Magna Exteriors and Interiors, an operating unit of Magna International Inc. (Aurora, Ontario, Canada), on Dec. 18 announced a partnership with National Research Council Canada (NRC) that will support the Canadian auto industry in developing next-generation vehicles with lighter, more durable parts that are safer, affordable, environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient.

The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry, announced, as part of the collaboration agreement, the creation of the Magna-NRC Composite Centre of Excellence at the Magna Exteriors and Interiors facility in Concord, Ontario, Canada. The new research and development center, which represents a joint private-public investment, will develop composite technology for the Canadian and global automotive industry.

The Magna-NRC Composite Centre of Excellence will be equipped with leading-edge molding equipment for thermoplastic composites. This will provide teams from Magna and NRC with the tools needed to work together on developing lightweight and durable automotive parts using composites such as direct long-fiber thermoplastics and sheet molding compound. These technologies have been identified as the best prospects for reducing the weight of structural car parts, making them more fuel-efficient and affordable. Joint project work in composites will begin immediately, while the new research facility is expected to be operational in summer 2010.

"Research and development in the Canadian automotive sector will enhance our research capacity, fuelling made-in-Canada innovation, and generate economic opportunities for Canadian communities," said Minister Clement. "This new innovative partnership will increase our ability to compete internationally, bring long-term benefits to the auto sector and create jobs for Canadians."

"Automotive suppliers and original equipment manufacturers that lead the industry in innovation and productivity know that vehicles of the future will need more composite content in order to provide the fuel economy, utility and safety that consumers demand," said Bob Brownlee, president, Magna Exteriors and Interiors. "The Magna-NRC Composite Centre of Excellence will help reinforce Magna's position as a supplier of lightweight, cost-effective composite solutions to the global automotive market."