Harman International secures audio system contracts with Geely and BYD
Harman International Industries Inc., a major U.S. manufacturer of audio and infotainment systems, has signed two agreements to supply Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co. and BYD Co.
Harman will produce audio systems for Geely's Emgrand EC8 sedan, BYD's e6 electric car and the EV to be developed by BYD's joint venture with Daimler AG., said Michael Mauser, co-president of Harman's automotive business.
Mauser outlined the company's activities in China late last month in an interview in Shanghai with Automotive News China.
Prior to the pacts with Geely and BYD, Harman had secured a contract to supply audio systems for SAIC Motor Co.'s Roewe-brand cars.
In China, Harman also makes audio systems for BMW AG, Audi AG and Mercedes-Benz, said David Karch, chief of Harman's Asia automotive business.
Harman's factory in the east China city of Suzhou also exports audio components to Hyundai Motor Co., Kia Motors Corp., Ssangyong Motor Co. and Chrysler Group LLC.
"But our main priority is to supply the Chinese market," added Mauser.
Harman is building a new $100 million (649 million yuan) factory in the northeast China city of Dandong to primarily supply China's fast-growing market.
The plant, Harman's second Chinese factory, will launch production later this year. Harman has 1,200 employees in China. The company will have 1,500 employees in China by 2015, said Karch.
