2011_1_Daimler Supplier Magazine_eng

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DAIMLER SUPPLIER MAGAZINE 01|2011 – A MAGAZINE FOR SUPPLIERS AND ASSOCIATES OF DAIMLER AG
Daimler
SUPPLIERMAGAZINE
01 l 11
As part of the Daimler Key Supplier Meeting on March 17, 2011, 14 supplier partners from all
Purchasing divisions were honored with the 2010 Daimler Supplier Awards. Read more starting
from page 04.
Contents
Daimler AG
Contents
Daimler Supplier Magazine 01|2011
Cover Story
04
Highest Praise
Sustainability & Integrity
40
The 2011 Daimler Key Supplier Meeting
08
10
Success Stories
The Mannheim Center of Competence for Zero-Emission Mobility (CZM)
45
13
“Dos and Don’ts” of compliance-consistant acting for suppliers
Top Performers
Tools & Processes
Best Results
46
Extensive development of the Daimler Supplier Portal
Outstanding
Locations
Dinner & Dialog
48
Encounters and discussions at the Daimler Key Supplier Meeting
18
Fascination, Perfection and a Passion for Detail
52
Product Projects
54
Top C with Coupé
56
A Global Bestseller
36
Cult und Magic
The Redford Supplier Mall provides outstanding production opportunities
58
Successful Localization
Enhancing production of the Sprinter in Argentina
61
Supplier Strategy South Africa
Chances and challenges for the supplier industry in South Africa
People
Places of Interest
Making Success Sustainable
Trends
At Home in India
Under the name BharatBenz Daimler AG builds light- and heavy-duty trucks
02
America, again the Land of Opportunity
The new Mercedes-Benz SLK is a trendsetter in its third generation too
Interview with Matthias Gründler and Dr. Klaus Zehender
38
Optimum Materials Flow
The Plant Consolidation Center (PCC) in Malsch near Rastatt
From procurement to manufacturing and in the markets: The new Fuso Canter
30
Maximum Efficiency
For 50 years, the Hedelfingen plant produces automatic transmissions
The updated C-Class and the new C-Class Coupé
28
Extreme Climate Zones
The climatic wind tunnels at Mercedes-Benz Technology Center Sindelfingen
The Daimler Supplier Award sculpture – designed by Mercedes-Benz Design
22
By Users, for Users
IPS honors three suppliers with the 2010 Daimler Supplier Award
The winner of the 2010 Special Award “Innovation”
14
Dos and Dont‘s
PMC awards five winners from Germany and the U.S.
The winners of the 2010 Daimler Supplier Awards by TG/P
12
Concentrated Skills
62
“Stick With What You’ve Learned”
The Gottlieb Daimler Birth House in Schorndorf
Editorial
Editorial
To our Readers,
The first quarter of 2011 saw numerous changes at the senior management level of Daimler Procurement:
In November 2010, Stefan Buchner took over as Head of the newly established unit “Global Powertrain and
Procurement Trucks and Buses” (TG). The new organization combines the units Powertrain, Global Production
Planning and Procurement Commercial Vehicles. In January Matthias Gründler succeeded Mr. Buchner as Head
of “Procurement Trucks and Buses” and also took over responsibility for the strategic orientation of “Global
Powertrain”. At the passenger cars procurement unit, Dr. Klaus Zehender took over as Head of Procurement
Mercedes-Benz Cars and Vans in March of this year. He follows Frank W. Deiss, who as President & CEO heads
up the Sino-German joint venture “Beijing Benz Automotive Co., Ltd.” in China.
Global strategy is and will remain an important factor in the success of our company. Features in this issue include
a report on the introduction of the BharatBenz brand. Another section is devoted to the start of production of
the updated Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the C-Class Coupé. Long before new models are launched on the market,
they have to pass numerous tests conducted under extreme climatic conditions. From the summer of 2011, it will
be possible to simulate these conditions for the first time irrespective of season and climatic zone in the new
climatic wind tunnels immediately adjacent to the Mercedes-Benz Technology Center in Sindelfingen.
Here at Daimler Procurement, we have once again set ourselves a large number of objectives this year, and we can
only achieve these together with you. For this reason in particular, the Daimler Key Supplier Meeting on March 17,
2011 was an important milestone: On the one hand, it was an opportunity to review our collective successes and to
thank our supplier partners for their outstanding performance during the past year. On the other hand, it was with
great pleasure that we honored our best 14 suppliers with the Daimler Supplier Awards 2010 and made use of the
evening to conduct intensive face-to-face discussions.
To ensure the success of important performance, there is a need for clear rules governing cooperation – particularly
in a global environment. In this respect, integrity plays a particularly important role. We also want to deliver a top
performance in this area and promote transparency. For us, compliance, business ethics and sustainability are
the values we live by every day and we expect the same high standards of ourselves as we do of our suppliers.
Reconciling business with social equality and the environment is not only a key factor in ensuring sustainable
success – it is also our duty to future generations.
We look forward to taking on the upcoming projects and plans together with you, and hope you enjoy reading
this issue.
Kind regards
MATTHIAS GRÜNDLER
DR. KLAUS ZEHENDER
WENDELIN WOLBERT
Vice President
Vice President
Vice President
Procurement Trucks and Buses
Procurement Mercedes-Benz Cars and Vans
International Procurement Services
Daimler AG
Daimler AG
Daimler AG
03
Cover Story
Daimler Supplier Awards 2010
Daimler AG
Highest Praise
As part of the Daimler Key Supplier Meeting on March 17, 2011 at the Stuttgart Mercedes-Benz
Center, 14 suppliers from all Purchasing divisions were honored with the 2010 Daimler Supplier
Awards.
STUTTGART | GERMANY 48° N | 9° E
04
Cover Story
01 450 representatives of Daimler‘s key suppliers took part in
this year’s Daimler Key Supplier Meeting.
05
Cover Story
Daimler AG
01
02
03
04
01 Andreas Renschler, Member of the Daimler AG Board of
Management, responsible for Daimler Trucks.
02 Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Daimler AG Board of
Management, responsible for Group Research & MercedesBenz Cars Development.
03 Wilfried Porth, Member of the Daimler AG Board of Management, responsible for Human Resources.
04 Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard, Member of the Daimler AG Board of
Management, responsible for Production and Procurement
Mercedes-Benz Cars and the Mercedes-Benz Vans division.
06
Cover Story
S
ome events are designed to
spotlight the collaboration
between Daimler AG and its
suppliers. These include the
Daimler Key Supplier Meeting,
where the Daimler Supplier
Award is presented – and the
March 2011 event was very
special. Following the tragic events in Japan,
all those in attendance seemed closer to one
another. A moment of silence was held before
the event to show solidarity with those in
Japan, and to honor the memory of the victims.
Andreas Renschler, Member of the Daimler AG
Board of Management, responsible for Daimler
Trucks, expressed his deepest sympathy on
behalf of the company. “We are all in shock.
Positive outlook
Andreas Renschler also discussed numerous
new product projects in the area of heavy
commercial vehicle motors, along with trucks
and buses just before the start of production.
He drew guests’ attention in particular to the
global growth perspectives in the commercial
vehicle business. “We need you as our partners
to enter new markets. And to develop new
products, we need your core competencies and
your new ideas!” Wilfried Porth, Member of the
Daimler AG Board of Management, responsible
for Human Resources, stressed that joint success could not be measured in mere numbers.
“We are confident that we can succeed on
the market only if we do this with integrity and
sustainability. We don’t just stand behind clean
products, but also clean business.”
Daimler AG’s appreciation goes out
to the performance of all suppliers
present.
Honors for top performance
Together with the three heads of the operational procurement departments, the Board of
Management members gave Daimler Supplier
Awards 2010 to 13 suppliers. In so doing, the
company acknowledged the companies’ top
performance, determined using an internationally uniform rating system. The foundation is set
forth in the philosophy of the Daimler Supplier
Network cooperation model. In addition to the
value drivers of quality, cost, technology and
supply, fairness, reliability and credibility were
among the decisive ratings criteria. Dr. Thomas
Weber, Board Member, responsible for Group
Research & Mercedes-Benz Cars Development,
also handed out the Special Award “Innovation” –
a very special honor for outstanding progress in
technology and innovation.
