(Yicai Global) June 4 -- Nidec, the world’s largest motor maker, plans to tap demand and increase market share in China by setting up another research and development center in the country, according to Japan’s Nikkei Asian Review.

With 1,000 technicians, the new base will be a major R&D center and will focus on developing drive motors for electric vehicles which the Japanese company sees as a key growth area, the report said yesterday, without revealing the level of investment.

The hub will be located inside Nidec’s USD920.6 million new Chinese factory, which is under construction in the northeastern city of Dalian, the report said, adding that it is scheduled to open next year.

Nidec will also increase the number of employees at its two existing R&D facilities in China to enhance its capabilities in EV-related products, the report said.

Kyoto-based Nidec had 36 factories and 54 sales offices in China employing around 40,000 people last year. The firm entered the Chinese market in 1989.

Editor: Kim Taylor