Hanover

In a recent development, Continental has expanded its existing capacities in Brazil to include the production of air spring systems. The air springs will be manufactured in the new facilities for the local original equipment and aftermarket business in the commercial vehicle sector. The expansion will strengthen company’s presence in the Brazilian market and manufacture standard air spring systems for bus, truck and trailer applications at a single location.

“We want to be closer to our Brazilian customers, supply them more efficiently and promptly, and support them more effectively. In the aftermarket in particular, we have to be able to meet demand very quickly and at short notice – and the new production capacities will ensure this,” said Alexander Papadimitriou, Aftermarket Business- CommercialVehicles, Air Spring Systems, and Continental.

“The need for comfort and safety in modern buses, trucks and trailers is increasing noticeably in the Brazilian market – especially in the original equipment business. This trend will have a corresponding spill-over effect on the spare parts business,” says Papadimitriou.

Earlier metal leaf springs were widespread alternative across Brazilian market. Demand is beginning to shift in the direction of air springs made of rubber and plastic. “Local demand goes well beyond comfort and convenience. With our portfolio, we will also ensure that requirements are met for lightweight solutions that reduce emissions while remaining as robust as conventional products,” explained Papadimitriou.

Continental is already active in Brazil – for instance, the technology company produces commercial vehicle tires, manual and digital tachographs and tachometer displays for light and heavy commercial vehicles for the South American market.