Manufacturing and research hub WMG at the University of Warwick is set to boost its international credentials after setting two deals in motion with Chinese and Indian heavyweights.

Labour peer and Birmingham Post columnist Lord Bhattacharyya is to begin exploratory talks with Chinese automotive giant Geely to create an R&D and education partnership between the firm and WMG.

Geely already has strong links in the West Midlands through its relationship with London black cab maker Manganese Bronze, based in Coventry.

It holds a 23 per cent stake in Manganese Bronze, and the two firms also have a joint venture producing black cabs in Shanghai.

Li Shufu, chairman of China’s Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, visited the university campus to discuss WMG’s track record in delivering collaborative R&D and postgraduate education with the automotive industry worldwide.

He also discussed its strong partnerships with major automotive companies and SMEs in the automotive supply chain.

He said: “I am impressed with WMG and its track record of working closely with industry over many years.

“I am very keen to explore working in partnership with WMG to leverage WMG’s considerable skills base and expertise in automotive R&D.”

WMG director Professor Lord Bhattacharyya said the talks could eventually lead to a partnership which would give the region a huge advantage.

“I was delighted to host a visit from Chairman Li and his colleagues, and we look forward to developing our collaborative relationship over the next few months,” he said.