Econintersect: Zhong’ou International Group will assemble helicopters at one of its manufacturing plants in Changshu in Jiangsu Province. The venture is supported by the world’s largest helicopter maker, Eurocopter, which will provide technical support and spare parts. The first helicopters – seating six to eight people and powered by turbo-charged engines – are due to be delivered next year. The helicopters will cost between 30 million yuan (US$4.55 million) and 60 million yuan each, according to the Hong Kong based Ta Kung Pao.
Eurocopter has been seeking a partner to produce high-end helicopters for business use in the Chinese mainland for some time.
Established in 1989 mainly as an auto parts manufacturer, Zhong’ou now runs three manufacturing plants in Shanghai and neighboring Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces.
It was also reported today that Eurocopter is also looking for much higher helicopter sales in India. (The Times of India)
Sources: Shanghai Daily, The Times of India and Ta Kung Pao
