Vehicle engineering consultancy MIRA is growing internationally with the launch of its first South American operation in Brazil.

The Nuneaton-based firm, which has just celebrated its 65th anniversary, has signed an agreement with technical staffing services firm MSX do Brasil to set up the operation.

MIRA Brasil in Sao Paulo expands the firm’s international network across South America, where the business will focus on engineering solutions for the automotive and commercial vehicle sectors.

MIRA chief executive George Gillespie said: “The vibrant automotive industry within Brazil makes it an excellent opportunity and fit for MIRA.

“We’re very excited about launching a South American operation where our global expertise will assist resident OEMs, suppliers and SMEs with the growing level of sector and product requirements, including emissions and safety legislation.

“As well as having an opportunity to utilise our advanced technical facilities and services around the world, our clients will benefit immensely from the partnership with MSX, which will provide additional highly skilled technical staff when extra resource is required to meet challenging schedules.”

MSX has more than 3,500 automotive industry experts in 21 countries around the world.

In Brazil, the firm has been operating since 1994 and holds prestigious contracts with Ford, General Motors and Volkswagen across its six premises in the country.

MIRA Brasil will be led by Armando Canales who brings more than 20 years of international experience with several leading automotive brands, including Porsche Engineering Services and SEAT.

In addition to the UK and MIRA Brasil, the firm’s global network spans across China, Malaysia, South Korea, Singapore, India, Turkey and mainland Europe.