GÖTEBORG, Sweden – SKF has announced the opening of extension to its factory in Cajamar, Brazil, which will manufacture the second-generation hub bearing unit (HBU2) with integrated ABS. The factory will support the Brazilian automotive market and safety regulations, which require that by 2014 all cars manufactured in Brazil must have ABS systems fitted.
 
"It is a focus area in our strategy to localize our manufacturing and operations close to our customers. With this important factory extension, we will be able to support the development in this automotive market and provide customers with fast deliveries and response time," said Tryggve Sthen, president, SKF Automotive Division.
 
Commenting on this new investment, Donizete Santos, president of SKF Brazil added, “I am very happy to have this next level of wheel bearing technology produced in Brazil. SKF’s HBU2 is an excellent technical solution that offers car manufacturers and consumers a range of benefits. I am very confident that a number of manufacturers will select this solution for their next generation of vehicles.”
 
SKF’s HBU2 technology is widely applied in Europe, Asia and the U.S., SKY says. It is the latest wheel bearing technology to be produced in Brazil, according to the company. In addition to improved safety from the integrated ABS, the HBU2 provides better fuel economy and less CO2 emissions due to reduced weight and reduced friction.