Magna Launches Active Grille Shutter System
Fuel-saving system debuts on 2013 Dodge Dart and Ram 1500
AURORA, ON - Magna International Inc. announced that its Magna Exteriors and Interiors (MEI) operating unit has commenced production of its Active Grille Shutter (AGS), a louver system that blocks various front-end airflow openings, reducing drag while maintaining optimal engine temperatures. Reduced drag is a key factor for improving vehicle gas mileage.
Building on the auto industry's initial research into grille shutter systems, MEI developed and commercialized this new product offering in 18 months, a rapid development cycle made possible by the company's expertise as a leading supplier of automotive front-end modules and fascias. The system's louvers, functioning like household blinds, automatically open and close based on various inputs from the vehicle.
Under conditions that produce moderate engine temperatures - for example when a vehicle is traveling at highway speeds - the louvers are closed, which directs airflow around the vehicle, reducing drag and enabling fuel efficiency improvements. For situations such as sitting in hot traffic, travelling uphill or pulling a trailer, the shutters remain open and allow air to flow into the engine compartment for optimal engine cooling.
"Nearly every passenger vehicle introduced in upcoming years will have some kind of active shutter system," said Bob Brownlee, President of Magna Exteriors and Interiors. "With the development of our Active Grille Shutter, we have been able to quickly meet automakers' rising demand for a well-engineered, high-quality system that helps address rising fuel-economy standards and the need to reduce vehicle emissions."
After making its debut on the 2013 Dodge Dart and Ram 1500 pickup truck, Magna's AGS will be included on four additional upcoming vehicles, with more expected to follow. Magna's system is applicable for any vehicle segment, including pickup trucks and SUVs, which typically receive the highest benefit in reduced fuel consumption.
About Magna Exteriors and Interiors
Magna Exteriors and Interiors Corp. (www.magna.com), an operating unit of Magna International Inc., is a full-service global supplier of automotive exterior and interior systems. We design, engineer and manufacture front- and rear-end fascia systems; sealing systems; exterior trim; class A composite panels; top systems; engineered glass; under hood and underbody components; structural components; sidewall and trim systems; cockpit systems; cargo management systems; and overhead systems for automotive, commercial truck, consumer, and industrial markets. We also manufacture sheet molding compound (SMC) material, EpicBlendSMC(TM), in multiple formulations.
About Magna International
Magna is a leading global automotive supplier with 296 manufacturing operations and 88 product development, engineering and sales centres in 26 countries. Our 115,000 employees are focused on delivering superior value to our customers through innovative processes and World Class Manufacturing. Our product capabilities include producing body, chassis, interiors, exteriors, seating, powertrain, electronics, mirrors, closures and roof systems and modules, as well as complete vehicle engineering and contract manufacturing. Our common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (MG) and the New York Stock Exchange (MGA). For further information about Magna, visit our website at www.magna.com.
SOURCE
Magna International Inc.
CONTACT: Tracy Fuerst
Director, Corporate Communications
(248) 729-2731
tracy.fuerst@magna.com
