Innovative active body systems reduce drag,
improve fuel efficiency
AURORA, ON, Sept. 20, 2016 /CNW/ - With global automakers
continuing to address the challenge of increasing fuel economy and
reducing carbon emissions in their vehicles, Magna International
Inc. has accelerated its development work in active aerodynamic
systems, an innovative technology designed to help auto
manufacturers clear regulatory hurdles.
Actero™ Active Aerodynamic Systems from Magna include exterior
vehicle systems such as active grille shutters, active front
deflectors and others. A vehicle's aerodynamic profile is a major
contributor to its fuel economy, and Magna's innovative solutions
combine styling with aero to take drag-reduction technology to a
new level.
"Our Actero Active Aerodynamic products represent new
opportunities and expand our innovative portfolio which offers
unique solutions to our customers," said Grahame Burrow, President of Magna Exteriors.
"The development and success of these systems reflect our expertise
as one of the market leaders in exterior products."
The latest Actero product to reach the market is a visible
active grille shutter system on a 2017 European luxury vehicle. The
system is a first for Magna in that the louvers which
electronically open and close to deflect air are located on the
outer, visible surface of the vehicle's grille rather than hidden
behind. Magna originally developed and commercialized its first
active grille shutter system for a 2013-model-year vehicle in just
18 months, a rapid development cycle made possible by the company's
expertise in automotive front-end modules and fascias.
Actero systems are driven by smart actuators and are an example
of the increasing use of electronics in today's automobiles. The
actuators speak directly with the vehicle's internal electronic
communication system and ensure the aero systems deploy correctly,
based on vehicle inputs such as speed, temperature and drive
mode.
Magna has significantly grown its active aerodynamic business in
recent years, and the trend is expected to continue. Since the
company's production debut in active aerodynamics in 2012, Magna
has been awarded more than 15 programs while continuing to develop
additional products and systems within its Actero portfolio.
"Delivering innovative solutions such as our active aerodynamic
systems provide added value for our customers as they work towards
meeting rising fuel economy standards," said Swamy Kotagiri, Magna's Chief Technology
Officer. "Commercializing cleaner technologies is one of our key
focus areas for innovation."
About Magna
We are a leading global automotive
supplier with 309 manufacturing operations and 99 product
development, engineering and sales centres in 29 countries. We have
over 152,000 employees focused on delivering superior value to our
customers through innovative products and processes, and World
Class Manufacturing. We have complete vehicle engineering and
contract manufacturing expertise, as well as product capabilities
which include body, chassis, exterior, seating, powertrain,
electronic, active driver assistance, vision, closure and roof
systems. Our common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (MG)
and the New York Stock Exchange (MGA). For further information
about Magna, visit our website at www.magna.com.
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SOURCE Magna International Inc.