In an exclusive interview with Michele Panuccio at the IAA Transportation Show in Hannover 2024, Rajesh Rajgor delved into SAE-SMB’s latest innovations and the company’s focus on offering high-performance products. Michele, with visible enthusiasm, introduced SAE-SMB’s highlight for this year: the 9 tons axle with advanced air-Suspension. “9 tons is a special product for us because it marks a partnership with VDL,” he noted. “Their technology enhances our suspension system, creating what we believe to be the best option on the market right now.” This collaborative effort underscores SAE-SMB’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions for heavy-duty applications.
Alongside the 9 tons, SAE-SMB showcased various axle types and suspensions, including heavy-duty axles produced in India that are now also gaining traction in export markets. “India has become a critical manufacturing hub for us, particularly for products like the 300X200 steering axles along with standard with brake disc and 5.5 tons with air and mechanical suspensions,” Michele explained. “These are widely used for self-steering applications and demonstrate our goal to be competitive in both quality and cost across markets.”
A key point in SAE-SMB’s strategy is balancing quality and cost. Michele highlighted SAE-SMB’s ongoing cost-management efforts, which are crucial in today’s highly competitive environment. “We’re focusing on creating lighter products to adapt to the future of electric vehicles,” he stated. “But at the core of everything, quality remains our top priority. Our extensive supply chain and constant design refinements support this balance”. With manufacturing facilities in France, India, China, and Brazil, SAE-SMB leverages its global footprint to streamline production while maintaining high standards across all regions.
Touching on market trends, Michele noted a significant demand in Europe for lighter products to improve fuel efficiency and load capacities, adding, “All trailer manufacturers are looking to reduce weight while maximizing payload.” This trend has led SAE-SMB to innovate in both product weight and durability, catering to transporters looking for longevity and efficiency in their fleet.
Technology also plays an essential role in SAE-SMB’s approach. In response to the growing need for intelligent, connected solutions, Michele shared, “We’re integrating tech features like QR codes on our parts for easy identification and replacement.” This forward-thinking approach enables fleet operators to manage their inventories more effectively, minimizing downtime. “Our products also have embedded chips to assist in real-time tracking and monitoring, which is crucial for modern fleet management,” he added.
Michele emphasized that SAE-SMB’s robust service network across Europe plays a vital role in customer satisfaction. “We’ve built a vast network of service points across Europe, from the south to the north, so that our customers have quick access to parts and maintenance,” he said, stressing SAE-SMB’s dedication to a comprehensive support system. This network not only supports the life cycle of SAE-SMB products but also enhances value for fleet operators across the continent.
In terms of the aftermarket, SAE-SMB has built a strong reputation with brands like NOS and AirMax, focusing on components specifically designed for aftermarket needs and brake discs respectively. “AirMax, for example, is a top product for us, featuring brake discs that offer durability and low maintenance,” Michele shared. “It’s perfect for trailer transport across Europe and meets the demands of our customers looking for reliable, long-lasting products.”
Michele also expressed optimism about the future, hinting at SAE-SMB’s ongoing projects aimed at expanding their offerings in electric and connected technology for commercial vehicles. “Quality and innovation are at the heart of what we do. We’re excited to bring even more advancements to the industry in the coming years,” he concluded, leaving us with a clear sense of SAE-SMB’s vision to lead with innovation and a customer-centric approach.