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February 7, 2012 - LIMITED EDITION LEXUS LFA FEATURES LuK CONCENTRIC SLAVE CYLINDER (CSC)

From 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, 560 hp and 325 km/h maximum speed and production limited to 500 models, the new Toyota Lexus LFA is undeniably a superb sports car that features the most premium quality clutch system components. The fitment of the Schaeffler Group’s innovative LuK Concentric Slave Cylinder (CSC) fits such refined performance parameters.

Toyota asked LuK back in 2004 to accomplish what other suppliers had failed to achieve, to design a high-performance Concentric Slave Cylinder. The two parties had already collaborated before when LuK had developed master cylinders and anti-vibration units for several other Toyota models.

This was a challenging task, since extremely high clutch torques (up to 9,500 rpm) and maximum speeds of up to 325 km/h required a highly refined product which would still perform reliably under these demanding operating conditions.

The prototype design delivered by LuK was a full success. Technical modifications to the car’s design led to additional engineering cycles. The LuK Concentric Slave Cylinder now installed in the new Lexus LFA has undergone a total of 15 design steps.

The Lexus LFA was designed to be a milestone in the Toyota model range and because of that Toyota had a major interest in smooth engineering and manufacturing of all components including the LuK CSC. Every step of the assembly process was accompanied by multiple measurements and tests with extensive documentation and reporting. Toyota itself carried out several audits at the LuK manufacturing facilities earning LuK, its excellent workmanship and on-site conditions much praise.

The LFA was put to the test on various tracks around the globe, including the famous Nürburgring in Germany. The successful collaboration on this project has served to strengthen the trusted LuK and Toyota partnership.

Meanwhile LuK also continues to design and manufacture volume-production LuK Concentric Slave Cylinders for other Toyota models, which together with the new Lexus LFA represent future replacement opportunities for the global aftermarket.  

It is a testament to the compelling CNC technology developed by the Schaeffler Group that LuK has become the first supplier to meet Toyota’s demanding quality standards for the Lexus LFA and the company’s vast range of premium quality vehicles.

It is of note that the limited edition Lexus LFA sold out before the planned production volume of 500 units had even started!                                                                  

/ends.

Print quality image link of the Lexus LFA fitted with LuK Consentric Slave Cylinder technology

Cutaway view of LuK Concentric Slave Cylinder

The Schaeffler Group with its product brands INA, LuK and FAG is a leading manufacturer of rolling bearings and linear products as well as a renowned supplier to the automotive industry of high-precision products and systems for engines, transmissions and chassis applications. The group of companies stands for exceptional customer focus, innovative ability and the highest possible level of quality. Sales of over € 9.5 billion were generated at 180 locations in more than 50 countries in 2010. With around 70,000 employees worldwide, the Schaeffler Group is one of the largest German and European industrial companies in family ownership.

Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket has been responsible for the worldwide automotive aftermarket business of the three product brands LuK, INA and FAG for over 35 years. With a global network of 11,500 distribution partners with 27 sales and representative offices, Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket guarantees strong customer focus and proximity, along with superior service.

For more information, please contact: Pierre Marshall Manager Automotive -  Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket Australia.

Tel: 02 8977 1038 / Email:   LuK-AS.au@Schaeffler.com

www.schaeffler-aftermarket.com

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HELLA AUSTRALIA INTRODUCES HELLA INDUSTRIES DIVISION FOR HIGH TECH INDUSTRIAL, DOMESTIC AND MAJOR OUTDOOR AREA LIGHTING

Hella Australia introduces a new business division in 2012 that takes Hella’s century long leadership in high tech automotive lighting and electronics systems to local industry, commercial, municipal and domestic applications.

Known as Hella Industries, this new business division designs and manufactures LED based industrial lighting, commercial property lighting, street lighting, domestic / home lighting and major outdoor area lighting products.

These innovative lighting products combine purpose designed function with environmental responsibility. All Hella Industries lighting products consume significantly less power than current non LED based industrial, commercial, outdoor and domestic globe or fluorescent tube based lighting products. Hella Industries lighting products also provide longer service life, attractiveness in design and perfect function to meet all lighting applications, from the smallest to the largest, indoor or outdoor.

Hella Australia’s manufacturing plant in Melbourne enables the company to also custom design and manufacture industrial, commercial, domestic or outdoor lighting products to suit buildings or areas of any size or type of construction. These products can also replace existing high energy consuming and high serviced lighting products while providing optimum illumination and reductions in power and replacement costs.

