TRW Automotive to set up Indian subsidiary in Chennai soon

TRW Automotive of the US, producing and supplying auto components to all the leading OEMs in the world, will be establishing its Indian subsidiary in Chennai soon. The Indian subsidiary will commence operations as soon as it receives approval from the Foreign Investment Promotion Board. An expert with rich knowledge and experience in components making has already been appointed to head the Indian operations. According to reliable sources, the Chennai office will have a strength of 20, to begin with.

For India TRW is not a strange brand since it has already had two joint venture agreements with the Chennai-based component majors, Rane and Brakes India of the TVS Group. While the joint venture with Brakes India manufactures brake systems, the Rane TRW Steering Systems produces steering systems and seat belts since 1995. Both the joint ventures in which TRW has 49 per cent equity participation each have proved very successful.

Keeping India’s vibrant growth as an auto major and also as part of its future plans to enlarge its activities, TRW is planning to set up more joint ventures. For the purpose, it has already identified a few companies, including one each from Pune and Gurgaon. Earlier it attempted to acquire the German auto component giant, Siemens VDO, but in vain.

TRW Automotive with 2007 sales of $14.7 billion is among the world’s 10 largest automotive suppliers and is one of the top financial performers in the industry. The company supplies more than 40 major vehicle manufacturers and 250 nameplates and holds leading positions in all of its primary product categories.

TRW Automotive has 209 facilities in 27 countries. Its key products are braking systems, steering & suspension systems, driver assist systems, inflatable restraint systems, steering wheel systems, seat belt systems, safety electronics, and engine components.

The automotive giant designs, develops and produces the widest and most comprehensive array of safety products in the industry, including active safety systems that help drivers avoid collisions and passive safety systems that help protect vehicle occupants when an accident occurs. The company is uniquely positioned to integrate these active and passive safety technologies to offer drivers and passengers enhanced levels of safety, comfort and convenience.

TRW is among the world leaders in all of its primary product lines, including automotive and commercial steering systems, foundation brake components and systems, seat belt systems, engine valves and valve train systems, brake control systems, airbag systems, safety electronics, body control systems, steering wheels, and engineered fasteners.

It can deliver components, modules, and systems in any configuration desired by the customer. As a full systems supplier and integrator, it can provide the engineering services and product development capability to produce everything from individual components to complete automotive systems.

TRW operates a network of technical centers in all major global regions employing more than 5,000 engineers, researchers, designers, and technicians. This global network creates the latest in automotive technologies while improving existing products and systems by using sophisticated and computer-simulation equipment.

In addition to its extensive supply direct to vehicle manufacturers, the company is a leading provider of automotive service, parts, technical support, and diagnostic support to vehicle manufacturers and independent aftermarket customers worldwide. Its global aftermarket service network covers more than 10,000 customers in over 120 countries.