Honda is gearing up to make further inroads in China by boosting the localisation of its research and development.

By the end of 2015, Honda plans to introduce 12 new models to China as it further pushes localisation from styling and design to testing, the company said recently.

Models already set for roll-out in China this year include the mid-size sedan Crider, developed mainly by Chinese staff for China, and the multi-purpose vehicle Jade. Honda also plans to produce hybrid models in China within three years, which it says will result in cheaper prices.

"By accelerating introduction of new technologies and localisation of our research and development operations, we are targeting 1.3 million unit sales annually in the Chinese market before the end of 2015," said Seiji Kuraishi, president of Honda Motor (China) Investment.