According to Hella Australia Chief Executive Officer Olavi Rantala, “Hella Industries is an important step forward for Hella Australia. We have led the market in technological innovations for automotive and mining industry lighting for many years now and the establishment of Hella Industries is an exciting new division for our company. All design of these products takes place using one of the world’s most advanced lighting research and development facilities and in having our local manufacturing capabilities, we are able to custom design industrial, commercial, domestic and outdoor area lighting to meet specific private, public or industrial area requirements. ”

“It should also be noted that by changing conventional factory, outdoor or street lighting to Hella Industries LED products and electronic systems, the energy cost savings made would be very significant, while also reducing a company or municipality’s carbon footprint,” Mr Rantala added.

Leading the new Hella Industries division is senior Hella Australia management identity, Lothar Schmidt. The RMIT University MBA qualified executive brings four decades of experience across the wide variety of highly successful lighting and electronic products that Hella has introduced to the Australian market.

Lothar has seen a great deal of technological advancement in illumination during his Original  Equipment focussed career with Hella Australia. He is looking forward to managing the introduction of Hella Industries’ initial and future product ranges as these energy efficient and specification designed lighting products will appeal to many diverse markets.

From architecture, commercial construction, municipal authority and domestic housing building sectors, to fellow industrial manufacturers and businesses seeking optimum lighting systems at significantly reduced fitment and running costs along with significant carbon footprint reductions.

According to Lothar Schmidt, “Hella Industries has unique capabilities as it utilises Hella’s expertise as a global leader in optics systems, particularly in LED lighting and high tech electronics systems. The company also has vast local distribution capabilities, giving it a strong edge over its competitors. Australia is just starting to embrace LED technology for outdoor, industrial, commercial and domestic lighting. The use of this energy saving yet highly effective lighting is very much in its infancy here as opposed to overseas. This represents a great opportunity for Hella Australia and its local manufacturing operations,”

The establishment of Hella Industries division is another step towards the growth and diversification of Hella Australia’s market leading business activities, including the manufacture of original equipment and independent aftermarket automotive lighting and electronics systems, automotive themal management products and filtration products.

Hella Australia employs 400 people at its Australian research, design and manufacturing plant located in the Melbourne suburb of Mentone, which celebrated its 50th Anniversary last year. On a global basis Hella employs 25,000 people with 3,800 working in research and development. The German privately owned company, which was founded in 1899, operates in more than 100 countries. 

Hella’s leadership in LED lighting technology can be traced back to the company’s first mass production LED lighting product, the LED Luminaire, back in 1992. More than 200 million LED lighting products have been manufactured since then for use in everything from the world’s most desirable sports and luxury vehicles, to the harshest outdoor environments from the Artic to Antarctica. Hella LED lighting products are also successfully used in the
vehicles and sensitive working areas of Mining centres across Australia and the world.

To find out more about the innovative industrial, commercial, domestic  and outdoor LED lighting products offered by Hella Industries, contact Lothar Schmidt - 03 9581 9223 or 0402 323 079 or by email – lothar.schmidt@ha.hella.com

/ends.

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Suggested caption: Hella Australia CEO Olavi Rantala and Director, OE Sales & Industries Lothar Schmidt with an example of the new generation of LED street lighting products, the Hella Eco Streetline modular street light, one of a range of energy saving outdoor, industrial and domestic lighting products designed and manufactured by Hella.

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January 26, 2012 - Vancouver Winter Olympic Games (2010) Freestyle Aerial Skiing Gold Medallist Lydia Lassila has been honoured with an Order of Australia (OAM) title for her service to sport.

This was an unexpected honour according to Lydia, who overcame major adversity to set a new World and Olympic Record at the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver using a jump combination that had never been attempted before.

In the period since she spectacularly became Australia’s fifth Winter Olympics gold medallist, Lydia and her husband Lauri have welcomed the arrival of their son Kai. Lydia spent 12 months away from the sport to start the next generation of the Lassila family.

Lydia Lassila is now firmly back in training, taking the necessary preparative steps towards her return to World Cup competition in 2013 and the 2014 Winter Olympics to be held in Sochi, Russia. Since December, Lydia has trained in Finland twice and is currently on a training visit to the United States and Canada.

According to Lydia, “My goals have been Olympic gold and world titles, but you don’t think about receiving something as prestigious as an OAM. It is a great acknowledgment of the lifetime I have dedicated to my sport and I am very honoured to receive it. I am celebrating while training in Utah with face paint, flags and Aussie beer!”

Along with this Order of Australia (OAM) honour, Lydia has also become one of Australia’s most awarded athletes over the past two years, her accolades include:

• 2010 Australian Institute of Sport Athlete of the Year
• 2010 Ski and Snowboard Association Athlete of the Year
• 2010 Sport Australia Hall of Fame 'DON' Award for Australia's Greatest Sporting Achievement of 2010
• 2010 Governor’s Award for Victorian Sportsperson of the Year
• 2010 Victorian Female Athlete of the Year - Kitty McEwan Award
• 2010 Victorian Institute of Sport Athlete of the Year

This achievement along with the OAM received by fellow Winter Olympian Torah Bright, represents the recognition given to Australia’s Wintersports athletes who have truly punched well above their weight in comparison to their global competitors in recent years.

/ends.

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November 21, 2011 - HELLA LUMINATOR LED SERIES – HELLA’S FIRST LED DRIVING LIGHT

HELLA Australia announces the release of its most innovative and technically advanced automotive aftermarket lighting product, the HELLA Luminator LED Series driving light.

HELLA remains on the cutting edge of automotive lighting technology with this new aftermarket product that sets new design and technology standards for professional and heavy duty auxiliary lighting applications.

Each HELLA Luminator LED driving light features a triple high-boost reflector and state of the art LED technology to ensure that this highly effective yet low current drawing auxiliary lamp delivers extremely powerful output and a long service life.

The light output from each HELLA Luminator LED driving light is an intense and consistent long range illumination that is similar to daylight without harsh contrasts.

Commercial transport operators as well as owner drivers can be certain that the product strength and resistance to vibration, dirt and water of the HELLA Luminator LED Series driving light are second to none.

Each HELLA Luminator LED driving light features three high powered, high performance LED’s which are housed behind an impact resistant, hard coated polycarbonate lens. Add to this design a triple high boost free form reflector, in built LED position light and the weatherproof die cast  aluminium housing and bracket, and you have a heavy duty LED auxiliary driving light that simply has no parallel.

Each HELLA Luminator LED driving light also features HELLA’s Multivolt adaptability, enabling these world leading driving lights to be operated on everything from 9 volt to 34 volt systems. In terms of current draw, each HELLA Luminator LED auxiliary light uses a mere 1 Watt as a position light and just 30 Watts as a driving light that will illuminate up to 540 metres in distance (at 1 Lux).

Of course there are no subsequent costs once HELLA Luminator Series LED driving lights are fitted as there are no globe replacements or general maintenance requirements, thereby reducing professional and heavy duty vehicle downtimes.

This new HELLA driving light was designed and manufactured by the undisputed world leaders in automotive lighting technology. To find out more about the HELLA Luminator Series LED range, contact HELLA Australia customer service on 1800 061 729.

/ends.

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October 28, 2011 - BEHR HELLA SERVICE ADVISES REGULAR AIR CONDITIONING SERVICING FOR COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

According to the thermal management experts at Behr Hella Service, regular inspection and servicing of commercial vehicle air-conditioning units, (at least every six months), not only saves on costs and time-consuming repairs, but also reduces idle times and downtimes. Regular servicing also reduces the fuel consumption caused by the air-conditioning system.

Air-conditioning units which are not serviced properly, or not at all, are veritable "gas guzzlers". Behr Hella Service research has revealed that a commercial vehicle air-conditioning unit consumed around 0.6 litres more fuel per 100 kilometres when not serviced regularly. A commercial vehicle that travels 125,000 kilometres each year and uses the air-conditioning unit 60 per cent of the time on average, will consume up to 450 litres more fuel each year. Regular servicing not only helps to reduce running costs, it also prevents high repair costs. It also reduces the need for expensive spare parts if the air-conditioning system breaks down prematurely or suffers serious damage.

As an example, the oil circulating with the refrigerant lubricates the air-conditioning compressor. Every year, up to 10 per cent of this refrigerant escapes through natural evaporation, which can cause compressor failure due to lack of lubrication.

Also, the evaporator can become the cause of many problems given that it is a significant part of the air-conditioning unit. Condensation forms in its fins and over time, bacteria, fungi and micro-organisms accumulate and can endanger the driver's health. The evaporator must therefore be disinfected regularly. A regularly serviced and proper functioning air-conditioning unit keeps drivers more relaxed and as a result they are proven to have better reflexes and are able to concentrate more on road and traffic conditions, making them safer drivers.

Behr Hella Service provides the Australian automotive aftermarket with a vast range of premium quality vehicle air conditioning and engine cooling parts. To find out more contact the Behr Hella Service customer service team on 1800 061 729, or by email at custservice@ha.hella.com

/ends.

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October 13, 2011 - 35 YEARS SERVICE TO THE GLOBAL AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET

Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket celebrates a major milestone in 2011, as this year represents the company‘s 35th  anniversary  of partnering with automotive repair businesses all over the world.

From drivetrain and transmission components, to engine and accessory drive components to wheel bearings, Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket provides OE quality products by LuK, INA and FAG to automotive repairers and re-sellers all over the world, establishing many highly valued long term partnerships. 

With customer proximity a key factor to ensure total efficiency for its customers, Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket established a global network of some 11,500 distribution partners more than three decades ago to ensure the delivery of excellent service, prompt product availability and detailed product training.