DAIMLER SUPPLIER AWARDS 2010
THE WINNERS
PROCUREMENT MERCEDES-BENZ CARS AND VANS
And I know that hardly anyone here remains
unaffected by the situation in Japan. In recent
days, we’ve been very worried about our
friends, colleagues and partners.” Renschler
added that Daimler would make every effort
to support its employees in Japan and the
Japanese partners. Daimler is the only German
automotive manufacturer with production in
Japan and employs about 13,000 there with its
commercial vehicle subsidiary Fuso.
Top management thanks its suppliers
Now more than ever, close contact among
partners is decisive, stressed Dr. Wolfgang
Bernhard, Daimler AG Board of Management
member responsible for Production and
Procurement Mercedes-Benz Cars and the
Mercedes-Benz Vans division. “This is why we
are so pleased that you’ve joined us here today
at the Mercedes-Benz Center in Stuttgart.”
450 representatives of Daimler’s key suppliers
took part in this year’s Daimler Key Supplier
Meeting. With regard to the 2010 financial
year, Daimler’s top management thanked its
suppliers for their outstanding commitment
and provided a preview of future projects and
challenges. Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard spoke about
the continuation of the passenger car product
offensive at Mercedes-Benz in 2011: “Let us
continue our cooperation for coming production
runs – we have the best opportunities, thanks
in particular to our very attractive product
portfolio – for great success.”
EXTERIOR
Asahi Glass Co., Ltd., Japan
INTERIOR
F.S. Fehrer Automotive GmbH, Germany
ELECTRICS/ELECTRONICS
Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Japan
CHASSIS
Rausch & Pausch GmbH, Germany
POWERTRAIN
Schaeffler Group Automotive, Germany
PROCUREMENT TRUCKS AND BUSES
EXTERIOR
Consolidated Metco, Inc., USA
INTERIOR
IWN GmbH & Co. KG, Germany
East Penn Manufacturing Co., Inc., USA
CHASSIS
Very optimistic for 2011
Even if the winners were the main focus of the
event, Daimler AG’s top management stressed
in personal conversations that they greatly
appreciated the performance of all suppliers
present. Given that the 2010 financial year
began with uncertainty for the entire automotive
industry but ended on a very positive note, the
air was abuzz with optimism on the evening
of the Daimler Key Supplier Meeting – not just
for Daimler AG but for its supplier partners.
Accuride Corporation, USA
POWERTRAIN
Federal-Mogul Corporation, USA
INTERNATIONAL PROCUREMENT SERVICES
CONSTRUCTION AND FACILITY MANAGEMENT
Stahlbau Heil GmbH & Co. KG, Germany
MARKETING, IT, GENERAL GOODS AND SERVICES
JUNG von MATT AG, Germany
MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES
EMAG Holding GmbH, Germany
SPECIAL AWARD “INNOVATION”
Automotive Lighting GmbH, Germany
07
Cover Story
Daimler AG
Success Stories
Procurement Mercedes-Benz Cars
and Vans honors five winners from
the USA and Germany.
PROCUREMENT MERCEDES-BENZ CARS AND VANS
01
EXTERIOR
Asahi Glass Co., Ltd.
Head office: Tokyo, Japan
Employees: approx. 50,000
Product program: flat glass, automotive glass, display glass,
electronics & energy, chemicals, ceramics
www.agc.com
INTERIOR
F.S. Fehrer Automotive GmbH
Head office: Kitzingen, Germany
Product program: seat cushions, seat modules, CC modules
www.fehrer.com
Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
Head office: Tokyo, Japan
Product program: technology for the automotive industry,
test labs, industrial applications, cooling systems,
control systems, discharge machining systems, semiconductors,
photovoltaic systems, imaging systems
www.mitsubishielectric.com
CHASSIS
Rausch & Pausch GmbH
Head office: Selb, Germany
Employees: approx. 215
Product program: solenoid valves and solenoid valve systems
for hydraulic and pneumatic applications
www.rapa.com
Asahi Glass Co., Ltd.
Comfort, energy control, safety and aesthetics:
glass has to fulfill an increasing range of
requirements in the automotive industry today.
Asahi Glass Co., Ltd. stands for innovative
products and processes generated from sustainable research in advanced glass technology.
With decades of experience, 200 subsidiaries,
branches in 20 countries, an international sales
network and almost 50,000 employees worldwide, Asahi Glass Co. is pursuing its growth
course in the corporate units of flat glass,
automotive glass, display glass, electronics &
energy and chemicals.
As a Daimler AG partner, Asahi Glass Co., Ltd.
receives the Daimler Supplier Award 2010
from Procurement Mercedes-Benz Cars and
Vans in the “Exterior” category. “We are proud
of the world-class level of Asahi Glass in
our core technologies,” says Kei Yonamoto,
Senior Executive Officer and Automotive Vice
President. Together they strive for technical and
operational excellence.
Dr. Klaus Zehender, Head of Procurement
Mercedes-Benz Cars and Vans, confirmed this
success. “The strategic partnership between
Asahi and Daimler is based on mutual trust.
This business partner did not only perform
exceptionally well in 2010.” The prerequisites
for further successful cooperation are there.
According to Zehender, “with this glass,
our vehicles do not just look fantastic, they
also comply with the highest safety-relevant
requirements.”
POWERTRAIN
Schaeffler Group Automotive
Head office: Herzogenaurach, Germany
Product program: engine systems, chassis systems
www.schaeffler.de
01 Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard and Dr. Klaus Zehender, Head of
02
premium and luxury vehicles. At the same time,
Fehrer is furthering the series production of
high-quality seat modules and composite components such as structural seating components.
“Fehrer understands product quality holistically,” said Dr. Bernd Welzel, Member of the
Management Board, explaining the company
philosophy. “This means that only once comfort,
safety, functionality and design complement
one another is the result perfect.” This is how
F.S. Fehrer Automotive GmbH meets the high
expectations of Daimler AG – and those of the
customers. For this reason, F.S. Fehrer Automotive GmbH receives the Daimler Supplier Award
2010 in the “Interior” category.
Procurement Mercedes-Benz Cars and Vans (left), hand over
the Daimler Supplier Award 2010 to Kei Yonamoto, Senior
08
F.S. Fehrer Automotive GmbH
11 years before Carl Benz invented the first
car, F.S. Fehrer Automotive GmbH was founded.
In 1875, the company with its head office in
Kitzingen in Lower Franconia was obviously not
yet producing parts for the automotive industry.
However, one of the first customers in this area
in the 1920s was: Gottlieb Daimler.
The family-owned company managed by the
fourth generation now has 22 locations worldwide: in Germany, the USA, Czech Republic,
Hungary, South Africa, India and China. In this
way, F.S. Fehrer Automotive GmbH distinguishes
itself through specifically customer-oriented
service centers and worldwide manufacturing
plants located close to the partners. Their
spectrum of products includes vehicle seat
cushions, seat modules such as center armrests
or headrests, trim for roofs and sliding roofs.
Particularly noteworthy are the innovative cushion technologies that Fehrer has developed.
Their products “3D foam” and “bluefoam” are
now important components of Daimler AG’s
02 Dr. Klaus Zehender and Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard felicitate
Executive Officer and Vice President Automotive Asahi
Dr. Bernd Welzel, Member of the Management Board of
Glass Co., Ltd.
F.S. Fehrer Automotive GmbH.
Cover Story
Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
Today, electronics are an essential part of the
most varied areas of life. Their effects are so
familiar to us that we use them as a matter of
course without taking particular note.
The global player Mitsubishi Electric Corporation has played a significant role in shaping
these developments in electronics. With over
110 locations for research and development,
production and sales worldwide and almost
110,000 employees, it is the largest company
that has arisen from the legendary Mitsubishi
Holding, founded in 1870. In addition to technology for the automotive industry, the wideranging product portfolio includes test labs,
Rausch & Pausch GmbH
RAPA is the catchy abbreviation of the two
company founders Hans Rausch and August
Pausch in line with the spirit of the “Golden
Twenties”. Even today, over 80 years later, the
company is managed by the third and fourth
generations as a purely family business.
