SKF Develops High Performance Bearings for New Ferrari Vehicles

PLYMOUTH, Mich., Jan. 19, 2005 -- SKF, a long-standing partner with Ferrari in the development of bearings and seals for both its road and racing vehicles, is producing high performance hub bearing units for the new Ferrari F430 and Superamerica Convertible.

The hub bearing units help improve vehicle handling through increased hub stiffness that supports the high forces produced during cornering for these Ferrari vehicles.

Key features of the all-steel hub bearing units include:

-- A flanged outer ring for faster assembly and a stiffer knuckle connection providing dynamic handling and steering precision.

-- A flanged inner ring for faster assembly and a stiffer disc and wheel rim interface.

-- An active ABS sensor that can sense and adjust with wheel rotation and is particularly effective for the vehicle's electric parking brake.

-- Thin section bearing rings optimize the package dimensions.

-- High stiffness and longer bearing life through optimized ball selection.

-- Enhanced oxidation protection through the use of a special coating on exposed surfaces.

These high performance hub bearing units have been validated and proven to meet Ferrari's stringent performance requirements by SKF through both bench and road testing, including running on Ferrari's own proving grounds.

Since 1947, SKF has joined forces with Formula One's Scuderia Ferrari, creating the longest technical supplier relationship in the sport. The Scuderia Ferrari F1 machines contain over 150 bearings and seals designed and manufactured exclusively by SKF.

About SKF

Founded in Sweden in 1907, SKF is headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden with technology centers in the Netherlands, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States. SKF has a long history of innovation, including the development of the first integrated wheel hub bearing in 1938 (1938 Citroen 15 CV), and the first full by-wire controlled concept car, the Filo, jointly launched with Stile Bertone in February of 2001.

Today's products include SKF bearings, Chicago Rawhide seals and value- added subassemblies for corner and steering, driveline, engine and lubrication systems for both cars and trucks. The company also offers by-wire SMART actuators and sensors, plus a variety of design, testing and consulting services. SKF employs approximately 40,000 worldwide, has annual sales of over six billion dollars, and sells its products in more than 150 countries. More information is available at http://www.skf.com/ .