Innovative repair solutions have been the hallmark of Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket’s global success over the past 35 years. Aside from providing the best quality replacement products as designed and manufactured for the original vehicle manufacturer, Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket has also developed dedicated workshop repair products designed to decrease labour times, improve replacement product reliability and increase customer satisfaction. Innovations such as LuK RepSet®, LuK RepSet Pro or LuK RepSet® DMF and the FAG Repair Insert Unit (RIU) are just some examples of how Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket provides repairers with new and more efficient solutions to common repair and replacement work to ensure the best results.

Detailed technical product information is also of prime importance to Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket. Over the past three and a half decades the company has provided technical solutions such as TecDoc, TecCom and RepXpert to further support Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket customers all over the world. New regional based product catalogues also ensure that local make and model applications are readily available along with the unrivalled Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket global product range.

The most important point in the Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket worldwide culture is that without service, everything else is irrelevant. Customer proximity and the supply of customer specific services provide added value and long term benefit for both the company and its distribution / workshop or re-seller partners.

From the outset Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket has initiated new service concepts parallel to supplying replacement parts. The company has also sought to find new ways of providing repairers and dealerships with improved access to information resources. The company assists in optimizing order and delivery processes, facilitates skills and expertise of its products and systems and supports marketing activities.

An example of this support was the creation of the communication platforms TecDoc and TecCom by Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket, along with the RepXpert Internet-based knowledge portal. At the same time, the company is constantly working on implementing new ideas in order to safeguard the future of the independent automotive repair market.

With its regional headquarters for the Asia Pacific region based in Singapore, Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket has warehousing, quality control along with sales, marketing and customer support operations located throughout the region. Besides Singapore, these locations include Australia,  Japan, China, Hong Kong and India. 

Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket has also placed important emphasis on the Australia, New Zealand and Pacific region, making parts for locally produced makes and models readily available for passenger cars, commercial vehicles, heavy duty vehicles and agricultural vehicles. Locally produced product catalogues to cater for each region‘s most popular applications along with the employment of regional product managers also form a part of the company’s long standing commitment to Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific region.

It has been a highly successful 35 years in the global aftermarket, with many enduring customer partnerships formed. Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket looks forward to many more ahead.

/ends.

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Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket’s global headquarters in Langen, Germany.

Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket has been a loyal companion to automotive technicians all over the world for the past 35 years.

RepXpert is Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket’s internet based knowledge and information portal for automotive technicians from all over the world.

About Schaeffler:

The Schaeffler Group with its product brands INA, LuK and FAG is a leading manufacturer of rolling bearings and linear products as well as a renowned supplier to the automotive industry of high-precision products and systems for engines, transmissions and chassis applications. The group of companies stands for exceptional customer focus, innovative ability and the highest possible level of quality. Sales of over € 9.5 billion were generated at 180 locations in more than 50 countries in 2010. With around 70,000 employees worldwide, the Schaeffler Group is one of the largest German and European industrial companies in family ownership. Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket has been responsible for the worldwide automotive aftermarket business of the three product brands LuK, INA and FAG for over 30 years. With a global network of 11,500 distribution partners, 27 sales and representative offices, Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket guarantees strong customer focus and proximity, along with superior service.

/ends.

To find out more about the Schaeffler Group’s premium quality aftermarket product range, contact Pierre Marshall, Business Development Manager Automotive Aftermarket Division- 0439 197 170 orLuK-AS.au@Schaeffler.com

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October 3, 2011 - SCHAEFFLER AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET & TECDOC - AN ALLIANCE THAT ENSURES ACCURATE AND FAST PARTS IDENTIFICATION
               
Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket’s co-foundation and ongoing involvement in TecDoc, the world’s leading automotive aftermarket information system, came into being as the company sought to find new ways of providing its automotive repairer customers worldwide with regular and improved access to the latest data resources.

TecDoc was established in Germany in 1995 and is owned by a consortium of 26 aftermarket parts manufacturers that along with Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket brands LuK, INA and FAG, includes the largest and highest quality aftermarket brands in the world.

TecDoc supplies the independent aftermarket with current and extensive data for the identification of spare parts for private and commercial vehicles all over the world. The system consists of a database, with current comparison numbers of co-operating parts manufacturers that is used by some 30,000 resellers and repairers worldwide to accurately allocate spare parts to vehicle types.

The standardised product data generated by TecDoc is updated every quarter and offered as a DVD or as an on-line catalogue. TheTecDoc database currently includes approximately 2.9 million parts for private and commercial vehicles sourced from some 300 parts manufacturers worldwide. The TecDoc service also includes an on-line ordering system to ensure that repairers have fast access to parts located via the TecDoc on-line cataloguing system.

