For the first time in the company’s history, WABCO localized the production of its most advanced air disc brakes (ADB) for commercial vehicles in the United States.
The company moved from an existing Charleston location to a new, 145,000-sq.-ft. facility, expanding its manufacturing footprint by more than 60 percent, officials say. In addition, WABCO increased employment at the Charleston facility to approximately 230 employees. The company says it created more than 50 new jobs over the past two years alone in line with previous commitments.
WABCO invested $20 million in the new facility, which produces ADBs, energy-efficient air compressors and related safety systems.
“We are excited to expand our manufacturing capabilities in the U.S. to be closer to our customers in the region. Customer intimacy remains a major differentiator for WABCO around the globe as we capitalize on dynamic growth opportunities,” says Jacques Esculier, WABCO Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.
“By localizing the production of air disc brakes in the region, we demonstrate our commitment to advancing commercial vehicle safety and shaping the future of the transportation industry. Our air disc brakes pave the way to higher automation of commercial vehicles and platooning, both of which rely heavily on superior braking performance.”
Currently, only about 15 percent of the market share belongs to ADBs, but Jon Morrison, WABCO President, Americas, says he believes that is a trend that will continue to change.
“Commercial vehicle manufacturers and fleet operators in North America value the superior performance of single-piston air disc brakes compared to traditional drum brakes and other ADBs available in the market today,” Morrison says.
“Our new Charleston facility enables WABCO to supply industry-leading safety and efficiency technologies to customers across North America and beyond.”
Compared to today’s drum brakes, WABCO says its ADBs reduce stopping distance up to 10 percent while almost completely eliminating brake fade.
WABCO also manufactures high-performance air compressors at its North Charleston facility. WABCO and Cummins established a joint venture – fully operational in 1998 – to produce single- and twin-cylinder air compressors for heavy-duty trucks, buses and industrial equipment.
