Recent Years

Acquisition

-In June 2006, the Company acquired Getrag SynchronTecknik GmbH, a subsidiary of Getrag. Getrag SynchronTecknik GmbH develops and manufactures synchronizer systems and synchronizer components for the Getrag corporate group and other customers in the automotive industry.

New Company

-On 1 January 2002 the Automation Technology Strategic Business Unit created a new company: Hoerbiger-Origa Systems GmbH. The founding of this new firm marks the completion of restructuring within the Strategic Business Unit at its two locations in Altenstadt and Filderstadt.

Product Developments

New hydrogen engine, "H2BVplus"
-In 2009, HOERBIGER ValveTec, the BMW Group Forschung und Technik and other partners developed a new hydrogen engine called "H2BVplus", achieving efficiencies on par with those of the best turbo-diesel engines with a maximum of up to 42 percent. ValveTec designed high-pressure injectors for direct injection of hydrogen into the combustion chamber with pressures of up to 300 bar. (From a press release on Mar. 12, 2009)

Hydraulic roof drives
-In 2007, the Company has developed hydraulic roof drives for the Opel Astra and BMW 3-Series Convertibles. For these four-seaters, hydraulic drives for three-piece retractable hardtops were implemented for the first time. With these products, the company successfully follows up on its pioneer work implemented in the drive concept for the two-piece hardtops of the Mercedes SLK and Mercedes SL. (From a press release on Sep. 10, 2007)

Investment Outside Switzerland

<USA>
-In August 2004, Hoerbiger Drivetech USA moved to Auburn, Alabama less than five years ago and is currently completing an expansion that will double the size of its facility.

<China>
-In Jan. 2003, the Group opened its second branch establishment in Wuxi, China, Hoerbiger (Wuxi) Automation Technology Co. Ltd.

-In June 18, 2001 a new office started the Company's design work in Shanghai with a total team of 5 members. They now complete the design process from assembly drawing to parts drawing and parts list.

-In June 2000, the Company established a representative office in Shanghai to meet the rapid growth of ZF Passau, one of the most important customer of the Company.

<Belgium>
-In August 2001, Hoerbiger Drivetrain Mechatronics B.V.B.A was established and has been fully operating since January 2002. It is located in Loppem, Belgium.