Advanced Suspension Technologies Promise a Smooth Ride for the European Suspension Market, Says Frost & Sullivan
LONDON – 16 September, 2009 – Automakers are exploring how best to use advanced system technologies to pass along the maximum benefit to customers. However, pricing and affordability remain a big challenge. New analysis from Frost & Sullivan (http://www.automotive.frost.com), Strategic Analysis of Advanced Suspension Systems in European Market, finds that the total European passenger vehicle suspension market (including advanced suspension) earned revenues of €8.29 billion in 2008 and estimates this to reach €9.62 billion by 2015, spurred by growing demand for systems that offer best ride with optimal handling capabilities. The research covers the following advanced suspension systems: air suspension, adaptive and semi-active systems and active suspension systems. Today’s automobile is more than a medium for point A to B travel. Vehicle buyers often make their selection based on ride comfort, safety and stability. “Performance requirements, the need for product differentiation in a saturated market, and increasingly stringent safety requirements propel the development of advanced suspension technology,” notes Frost & Sullivan Industry Analyst Vinod Nookala. Although advanced suspension systems deliver excellent value, they are more expensive than active systems, and getting the customer to pay for them remains a challenge. Moreover, manufacturers have to figure out how to make these systems lighter, cleaner and less bulky. “Manufacturers should collaborate with suppliers to simplify the system and achieve common components standards,” advises Nookala. “This will help reduce developmental costs and encourage additional suppliers to join in efforts to develop a less expensive, more versatile and more efficient system.” Adaptive and semi-active systems will be increasingly common on certain models. However, economic conditions will determine investments in suspension systems and further penetration into new segments, at least in the short term. Strategic Analysis of Advanced Suspension Systems in European Market is part of the Automotive & Transportation Growth Partnership Services programme, which also includes research in the following markets: Strategic Analysis of the Global Market for Low Cost Chassis Systems, Strategic Analysis of the European Market for AWD/4WD Technologies, European Passenger Cars and Light Commercial Vehicles Market for Electronic Parking Brakes and, European Market for X-by- Wire Technologies. All research included in subscriptions provide detailed market opportunities and industry trends that have been evaluated following extensive interviews with market participants. If you are interested in a virtual brochure, which provides a brief synopsis of the research and a table of contents, please e-mail Monika Kwiecinska, Corporate Communications, at monika.kwiecinska@frost.com, with your full name, company name, title, telephone number, company e-mail address, company website, city, state and country. Upon receipt of the above information, a brief brochure will be e-mailed to you. Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, enables clients to accelerate growth and achieve best in class positions in growth, innovation and leadership. The company's Growth Partnership Service provides the CEO and the CEO's Growth Team with disciplined research and best practice models to drive the generation, evaluation, and implementation of powerful growth strategies. Frost & Sullivan leverages over 45 years of experience in partnering with Global 1000 companies, emerging businesses and the investment community from more than 35 offices on six continents. To join our Growth Partnership, please visit http://www.frost.com. Strategic Analysis of Advanced Suspension Systems in European Market M351 Contact: Monika Kwiecinska Corporate Communications – Europe P: +48 22 390 4127 F: +48 22 390 4160 E: monika.kwiecinska@frost.com http://www.frost.com