Mercedes Launches Actros With Delphi's Highly Integrated CV Modular Door, A World's First

HANOVER, Germany, Sept. 11 -- Delphi Corp. will supply its industry-leading modular door to DaimlerChrysler for its new Actros heavy-duty truck launched here at the 59th International Motor Show - Commercial Vehicles 2002.

"We continue to grow our customer base throughout the world," said James A. Bertrand, president of Delphi Safety & Interior Systems and vice president of Delphi. "Bringing the modular door to the European market in a commercial vehicle for the first time is a special landmark for us."

Delphi's innovative modular door systems feature integrated subsystems, which make up the entire door system. Major door system components include the trim elements, movable side glass, window lift, electrics and electronics, latching, switches and climate control features. Innovative technical solutions to provide a more cost-effective approach to total door system assembly include:

Door trim - The door trim integrates the inside door handle, the pull grip, speaker grille and speaker, map pocket, the electronic control module and the switches listed below. Electric and comfort controls - No more frosty mirrors while driving. Within easy reach, Delphi's modular door includes switches for heating and positioning of outside mirrors, power side-window controls and convenient side-window defrost vents. Hardware module - Includes the inside and outside latching system, window lifts, window guiding system and window. By designing and manufacturing these components integrated in the modular door, Delphi has the capability to simplify the installation process by integrating up to 85 percent of the door's content in the modular door.

With two decades of experience in modules, Delphi has the knowledge in technology and manufacturing to streamline the process from design to assembly and ultimately, installation. And beyond easier installation, Delphi's modular door features components that are easily accessible for possible future service.

The modular door system design makes the door more reliable and more economical by providing a majority of the door components in one integrated system that is pre-tested and easily installed, avoiding many of the ergonomic issues found in the assembly of a conventional door.

Delphi's modular door systems meet customers' performance requirements with light, strong, durable materials and innovative subsystem integration.

"We look forward to continued success in our relationship with DaimlerChrysler as well as other European customers," Bertrand said.