Thanks to its customer service, capacity for
innovation, flexibility and the quality of its
products, Rausch & Pausch GmbH with its head
office in Selb, Germany enjoys an excellent reputation among many internationally renowned
companies. RAPA has already been working
with Daimler AG in the field of valve systems for
chassis construction for a quarter of a century.
You usually cannot see Rausch & Pausch GmbH’s
special competency, but you can feel it.
Together with Daimler AG’s specialist departments, RAPA develops solenoid valves and
solenoid valve systems for hydraulic chassis and
air suspensions – the aim is to make the characteristics of premium vehicles even more comfortable, even more effortless and even safer.
“Rausch & Pausch GmbH has been active in
several innovative sectors with first-class
products for many years. Our cooperation with
Daimler AG in the past has been exceptionally
03
industrial applications, cooling systems, control
systems, discharge machining systems, semiconductors, photovoltaic systems and systems
for visual information.
As one of Daimler AG’s strategic partners,
Mitsubishi Electric Corporation has developed
and produced future-oriented high-tech components over the past years. The foundation
for the by now wide-ranging and successful collaboration between Daimler AG and Mitsubishi
Electric Corporation was laid a few years ago
with the starter motor for the smart. Today, the
focus is placed on one of the most important
and most complex control systems: the head
unit, for example for the new generation of the
C-Class. For always representing the state of
the art technology and fulfilling Daimler AG’s
requirements flexibly and quickly, the large-scale
enterprise Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
receives the Daimler Supplier Award 2010 from
Procurement Mercedes-Benz Cars and Vans in
the “Electrics/Electronics” category.
04
successful – and this will not change in the
future,” promises owner and Managing Director
Horst Pausch. The Daimler Supplier Award 2010
Vans in the “Chassis” category is for him a confirmation of the many years of cooperation and
also an incentive for future projects together.
03 Keiichi Nakajima, Member of the Management Board of
04 Horst Pausch, owner and Managing Director of Rausch &
Mitsubishi Electric Europe B.V., accepts congratulations by
Pausch GmbH, together with Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard and
Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard and Dr. Klaus Zehender.
Dr. Klaus Zehender.
05
Schaeffler Group Automotive
The Schaeffler Group develops and produces
high-precision products for everything that
moves: for machines, systems and vehicles
as well as for aviation and aerospace. The company, with its head office in Herzogenaurach,
Germany, is among the largest in the automotive
supplier industry. 65,000 people work for
the Group, with its three strong brands, INA,
FAG and LuK, in over 180 locations throughout
the world – 4,800 work in the research and
development areas alone.
For many decades, INA products have been
well known for creative application solutions as
well as the highest engineering and production
competency. The established brand FAG, which
is over 100 years old, has been part of the
Schaeffler Group since 2001. For over 40 years,
LuK has been a synonym for innovative strength,
customer orientation and quality for numerous
vehicle powertrain products. The Schaeffler
Group Automotive recently invested in new
research and development centers in Asia and
North America.
Approximately 1,100 Schaeffler inventions are
filed for patent each year. For Daimler AG,
the Schaeffler Group Automotive is a leading
innovator for components in the powertrain
area. The company has proved its innovation
in many cases: for example when developing
the dual-mass flywheel, which makes a large
contribution to reducing fuel consumption and
CO2 emissions in Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
With these and other technologies, the company
has contributed considerably to the success
of Daimler AG in the 2010 business year and
therefore receives the Daimler Supplier Award
Vans in the “Powertrain” category.
05 Dr. Jürgen M. Geißinger, Chairman of Schaeffler GmbH, with
Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard and Dr. Klaus Zehender.
09
Cover Story
Daimler AG
Top Performers
Five supplier partners receive the
Daimler Supplier Award 2010 from
Procurement Trucks and Buses.
PROCUREMENT TRUCKS AND BUSES
EXTERIOR
Consolidated Metco, Inc.
Head office: Vancouver, WA, USA
Product program: castings, hubs, brake drums, interior paneling
www.conmet.com
INTERIOR
IWN GmbH & Co. KG
Head office: Bielefeld, Germany
Lower operating costs, reduced time off the
road, higher profitability: these are the key
criteria for truck customers. The commercial
vehicle division at Daimler AG and its suppliers
do everything to fulfill these criteria and even
to exceed them.
Consolidated Metco, Inc. (ConMet) is known
throughout the entire truck and trailer industry
for its evident expertise in the development of
lightweight components for heavy-duty trucks.
ConMet is Daimler Trucks North America
(DTNA)’s main supplier of injection-molded parts
for almost all platforms. ConMet also supplies
additional castings, hubs and brake drums.
Impressive solutions are developed in all areas
to simultaneously improve the performance, fuel
efficiency and payload of trucks using stable
lightweight components.
From the head office in Vancouver, WA, in
northwest USA, Consolidated Metco manages
six factories in the United States and Mexico,
as well as a joint venture in China that was
launched in January 2009. “This key partner
has what one would generally call a ‘global
footprint’,” says Matthias Gründler, Head of
Procurement Trucks and Buses. “That means
Product program: rotary pillar drives, door and flap drives
www.iwn.de
East Penn Manufacturing Co., Inc.
Head office: Lyon Station, PA, USA
Product program: batteries, battery accessories
www.dekabatteries.com
CHASSIS
Accuride Corporation
Head office: Evansville, IN, USA
Product program: cast iron components, steel and aluminum
wheels, wheel end components, body-shell components,
chassis components, drive axles, transmissions, bumpers,
fuel tanks, battery boxes, wheel/tire assemblies
www.accuridecorp.com
POWERTRAIN
Federal-Mogul Corporation
Head office: Southfield, MI, USA
Product program: steel and aluminum pistons, gaskets, bearings
01
that with its production locations, ConMet
supports Daimler’s global production strategy
and thereby increases the earnings for all
value drivers of the External Balanced Scorecard: quality, logistics, cost, technology and
innovation.” The Daimler Supplier Award 2010
in the “Exterior” category was awarded by
Matthias Gründler to Ed Oeltjen, President of
02
IWN GmbH & Co. KG
IWN GmbH & Co. KG has only been part of
Daimler’s supplier network since 2008 but it is
already impossible to imagine not having them
as a partner. The medium-sized enterprise from
Bielefeld, Germany has become a key supplier
of Daimler AG within a very short time. “The
parts that IWN deliver are indispensable for
our innovative door concept in all our buses,”
says Matthias Gründler, Head of Procurement
Trucks and Buses, praising the importance of
the collaboration with IWN GmbH & Co. KG.
IWN GmbH & Co. KG completely redeveloped
rotary pillar drives and bus door controls for
the Mercedes-Benz and Setra buses. This outstanding development service, above-average
product management as well as a high product
quality made IWN GmbH & Co. KG so convincing
that the Bielefeld company receives the
Daimler Supplier Award 2010 from Procurement
Trucks and Buses in the “Interior” category. No
other company has achieved this after such a
short time as a Daimler supplier.
Matthias Gründler especially emphasized the
achievement of Managing Director Reinhold
Schulte: “His ideas and knowledge enrich our
development process.” This collaboration results
in state of the art technology in door drives.
Reinhold Schulte was happy to pass on this
praise from the customer: “Our employees are
highly motivated in every project – my special
thanks go to them. They have truly earned this
award.”
www.federalmogul.com
01 Ed Oeltjen, President of Consolidated Metco, Inc., with
Matthias Gründler, Head of Procurement Trucks and Buses
(left), and Andreas Renschler.
10
02 Andreas Renschler and Matthias Gründler congratulate
Reinhold Schulte, Managing Director of IWN GmbH & Co. KG.
East Penn Manufacturing Co., Inc.
The Daimler Supplier Award from Procurement
Trucks and Buses in the “Electrics/Electronics”
category this year goes to East Penn Manufacturing Co., Inc. Founded in 1946 in the US
state of Pennsylvania, the company, with joint
ventures in Europe and Mexico and their own
factory in China, is not only globally oriented
itself, it also operates globally in the Daimler
Group. The batteries manufactured by East Penn
are used in commercial vehicles and buses from
the brands Freightliner, Western Star, Thomas
Built Buses and Mercedes-Benz.
