Firestone TVS inaugurates air spring unit

Chennai: Firestone TVS (FTPL), a joint venture between US-based Firestone Industrial Products Company and Sundaram Industries of the $ 4-illion TVS Group, inaugurated its air spring manufacturing facility near Madurai.

FTPL would initially manufacture air springs and cater to air-suspension systems manufacturers, automotive OEMs and the aftermarket, apart from the Indian Railways.

The advantages of air spring over conventional leaf or coil counterparts include adjustable spring rate resulting in variable load-carrying capability, height control and reduced friction, eventually increasing life of vehicle chassis and surfaces such as roads and rails.

The plant, at Vellaripatti, about 16 km from Madurai, was inaugurated by the President of Firestone Industrial Products Company, Mr Mike Cerio.

Apart from manufacturing, the facility will also have R&D, endurance evaluation and testing capabilities.

The company has an annual capacity of five lakh air springs and expects to reach full capacity in five years. It would ramp up production depending on the market demand.

FTPL would also look at industrial segments for air springs, by importing from Firestone’s facilities.