TE Connectivity Ltd. (TE), a provider of connectivity and sensor solutions, has expanded its manufacturing plant in Steinach, Switzerland, to support automotive customers in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) in their efforts to reduce CO2 emissions.
The €13 million (approximately $15 million), 29,500-square-foot-plus expansion will increase overall production capacity by 30 percent, and will provide a number of new jobs with additional advanced molding and stamping machines.
The automotive industry is working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2020, with a focus on vehicle weight, fuel consumption and improved electrical efficiency. A vehicle’s weight can be reduced by using lighter or less material, improving fuel efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions.
More than 2,000 square feet of the expansion will be dedicated to TE’s LITEALUM wire crimp termination technology that connects aluminum wires to standard terminals in vehicles. The solution enables a seamless transition from copper to lighter aluminum wire, while protecting against corrosion and providing a stable, secure electrical connection. Full termination of wire harnesses in vehicles can reduce weight by about 15 percent.
“This investment is another milestone in meeting the requirements of the evolving automotive industry,” said John Pryce, senior vice president and general manager, Automotive EMEA. “Our Steinach facility has provided quality products to our automotive customers for the past 30 years. The expansion demonstrates our continuing commitment to the region and the local community, as well as to lighter vehicles which are key to greener transportation.”
TE’s Steinach facility currently manufactures a number of products and components for automotive applications, including connector systems, timer terminals and squib airbag connectors.
TE products connect nearly every electrical function in cars – from alternative power systems to infotainment and sensor technologies. TE also provides technology and engineering capabilities to help miniaturize components, which reduces overall material in vehicles.
The company opened its first manufacturing plant in the Tangier Free Trade Zone and in Africa earlier this year. Exclusively focused on special-purpose cable assemblies, the company’s Morocco site manufactures products for automotive customers in the greater EMEA region. TE also recently announced the opening of its Automotive Test Competence Center in India.