According to Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket Business Development Manager for Australia, Pierre Marshall, “The co-operation between Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket and TecDoc Australia has resulted in the production of the first Australian and New Zealand aftermarket focussed LuK Clutch catalogue this year, which is probably the most comprehensive of its type ever released in Australia.“

“TecDoc also allows Australian manufacturers of aftermarket components to take their products to the global aftermarket in a cohesive and standardised manner. We are very proud of the fact that Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket is co-founder of this outstanding aftermarket industry resource,“ Mr Marshall added.

The benefits of having acccurate and regular broad vehicle data applicable to each country’s specific car parc ensures that independent workshops have access to the best quality replacement parts at all times. This data also ensures that independent repairers can compete on a more level playing field with dealer workshops and their factory supplied data.

To find out more about the Schaeffler Group’s premium quality aftermarket product range, contact Pierre Marshall, Business Development Manager Automotive Aftermarket Division- 0439 197 170 or LuK-AS.au@Schaeffler.com

For more information about TecDoc, contact:

Andrew Mattock  - T +61 (0)3 9534 7802  / Mobile +61 (0)4 2027 7240
or Email - andrew@tecdoc.com.au

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Suggested caption: - An example of the benefits of the close technical collaboration between Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket and TecDoc can be found with this year’s release of the first local and highly comprehensive Australia and New Zealand LuK Clutch catalogue.

About Schaeffler:

The Schaeffler Group with its product brands INA, LuK and FAG is a leading manufacturer of rolling bearings and linear products as well as a renowned supplier to the automotive industry of high-precision products and systems for engines, transmissions and chassis applications. The group of companies stands for exceptional customer focus, innovative ability and the highest possible level of quality. Sales of over € 9.5 billion were generated at 180 locations in more than 50 countries in 2010. With around 70,000 employees worldwide, the Schaeffler Group is one of the largest German and European industrial companies in family ownership. Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket has been responsible for the worldwide automotive aftermarket business of the three product brands LuK, INA and FAG for over 30 years. With a global network of 11,500 distribution partners, 27 sales and representative offices, Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket guarantees strong customer focus and proximity, along with superior service.

/ends.

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September 15, 2011 - LuK CONCENTRIC SLAVE CYLINDERS (CSC) LEAD THE FIELD IN QUALITY & RELIABILITY
                                               
The pioneer of clutch technology for automotive and agricultural vehicles, LuK, continues to lead the field in quality and reliability with the LuK concentric slave cylinder (CSC) range.

The LuK CSC design is compact and light weight, thanks to the extensive use of durable internal plastic materials wich also increase the level of functional integration as these units combine both the release bearing and the slave cylinder in one self adjusting component. Consistent performance and minimised pedal force make the LuK CSC the most advantageous choice for agricultural equipment applications.

An innovative feature of the LuK CSC is the release bearing design. The release bearing is kept in light contact with the clutch at all times and the bearing can move radially in the carrier which guarantees an optimum central position onto the clutch. This minimises wear to the diaphragm spring contact tips. This along with all of the LuK CSC design features make the CSC more mechanically efficient than traditional cable or rod operated systems. Hydraulically actuated concentric slave cylinders together with self-aligning release bearings provide a simpler and lower cost alternative to the conventional release bearing, cross-shaft and fork arrangements used in the past. Other advantages of the LuK CSC include ease of fitment, less moving parts ensure that there are less parts to fail, less area is required inside the bell-housing and less pedal pressures for the operator.

It is imperative that whenever a CSC is being replaced or service work is being carried out, that the correct grade of hydraulic fluid is used. This is due to the fact that there are two types of CSC that utilise different piston seals, and each seal is designed to only operate with a specific fluid type, either mineral or vegetable based.

Mineral Based Fluid
CSC Part Number: LuK 510 0019 10
Applications: Cast IH, John Deere Combine, New Holland (Ford and Fiat Agri)

Vegetable Based Fluid
CSC Part Number : LuK  510 0020 10 & 510 0021 10
Applications: John Deere Tractor & Valtra.

To find out more about the Schaeffler Group’s premium quality aftermarket product range, contact Pierre Marshall, Business Development Manager Automotive Aftermarket Division- 0439 197 170 or LuK-AS.au@Schaeffler.com

Image Link

/ends.

The Schaeffler Group with its product brands INA, LuK and FAG is a leading manufacturer of rolling bearings and linear products as well as a renowned supplier to the automotive industry of high-precision products and systems for engines, transmissions and chassis applications. The group of companies stands for exceptional customer focus, innovative ability and the highest possible level of quality. Sales of over € 9.5 billion were generated at 180 locations in more than 50 countries in 2010. With around 70,000 employees worldwide, the Schaeffler Group is one of the largest German and European industrial companies in family ownership. Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket has been responsible for the worldwide automotive aftermarket business of the three product brands LuK, INA and FAG for over 35 years. With a global network of ca. 11,500 distribution partners, 27 sales and representative offices, Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket guarantees strong customer focus and proximity, along with superior service.

