WARRENVILLE, Ill. — Navistar has proposed building a new world headquarters in Lisle, Ill. which would include a “customer showcase” for global clients.

The $100-million project would also generate and preserve some 7,000 jobs, Navistar claims. It is now awaiting approval from the Village of Lisle. Navistar also wants to take ownership of a ring road surrounding the site.

“With this plan we’ll achieve our twin goals of creating jobs while being a good neighbour for our community,” said Dan Ustian, Navistar chairman, president and chief executive officer. “If our headquarters proposal for Lisle is approved, we will remain in the Chicagoland area for many years to come and, at the same time, ensure our competitiveness in a global marketplace.”

Other features would include a “world class research and development center” containing six R&D cells, one-third of which would focus on hybrid vehicle development.

Navistar would also work on its military vehicle designs at the new location.

“We look forward to investing in our new world headquarters in Lisle, contributing to the already-solid reputation of the Illinois Research and Technology corridor and building a strong and lasting relationship with the Lisle community,” said Ustian. “Together we can create a strong economy for our region and ensure Navistar is well-positioned to compete in the global economy.”