Rheinmetall, the German automotive parts and armaments manufacturer, has reported it is to supply its newly developed glass fibre suspension spring to a ‘premium OEM.’

The new springs are resistant to the corrosion that can affect conventional steel springs and are much lighter. with Rheinmetall claiming the glass fibre-reinforced plastic results in a weight advantage in the unsprung mass of up to 75 per cent.

The springs also fit into the same installation space as standard springs and the company says they show outstanding fatigue strength.

The current project follows an initial order placed by the OEM in early 2021. Following a development phase, the glass fibre springs were recently installed in a test vehicle and had to pass an intensive testing program prior to being successfully accepted.

Further development work with other leading automobile manufacturers is already underway, Rheinmetall says.

Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (June 2022)

22 June 2022