Daimler Subsidiary Freightliner Distributes Innovative Fifth Wheel - Successful Start to Axle Production in the US
Bessenbach, Germany, March 20, 2009 - SAF-HOLLAND S.A. is expanding its
sales potential. Daimler subsidiary Daimler Truck North America (formerly
Freightliner Corporation), one of the largest truck manufacturers in North
America, now offers customers the option of an innovative,
ultra-lightweight HOLLAND FWAL Lightweight fifth wheel. The FWAL fifth
wheel plate is forged out of aluminum alloy, making it much lighter in
weight than conventional cast iron or steel products. It also features the
proven 'No Lube' technology, which includes a special surface coating on
the locking mechanism and a number of other technical details so the fifth
wheel does not require lubrication. This SAF-HOLLAND development is
suitable for fleets who seek a combination of low maintenance requirements
for tractor units, along with environmental sustainability and significant
weight reduction (up to 40kg).
Trailer axle system production is now underway in the United States, and
the first customers took delivery of the new axles last month. Production
will be increased to meet demand in the weeks ahead. The production
facility in Missouri works flexibly to manufacture different kinds of axle
systems to suit individual customer requirements. In launching its own axle
production, the Group is opening up significant additional sales potentials
since buying axles from third-party manufacturers is no longer required. At
the same time, SAF-HOLLAND has rounded out its product portfolio in North
America.
Dr. Reiner Beutel, CEO of SAF-HOLLAND GROUP GmbH, said, 'We are pleased
that Daimler Truck North America recognizes that SAF-HOLLAND's new FWAL
fifth wheel offers their fleet customers additional advantages of weight
optimization and reduced cost. This confirms our product strategy of
offering technically sophisticated solutions in our core and growth markets
around the world. The start-up of trailer axle production in North America
is one example of leveraging technologies across the entire organization,
supporting our ability to meet the requirements of customers around the
world.'
Company Profile
With more than EUR 800 million in sales and over 2,000 employees,
SAF-HOLLAND S.A. is one of the worldwide leading manufacturers and
suppliers of premium product systems and components primarily for trailers
as well as trucks, buses, and recreational vehicles. The product range
encompasses axle and suspension systems, fifth wheels, couplers, kingpins,
and landing legs. SAF-HOLLAND customers include the majority of large truck
and trailer producers all over the world. The products are sold to Original
Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Original Equipment Suppliers (OESs) by
means of a global service and distribution network and via aftermarket
channels directly to the end users and service garages. SAF-HOLLAND has
therefore established itself as one of the few manufacturers in its sector
that is internationally positioned with an extensive product range and a
broad service network. SAF-HOLLAND S.A. has been listed in the Prime
Standard of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange since July 2007.
20.03.2009 Financial News transmitted by DGAP