chinese producer, Weidman said.

Such adoption rates bode well for Ticona, a Celanese segment that produces high-performance technical polymers, he said.

By: Al Greenwood
+1 713 525 2653

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