Corning Incorporated broke ground for the $170 million fourth phase of its wholly-owned automotive substrate facility in Shanghai on Tuesday to meet the growing demand of domestic and overseas markets.

The project is expected to be completed in 2013 with a considerable part of its products to be sold in the Chinese market and the remainder elsewhere in Asia, said Tom Lynch, general manager of Corning Shanghai Co Ltd.

The groundbreaking event also celebrated the completion of the facility's $125 million third phase expansion, which will reinforce Corning's supply of ceramic substrates for the Chinese market.

The company first phase began operations in 2001 to provide advanced emissions control substrate technology and engineering services to automotive customers in China and Asia.

"Today's groundbreaking event is another milestone in Corning's longstanding support of China's economic growth," said Wendell Weeks, chairman, chief executive officer and president of Corning Inc.

"These expansions underscore the speed at which China's auto industry is growing and also demonstrate Corning's commitment to grow with its customers," Weeks said.

Local insiders said China now leads the world in both auto production and vehicle sales. This market growth, coupled with tighter regulations, will drive increased demand for Corning's state-of-the-art emissions-control products.

"Our further investment in this facility will surely help us better serve our customers here in the region and around the world," Lynch said.

Corning is a leading supplier of advanced catalytic converter substrates and particulate filters, supplying the world's major manufacturers of gasoline and diesel engines and vehicles.

"We are considering launching a project in China to manufacture products for diesel vehicles. Efforts are being made to seek a suitable venue for the project," said Lynch.

chenqide@chinadaily.com.cn