In a recent episode of the “Wiki Bearings” podcast, Romain Testard, Sales Manager for the Middle East and Africa at NTN Europe (NTN-SNR), delved into the specifics of the automotive industry’s shock absorbers. With over a decade of experience in the automotive OEM aftermarket, Testard provided valuable insights into new SNR’s gas shock absorbers range.

A Legacy of Innovation

NTN, a leader in the bearing segment with over a century of expertise, has continually expanded its product portfolio to meet the evolving demands of the automotive industry through its SNR brand. Their latest venture into shock absorbers is a testament to their commitment to innovation and quality.

Why Shock Absorbers and why now?

Shock absorbers are a critical component of a vehicle’s suspension system, ensuring a smooth and safe ride by absorbing and dampening the impact of road irregularities. NTN’s decision to enter the shock absorber market was driven by several strategic considerations:

Complementary Expertise:

SNR has a deep understanding of vehicle dynamics and suspension needs, honed through their existing products like CV joints and wheel bearings. This expertise positions them uniquely to offer high-quality shock absorbers that integrate seamlessly with their other products.

Market Demand:

The market for shock absorbers, particularly in the aftermarket, is significant and growing. In Europe alone, the shock absorber market is ongoing an exponential growth due to the rise in demand for safety, comfort and efficiency; it is expected to grow by 3-4% annually through 2030.

Strategic Expansion:

By adding shock absorbers to their product lineup, NTN can offer a more comprehensive range of suspension solutions, providing added value to their customers and distributors across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

The SNR’s Gas Shock Absorbers: What Sets Them Apart?

NTN-SNR’s shock absorbers stand out for several reasons:

• Range: More than 800-part numbers
• Adaptability: The range includes different types of shock absorbers to meet the specific needs of the market (Conventional (tubular)
  shock absorbers – Shock absorbers with a spring cup – MacPherson
  struts – Cartridge shock absorbers)
• Quality and Precision: Leveraging their legacy of precision engineering, NTN ensures that their shock absorbers meet the highest standards of quality, reliability and performance.
• Comprehensive Solutions: The new shock absorbers complement SNR’s existing range of products, such as strut bearings and CV joints, allowing them to offer complete suspension kits.
• Global Footprint: With more than 50 plants worldwide and a strong presence in key markets, NTN can efficiently meet the diverse needs of automotive manufacturers and aftermarket customers.

Addressing the Electric Vehicle (EV) Revolution

The rise of electric vehicles presents both challenges and opportunities for automotive component manufacturers. Testard emphasized that while the shift to EVs may reduce demand for some traditional automotive components, bearings and shock absorbers will remain essential. NTN is well-positioned to support the evolving needs of the automotive industry, regardless of the propulsion technology.

NTN’s entry into the shock absorber market underscores their strategic vision and commitment to innovation. By leveraging their extensive experience and global reach, they are poised to deliver high-quality, integrated suspension solutions that meet the demands of today’s automotive market.

Listen to the podcast episode here: