Guangde Proving Ground

About the Program
General Motors Company operates China's largest automotive proving ground in Guangde County, Anhui, China. This proving ground serves as as automotive testing facility with over 37 miles of testing roads, in addition to other facilities on-site. This facility consists of 381 acres of grassland, 37 acres of landscaped garden and 1.4 acres of fruit tree orchards. With an emphasis on invasive species management, and foraging opportunities for wildlife presented throughout the variety of habitats on-site, this area was transformed from what was once a wasteland to an attractive environment for wildlife species. 

Practices and Impacts

• The team works to create a native grassland habitat to support wildlife populations, and since 2022, has expanded the size by about two acres. Consistent mowing keeps the height below eight inches, and watering occurs frequently, especially on hot, dry days.
• Over 37 acres of landscaped habitat have been planted to support wildlife populations. Survival rate is monitored annually.
• Three new species of native fruit trees and shrubs were planted on-site to increase biodiversity, with annual monitoring to assess plant health.
• The team works to monitor local bird species to ensure the site provides sufficient habitat for bird populations. Monitoring of bird observations occurs monthly.
• The invasive plant species management project is crucial at this site, as Canada goldenrod is quite prevalent throughout the area. This invasive species is removed manually and the area is replanted with native species. 
• The pollinator project works to support the native honey bee populations. Honey bee sightings are recorded monthly with the plant they are found near or on. The team plants flowers and trees on-site to provide food sources for bee populations.