GKN and SKF create novel automotive module
GKN and SKF create novel automotive module GKN and SKF today announced a new, compact automotive hub and halfshaft assembly which reduces vehicle weight and offers benefits to suspension design and assembly. Following several years of engineering collaboration between GKN Automotive International GmbH of Germany and AB SKF of Sweden the two companies have unveiled the new module at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The Compact HHM (hub halfshaft module) offers considerable weight saving of some 10% on conventional hub assemblies. This assists vehicle designers to achieve overall weight reduction in new vehicles and reduces unsprung mass which makes a significant contribution to overall ride comfort. The new assembly is also smaller than conventional units and this together with the weight saving offers greater flexibility in suspension and steering design. GKN and SKF also believe there will be opportunities to simplify the corner assembly process. The development of new modular assemblies such as the Compact HHM will be crucial to continued advances in passenger vehicle design and performance. GKN and SKF possess complementary skills and technologies and a deep awareness of customer needs - it is this rare combination which has made the Compact HHM possible, say GKN and SKF. The Compact HHM comprises a hub bearing unit, CV fixed joint, interconnecting shaft and CV plunging joint. It is applicable for front and rear drive applications and in all-wheel drive vehicles such as the increasingly popular sports utility models. GKN's leadership in constant velocity jointed halfshafts and SKF's leadership in hub bearing design and technology have contributed to create a radical new approach for hub bearing unit and halfshaft assembly integration. The Compact HHM will be jointly marketed to the global automotive industry by the two companies' sales and engineering teams. Göteborg, September 14, 1999 Aktiebolaget SKF (publ.) For further information, please contact: Lars G Malmer, SKF Group Communication, tel +46-31-3371541, e-mail: Lars.G.Malmer@skf.com Aktiebolaget SKF, SE-415 50 Göteborg, Sweden, tel +46-31-3371000, fax +46-31- 3372832, www.skf.com ------------------------------------------------------------ Please visit http://www.bit.se for further information The following files are available for download: http://www.bit.se/bitonline/1999/09/14/19990914BIT00180/bit0001.doc http://www.bit.se/bitonline/1999/09/14/19990914BIT00180/bit0002.pdf