Auto parts maker Tenneco Inc. is supplying emission and ride-control components to Nissan Motors for the new version of its super-mini compact vehicle, the Micra and Mini. Tenneco said the systems are being manufactured widely across Asia at its new manufacturing plants in Chennai, India; Guangzhou, China; Chonburi, Thailand; and at an expanded plant in Hosur, India.
The Nissan March (known outside Asia as the Nissan Micra) has been in production since 1982, and the newest version is being manufactured at Nissan plants in Thailand, India, China, and in two other countries yet to be named. It is built on Nissan’s new Type-V platform with a 1.2-liter, 3-cylinder engine, and features variable control of voltage for power generation with alternator.“Small car growth in emerging markets is a critical strategy for our Japan-based customers,” according to Jeff Jarrell, v.p. and managing director of Tenneco Japan.
Tenneco is supplying shock absorbers and exhaust systems it developed at engineering centers in Asia, Europe, and North America. The Lake Forest, Ill.-based supplier contends that its experience at managing complex global programs was critical to its success with the new Nissan project. As explained by Jarrell, “We maintain a global focus on launch management, quality, and cost performance while tailoring product and technology solutions to specific market needs.”
