After an extensive evaluation process performed by Fiat, including both technical and commercials aspects, SKF has been awarded a contract for supply of wheel bearing units for the new 326 [Palio] and 327 [Uno] platforms used by Fiat in Brazil.

After an extensive evaluation process performed by Fiat, including both technical and commercials aspects, SKF has been awarded a contract for the supply of wheel bearing units for the new 326 [Palio] and 327 [Uno] platforms used by Fiat in Brazil.

Fiat is the market leader in Brazil in its segment, and these new platforms will be used as basis for the new models Fiat Uno and Palio, as well as for other new models being introduced during the next 10 years. This is expected to result in a future production volume of more than 3 million bearings per year.

“I am very pleased with this new order from Fiat Brazil, which confirms our existing good business relation and partnership”, says Tryggve Sthen, President SKF Automotive Division.

“The partnership between Fiat and SKF Brazil has grown in the past few years towards the main objective of the industry, which is to maintain the competitiveness and to reach time to market, both critical to the automotive business. We keep counting on this partnership, aiming for a successful future for both SKF and Fiat Group,” says Thiene Oliveira, Purchasing Leader, Fiat Brazil. The new 326 and 327 platforms are scheduled for production starting 2010.

SKF is a leading global supplier in the areas of bearings, seals, mechatronics, services and lubrication systems. The Group’s service offer includes technical support, maintenance services, engineering consultancy and training. SKF is represented in more than 130 countries and has 15,000 distributor locations worldwide. The Group’s annual sales 2007 were SEK 58,559 million. The number of employees was 42,888.