The East Penn Manufacturing Co., Inc. has
already been awarded the “Masters of Quality
Award” several times by Daimler Trucks North
America (DTNA). “This supplier’s commitment to
Daimler AG, especially to Daimler Trucks North
America, is incomparable,” according to the
03
Head of Procurement Trucks and Buses, Matthias
Gründler, in his honorific speech. Gründler
especially highlighted the leading role of East
Penn Manufacturing Co., Inc. in the safe recycling of its products as well as the company’s
commitment to sustainable business.
Right from the start, East Penn Manufacturing
Co., Inc. worked on making recycling a daily
practice. From Lyon Station in Pennsylvania,
the company now operates the most advanced
recycling centers in battery technology. “We are
particularly pleased about the Daimler Supplier
Award and would like to continue to work
with Daimler in such a cooperative way in order
to be able to continue to deliver top-quality
products at competitive prices,” said CEO Sally
Miksiewicz, thanking Daimler AG.
Cover Story
04
Accuride Corporation
Accuride Corporation has been linked with
Freightliner since the company’s early days –
and therefore also with Daimler Trucks North
America (DTNA). For Accuride Corporation, 50
years of strategic partnership also means being
close to the Daimler AG plants in the USA and
Mexico. Furthermore, every year the American
company with its head office in Evansville, IN,
demonstrates the highest standards in the
quality of its products and services.
Matthias Gründler, Head of Procurement
Trucks and Buses explains the presentation of
the Daimler Supplier Award 2010 from Procurement Trucks and Buses in the “Chassis” category
in his honorific speech as follows: “The Accuride
Corporation is convincing thanks to its continual
commitment to providing technical support for
Daimler AG, its high quality, delivery reliability
and – not to be forgotten – competitive prices.”
The true spirit of the partnership has also shown
itself, especially in the challenging environment
of the raw materials market.
“The relationship between our two companies
is very close and will stay that way,” said
Rick Dauch, President and CEO of the Accuride
Corporation since January 2011, at the awards
ceremony. The wide spectrum of the Accuride
Corporation’s product portfolio ranges from
cast iron components, steel and aluminum
wheels to battery boxes or body-shell and chassis components. This shows the broad orientation of the Accuride Corporation. The products
are distributed under leading brands such as
Accuride, Gunite, Imperial, Fabco or Brillion.
Federal-Mogul Corporation
Federal-Mogul Corporation sets the standard
for innovative technologies and solutions for
the automotive sector. Founded in 1899, over
43,000 employees now work for the American
company in 34 countries. With customers in the
light-duty, heavy-duty and off-road vehicle sectors as well as energy generation, rail, aviation
and seafaring, Federal-Mogul Corporation has
a broad base. The globally networked technical
centers in the United States, Europe and Asia
enable exactly these groundbreaking quality
products and technologies.
Federal-Mogul Corporation has been supplying
Daimler AG worldwide for many years. In the
process, it has proven to be a fast and reliable
partner. Within just three months, the company
got the Monosteel Piston program for the New
Engine Generation up and running and thus
safeguarded the introduction of the new DD13
Detroit Diesel engine in the NAFTA region.
This new Monosteel Piston technology sets the
standard. Firstly, it reduces the oil consumption
05
of the engine significantly. Secondly, the
introduction of various cost-reducing initiatives
could significantly decrease the overall costs
in manufacturing.
In his honorific speech, the Head of Procurement Trucks and Buses, Matthias Gründler, also
praised Federal-Mogul Corporation as a “reliable
partner during the financial crisis”. In addition
to outstanding achievements in all areas of
the External Balanced Scorecard, Daimler AG
rewarded this special commitment of FederalMogul Corporation with the Daimler Supplier
Award 2010 in the “Powertrain” category.
05 Andreas Renschler and Matthias Gründler felicitate José
03 Sally Miksiewicz, CEO of East Penn Manufacturing Co., Inc.,
with Andreas Renschler and Matthias Gründler.
04 Andreas Renschler and Matthias Gründler with Rick Dauch,
President and CEO of Accuride Corporation.
Maria Alapont, President and CEO of Federal-Mogul
Corporation.
11
Cover Story
Daimler AG
Best Results
International Procurement Services
presents three suppliers with the
Daimler Supplier Award 2010.
INTERNATIONAL PROCUREMENT SERVICES
CONSTRUCTION AND FACILITY MANAGEMENT
Stahlbau Heil GmbH & Co. KG
Head office: Stuttgart, Germany
Product program: steelwork, fitting work, crane systems,
bridge construction
www.stahlbau-heil.de
MARKETING, IT, GENERAL GOODS AND SERVICES
JUNG von MATT AG
Head office: Hamburg, Germany
Stahlbau Heil GmbH & Co. KG
For 30 years, Stahlbau Heil GmbH & Co. KG
has been a first port of call for customers who
expect specific high-quality solutions to steelwork-related problems. Founded in 1981 with
20 employees at its still current location in the
Port of Stuttgart, a regular workforce of 120
qualified specialists now works for Stahlbau
Heil GmbH & Co.KG. The quality and functionality
of the company’s designs is something to
be proud of. Company founder Gerhard Heil
emphasizes this: “From the beginning, a high
quality standard has been the thing that
mattered most – and we plan to keep it that
way.” This standard is ensured by workshops
run by experts and in-house assembly departments. Stahlbau Heil GmbH & Co. KG carries out
the planning, design, manufacture, delivery and
assembly for bridge construction, crane systems
and steel constructions.
For the Mercedes-Benz plant in Untertürkheim,
Stahlbau Heil recently planned and engineered
a suspended steel construction to mount transportation equipment and protection devices,
and for the plant in Mettingen a base and a
substructure for the cooling towers. The ownermanaged company from Stuttgart is an impor-
tant supplier for Daimler AG and knows the
global and local requirements of Mercedes-Benz
plants well. “They are always there at short
notice when you need them. And it is not just
all talk, they get their hands dirty to achieve
the best results,” said Wendelin Wolbert, Head
of International Procurement Services, praising
the partner. Reason enough to present Stahlbau
Heil GmbH & Co. KG with the Daimler Supplier
Award 2010 in the “Construction and Facility
Management” category.
JUNG von MATT AG
JUNG von MATT AG is “independent – and proud
of it”. Maybe this is the secret as to why no other
agency group in German-speaking countries has
been more successful over the last 20 years –
both with regard to commendations for creativity and efficiency. Founded in 1991 by Holger
Jung and Jean-Remy von Matt, the advertising
agency now covers the complete repertoire of
market communication in 14 locations in six
countries.
JUNG von MATT AG’s debut for Mercedes-Benz
was at the start of 2007, with a poster campaign
for the Mercedes-Benz SLR super sports car.
JUNG von MATT received the important EFFIE
prize for efficiency in market communication for
the “Mercedes GLK Design” project. The best
creative minds from Europe’s leading design
institutes were consigned to plan the GLK launch
event in fall 2008. Online, print, PR and event
were meshed together perfectly. In 2010, the
Mercedes-Benz commercial “Sorry” received
the people’s choice award from “autobild.de”.
Recently, readers of the “auto motor und sport”
trade journal voted the commercial films developed by JUNG von MATT for Mercedes-Benz as
the best automotive commercials.
Founder and Member of the Board of Management Jean-Remy von Matt explains the success
of the campaigns: “media usage is more optional
now than it has ever been. Marketing communication therefore has to be more attractive than
ever, it has to offer an additional rational and
emotional benefit.” Since this was successful
in the close collaboration between the agency
and the Mercedes-Benz representatives, he was
happy to collect the Daimler Supplier Award
2010 in the “Marketing, IT, General Goods and
Services” category.
01 Wilfried Porth and Wendelin Wolbert, Head of International
02 Jean-Remy von Matt, founder and Member of the Board of
Procurement Services (right), congratulate Gerhard Heil,
Management of JUNG von MATT AG (center), with Wilfried
Managing Director of Stahlbau Heil GmbH & Co. KG.
Porth and Wendelin Wolbert.
