Omron Introduces New Slim-Size Power Seat Switches

DETROIT, March 8 -- Omron Automotive Electronics introduced today its line of slim-size power seat switches that feature a reduced size that expands their ability to be packaged in a broader range of vehicle and seat types. The slim-size switches provide exceptional look and feel, and use Omron's own proprietary switch cell technology to reduce overall size, weight and cost.

"The new slim-size switch is an important addition to our product line and will help us broaden our offerings across multiple vehicle platforms," said Jerry Bricker, vice president and general sales manager, Omron Automotive Electronics. "It's another example of our design and engineering teams collaborating to develop the most innovative, highest performing switches in the industry. And, it's another reason why Omron has been able to achieve 70 - 80 percent share of the North American power seat switch market."

The Omron slim-size switches are available with 4-way, 6-way, 8-way and lumbar functionality, and have generated a great deal of interest from OEMs, and seat and door trim Tier One suppliers alike.

About Omron

Omron Automotive Electronics, headquartered in Novi, Michigan, USA, is a division of Omron Automotive Electronic Components Company, Nagoya, Japan. Omron Automotive designs and manufactures a wide range of advanced electronic control units and sensors, including laser radar sensors, remote keyless entry systems and power window and sliding door anti-pinch controls. Other products include various ergonomic switch assemblies and PCB and plug-in relays. The division has 700 employees in North America with one manufacturing facility in the U.S. and two in Canada. Sales for the 2002 fiscal year were $200 million.

Omron Corporation was founded as a maker of relays for x-ray timers in 1933. In addition to automotive electronic components, the company's major markets include industrial automation, electronic and mechanical components for commercial and industrial uses, healthcare products, ATM machines, card readers and traffic control systems, plus new ventures into intelligent transportation systems, information technology and wireless communications. The corporation has more than 23,000 employees in 30 countries globally. Fiscal year 2002 sales exceeded $5 billion.