TRW plans shock absorber expansion

TRW Automotive Aftermarket has signed a letter of intent with ArvinMeritor with a view to purchasing its European shock absorber interests.

The two businesses entered into a joint venture (JV) agreement in October 2007 to market and distribute TRW and Gabriel branded shock absorber ranges for the European independent aftermarket (IAM).

Under the terms of the letter of intent, the JV company would transfer completely to TRW upon completion, expected to be within three months, and TRW would continue to manufacture both Gabriel and TRW branded shock absorbers at the existing ArvinMeritor facility at Bonneval, France.  

Francois Augnet, vice president for TRW Automotive Aftermarket Europe and Asia Pacific, said: “The JV allowed us to offer a ‘corner module’ of braking, steering & suspension and shock absorbers. This move would be a natural progression and signals our commitment to the market.”

Javier Rodrigo Almazan, sales director TRW Automotive Aftermarket, Europe, commented: “The Gabriel brand has a long history within the European market but we feel that with only three per cent market share there is significant room for brand growth.