Nissan Motor's electric car Leaf is displayed at the 9th China (Guangzhou) International Automobile Exhibition in Guangzhou, Nov 21. [Photo/Agencies]

Zhengzhou Nissan has begun construction work on its brand new 280 million yuan ($44.17m) research and development center. The center will be ready for work by 2013.

Zhengzhou Nissan's 121-hectare R&D center will lead the Japanese manufacturer's work on light commercial vehicles. Dongfeng Motor has also invested in the site. Both the Japanese and Chinese companies will work together to set up a R&D team with the goal of furthering Nissan's sales in the country, Dongfeng President Lu Feng said.

The center will ensure that future Nissan models are more suitable to Chinese tastes. The center will help develop Dongfeng pickup trucks, SUVs and minivans, among other vehicles. Upon completion, the center will support the joint venture's production sites.