Product program: advertising
www.jvm.com
MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES
EMAG Holding GmbH
Head office: Salach, Germany
Product program: turning machines, grinding machines,
machining centers, gear cutting machines, deep-hole boring
machines, laser-welding machines
www.emag.com
01
12
02
EMAG Holding GmbH
EMAG Holding GmbH is one of the bestestablished mechanical engineering companies
in Germany. Founded as an iron foundry and
engineering works in Bautzen, Saxony in 1867
and re-established in Eislingen/Fils, Swabia in
1952, EMAG Holding GmbH introduced a technology at the start of the 1990s which literally
turned the classic turning machine on its head:
the so-called pick-up turning machine. The
world’s first vertical turning machine with a
pick-up spindle has been continually developed
and is now indispensable for the challenging
series production in the automotive industry.
With 1,900 employees, EMAG Holding GmbH is
the most significant manufacturer of these types
of machines internationally. Four technology
centers and manufacturing plants in Germany
and 19 branches on three continents are
Cover Story
Outstanding
The winner of the Special Award
“Innovation” 2010 has revolutionized
lighting technology.
04
Automotive Lighting GmbH
Head office: Reutlingen, Germany
Product program: headlamps, tail lamps, electronic control units
www.al-lighting.de
03
controlled from the headquarters in Salach,
Swabia. For Daimler AG, EMAG Holding GmbH
has implemented complete process chains in
the areas of transmission, engine and chassis
component production, and this at locations
all over the world. “The company has not only
recognized the signs of the time but it can
truly be described as a global medium-sized
company,” according to Head of International
Procurement Services, Wendelin Wolbert.
EMAG Holding GmbH’s technological leadership in the turning machine area, the outstanding quality of the products and globally
oriented, excellent management have convinced
International Procurement Services to award
the Daimler Supplier Award to the company
in the “Manufacturing Equipment and Services”
category.
03 Dieter Kollmar, Managing Director of EMAG Holding GmbH,
with Wilfried Porth and Wendelin Wolbert.
Automotive Lighting GmbH
The new-generation Mercedes-Benz CLS vehicles are the first in the world to be fitted
with all-LED headlamps with adjustable dynamic
light. This not only gives the front of the
CLS a distinctive appearance but also ensures
a significantly improved view of the road in
comparison with previous systems.
This remarkable innovation was achieved
together with a partner that can be regarded
as a technology leader in this area: Automotive
Lighting GmbH. For this, Daimler AG presents
the Daimler Supplier Special Award “Innovation”
2010 to the company. With over 13,000 employees and 21 locations worldwide, the company
presents itself not only as a technological
trailblazer, but also as a true global player in
the vehicle lighting sector.
“Constant innovation, user-oriented solutions
and perfect vehicle light quality are becoming
more and more important in the highly competitive market of premium vehicles,” emphasized
Dr. Thomas Weber, responsible for corporate
research & Mercedes-Benz Cars Development
on the Board of Management of Daimler AG.
Automotive Lighting GmbH, based in Reutlingen,
has achieved something really outstanding here.
Automotive Lighting GmbH was founded in 1999
as a joint venture by Magneti Marelli and Robert
Bosch GmbH. This made it possible to combine
the expertise of the two companies, both with
deep roots in lighting technology. Thanks to this
expertise, Automotive Lighting has brought the
first all-LED headlamps with adjustable dynamic
lights to series-production maturity for the
new Mercedes-Benz CLS – and simultaneously
revolutionized lighting technology.
04 Dr. Thomas Weber with Eugenio Razelli and Khalid Qalam,
Board Members of Automotive Lighting GmbH (right).
13
Dinner & Dialog
In the year of the automobile’s 125th birthday, the Daimler Key Supplier Meeting bridged tradition
with future-proof innovations. This also marked the exchange between the representatives of the key
suppliers and the Daimler top management.
Cover Story
01 The “gullwings” 300 SL and SLS AMG
03 Georg Weiberg, Head of Daimler Trucks
E-CELL welcome the guests of the
Product Development, talking to supplier
Daimler Key Supplier Meeting.
02 Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board
of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research & Mercedes-Benz
Cars Development, in conversation.
02
03
01
04
representatives.
04 The winners of the Daimler Supplier
Awards accepting congratulations.
Cover Story
01 Matthias Runar, designer of the award
04 Stefan Buchner, Head of Global Power-
sculpture (left), discussing the future
train and Procurement Trucks and Buses,
of automotive design with some supplier
in the dialog area of Procurement Trucks
partners.
and Buses.
02 Gerty Kroneberg, International Procure-
05 Once again, the Mercedes-Benz Center
ment Services, meeting Dr. Klaus-Jürgen
Stuttgart provided a perfect setting for
Benzinger from Van Technology Center
the Daimler Key Supplier Meeting.
at the Untertürkheim plant.
03 Daimler AG and key supplier repesentatives make use of the opportunity to talk
in the provided dialog areas.
01
02
03
04
05
Cover Story
Daimler AG
Fascination, Perfection
and a Passion for Detail
The coveted Daimler Supplier Award sculpture was designed at the Mercedes-Benz Design Center
in Sindelfingen. A closer look behind the scenes.
SINDELFINGEN | GERMANY 48° N | 9° E
B
right daylight is flooding through the glass facade of
the Mercedes-Benz Design Center at the Sindelfingen
plant. But the inner workings of the open-plan building
are some of the Group’s best-kept secrets. Here,
shapes are modeled and new colors created, not just
for automobiles but also for special occasions – such as
the presentation of the annual Daimler Supplier Award.
For the winners of this exclusive prize, the MercedesBenz Design Center especially designed and created the award sculpture.
The distinctive language of shapes
The award sculpture was the brainchild of Matthias Runar, who is active
in the development of strategic concepts. It’s not unusual for him to
take a break from designing breathtaking premium vehicles to create a
sculpture – he sees it as a task that he approaches with the same ethics
as his daily work. “Mercedes-Benz design sets itself apart from the rest
with clear shapes, fascination, perfection and a passion for detail,” says
Matthias Runar. “That’s true for our brand image and our vehicles, just
as it is for our award sculpture.” The sculpture consists of a round
base, a transparent fan and an arc that point upward to meet at the top.
In addition to the sculpture’s clear shapes, Runar added a note in the
margin of his sketch that may be even more indicative of the close
collaboration between Daimler AG and its supplier partners: “Different
characters uniting for one goal!”
18
Hand-made model construction
Based on the pencil sketch, a CAD model was developed before the
material and materials processing was determined. The award sculptures
are created by a model builder. “We knew that the award sculpture was in
“The award sculpture promotes identification with this
highest honor and the motivation of suppliers to earn
an award for themselves.” Matthias Runar
good hands,” says Matthias Runar. The model builder carefully assembles
not only the sculptures but also their transportation boxes – which are
done nearly exclusively by hand.
Color makes all the difference
The award sculpture, which was presented for the third time in March
of this year, remains true to form. That’s a good thing, as Matthias Runar
emphasizes. “First of all, it promotes identification with this highest honor,
but also the motivation of suppliers to earn an award for themselves.”
The only thing that changes is the color of the arc. It is painted with
painstaking detail, and it’s not just any color. This is special paint from
the Mercedes-Benz color line. The matte blue paint on the arc of the
01 Fascination, perfection and a passion
for detail – that is what the design of
the Daimler Supplier Award sculpture
stands for.
Cover Story
01 The Daimler Supplier Award sculpture was designed at the
Mercedes-Benz Design Center in Sindelfingen.
02 In one of the detailed sketches designer Matthias Runar noted
possible materials.
03 Starting from a round base, a transparent fan and an arc point
upward to meet at the top.
04 The bright yellow matte paint chosen for the 2010 Daimler
Supplier Award trophy is the original paint of the SLS AMG
E-CELL’s “lumilectric magno”.
01
02
03
Cover Story
first sculpture for the 2008 Daimler Supplier Award was followed by the
original “AMG Le Mans metallic red” paint from the new Mercedes-Benz
SLS AMG. The bright yellow paint chosen for the 2010 Daimler Supplier
Award trophy – “lumilectric magno” from the SLS AMG E-CELL – was
painted in 17 layers, just like the car, and fascinated all in attendance at
the awards.
Color trends and nuances
How are the special colors and paints created? It’s best to ask HansJoachim Walitschek, Head of the Interiors and Materials department,
and his team. The interior and exterior colors for the smart fortwo, the
Mercedes-Benz CLS and the Maybach are his responsibility alongside the
Mercedes-Benz Actros. “We are past the ‘neutral’ era in automotive paint.
