Continental began operations this week at a new r&d center in the southwest China municipality of Chongqing.

The 280 million yuan ($42 million) center is the German supplier’s 18th in China.

It will develop electronic parts including gateways, closure systems and control units for vehicle bodies and powertrains.

With a floor area of 15,000 square meters (161,400 square feet), the center can house 400 employees, according to Continental.

Continental also has 28 plants in China producing tires, chassis components, safety equipment, powertrain parts and electronics.

The company now has about 25,000 employees in the country.