TRW completes shock absorber deal

TRW has completed the acquisition of ArvinMeritor’s European shock absorber business interests. This includes the Gabriel brand name in Europe and the manufacturing facility at Bonneval, France.

TRW will continue to manufacture both Gabriel and TRW branded shock absorbers at the Bonneval facility and market both brands across the IAM.

• This deal completes TRW’s ‘Corner Module’ offer of Braking + S&S + shock absorbers

The term ‘Corner Module’ describes how TRW’s core products and technologies are integrated in the corner of the vehicle, providing everything necessary for a safer drive by controlling the transmission of power to the road. It also allows customers to deal with one supplier, simplifying business.

TRW’s Francois Augnet explained:  “The engineering excellence of the Bonneval plant will be invaluable in further developing the shock absorber business; an integral part of the ‘Corner Module’ strategy."

Background

• TRW and ArvinMeritor entered into a JV in October 2007 to market and distribute TRW and Gabriel branded shock absorbers to the IAM
• In January 2009, ArvinMeritor decided to dispose of its light vehicle interests to concentrate on its heavy-duty business
• TRW signed a letter of intent to purchase ArvinMeritor’s European shock absorber interests in September 2010.