Visit the Schaffler Group on line

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September 1, 2011 - PORSCHE PRESENTS SUPPLIER AWARD TO SCHAEFFLER

Schaeffler has been awarded the 2011 Supplier Award by Porsche. Schaeffler and Porsche have been successfully working together for decades. The most important components for Porsche’s variable valve control system Porsche VarioCam Plus were among the products praised during the award ceremony.

Prof. Peter Pleus, President of Schaeffler Group Automotive, credited this award to the team in the Engine Systems Business Division located in Herzogenaurach.
“We are very proud of this award”, said Prof. Peter Pleus, “It is proof of our innovative force and manufacturing quality that are based on the achievements of our creative and quality conscious employees”.

Various rolling bearing solutions that were used in the Porsche 356 laid the foundation for the long partnership between both companies. Porsche was also one of Schaeffler’s first customers as Schaeffler began producing innovative diaphragm spring clutches with the LuK brand in the mid-1960s. It was also during this decade that Schaeffler laid the basis for its expertise in the combustion engine by developing high-precision valve train components. Among other vehicles, these components were tested in the Porsche 917 Le Mans racing car.

Schaeffler was again selected as one of Porsche’s high-tech development partners as the company put the technologically avant-garde Porsche 959 on the road in the mid-1980s.One of these developments was Schaeffler’s hydraulic chain tensioner. This new component proved how effective it was in the most innovative sports car of the time.

Porsche also sets the benchmark with Schaeffler’s support in variable valve trains. Switchable bucket tappets and camshaft phasing units are the key components of the valve control system known as Porsche VarioCam Plus, which is synonymous with efficient and powerful engine technology.

The list of references for the successful co-operation between Porsche and Schaeffler in the engine, transmission and chassis is also extensive. Schaeffler’s components for the classic drive train with an internal combustion engine now also include hybrid modules. In addition, the company has been expanding its innovative range of products for electric vehicle mobility for quite some time.

“The collaboration with Porsche has been very fruitful for both companies, both in terms of development and manufacturing”, says Prof. Peter Pleus. “Both Schaeffler and Porsche are borne by a spirit of innovation and the highest standards of quality. Accordingly, we are very proud of the Porsche Supplier Award, which is an incentive for our team to continue developing pioneering innovations in the future”.

To find out more contact Pierre Marshall, Business Bevelopment Manager Automotive Aftermarket Division- 0439 197 170 or LuK-AS.au@Schaeffler.com.
                                                        
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Porsche Supplier Award

Suggested Caption - One of the world’s most advanced automotive manufacturers, Porsche, presented this award to the Schaeffler Group for excellence in component design and manufacturing.

Prof.Peter Pleus and the Schaeffler Engine Systems Business Division Team with the Award

Suggested Caption - Prof. Peter Pleus, President of Schaeffler Group Automotive (center), passes the 2011 Porsche Supplier Award on to the team in the Engine Systems Business Division in Herzogenaurach, Germany.

About Schaeffler

With its brands INA, LuK and FAG, Schaeffler is a renowned supplier to the automotive industry as well as a leading manufacturer of rolling bearings worldwide.Sales of around €9.5 billion were generated at over 180 locations in more than 50 countries in 2010.With approximately 70,000 employees worldwide, Schaeffler is one of the largest German and European industrial companies in family ownership.Schaeffler’s main customer is the automotive industry with around 60 percent of our sales.Schaeffler is a renowned development partner to the industry with system expertise for the entire drive train, precision products for engines, transmissions and chassis applications that ensure reduced energy consumption and lower emissions as well as increased driving comfort and safety.

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August 18, 2011 - THE LuK SAFETY PTO CLUTCH – MAKING FARMING SAFER

The LuK Safety PTO (Power Take Off) Clutch or “safety clutch” as it is widely referred to, ensures enhanced tractor safety through its unique design.

There are two main types of Safety PTO clutch. The Dual type comprises of two independently operated clutches. the PTO clutch is flywheel located and the Transmission clutch is captive within the clutch housing. PTO engagement is via a lever mechanism. The transmission clutch operates in the same way as a conventional standard dual clutch. The diaphragm spring only provides clamping force for the wheel drive and the PTO clamping force is generated by coil springs on the release lever assembly. This is commonly used on mechanical or mechanical shuttle transmissions.

Single Safety PTO clutch incorporates a fixed transmission torsional damper within the clutch housing which eliminates vibration and noise being transmitted from the engine into the transmission.Both types of Safety PTO clutch use mechanical linkage to operate the PTO, some vehicle manufacturers use a lever which when engaged to prevent the operator leaving the seat. This ensures that the PTO is disconnected when the driver is not in the seat whilst the engine is running. In the event of a mechanical failure of the PTO release mechanism, the design of the clutch is to immediately disengage, stopping all drive to the power take-off shafts. This type is commonly used on shuttle or powershift type transmissions.

