KBI Group automotive parts company KB Autotec announced on the 17th that it visited the Mercedes-Benz research center last month to hold a technical proposal briefing on air conditioning systems.
Earlier, Mercedes-Benz requested KB Autotec to propose an air conditioning system to be applied to newly developed vehicles earlier this year. The company formed a team to prepare and held a Tech Day last month at the Mercedes research center in Stuttgart, Germany. At this event, KB Autotec exhibited a prototype heating and cooling HVAC system designed for the next-generation electric vehicle platform and introduced the applied technology. Mercedes-Benz executives and employees present showed interest and praised the next-generation technology, the company said.
The company has participated annually in regular technical proposal briefings at the invitation of Mercedes-Benz and Daimler Truck. It was selected as an excellent developer by Daimler Korea in 2014 and has maintained a cooperative relationship for the past 10 years. To expand cooperation areas and develop various business items, the company plans to launch a European branch in Frankfurt, Germany, in June this year.
KB Autotec began supplying low-noise rear-seat air conditioning boosters applied to C and E-Class models in 2015 and delivered rear-seat dedicated HVAC systems for the GLS and electric vehicle-exclusive platform EQS. Since last year, it has been supplying new ion generators to more than 20 models, including the S-Class. Additionally, the company explained that it is developing air conditioning system technology for new electric SUVs, the ultra-luxury lineup Maybach flagship models, and new electric trucks.
A KB Autotec official said, "Labor and management have cooperated to continuously develop products and provide stable production and supply, earning recognition as a partner of Mercedes-Benz in the air conditioning system field," adding, "With the launch of the European branch, we will respond more quickly and strengthen the cooperative relationship."
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