BAIC BJEV, a subsidiary of BAIC Group, is to invest 10 billion yuan ($1.5 billion) in a new energy car science innovation center, according to local media.

The innovation center, wholly-invested by BAIC BJEV, will strive to be one of the leading innovation centers globally.

Founded in 2009, BAIC BJEV has long been engaged in R&D and innovation. Till date, the company has established seven electric vehicle R&D centers in five countries.

A total of 3.62 billion yuan has been spent in R&D and innovation since 2013.

The company currently boasts more than 2,000 patents.

BAIC BJEV remains one of the most influential new energy car manufacturers in China with more than 52,000 cars sold in 2016, ranking first in China.