Kayaba Boosts OE Supplies to Renault
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August, 2003 |
Kayaba, the world's largest producer of shock absorbers, is supplying
the front and rear shock absorbers for the stylish new Renault Mégane
Coupé Cabriolet (CC) as original equipment (OE). The latest model
to join the Mégane line-up, the CC will be launched in the near
future, and is unique in featuring an electronic folding glass roof,
the first in its class.
Kayaba is the world's largest OE supplier of shock absorbers, and
now has a 23% market share. It already supplies components on a
worldwide basis for other models in the new Mégane range, which
was introduced earlier this year. This latest design of shock absorbers
will now be used in 50% of Renaults built in France, Spain, Turkey,
Mexico and Brazil, and sold worldwide.
The front shock absorber is built into a McPherson strut, and
is the first time Renault has used a 'knuckle' with a locator instead
of a lower bracket; it also features a built-in safety spring seat.
The locator is welded using resistance welding, and all versions
incorporate a hydraulic rebound stop. The rear shock absorber is
a bitube design. The internal workings employ a new system of valves
to reduce noise, and a flexiblock on the upper ring to facilitate
variable axial and longitudinal stiffness. With both front and rear
components, new materials have been used to reduce friction and
provide increased thermal stability, while the weight has been reduced
as much as possible.
Hajime Sato, General Manager of Kayaba (Europe) says: "Supplying
such a mainstream manufacturer as Renault is great news for the
Kayaba brand. We are at the forefront of technological development,
both of OE and aftermarket components, and means we can meet the
needs of both the vehicle manufacturers and the motorist in terms
of design, ride comfort and handling."
Hajime Sato, General Manager of Kayaba (Europe) says: "Supplying
such a mainstream manufacturer as Renault is great news for the
Kayaba brand. We are at the forefront of technological development,
both of OE and aftermarket components, and means we can meet the
needs of both the vehicle manufacturers and the motorist in terms
of design, ride comfort and handling."
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