Westport Innovations Inc., a developer of natural-gas engines for heavy-duty vehicles, has agreed on a deal with General Motors to help develop natural-gas engine technology.
The companies said they will work together to develop natural-gas engine controls, emissions and performance strategies.
Westport also said that it plans to open a new technical center in Michigan. The Canadian company currently employs 15 people in Farmington Hills, and plans to add more people and facilities as demand grows for natural gas-powered, alternative-fuel vehicles.
Westport, which is based in Vancouver, British Columbia, said the planned research and development facilities will develop technologies that allow vehicles to run on natural gas for business and government fleets.