GKN Driveline Torque Technology has started volume production of transmission differentials for major domestic and overseas vehicle manufacturers at its new wholly-owned facility in China.

Managing director of GKN Driveline Torque Technology, Graeme Walford, said the plant, at Pudong, close to Shanghai, was “an important milestone” in the firm’s expanding presence in China.

“From our new strategically-located base, we now can offer a wider range of our torque products to the Chinese car industry, as well as for export,” he said.

In addition to transmission differentials, GKN Driveline is developing three all wheel drive (AWD) power transfer unit (PTU) applications which will enter production in 2009 for Chinese and Asian vehicle manufacturers.

The first major European automotive supplier to invest in China, GKN is the country’s leading producer of driveline components.

It currently has automotive manufacturing operations in Kangqiao, Zhoupu and Shenjiang in Pudong, Shanghai, as well as plants in Chongqing and Jilin.

The company is the world leader in the design and production of driveline components. Producing systems and components for the smallest ultra low-cost vehicle to the most sophisticated four-wheel-drive model.

As an engineering business with extensive automotive experience and a global resource network, GKN Driveline delivers solutions ranging from drawing through to full-scale production.

The company brands itself as “a true partner to the world automotive industry” and works closely with its customers to develop a clear understanding of their requirements. It aims to deliver optimum solutions accurately engineered to all specifications.