Delphi strives to enhance presence in Asia Pacific region

By Alok Agarwal | 06 Jun 2001

Delphi Automotive Systems, one of the world’s most diversified automotive products and technology suppliers, continues to strive to enhance its presence in the Asia Pacific region through its aggressive business policies.

Having already exceeded sales of $2.1 billion in calendar 2000, Delphi’s Asia Pacific sales is expected to cross $3.2 billion by the end of calendar 2003. Says Choon Chon, president Delphi Automotive Systems Asia Pacific, "Delphi’s presence in the Asia Pacific region continues to increase and we are gaining brand recognition and market share. Our sales in the region increased by double digits last year compared to 1999."

Not only has it entered into more sale contracts but has also entered into several co-development agreements and partnerships with several Asia Pacific customers. Says Mr. Chon, "Delphi is constantly striving to grow share in the automotive industry as well as in new non-automotive regional markets. Delphi has created automotive industry’s leading technologies and is working hard to exceed Asia - Pacific customer needs with innovations. These are to improve fuel economy, achieve lower emissions and improve vehicle performance while increasing vehicle safety."

In order to diversify its customer base and expand its regional components and systems offerings, Delphi continues to focus on development of business with Asian original equipment manufacturers. Aggressive pursuit has helped Delphi to receive 35 new contracts in the first quarter of calendar 2001 averaging 3 years in length and for 23 different products. The areas/technologies in which it has received new business are ion sense ignition subsystems, diesel electronic control modules/EDU/sensor, driver and passenger airbags and seatbelts, wiring, engine management systems, half - shafts, steering gears and chassis corner modules.

As a part of its considered strategy Delphi has entered into co-development contracts with several of its Asia Pacific customers. These include Brilliance China Automotive Holding Ltd. to co-develop engine management systems for Jinbei-branded vehicles, China Engine Corporation to jointly develop engine management systems, Isuzu Motors to develop ion sense ignition subsystems for 2000 and beyond Rodeos and Troopers and Ashimori Industry Co. Ltd. of Japan to pursue airbag business worldwide.