TRW Continues Advanced Development Of Brake Systems For Alternative Powertrains

LIVONIA -- TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. (NYSE: TRW) said Thursday that it has several new contracts for advanced brake systems for traditional internal combustion engines as well as alternative powertrains such as hybrids and electric vehicles.

TRW has recently been awarded significant contracts for its EBC 460 Premium system in multiple regions, including its Premium and Premium Hybrid technology. Based on its proven electronic stability control (ESC) family and in particular TRW's EBC 460 six-piston pump technology, the ESC braking system can deliver high levels of brake pressure rapidly and allows in its PH form for partial regenerative braking. These premium systems offer rapid apply function that is particularly beneficial for automatic emergency braking, a function increasingly found on vehicles. The Premium Hybrid version is an excellent solution for mild hybrids.

"Advanced electronically controlled and integrated brake systems will fill an important role as vehicles are driven to deliver higher levels of fuel efficiency," said Josef Pickenhahn, vice president, brake engineering for TRW. "As more powertrains move away from internal combustion engines to direct injection, diesels, hybrids and electrics, brake systems will need to be able to deliver brake pressure independent of vacuum from the engine. ESC PH has been developed as a partial regenerative braking solution but, looking to the future, we continue to develop integrated brake apply and control solutions to meet the needs of both hybrid, electric and combustion engines.  This will allow vehicle manufacturers to fit the same braking solution across a platform regardless of powertrain selection."

TRW's next generation systems will again be demonstrated to vehicle manufacturers during winter vehicle testing.

TRW will launch the ESC PH on multiple platforms and in multiple regions beginning in 2015. The next generation system will be ready for production for model year 2017 applications.

With 2011 sales of $16.2 billion, TRW Automotive operates in 26 countries and employs over 60,000 people worldwide. TRW Automotive products include integrated vehicle control and driver assist systems, braking systems, steering systems, suspension systems, occupant safety systems (seat belts and airbags), electronics, engine components, fastening systems and replacement parts and services.

More at www.trw.com.