The experts at LuK advise that it is very important to take care during the replacement of this kind of clutch to ensure that the PTO disc is correctly located in relation to the engine flywheel. The disc should remain loose after bolting the clutch to the flywheel. The LuK PTO disc spline has a large leading edge to assist in correct alignment during tractor re-assembly. Normally the PTO disc has locating dowels to assist the centralising of the disc within the pressure plate during assembly.

LuK PTO Safety Clutch Characteristics:

• Proven and robust construction. Long life due to the high reserves of wear in the diaphragm spring
• Single-lever operation of the PTO, no additional dog clutch is required. The lever can be used as an “emergency stop”.

 Applications:

• Tractors from 20 to 90 kW with 2-shaft transmission, including CNH, John Deere, AGCO, Claas Renault & Steyr.
• Transmissions within which the PTO disc is located on the flywheel side.

To find out more about the Schaeffler Group’s premium quality aftermarket product range, contact Pierre Marshall, Business Development Manager Automotive Aftermarket Division – 0439 197 170 or LuK-AS.au@Schaeffler.com.

/ends.

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About the Schaeffler Group:

The Schaeffler Group with its product brands INA, LuK and FAG is a leading manufacturer of rolling bearings and linear products as well as a renowned supplier to the automotive industry of high-precision products and systems for engines, transmissions and chassis applications. The group of companies stands for exceptional customer focus, innovative ability and the highest possible level of quality. Sales of over € 9.5 billion were generated at 180 locations in more than 50 countries in 2010. With around 70,000 employees worldwide, the Schaeffler Group is one of the largest German and European industrial companies in family ownership. Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket has been responsible for the worldwide automotive aftermarket business of the three product brands LuK, INA and FAG for over 30 years. With a global network of approximately 11,500 distribution partners, accompanied by 27 sales and representative offices, Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket guarantees strong customer focus and proximity, along with superior service.

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August 17, 2011 - NEW DAYCO THERMOSTAT AND NO SLACK BELT, TENSIONER & PULLEY CATALOGUES RELEASED

One of the world’s leaders in automotive thermal engineering and  drive belt, tensioner and pulley design and manufacturing, Dayco, announces the release of two new catalogues specifically for Australian and New Zealand based automotive repairers and re-sellers.

The Dayco “No Slack” Belt and Tensioner Catalogue combines this unparalleled range of premium quality replacement drive belts and tensioners with pulleys, making it the complete reference for engine drive belt, tensioner and pulley replacements. This new Dayco catalogue includes more than 1,200 part numbers covering over 6,000 vehicle applications.

Dayco’s advanced research in production material has resulted in the development of increasingly efficient drive belts, tensioners and pulleys, capable of fulfilling all of the requirements and conditions that are par for the course with modern engine technology.

Also being released this month is the new Dayco Thermostat catalogue. Dayco’s quality thermostat range includes 130 part numbers to suit more than 4,000 vehicle applications. It is the complete one-stop reference guide for all automotive engine thermostat requirements, with all products designed and engineered to perform at and beyond OEM specifications.

According to David McClurg, Dayco Australia Sales & Marketing Director, “We have placed major emphasis on ensuring that our Australian and New Zealand customers have access to our field leading range of drive belts, tensioners and pulleys, along with our comprehensive range of thermostats through these two new Dayco reference books. A vast range of applications, exact fitment and complete reliability are what our customers expect and the entire Dayco range is placed at their fingertips with these easy to use catalogues.”

To get your copies of these two new Dayco catalogues contact your Dayco distributor.

/ends.

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Dayco No Slack Belt & Tensioner Catalogue Cover

Dayco Thermostat Catalogue Cover

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August 15, 2011 - NEW INA OVERRUNNING ALTERNATOR PULLEY CATALOGUE RELEASED

The new INA Overrunning Alternator Pulley catalogue is now available. The new catalogue features 190 pages referencing a total of 220 different products to suit 850 models from over 50 automotive vehicle manufacturers worldwide, representing 4,400 vehicle applications and approximately 85% of the European car parc.

The new INA Overrunning Alternator Pulley catalogue features an intelligent and user-friendly structure and layout. The table of contents is organized by vehicle manufacturers allowing for the quick location of part numbers. Individual chapters have been included such as vehicle classification, numerical lists and reference-number lists. All have been color-coded on the index pages leading the catalogue user to the right product with little effort. The fourth and final chapter of the catalogue is new. For the first time, all listed Overrunning Alternator Pulleys (OAPs) and Overrunning Alternator Decouplers (OADs) are featured in photos with all technical measurements. This makes finding a matching product much easier as a result. Another new feature making the INA Overrunning Alternator Pulley catalogue even more user-friendly is the OAP cross-references to other brands and manufacturers. A service section at the end of the catalogue addresses possible causes of auxiliary drive damage, as well as functional testing of OAP’s and OAD’s.

