Brose door systems for DaimlerChrysler’s M and R Class vehicles
DaimlerChrysler representatives were informed about Brose Tuscaloosa, Inc.’s capabilities during the Grand Opening of the new Brose Plant (from left to right): Michael Stoschek (President and CEO Brose Group), Harald Bölstler (Vice President Procurement Mercedes Car Group), Gerardo Rojas (General Manager Brose Tuscaloosa, Inc.), Kurt Sauernheimer (Executive Vice President Brose Group), Bill Taylor (President and CEO Mercedes Benz US International, Inc.) and Hans-Heinrich Weingarten (Executive Vice President Production Mercedes Car Group).
Brose Tuscaloosa, Inc. has been producing door systems for the new models of DaimlerChrysler’s M and R Class vehicles since the end of 2004. Brose products featuring up to 247 variants are supplied in line with the customer’s own vehicle production schedule to the Mercedes plant one kilometer away. Annual production figures are planned to reach 720,000 units by the end of 2006.
There are about 60 employees currently working at the Tuscaloosa plant. The facility’s headcount is expected to increase to 90 by the end of the year.
“The partnership between the Brose Group and DaimlerChrysler has existed for 75 years. With this longstanding history of fair collaboration, we have set up this plant confident that we may look forward to a continuation of our long-term business relationship in the future, too,“ said Kurt Sauernheimer at the Opening ceremony.
Brose supplies DaimlerChrysler from thirteen plants in Europe, North and South America as well as South Africa. 40 car models of the Mercedes-Benz, Chrysler and Smart brands are currently being equipped with window regulators, seat adjusters, door systems and closure systems.
Given the planned expansion of the North American business in components and systems for vehicle doors and seats, Brose is once again increasing its manufacturing capacities on the North American continent: a production facility is currently being set up in London/Canada.
In 2004, Brose North America achieved sales turnover of 280 million US dollars. The company plans to significantly increase its business in the next couple of years.
Press contact:
Gabi Rujoub
Telephone: +49 9561 21 1653
Telefax: +49 9561 21 1704
E-mail: gabi.rujoub@brose.net
