Chinese carmaker BYD to locate North American headquarters in L.A. 
 
        LOS ANGELES, April 30 (Xinhua) -- California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger announced on Friday that Chinese manufacturer BYD Auto Company Limited (BYD) will locate its North American headquarters in Los Angeles.

        BYD is the first major Chinese mass-production automobile company to set up a headquarters in the United States, the governor said.

        Its decision to choose California was based largely on the state's commitment to nation-leading green policies that create long-term demand for renewable energy automobiles and products, Schwarzenegger said.

        The decision is expected to initially create up to 150 jobs in California, according to the governor.

        "California's market-friendly energy and environmental policies are playing a vital role not only in making California more energy secure but also in bringing companies like BYD to our state," said Schwarzenegger.

        "Like California, BYD is a company of firsts. They are leading China and the rest of the world into a cleaner, more sustainable future with their automobiles and renewable energy products while creating jobs and saving consumers money. I welcome BYD with open arms and look forward to growing California's relationship with China to mutually benefit the environment and economy."