Intier Automotive And Delphi Form Alliance To Develop Interior Systems - Intier Automotive Inc. and Delphi Corp. to develop complete interior vehicle systems

Autoparts Report, March 4, 2003

Intier Automotive Inc. said that it has entered into a strategic alliance with Delphi Corp. to develop complete interior vehicle systems, including advanced electrical architectures and wiring harnesses, to OEM customers around the world.

"This is an important step in implementing our electronic and electrical strategy," said Intier President and CEO Don Walker. "Partnering with industry leaders has been part of our strategic plan since we launched Intier, and we've enhanced our position by aligning ourselves with a truly outstanding partner in Delphi." Delphi is a leading global supplier of automotive electrical/electronic distribution (E/ED) and connection systems.

Intier said Delphi will provide it with on-site resident engineers and other dedicated resources in their various development and manufacturing facilities in North America. These resources are expected to expand to other global locations as joint activities develop.

Intier said it will work with Delphi to identify and manage specific joint-development projects, as well as pursue targeted vehicle platforms and production programs on a global scale. Joint-development projects will include advanced architecture concepts for complete cockpit, overhead, seating and closure systems, Intier said.

Technologies will include integrated and in-mold power and signal distribution, smart connectors with integrated electronics, flatwire technologies, wireless interconnects, and hybrid vehicle and dual- voltage systems, according to Intier. The primary objective is to achieve functional optimization and physical integration in order to provide OEMs with increased value at a more competitive cost, it added.

"Customers today are looking for the latest technology at the greatest value so they can offer differentiating features at affordable prices," said Steve Duca, global engineering director, Delphi Packard Electric Systems. "By leveraging our strengths in a strategic alliance, Intier and Delphi can offer more together than we could independently. It's basically one plus one equals three, and our customers are the beneficiaries."