It's no surprise in today's automotive marketplace that fuel economy and durability, as well as decreasing component complexity are the first areas of discussion when designing a new vehicle.

Dana engineers utilize the latest materials and processes to create distinctive cradle designs that best fit the needs of various vehicles. Materials include mild-high, strength- and ultra high strength steels, as well as aluminum. Process technologies include stamping and hydroforming, as well as MIG, laser and magnetic pulse welding. Integration of cast and extruded components is another capability Dana brings to the table in cradle design. The features and benefits of such cradles are:

Features

Overall weight reduction
Reduction in component complexity
Reduction in weld length
Reduction in tooling costs

Benefits

Increased stiffness
Improved component durability
Enhanced crash performance
Increased dimensional stability

Dana was a finalist at the 2000 Pace Awards for its design and process improvements of the hydroformed Windstar engine cradle.