Aluminum Crossmembers At Mitsubishi

NORTHVILLE, Mich.--One-piece aluminum crossmembers for the Mitsubishi Galant, Eclipse, and Eclipse Spyder models will be supplied by Hayes Lemmerz International Inc.

The cars, with V-6 engines, will be assembled at the Mitsubishi plant in Normal, Ill. The contact begins with the 2001 models. Terms were not disclosed.

Hayes Lemmerz will make these parts at its Bristol, Ind. facility.

Designed to replace steel units, the aluminum component will be made as a one-piece aluminum casting and provides for significant weight savings.

According to Mish Jaksic, president of Hayes Lemmerz’ Suspension Components business unit, “The structural nature of the application and our first such application with Mitsubishi Motor Manufacturing makes the one-piece aluminum crossmember a very important program. This market is expected to grow significantly because of the need for high-integrity, high-quality castings.”

He added that “these products are lighter and stronger than a conventional steel unit and are designed to provide a noticeable reduction in noise, vibration and harshness. In addition, they help deliver sharper steering and handling while the lighter mass helps agility and fuel economy.”

Hayes Lemmerz has annual sales of $2.3 billion with 46 plants, six joint venture facilities and more than 15,000 employees worldwide.

For more information, contact www.hayes-lemmerz.com.