The joint venture between Knorr-Bremse and Dongfeng was established in 2015. Initially, Knorr-Bremse Dongfeng Electronic & Technology (DETC) Commercial Vehicle Braking Technology Co., Ltd. focused on the production of mechanical compressed air valves and complete Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS). With effect from January 1, 2018, Dongfeng Auto Parts (Group) Co. Ltd. has contributed its compressor business and associated activities to the joint venture.
“Dongfeng and Knorr-Bremse complement each other perfectly, with Knorr-Bremse contributing its extensive product expertise and Dongfeng its in-depth knowledge of the market,” said Mr. Chen Xinglin, General Manager of Dongfeng Auto Parts.
“Since the joint venture was launched the company has shown excellent performance. In close cooperation with Dongfeng we are constantly optimizing our products to meet the specific requirements of the Chinese market. The expanded cooperation with Dongfeng Auto Parts will help to launch adapted solutions to make Chinese commercial vehicles safer, smarter, and more environmentally friendly” said Dr. Peter Laier, Member of the Executive Board of Knorr-Bremse responsible for the Commercial Vehicle Systems division.
Along with changes to commercial vehicle laws and regulations in China, the government’s efforts to promote the efficiency and safety of commercial vehicles have reached a new level. The extended cooperation between Dongfeng and Knorr-Bremse will provide full development support for domestic commercial vehicle manufacturers to effectively meet the growing demands of Chinese market customers. The Chinese truck market as a whole is currently showing rapid growth. Following on from relatively moderate revenue growth of around 6% in 2016 against 2015, production and sales in the first half of 2017 surged ahead by approximately 20% year-on-year.