The trend now is toward stronger, more brilliant shades.” Walitscheck
mentions the neutral color of white, which used to be unthinkable but
now can be found in countless nuances. He explains the multi-layer bright
“We have a lot of creative freedom, but we work very
closely with our design studios to identify and set new
trends.” Hans-Joachim Walitschek
technologies, which Mercedes-Benz was among the first automotive
manufacturers to use. And when talking about the “Alubeam” silver shade
that shines like mercury on the hoods of the exclusive AMG vehicles, even
an experienced color designer like him can get excited.
Color samples and new technologies
Is the basement of the Mercedes-Benz Design Center like a mad
scientist’s lab, with pots of neon, bubbling paint? “No,” says Walitschek
with a smile, “We have a lot of creative freedom, but we work very closely
with our global design studios to identify and set new trends.” Walitschek’s
team creates experimental color samples at the company’s paint stations
for the Advanced Design Centers in Sindelfingen and Como, Italy, for later
use in show cars and concept studies. For paint used in series models,
the focus is not on color spectrums, but on getting lab shades ready
for series production. Here, Mercedes-Benz Design coordinates with
Daimler AG’s Procurement department and especially with suppliers to
ensure the paint’s long-term stability and quality. “We worked intensively
and exclusively with a partner on our special “alubeam” color. It is a
highly sensitive aluminum pigment that is very hard to bind and apply,”
says Walitschek. “Alubeam” is a totally new technology in terms of paint
structure, application and pre-treatment of the foundation.
Color visions
It is quite clear that as materials change, so do the technological
challenges – and vice versa. For instance, when chassis components
are no longer made from steel or aluminum, but from carbon reinforced
plastic (CRP). For Walitscheck and his employee, Claudio Brivitello, this
is no longer new ground. After all, Mercedes-Benz also relies on future
CRP chassis components for lightweight construction. “New ground” to
him now means the shade itself. His wish is for a greater range of colors.
His vision is for colors that are more colorful and emotional. He’s keeping
quiet about how his color vision will shape the future brand image and the
vehicles of Mercedes-Benz. In any case, Walitschek says, we can all look
forward to the color of the arc on the next award sculpture.
21
04
Product Projects
Top C with Coupé
Daimler AG
Top C with Coupé
Since spring 2011 the Sedan and Station Wagon of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class present themselves
in comprehensively updated form. With a very expressive Coupé, Mercedes-Benz expands the
model range of the C-Class. Accomplishing the job placed highest demands on project management,
development partners and suppliers.
22
Product Projects
Top C with Coupé
23
Product Projects
Top C with Coupé
01 The interior with its newly developed
dashboard shows that more than a
conventional facelift was involved in the
case of the C-Class.
M
ore than a million units of the
current model series of the
Mercedes-Benz C-Class have
been sold since 2007. This year,
the bestseller appears not only
in a new look but with new
“heart” and “senses” as well.
The current model refinement
package is not at all limited to touchups. The design of
the Sedan and Station Wagon has been revised on a
grand scale. Customers can expect greater safety on
the highway thanks to ten new assistance systems.
On top of that, more efficient engines cut fuel
consumption by as much as 31 percent. All the more
and for the first time, from June 2011 Mercedes-Benz
is putting a compact C-Class Coupé on the market.
The sporty two-door model, which impresses with its
high dynamics and progressive engineering, celebrated
its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in early
March 2011.
Many new features
In all, more than 2,000 new parts distinguish the latest
generation of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class from its
predecessor. The front and rear ends have been given
The design and engineering of the C-Class
Sedan and the Station Wagon have been
revised on a grand scale.
a more distinctive design. The new dashboard together
with the optional high-resolution color display in the
instrument cluster emphasizes the premium claim
of the interior. Along with other assistance systems,
ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection and the
DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control make their arrival
in the model series. The new telematics generation
offers internet access and for navigation a 3D display
with plastic city views. The efficiency-enhancing measures include the further improved 7G-TRONIC PLUS
automatic transmission, the ECO start/stop function
and, of course, the new engines.
Driving enjoyment plus exemplary efficiency
All C-Class power plants now wear the BlueEFFICIENCY
badge, signaling that they are especially efficient and
environment-friendly in the way they use fuel. One highlight is the introduction in the C 350 BlueEFFICIENCY
of the new V6 engine featuring the innovative and
highly efficient BlueDIRECT process. Despite additional
25 kilowatts output versus the previous version, the
engine’s average consumption per 100 kilometers has
fallen by 3.1 liters to 6.8 liters. In the lighter and more
compact C-Class Coupé, the unit gets even better power
and efficiency.
24
01
Product Projects
Daimler AG
Top C with Coupé
01 The C-Class Coupé’s panoramic sliding
sunroof.
02 Driver’s view: The 3-spoke multifunction
sports steering wheel and the instrument
cluster with round dials featuring a
dynamic tube-style design.
03 The new Coupé expands the model range
of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
01
02
Efficient project organization
At the procurement end, the C-Class facelift and the
Coupé were handled by the same model series management organization. For the first time, purchasing tools
were employed in a model refinement project which
otherwise are used for new-model projects. In development partner EDAG there was an additional point of
contact in the change management process for the
Coupé project. “This process posed a major challenge
to our suppliers and had to settle down first,” says
Nicole Biedermann, Head of Procurement MercedesBenz Cars and Vans, Model Series Management NPP
and Series C-/E-Class, PMC/33. “Jointly with the development partner, however, we managed very efficiently
to integrate all technical departments and suppliers
participating in the project.”
controls are now more finely detailed and electroplated.
The stepped top of the instrument cluster now
also accommodates the central display. The instrument
cluster and a discreet light-catching contour continue
on to the front passenger side. Here, as with the other
innovations for the Sedan and Station Wagon facelift
and the development of the Coupé, Mercedes-Benz was
able to rely on the excellent performance of its partners
from the component-supplying industry: The dashboard
comes from Johnson Controls Interiors GmbH & Co. KG
and is manufactured at that company’s facility in
Grefrath, Germany.
Module strategy opens up opportunities for sales
The implementation of the module strategy proved once
again to be a success factor – both for Mercedes-Benz
and for the suppliers. For instance, the steering wheel
from Takata Petri, which already sees use in other model
series, was integrated for the C-Class as well. The same
goes for the seat structure of the C-Class Coupé. “With
the module strategy we have created a basis enabling
us to define the technical and economic project goals
very precisely and implement them accordingly across
several model series,” Nicole Biedermann explains.
Particularly pleasing to the suppliers: they benefit not
only from the very good sales figures for the C-Class
Sedan and the Station Wagon, but can notch up
additional sales volumes with the Coupé.
Outstanding achievements of the partners
The newly developed dashboard is one of the items
which show that more than a conventional facelift was
involved in the case of the C-Class. The surfaces of the
26
Mastering a challenging process
For the first time, the new C-Class and the C-Class
Coupé are being built in four Mercedes-Benz plants on
three continents: in Bremen, Sindelfingen, South Africa
and China. Despite a tighter timetable compared with a
new-product project, the same team managed to handle
both processes simultaneously. The production changeover itself took place at the Mercedes-Benz plants
Bremen and Sindelfingen virtually from one day to the
next. “Especially when changes are made during the
model year, a smooth production changeover is a crucial
factor,” explains Alban Bossenmaier, Manager PMC/332.
“That means, the model change takes place just-in-time
and just-in-sequence, so to speak, in ongoing production. We really did an outstanding job of this in
Bremen und Sindelfingen.” The start of the model
change at the East London plant in South Africa takes
place three months later. All in all Nicole Biedermann is
extremely satisfied with the results. “The reward for the
good cooperation between project management, development partners and suppliers is a punctual start-up
combined with very good quality.”
FACTS AND FIGURES
MERCEDES-BENZ C-CLASS COUPÉ
Models: C 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, C 180
BlueEFFICIENCY, C 250 BlueEFFICIENCY, C 350 BlueEFFICIENCY, C 63 AMG
Diesel Engines: L4 cylinder
Gasoline Engines: L4 cylinder, V6 cylinder and V8 cylinder
Power output: 115 kW / 156 hp to 336 kW / 457 hp
Rated torque: 250 to 600 Nm
Combined fuel consumption: 4,4 to 12,0 l / 100 km
03
01
A Global Bestseller
From procurement to manufacturing and in the markets: The new Fuso Canter sets highlights
worldwide even in its eighth generation.
