250 part numbers launched to date and 60 scheduled for fourth quarter Release Date: October 11, 2011

PARIS — Delphi Automotive matched or remained within tolerance of OE specifications during quality tests conducted on its steering and suspension parts against key European competitor parts, the company announced today. Measuring for torque, movement, durability and strength integrity, tests were performed on ball joints and link stabilizers.

"These tests reveal the importance of maintaining OE part integrity, as well as the OE engineering due diligence associated with the Delphi brand," said Gaël Escribe, vice president, independent aftermarket, Delphi Product & Service Solutions, Europe, Middle East and Africa. "In each test we met OE manufacturer requirements for optimal part performance. Our ball pins are 100 percent crack tested, and our forgings and castings undergo ultrasonic crack detection techniques to ensure our material is flaw free. Our wishbones are manufactured with a double-skin construction in line with OE parts and correct paint coating thickness to ensure service longevity."

Intensive product testing

Delphi engineers conduct dimensional analysis to ensure geometric compatibility between OE and aftermarket product, together with stringent analysis of the chemical composition and mechanical properties of the materials used. Further product testing is employed during the manufacturing process including material and dimensional checks, crack detection, and corrosion testing.

All Delphi parts produced adhere to its global technical requirements, whether destined for OE manufacturers or aftermarket customers. All parts released for the aftermarket undergo the same rigorous product development processes, including Production Part Verification (PPV) and Production Part Approval Process (PPAP). PPV confirms the part being produced performs exactly as the prototype was designed while PPAP ensures every part meets all of the requirements defined in the engineering samples. For example, the steering and suspension ball joint tests specifically focused on strength and durability performance. Both are critical to provide drivers a safer diving experience. Complete test results are available at delphi.com/am.

  • Ball joint push out test: Measures the force required to push out / remove the ball-pin from the housing. It is an important safety check to ensure the part can withstand forces applied to the vehicle suspension system in real road conditions. If the force required to push the ball-pin out from its housing is below OE requirements, there is a risk the joint could fail. Delphi performed within the one percent tolerance required.
  • Ball joint pull out test: Measures the force required to pull the ball-pin out from the housing. If the force required to remove the ball-pin is below the OE spec, there is a risk the joint could fail during normal driving conditions causing the vehicle to lose directional control, as the wheel hub would no longer be anchored to the suspension arm. Delphi performed within one percent required of the OE specs.

First-to-market steering and suspension portfolio

In addition to the tests, Delphi continues to be first to market with its steering and suspension product portfolio with monthly part introductions covering popular vehicle applications. In 2011, Delphi has introduced 250 new part numbers with an additional 60 planned for launch in the fourth quarter. Products recently introduced include wishbones, link stabilisers, ball joints, tie rods and rubber-to-metal parts for vehicles such as Opel Insignia, Renault Koleos, BMW X5 and X6, and Hyundai I10. Delphi’s complete product range can be found on Tecdoc, where the company is a certified "A class" supplier of product data. The products will also be featured in the next edition of Delphi’s steering catalogue planned for the beginning of 2012.

About Delphi
Delphi is a leading global supplier of electronics and technologies for automotive, commercial vehicle and other market segments. Operating major technical centers, manufacturing sites and customer support facilities in 30 countries, Delphi delivers real-world innovations that make products smarter and safer as well as more powerful and efficient. Connect to innovation at www.delphi.com.

Delphi


Marie-Pierre Ygrie


Europe


marie.pierre.ygrie@delphi.com

+33 (0)1 49 90 47 52