TROY, MI – Delphi has announced the national introduction of planar technology to its replacement oxygen sensor line.

To support the nationwide launch, this month Delphi debuts a new national advertising campaign featuring the theme: “Lab Tested. Road Ready.” The new campaign features print advertising in select automotive trade publications through May, an ad slick that can be downloaded and used in local advertising efforts, and a “Bonus Bucks” promotion program for parts specialists.

Engineered and manufactured to meet stringent OE standards, Delphi’s planar sensors have successfully endured thousands of hours of more than 30 OE-demanded tests – including two dozen durability tests – to ensure that they last up to 15-years/150,000 miles under the toughest conditions. Specifically, Delphi’s “severe engine thermal stress test” blasts the sensors with 930°C exhaust gases for close to 1,000 hours. Another test heats the sensors with engine exhaust and then submerses them in cold water every five minutes – over and over again – for 1,000 hours. Testing like this helps to ensure that the sensors are built to last and perform, according to Delphi.

“Bringing the new OE technology forward to the aftermarket opens up a window of opportunity for repair shops, because more than 70 percent of the vehicles on the road today can be upgraded to planar sensor technology,” said Dave Barbeau, vice president, independent aftermarket business unit, Delphi Product & Service Solutions. “The stringent OE durability tests, OE connectors, patented sensor construction and design and unique sensor coatings make this sensor a no hassle choice for superior long-term performance.”

It is estimated that more than 60 percent of the vehicles rolling off assembly lines are equipped with planar technology. That number is expected to increase another 8 to 10 percent by 2010. The introduction of planar technology makes Delphi the source for 96 percent of all-makes oxygen sensor applications, 1978-2006.

“Delphi’s sensors are designed to bring the latest technology to vehicle emissions systems, and this campaign will definitely showcase that,” said Barbeau. “With coast-to-coast product availability now established, we are turning up the heat on our planned pull-through support and service technician awareness of the line.”

For more information, go to: www.delphi.com/am.