BEIJING - A pilot program to train Chinese youngsters as mechanics specializing in luxury and high-end cars, part of efforts to ease a global shortage, was officially launched in the capital on Wednesday.

Initiated by the Ministry of Education, the Sino-German Automotive Vocational Education Project has won support from five top automakers: Audi, BMW, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen.

The companies will not only help train students to repair and maintain luxury cars, but will also set up a unified standard for the profession.