China's Minister of Science and Technology Visits Argonne

Wan Gang talks with Jeff Chamberlain, leader of Argonne's Energy Storage initiative, while touring the lab's battery research facilities.

Wan Gang, Minister of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China, visited Argonne on Wednesday, July 21, to learn about the laboratory's efforts with alternative energy research.

The visit consisted of an overview of Argonne by Alfred P. Sattelberger, associate laboratory director for Energy Engineering and Systems Analysis; a tour of Argonne’s advanced battery research, a visit to the vehicle and engine dyno labs, and a stop at the Advanced Photon Source for X-ray and transportation research highlights.

Wan is an expert on automobiles as well as the president of Tongji University. He was appointed the Minister of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China on April 27, 2007.

Speaking through a translator, Wan said, “The development of clean and electric vehicles is a national strategic, emerging industry…we will devote every effort to promote this industry."

Wan continued, "China is devoted to cutting emissions and saving energy…to realize these goals and commitments, we have to develop clean and electric vehicles. China and the United States both have these national priorities and will work together closely on their common goals.”

Representatives of Argonne and the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology will meet again in September.

View photos on Flickr.

July 2010