Navistar is eyeing a joint venture with Chinese manufacturer Anhui Jianghuai Automobile, or JAC, to build and market advanced diesel engines for commercial vehicles in China
. Under the potential partnership, the ownership would be shared 50/50.

If the deal goes through, the two would set up a research and design center in China's Anhui province for application engineering development, product design and technology advancements. The new diesel engines would be used in China, as well as certain export markets.

"This proposed joint venture would bring together the resources of two leaders, JAC in China's commercial vehicle segment and Navistar in the global diesel engine business," said Eric Tech, president, Navistar Engine Group. "The result would yield outstanding advanced technology products for commercial truck owners throughout the region."

"This key initiative would not only give JAC access to world-class engine products, technology and management but would also support our long-term business growth strategy," said Zuo Yanan, chairman of JAC.

The partnership is not official until the completion of due diligence, approval by each party's board of directors, negotiation of definitive agreements, corporate and regulatory approvals. Management structure would consist of eight directors, four from JAC and four from Navistar.

More info: jacen.jac.com.cn or www.navistar.com