- Order volume in the mid double-digit million euro range
- EPCOS supplies multilayer modules as a basis for blind spot detection systems
EPCOS, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of electronic components, modules and systems, has signed a long-term framework agreement with Valeo Raytheon Systems Inc. and Valeo Schalter und Sensoren GmbH (Valeo) for the supply of multilayer ceramic modules. These products are used in automobiles for blind spot detection. EPCOS expects this agreement to lead to sales in the mid double-digit million euro range over the next four years.
Multilayer ceramic modules from EPCOS have been used in mobile communications and wireless LAN applications for many years. The cooperation with Valeo now opens the door to large-volume applications in automotive electronics as well. “Automotive electronics is one of our high-growth markets”, says Gerhard Pegam, President and CEO of EPCOS. “Through our long-term collaboration with Valeo we will utilize new growth opportunities and strengthen our position in this promising market.“
Blind spot detection
The Valeo systems for blind spot detection use radar sensor technology to monitor the blind zones on both sides of a vehicle. Drivers are alerted to potential dangers when changing lanes by a visible icon in the rear-view mirror, thus preventing collisions with vehicles that they had failed to see. Valeo has already introduced this system to vehicles of the GM brands, Cadillac and Buick, as well as the new Jaguar XF.
The modules supplied by EPCOS, which among other things integrate the radar antennas, are a key component for Valeo’s solution.
Benefits of modules
Modules can combine the functions of up to several dozen components, making them more reliable than solutions based on discrete components. A further advantage is their high temperature stability, which is especially crucial when they are mounted close to the engine of a car. Furthermore, customers also benefit from a considerable reduction in the number of components to be assembled on the circuit board compared with conventional circuit designs using discrete components, thus ultimately cutting costs as well.
About EPCOS
EPCOS AG is a leading manufacturer of electronic components, modules and systems headquartered in Munich. With its very broad portfolio EPCOS offers a comprehensive range of products from a single source and focuses on fast-growing and technologically demanding markets, in particular in the areas of information and communication technology, automotive electronics, industrial electronics and consumer electronics. The EPCOS Group has design, manufacturing and marketing facilities in Europe, Asia, and in North and South America.
Electronic components are found in virtually every electrical and electronic product and are indispensable for their flawless operation. Products from EPCOS store electrical energy, select frequencies, and protect against overvoltage and overcurrent.
In fiscal 2007 (October 1, 2006, to September 30, 2007), EPCOS posted sales of EUR 1.44 billion. At September 30, 2007, the company employed about 18,300 people worldwide.
This document may contain forward-looking statements with respect to EPCOS’ financial condition, results of operations, business, strategy and plans. In particular, statements using the words “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “will,” or similar expressions are forward-looking in nature. Such statements are based on a number of assumptions that could ultimately prove inaccurate. They are subject to a number of external risk factors, over which EPCOS has very limited influence. They may include slower growth in significant markets, changes in our customers’ industries, changes in our relationships with our customers, the ability to realize cost reductions, or general economic and business conditions. EPCOS does not assume any obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
