MAUMEE, Ohio, Oct. 29, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Dana Incorporated (NYSE: DAN) announced today that it has been selected by Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) to supply Spicer® SmartConnect™ disconnecting all-wheel-drive (AWD) systems for the global Ford Edge Program.
Starting with the 2019 model year, the company will be the exclusive worldwide supplier of rear drive units for all versions of the Ford Edge in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.
The drive units take advantage of Dana's ultra-efficient Spicer® AdvanTEK® axle technology, which delivers best-in-class efficiency by reducing oil churning and gear and bearing friction. The technology was recently named a finalist for the 2019 Automotive News PACE Awards. The awards serve as a benchmark for innovation and honors automotive suppliers for technical advancement, innovation, and dedication to excellence.
"Dana's SmartConnect all-wheel-drive system with AdvanTEK technology offers the safety and agility of an AWD vehicle while still delivering best-in-class fuel efficiency," said Bob Pyle, president of Dana Light Vehicle Driveline Technologies. "Ford's selection of the Spicer SmartConnect system demonstrates how we successfully partner with customers on development and commercialization of industry-leading technologies."
Advanced Technology to Improve Fuel Efficiency
Spicer SmartConnect technology helps global automotive manufacturers address evolving emissions regulations while maintaining the safety and control that are key advantages of AWD systems on SUVs, crossovers, and passenger vehicles. Vehicles with disconnecting AWD systems are designed to automatically and seamlessly transition to AWD when the system predicts or detects slipping at the wheels, such as during rapid acceleration or in icy and other low-traction conditions.
The Spicer SmartConnect system configures the drivetrain to work in front-wheel-drive mode for the majority of driving conditions and engages AWD only when needed, enabling improved fuel efficiency. Dana's AdvanTEK technology utilizes a low viscosity lubricant and optimized gear design to deliver maximum fuel efficiency, even while in AWD mode.
The systems are being produced at Dana's plant in Columbia, Missouri, and a new 80,000 square-foot manufacturing and assembly facility in Chongqing, China, which will launch production later this year to serve Ford's operations in the Asia-Pacific region.
Dana has a century-long history as a trusted Tier I supplier for Ford with a relationship that dates back to the Model T. Earlier this year, Dana was honored at the 20th annual Ford World Excellence Awards with the Green Pillar Award, which Ford presents to top supplier parent companies that demonstrate excellence in the delivery of fuel-efficient technologies.
About Dana Incorporated
Dana is a world leader in highly engineered solutions for improving the efficiency, performance, and sustainability of powered vehicles and machinery. Dana supports the passenger vehicle, commercial truck, and off-highway markets, as well as industrial and stationary equipment applications. Founded in 1904, Dana employs approximately 30,000 people in 33 countries on six continents who are committed to delivering long-term value to customers. The company reported sales of more than $7.2 billion in 2017. Based in Maumee, Ohio, USA, Dana is ranked among the Drucker Institute's listing of the 250 most effectively managed companies. For more information, please visit www.dana.com.
SOURCE Dana Incorporated
