Dongfeng Motor Group Company Limited ("Dongfeng Group" or the "Group", stock code: 0489) is pleased to announce that the new vehicle engine plants of Dongfeng Nissan Passenger Vehicle Company ("Dongfeng Nissan"), a joint venture set up by the Group,has been completed.The joint venture mainly manufactures the new vehicle engines for HR and MR models with annual production capacity up to 180,000, all of which are for use of passenger vehicles manufactured by Dongfeng Nissan.Situated in Huadu, Guangzhou, the new vehicle engine plant of Dongfeng Nissan will manufacture the new vehicle engines for HR and MR models co-developed by Renault and Nissan. Upon commencement of operation of the casting and processing workshops, the plant will become an integrated vehicle engine factory. Dongfeng Nissan also plans to invest approximately RMB600 million for purchase of additional equipments and facilities. It is expected that, upon completion of the project, annual production of vehicle engines will increase to 270,000 with further expansion into 360,000 in 2008.In line with upgrading hardware auxiliary facilities, Dongfeng Nissan also endeavors to step up its customer services. Dongfeng Nissan currently has a total of 200 franchise outlets, which is expected to expand to 250 by the end of this year to provide an improved and convenient service and shorter maintenance time.Mr. Mamoru Yoshida, General Manager of Dongfeng Nissan Passenger Vehicle Company said, "The completion of the new vehicle engine plant symbolizes the Group increasing R&D strength. Dongfeng Nissan targets to speed up its development in product localization and strengthen its service quality. Along with satisfying the market, we will also maintain our cost-effectiveness of competitive edge in order to gain excellent business performance and high profits return.""As one of the fastest growing auto enterprises in the PRC, Dongfeng Nissan vehicle sale surged from 60,000 in 2004 to 157,516 i