BorgWarner Joins Covisint

CHICAGO--BorgWarner Inc. has joined Covisint, the business-to-business Internet trade exchange created by several major automakers. In addition, the company has formed a number of partnerships to maximize the effectiveness of the company’s e-business strategy.

“BorgWarner is looking to e-business as a promising technology tool that will assist us in achieving our growth goals,” said Jack Kalina, BorgWarner chief information officer. “Joining Covisint is one of several steps we are taking to leverage potentially valuable forms of information technology across our organization for the benefit of our customers, suppliers and employees, in support of our business objectives.”

Formed by Ford Motor Co., General Motors Corp., DaimlerChrysler AG, Renault S.A., and Nissan Motor Co. Ltd., Covisint is being established as an independent company. It will utilize a single global portal to eliminate redundant investments by suppliers, with the objectives of lower costs, more streamlined business practices and increased efficiencies.

The exchange is expected to be the world’s largest Internet marketplace, handling up to $750 billion in annual purchases by automakers and suppliers. Since May, roughly 25 suppliers have stated their intent to use the exchange. Launch is slated for late this month.

In addition, BorgWarner recently established a secure supplier extranet to enhance communication with its suppliers, and a global employee intranet to foster knowledge-sharing and the leveraging of expertise across the organization.

“We are committed to putting these tools to the best possible use as we continue to enhance our internal security, speed and efficiency, while adding value to our communication with customers, suppliers and employees,” said Kalina.

Chicago-based BorgWarner operates 60 manufacturing and technical facilities in 13 countries. Customers include Ford, DaimlerChrysler, General Motors, Toyota, Caterpillar, Navistar and VW. The Internet address for BorgWarner is www.bwauto.com.