KSM receives multi-million € order for chassis components

May, 04^th 2017: The KSM Castings Group further expands its leading position as supplier of complex aluminum lightweight components. The group has been awarded a major order amounting to 270 Mio. € by a premium OEM for the production of front axle cross members.

The KSM Castings Group, which is part of the Chinese wheel manufacturer CITIC DICASTAL, specializes in aluminum casting components focusing on “lightweighting” as a major international supplier to the automotive industry.

Start of production for the 270 Mio. € order is beginning of 2020. For KSM, this project also means a consequent step towards a product portfolio directed towards E-mobility. Investment in the range of 35 Mio. € also guarantees a long-term capacity utilization and the future security. In total, the Hildesheim location will receive investments of 70 Mio. € until 2020.

A unique characteristic of the product is its thin-walled hollow structure and high mechanical properties at the same time, which in turn, also has a high impact on the casting process and all subsequent process steps. In order to realize the production of the component KSM will invest in a state-of-the-art inorganic sand core production that will meet all environmental standards. As assistance for the global engineering, investments for a new F&E and test foundry will be made to further develop foundry technology and find efficient and environmentally safe foundry technologies.

With this the KSM Castings Group strengthens its top position in innovation, technology and quality. Consequently the group ensures the global growth strategy and the requirements of future applications.

 

Background: The KSM Castings Group is a leading producer of automotive lightweight components for chassis, transmissions, engines and steering. Specialized in aluminum and magnesium components, KSM strives for the top position in both technology and quality. As an important supplier to the global automotive industry, the company is already among the top employers. Reliable partnerships, customer orientation and cost effectiveness are essential key points of the company’s strategy. The basis, however, are first-class employees. KSM operates 9 production plants in Germany, Czech Republic, USA and China with a total of approximately 3,700 employees. Among its customers are the major automotive producers and automotive suppliers like Volkswagen, Daimler, ZF, Benteler and Bosch. In 2015, the company group achieved a turnover of approximately 525 million EUR.