Motorcar Parts of America Inc. reported it has completed its purchase of ZOR Industries, a privately held remanufacturer of automotive, heavy-duty truck, agricultural and industrial turbochargers. It did not state the value of the acquisition, but it indicated the new holding would help its introduction of two new aftermarket product lines: in-house developed brake power boosters and turbochargers.
Brake power boosters are installed between a vehicle’s brake pedal and the master cylinder. When pressure is applied to the pedal, pressure is exerted on the booster air valve, which exerts additional pressure on the master cylinder.
MPA cited estimates that the current U.S. aftermarket for brake power boosters is approximately $350 million, at the retail level, but growing growth due to its importance to safety systems like anti-lock brakes and advanced driver assistance technology.
Turbochargers are induction-driven devices that force extra air into the combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine, thereby increasing the engine's efficiency and power output. MPA estimated the U.S. turbocharger aftermarket at more than $500 million, currently, with growth potential based on fuel economy initiatives, enhanced engine performance, and a focus on automotive weight reduction.
Based in Los Angeles, MPA is a remanufacturer, manufacturer and distributor of automotive aftermarket parts, including alternators, starters, wheel hub assembly, brake master cylinders, brake power boosters and turbochargers utilized in imported and domestic passenger vehicles, light trucks and heavy duty applications. Its products are sold to automotive retail outlets and professional service and repair providers in the United States and Canada.
“The launch of brake power boosters follows a similar strategic approach to our previous product line introductions -- namely working with an existing customer that is committed to our program and supportive of the wide-range of value-added services that enhance the product category,” explained MPA chairman Selwyn Joffe. “We look forward to the commencement of brake power booster sales in mid-August, following several months of development activities to support a successful launch.”
Joffe, who also holds the title of president and CEO, said the ZOR purchase provides MPA “with a small customer base and most importantly the technology, people and processes to address a rapidly emerging automotive category.”