F
KAWASAKI | JAPAN 35° N | 139° E
uso launched its first light-duty truck in 1963. Since then,
seven generations of the truck have sold more than five
million times, and today the Canter operates in more than
150 countries around the globe. A few of months ago,
Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC) introduced the new Fuso Canter “The Canter is already the topselling model of Daimler Trucks worldwide, and the latest
generation will continue this success story seamlessly,”
said Andreas Renschler, Management Board member of Daimler AG,
responsible for Daimler Trucks. Indeed: according to Renschler, the new
Canter will further expand its leading position in more ways than one.
Focused competencies
The Canter’s global dimensions were already evident at the start of the
new product project, which was launched about four years ago under
the name “Light-duty International Future Truck” (LIFT). The specialist
28
departments of Daimler AG worked closely together from the start. The
competences in Engineering, Quality, Procurement, Production Planning,
Logistics and Supplier Management were focused from Stuttgart to
Kawasaki to fulfill the high expectations placed on the best-selling model.
The new Canter was developed in strict observance of the “Commercial
Vehicle Development System,” a globally standardized development system
for all Daimler Trucks brands. As part of this system the entire development
process passes through ten quality-control stages (quality gates) to ensure
the exceptional quality and reliability of the new-generation Canter from
the first day of production. The most important suppliers were integrated
into this process at an early stage and numerous supplier days were
instrumental in bringing about the vehicle and the start of series production.
Global procurement
Procurement Trucks and Buses (TG/P) rigorously utilized the instrument
of “global sourcing” to take advantage of its global procurement power for
Product Projects
A Global Bestseller
01 The new Fuso Canter was completely
redesigned in- and outside. What’s more,
the vehicle is lighter and safer than its
predecessor.
02 The new Canter is the first commercial
vehicle to feature a dual clutch transmission as standard.
02
the Fuso Canter as well. The focus was not just on competitive costs but
on technological, qualitative and logistical concepts. In this way, global
sourcing has made an essential contribution to ensure the provision of
the global manufacturing network along the entire supply chain. Global
sourcing accounts for more than 40 percent of the procurement volume
for the new Canter by value.
emission standard JP09 (Japan New Long-Term Emission Regulation),
which was introduced in 2010, and the new truck fuel economy standards,
which will go into effect in Japan in 2015. With the new Canter, Fuso also is
the first to introduce SCR BlueTec technology in a light-duty truck in Japan.
New vehicle concept
How the Canter is likely to expand its top position in the light-duty truck
segment is evident in the vehicle itself. “The vehicle concept of the new
Canter once again sets standards for profitability, eco-friendliness, safety
and design,” said Albert Kirchmann, CEO and President of MFTBC. The
Fuso Canter was completely redesigned in- and outside. Improvements to
the frame structure, axle mounts and brake system make the vehicle
lighter and safer. The new Canter is also the first commercial vehicle to
feature a dual clutch transmission as standard. The Duonic dual clutch
transmission combines automated gearshifts with the advantages of a
manual gearbox. In contrast to a fully automatic torque converter transmission it provides better fuel economy and lower exhaust emissions.
Tapping new markets
The fact that the new Fuso Canter meets customer needs and highest
environmental standards equally well also has a global dimension with
regard to the light-duty truck’s markets. Fuso will further expand the
traditional sales power in Japan, Southeast Asia and the Middle East,
especially with a view to the key markets in the growth region Asia,
according to Andreas Renschler. “In 2010 every other commercial vehicle
of more than six tons was sold in China, but China is not the only highly
promising market on the Asian continent – most of the so-called ‘Next-11’
states are located here.” Pakistan, for example: The majority of completely
knocked down kits (CKD) of the Canter exported from Japan is assembled
in Karachi by Master Motor Corporation Ltd. The Pakistani company
also handles sales of the Fuso vehicles and will build a dense nationwide
network of dealers and repair shops.
For the environment and the customer
“In the new Canter we have developed a vehicle that meets customer
needs as perfectly as it does highest environmental standards,” explained
Kirchmann. Development work in the area of energy-efficient drive
technologies, which the Global Hybrid Center in Kawasaki is working full
steam to advance, pays equal dividends on both sides of the equation.
They benefit both the customers and the environment. Thanks to further
evolved combustion engines, the new Canter today already meets the new
Impulses on the North American market
Kai-Uwe Seidenfuss, MFTBC Vice President Sales & Service International,
also sees significant potential in North America. After all, the launch of the
new Canter generation means that one of the world’s most modern and
efficient light-duty trucks enters the US and Canada market: “We assume
that the new Canter and its very low emissions and low operating costs
will generate further impulses in this market.” The chances of the Canter
continuing its success story for an eighth generation are excellent.
29
Product Projects
Cult and Magic
Daimler AG
Cult and Magic
The Mercedes-Benz SLK is a trendsetter in its third generation too: on the highway and under the
hood, with retracted roof and – thanks to the new panoramic vario-roof MAGIC SKY CONTROL – even
when it’s closed. The roadster is the product of an exceedingly productive supplier cooperation.
30
Product Projects
Cult and Magic
01 In the new Mercedes-Benz SLK the MAGIC SKY CONTROL panoramic
vario-roof can be switched to light or dark at the push of a button.
31
Product Projects
Cult and Magic
A
two-seater, long hood, short tail. The new MercedesBenz SLK entices with the primary charms of the
classic roadster. The wide radiator grill bears the
Mercedes star in a prominent central position; from
the headlamps a feature line flows on to the muscular
rear fender. The car’s inner values show that these
charms are not merely superficial. With the most
compact exterior dimensions in its class, the new
Mercedes-Benz SLK has an interior whose generous size is exemplary.
The designers have developed interior appointments for it featuring
well-thought-out ergonomics, high-quality, authentic materials and great
attention to detail. On sunny days, sun-reflecting leather ensures that
the seats and other surfaces covered by it do not heat up too strongly.
And if the stars do not provide enough light at night, the ambient lighting
illuminates the interior.
Dynamic drive system and suspension
The new SLK also sets standards where handling dynamics and fuel
consumption are concerned. Compared with the previous models the
SLK consumes up to 24 percent less fuel owing to the standard-fitted ECO
start/stop function and the new direct-injection engines. Three models
initially will be available at the market launch of the SLK. The SLK 200
BlueEFFICIENCY with 135 kW (184 hp) has the lowest CO2 emissions in its
segment. The SLK 250 BlueEFFICIENCY is equipped with the enhanced
optional 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission and consumes
6.2 liters (NEDC, combined) per 100 kilometers. The V6 power plant in the
SLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY is an all-new development with third-generation
direct injection, piezo injectors and multi-spark ignition. 225 kW (306 hp)
accelerate the roadster from zero to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds. Its fuel
consumption is 7.1 liters (NEDC, combined) per 100 kilometers (167 g CO2
per kilometer).
Success in the third generation
“The new SLK embodies the role of trendsetter like no other car,” says
Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG
and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, full of enthusiasm. “I’m sure that
with its passionate design, its high-grade interior and its modesty at
the filling station it will continue providing for tremendous pleasure on
the road and consolidate its status as cult roadster.” The SLK has been a
cult car since its market launch in 1996. The first generation caused
a stir with its vario-roof, which converted the open-top roadster into a
hardtop coupé within a few seconds at the push of a button. The second
generation placed a scarf of warm air around the neck and shoulders
of the occupants with AIRSCARF if required, enabling open-top driving
even at cooler temperatures. The new SLK leaves no room for doubt
that it will continue the success story of its predecessors without the
least interruption.
01 The new Mercedes-Benz SLK entices with the primary charms of the
classic roadster.
