BRAND SOLUTIONS

More efficient fuel door components

It began in 2006, when ITW acquired DaeLim, a local Korean auto components company. The acquisition was an ideal way for ITW to establish a relationship with Hyundai—and ultimately offer it a full-service, international auto component network, such as ITW Deltar, to match Hyundai’s ambitious global expansion plans.

Today, Deltar, DaeLim and other ITW businesses across the globe are serving Hyundai’s business—even replacing some of the company’s long-time strategic suppliers. In 2009, ITW Deltar and DaeLim began an initiative aimed at bringing more innovative technology to Hyundai’s traditional manufacturing processes. They developed lightweight plastic fuel door components that involve a simplified manufacturing process, requiring less material and labor than the welding and bolts of metal doors. The resulting product was such a good fit for Hyundai, DaeLim was added to its core group of fuel product suppliers—with production planned for the future.

Leadership Perspective

Opening doors worldwide

Through long-term forecasting and other tools, the ITW auto businesses proactively determined which manufacturers will be building factories worldwide—despite current economic conditions. Hyundai, and their affiliate KIA, with its quality small and mid-size economy cars, are appealing to consumers’ changing attitudes about transportation. Hyundai is increasing their global presence and building new factories in the United States and Brazil to keep up with new demand for vehicle production.

ITW auto businesses continue to bring cutting-edge design to manufacturers in Europe, North and South America, and Asia. In today’s challenging economy, providing innovative products to growing companies like Hyundai is key to expanding and solidifying ITW’s global footprint.