The 2015 edition of the biennial Auto Shanghai, the oldest auto show in China, was held recently, featuring exhibits from many leading international companies for the world's largest market. Auto sales grew by 6.9 percent in 2014, and although it has slowed in recent years there is no sign of the overall growth stopping anytime soon. The nation's shifting demographics and growing economy, with a GDP that nearly doubled between 2008 and 2013, offer manufacturers great opportunities for expansion.
The Chinese market presents a few unique factors. Highway infrastructure has been improving fast and environmental issues, an area where China has traditionally lagged behind the western world, are a growing concern. With these issues in mind, American brake manufacturers took to the floor in Shanghai to present some of their latest designs.
WABCO Holdings, Inc., introduced several advanced safety features. BYD Auto, Foton Motor and Yutong, three of China's main commercial vehicle manufacturers, have already signed agreements to adopt their emergency braking system, which can detect obstacles in the road and apply the brakes as needed. Other new products include lane departure warning, air suspension technology to control axle load and a braking system platform that can be adapted to each region's regulations.
For its part, TRW Automotive announced plans to open three new plants in China over the next two years. One of the new facilities will be dedicated to braking and located in the city of Zhangjiagang, near Shanghai on the banks of the Yangtze. Occupying nearly 248,000 square feet, the plant will produce electric park brake (EPB) technology and front calipers, among others.
Greening Inc. is a leading provider of commercial vehicle brake testing services. We have a well-established international presence and serve the Chinese market through our partner in Beijing.