Besides listing 195 OAP’s, the new catalogue also lists more than 20 OAD’s. Using different pictograms allows for quick and easy differentiation between both product groups. This is especially important, as an OAP cannot be replaced with an OAD, or vice versa. As a result, choosing the right product for every vehicle is considerably easier.

“There are many vehicles being driven on Australian roads that include OAP’s as original equipment, these include many popular European makes and models along with local Holden, Mitsubishi and Toyota models,” says Schaeffler Automotive
Aftermarket Product Specialist, Brett Sage.

The complete list of OAP equipped vehicles on Australian roads that present aftermarket replacement opportunities in the near future include:

- Ford Focus & Transit various models
- Holden Astra, Combo & Zafira various models
- Hyundai i30, Santa Fe & Terracan various models
- Kia Sorento, Soul & Sportage various models
- Mazda 3, 6, MPV & Tribute various models
- Mitsubishi Lancer, Lancer EVO & Outlander various models
- Nissan Cube, Navara (D22 & D40), Patrol, Tiida & X-Trail various models
- Proton Satria & Wira various models
- Suzuki Grand Vitara various model
- Toyota 4-Runner, Aurion, Camry, Hi-Ace, Hi-Lux, Kluger, LandCruiser, Rav 4 & Tarago various models

The new INA Overrunning Alternator Pulley catalogue is not just for passenger car workshops, but it is also the perfect catalogue for automotive electricians who re-build alternators. The new INA Overrunning Alternator Pulley catalogue is now available from Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket Australia by contacting Pierre Marshall, Business Development Manager, Automotive Aftermarket Division - 0439 197 170 or by email at INA-AS.au@Schaeffler.com.

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The new “INA Overrunning Alternator Pulley” catalogue – links to over 4,400 vehicles at a glance.

The Schaeffler Group with its product brands INA, LuK and FAG is a leading manufacturer of rolling bearings and linear products as well as a renowned supplier to the automotive industry of high-precision products and systems for engines, transmissions and chassis applications. The group of companies stands for exceptional customer focus, innovative ability and the highest possible level of quality. Sales of over € 9.5 billion were generated at 180 locations in more than 50 countries in 2010. With around 70,000 employees worldwide, the Schaeffler Group is one of the largest German and European industrial companies in family ownership. Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket has been responsible for the worldwide automotive aftermarket business of the three product brands LuK, INA and FAG for over 30 years. With a global network of approximately 11,500 distribution partners, accompanied by 27 sales and representative offices, Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket guarantees strong customer focus and proximity, along with superior service.

/ends.

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July 21, 2011 - DAYCO AND WESFIL CELEBRATE 20 YEARS OF BUSINESS TOGETHER

Dayco Australia marks a special milestone this year with the celebration of an unbroken 20 year customer relationship with Wesfil, Australia’s largest automotive filter manufacturer and one of the country’s most enduring automotive aftermarket distributors.

Dayco Australia has supplied Wesfil with premium quality drive belts, timing system kits, pulleys and tensioners since 1991, ensuring that their customers are equipped with the highest quality components available.

Both companies have grown significantly since commencing their highly successful business alliance two decades ago, when Wesfil Managing Director Terry Cooper sought to become a Dayco distributor to deliver his customers the highest quality drive belt and associated products.

According to David McClurg, Dayco Australia Sales and Marketing Manager, “We have enjoyed a fantastic relationship with Wesfil as the company has always made it a pleasure to do business. Nothing is ever too difficult for them and this is why their business has grown so much over the past 20 years. We are looking forward to many more years of mutual success and thank Wesfil for their loyal support.”

To mark this special milestone, David McClurg presented Wesfil Managing Director Terry Cooper with a specially engraved and framed plaque, during a Wesfil staff function event in Sydney.

According to Terry Cooper, “Wesfil has enjoyed a very successful 20 year relationship with Dayco. It is a quality brand that has lifted Wesfil’s presence in the marketplace as a major supplier of aftermarket products to all independent resellers. Dayco’s product range, catalogues, service and quality are without peer.”

/ends.

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Suggested Caption - The team from Wesfil Australia celebrate 20 years of business with Dayco Australia

From left, second along rear row Joe Searl – Wesfil Operations Manager, Second row fourth person – Barbara Checchi, Wesfil Office Manager, third from right on back row, Terry Cooper, Wesfil Managing Director, second row second person from left Doug Baker, Wesfil National Sales Manager - surrounded by Wesfil state managers and sales representatives.

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