A CS75 model manufactured by Changan Automobile. [File Photo: bitauto.com]

Chinese automaker Changan Automobile is expanding its influence in Birmingham.

The car maker announced that it will base the worldwide headquarters of its powertrain and research & development divisions in England's second biggest city.

Changan Automobile has bought several buildings at the Birmingham Business Park to locate its headquarters and employ 200 staff.

Changan is one of the biggest car manufacturers in China and is affiliated with the state-owned China South Industries Group Corporation.

It sold 2.5 million vehicles including its joint venture sales in 2014 and 1.3 million in the first half of 2015.