Conti building electronic air suspensions factory in China

Changshu, China – Continental AG has broken ground on a new electronic air suspension systems (EASS) production plant at its existing site in Changshu, in eastern China.

Set for operation in the second quarter of 2021, the facility will cover an area of over 13,500 square metres, and will supply to the “luxury cars, sports cars and high-end SUVs” sector in China, the German group said 29 June.

The company statement did not disclose the investment size.

The EASS in passenger cars can improve the driving comfort and dynamic driving control, according to Conti. 

As a system integrator, Continental produces and supplies all components of an air suspension system including air springs, air supply units (CAirS) with the integrated control units. 

“Our investment in this new facility demonstrates our strong confidence to the Chinese market and helps us further strengthen our production base in China,” said Bin Huo, VP and managing director China of autonomous mobility and safety business area.

The group expects the Chinese market to be “the most important growth market for the upcoming years,” according to Matthias Matic, EVP and head of vehicle dynamics business unit

The new investment, he said, will “introduce new technologies and enhance product portfolio, speed driving quality and agility supporting the local market requirements.”

The new plant will be operated by Continental’s autonomous mobility and safety business which also manufactures hydraulic brake systems at the site.