SKF has been nominated by Hyundai Motors as a supplier for business valued at approximately SEK 370 million (approximately $57 million). Within the terms of the agreement, SKF will deliver the recently launched MacPherson suspension bearing unit (MSBU). The solutions will be equipping both Hyundai and Kia vehicles, including the Ceed, Forte, Soul, i30, Sonata, K5, i40, Grandeur, K7, Santa Fe and Sorento models. The length of the business is expected to last the life of each car model.

Tryggve Sthen, president, SKF Automotive, said, “I am very pleased to see our expanding partnership with Hyundai for the steering and suspension application with our recently launched robust solutions. Our engineering knowledge supports our customers in their journey to improve the performance of their vehicles. It is rewarding to have this recognition from Hyundai and I look forward to a continued growing partnership.”

Byeong-Jun Kim, purchasing director, Hyundai Motors, added, “Working with SKF, we know we get the advanced and high-performing solutions we need for our vehicles to reach the top of the line. Hyundai have grown tremendously over the last years globally, and we recognize that SKF’s global engineering and manufacturing footprint is a highly valuable support to us in our continued growth. We are pleased to work with SKF as we also have their timely and skilled support close to us in Korea, and we look forward to continued growth with SKF.”

The new robust MSBU meets the increased performance demands in terms of higher reliability and increased operating life. Global car models must cope with a wider range of external forces in different driving conditions. This unit is able to support high load and withstand severe pollution with improved reliability, SKF says.

SKF started deliveries of the MSBUs during 2013 from its factory in Busan, Korea.