MSC.Software Corp., the global provider of virtual product development (VPD) products including simulation software and services, today announced a multi-phase, enterprise consulting services engagement with Chery Automobile Company Ltd. (Chery).

As one of the fastest growing automotive OEMs in China, Chery is currently building an automotive engineering research institute (AERI) as the first phase of a long-term program for product line expansion. The services being provided by MSC.Software are linked to detailed planning and requirements for the new technical facilities.

The 3-phase project with Chery began in 2003 with a process audit that included analysis of the AERI development strategies and goals and assessment of the current vehicle designs, development processes and supporting infrastructure. The results of the audit provide a basis for recommending organization structure and project management processes, identifying key business partners and suppliers, determining infrastructure, facilities and equipment needs, optimizing IT systems for virtual product development (VPD), and specifying human resources requirements and infrastructure. As a result of this, Chery will be able to establish and control investment performance, reduce investment risk, improve vehicle design process, optimize their organization and project management, and apply VPD to their vehicle development processes.