(Yicai Global) April 18 -- German automotive supplier MAHLE aims to tap China's new energy vehicle thermal management and mechatronics solutions market for further growth as demand rises in the country. 

"Sixty percent of our sales in China are from engine system components and filtration systems last year," Dr. Joerg Stratmann, Chairman of the Management Board and CEO of the MAHLE Group told Yicai Global on the interview of the Auto Shanghai 2019 event on April 16. 

"The remaining 40 percent are from thermal management systems and mechatronics, however, this will drive growth in the future," he added. 

The company showcased not only the traditional parts, but also its battery cooling, heat-pump, air conditioning, heaters and electric compressors, which are widely used in new energy vehicles, at the event. 

In 2018, MAHLE Group has generated sales of EUR 12.6 billion. MAHLE's China revenue edged up 3 percent annually last year to CNY10 billion (USD1.5 billion), Dr. Stratmann revealed, and the firm aims to continue its investment in the world's second-biggest economy. 

The company completed a second expansion at its Changshu compressor factory last November and is setting up a new research and development center there focused on e-mobility solutions. 

MAHLE will also open a new unit in Fujian province this year and an expansion is planned for its mechatronics facility in Taicang, Jiangsu province, which is the firm's most important production base for mechatronics solutions in China.

The company has also worked with local players including major carmakers and internet firms looking to enter the auto sector. "We keep receiving customer inquiries about our new products such as the heat pumps," said Xu Huanping,Vice President Sales & Application Engineering China. 

MAHLE has 23 wholly-owned units and joint ventures covering 14 Chinese cities, with one of the oldest factories in Yingkou, Liaoning province, dating back to 1999. It has grown to be the company's largest production and manufacturing base in China and its largest manufacturer of pistons and other engine parts in Asia. 

Editor: William Clegg