Valeo, the World’s First Supplier to Produce Top Column Modules With the FlexRay System

FRANKFURT - Valeo has signed two new major contracts to supply top column modules to two European automakers, the Volkswagen Group and BMW, boosting Valeo’s position on the German market as well as its global reputation as a top column module supplier.

These complex units integrate all steering column controls and have to meet particularly stringent specifications in terms of both styling and function. The FlexRay system built into the top column module is a communication protocol used in the automotive industry for safety-related systems. Its main features are data integrity, increased resistance to interference and a high transfer rate, opening the door to innovative architectures with the networking of sensors, regulators and actuators. The first volume-produced applications of this technology involved sub-assemblies for the BMW X5, an experience which led to the new electric system of the 7 Series in which Valeo’s top column module communicates via FlexRay for the first time.

For the Volkswagen Group, the first modules will enter production in late 2009 for a launch in the first quarter of 2010. They will equip vehicles using the Passat platform (Coupe, Variant, Limousine), the Sharan, Skoda Superb and vehicles based on the Golf platform. The system will subsequently be launched on vehicles in the United States and China.

Volume production of top column modules for the BMW 7 Series started at the beginning of this year and production will begin in September for the 5 Series. This is the first top column module in the world to use FlexRay technology.

Valeo is an independent industrial Group fully focused on the design, production and sale of components, integrated systems and modules for cars and trucks. Valeo ranks among the world’s top automotive suppliers. The Group has 121 plants, 61 R&D centers, 10 distribution platforms and employs 50,100 people in 27 countries worldwide.

For more information about the Group and its activities, please visit our web site www.valeo.com

Source: Valeo Management Services

For additional information, please contact: Claire Vidal Pilo, Media Relations, Tel.: +33-1-40-55-21-26, claire.vidal-pilo at valeo.com; Sylvie Delion, Product Media Relations, Tel.: +33-1-40-55-20-96, sylvie.delion at valeo.com