FACTS AND FIGURES
MERCEDES-BENZ SLK
Models: SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY, C 250 BlueEFFICIENCY,
C 350 BlueEFFICIENCY
Engines: L4 cylinder and V6 cylinder
Power output: 135 kW / 184 hp to 225 kW / 306 hp
Rated torque: 270 to 370 Nm
Combined fuel consumption: 6,2 to 7,1 l / 100 km
World’s first: panoramic vario-roof
One feature of the new SLK appears to be stealing the show from
everything else, however. It’s called MAGIC SKY CONTROL, is a world’s
first, and has enchanted not only the experts since its presentation:
A panoramic vario-roof that folds open and closed, but also can be
“opened” even when closed. This glass roof can be switched to light or
dark at the push of a button. When light it is virtually transparent, offering
an open-air experience even in cold weather. In its dark state the roof
provides shade and prevents the interior from heating up when the sun’s
rays are very intense.
33
Product Projects
Daimler AG
Cult and Magic
Innovative and very complex concepts
Realizing such innovative and highly complex concepts while meeting
demanding cost targets was one of the biggest challenges for the people
in charge of the project. The Purchasing team started out under the
direction of Tobias Moch as project procurement unit for the SLK and
by April 2010 had been integrated into the model series management
organization. The latter unit’s manager Frank Haas recalls that the
contract awarding processes for the major procurement blocks for the
new SLK took place in crisis year 2009. “Consequently, it was important
for us to cooperate with reliable suppliers with a future,” explains Frank
Haas, Head of Model Series Management S, SL, SLK-Class, Procurement
Mercedes-Benz Cars and Vans, PMC/24. In addition, new suppliers were
qualified in the SLK project and actively involved in vehicle development.
“Fully in the spirit of the Daimler Supplier Network, the SLK offers these
suppliers an opportunity to recommend themselves for follow-up orders
through outstanding achievements,” says Haas.
Project House Roof
Very early on, the project house for the Roadster opened the way to a
successful product gestation process. For the new SLK, for the first time
the project organization was extended by a RHT (retractable hardtop)
subproject manager with attached “Project House Roof”. There, all
specifications and connections between roof and vehicle were coordinated, across all departments. In addition, jointly with the componentsupplying partners it was possible to successfully implement new
approaches to cooperation with the suppliers in the early stages of
the project. For example, the responsibility for development, quality and
procurement for the lightweight roof module was incumbent on the
subproject managers from the respective technical departments of
Daimler AG, while assembly and the handling of logistics were farmed
out to a system partner.
Project objectives comprehensively achieved
Apart from the panoramic vario-roof MAGIC SKY CONTROL, for Axel
Schlegel from SLK Model Series Management, PMC/243, the integrated
rear wall module is a further example of the implementation of especially
innovative concepts in the new SLK: “Through the use of carbon-fiberreinforced plastic we managed to reduce the weight of this module and
simultaneously ensure highest crash and rollover protection.” Hood and
fenders are made of aluminum. Obviously, in the new SLK innovative ideas
like MAGIC SKY CONTROL are the attractions because customers directly
experience them. But applying the same attention, the project team of
Daimler AG and the suppliers devoted themselves to all those “charms”
that distinguish the vehicle as a whole, making it a roadster that once
again sets trends: on the highway and at the filling station, under the hood
and under the open sky.
01
02
01— 03 Solar simulations in the laboratory: This is where the new technology
of MAGIC SKY CONTROL underwent long-term tests under extreme
and precisely reproducible conditions.
04 In the new Mercedes-Benz SLK designers have developed interior
appointments featuring well-thought-out ergonomics, high-quality,
authentic materials and great attention to detail.
34
03
04
People
Daimler AG
Making Success
Sustainable
Since the beginning of the year, Matthias Gründler has been Head
of Procurement Trucks and Buses, TG/P. On March 1, 2011, Dr. Klaus
Zehender took over as successor to Frank W. Deiss as Head of Procurement Mercedes-Benz Cars and Vans, PMC. We interviewed them
about their new duties.
36
MATTHIAS GRÜNDLER
DR. KLAUS ZEHENDER
Head of Procurement Trucks and Buses, TG/P
Head of Procurement Mercedes-Benz Cars and Vans, PMC
Daimler AG
Daimler AG
People
“In the weeks and months to come, I will visit locations and suppliers to
get a better picture.” Matthias Gründler
“I will focus on continuing the strategy dialogues which we very successfully began with the Daimler Supplier Network.” Dr. Klaus Zehender
M
r. Gründler, you have been in
your new role since January 1,
2011 and Dr. Zehender, you
started on March 1. How have
your first weeks and months
been?
sions about future product innovations. Regionalizing
future production series and collaborations on the
further development of alternative drive systems are
key topics that we’re looking at with our suppliers.
As you can tell, these exciting and critical tasks continue
to demand the full commitment of all our staff.
Matthias Gründler: I’ve met
with a lot of employees in recent weeks and months
to get to know them and their duties. Of course, in the
weeks and months to come, I will visit additional locations and suppliers for commercial vehicle procurement
to get a better picture. The discussions I’ve had have
shown me that I work with a very professional team that
is globally positioned. The business model is properly
aligned so that we can act on a worldwide scale, such as
in the global commodity boards.
Matthias Gründler: The same goes for the Trucks
division – if you stand still, you fall behind. I’m glad
that we emerged so vibrantly from the crisis. But if
we want to secure our success for the long term,
the commercial vehicles division must do its part.
Some examples include raw materials management
and capacity utilization. There is still a lot to do.
What topics are at the top of your list for the near
future?
Dr. Klaus Zehender: Working with suppliers was already
a key component of my work back when I was in charge
of logistics for the Sindelfingen Mercedes-Benz plant.
I’m delighted as Head of Procurement Mercedes-Benz
Cars and Vans to further expand this experience and
delve into another angle of it. Personal discussions with
our suppliers are particularly important to me. In 2011,
I will focus on continuing the strategy dialogues which
we very successfully began with the Daimler Supplier
Network.
Matthias Gründler: One issue that’s keeping us busy
is the sharp rise in sales volume in the US and our
capacity planning. We’re also looking at sharpening the
professional edge of our raw materials management.
We additionally want to manage the Daimler Trucks
strategy in the BRIC countries and the launch of new
product projects the best way we can from a procurement aspect. Particularly in regard to new products,
we need to ensure sustainable quality assurance when
starting up production.
The last financial year was very good for MercedesBenz Cars and for both Daimler Trucks and Daimler
Buses. The 2011 forecast is more than optimistic.
Does that take the pressure off of you on a day to
day basis?
Dr. Klaus Zehender: Apart from the issues just
mentioned, we’re securing the eight startups in 2011
and the contract awards process for the next generation
of the current C-Class, which as you know will be
manufactured in four locations as part of a production
network. Here, we are evaluating the localization advantages in China, South Africa, and the NAFTA region
in order to create a win-win situation for us and our suppliers with a view to the overall costs. We also want to
tap significant potential with regard to replacement
parts and AMG this year.
CV DR. KLAUS ZEHENDER
1996 Joined Daimler-Benz AG
1998 — 2000 Head of strategic planning
for the controlling departments of
Mercedes-Benz passenger car and smart
at DaimlerChrysler AG
2000 — 2002 Head of the strategy and
planning unit for the Mercedes-Benz
passenger car and smart business unit
of DaimlerChrysler AG
2002 — 2005 Business management
director (budget controlling, product
controlling, accounts, invoicing, IT systems)
for DaimlerChrysler AG’s Sindelfingen plant
2005 — 2011 Logistics director for
Daimler AG’s Sindelfingen plant
Since March 2011 Head of Procurement
Mercedes-Benz Cars and Vans
CV MATTHIAS GRÜNDLER
1986 Joined Daimler-Benz AG
1995 — 1999 Sales Planning and
Controlling, Mercedes-Benz Cars
1999 — 2003 Head of Sales & Marketing
Department, DaimlerChrysler South Africa
2003 CFO, DaimlerChrysler Thailand
2004 — 2005 CFO, DaimlerChrysler
South East Asia in Singapore
2005 — 2008 CFO, Mercedes-Benz
Dr. Klaus Zehender: Definitely not. Some recurring
issues include achieving our cost targets, particularly
in light of rising raw materials prices, and 2011 supplier
performance. We are also very focused on securing our
production capacities and will hold extensive discus-
South Africa
2008 — 2011 CFO, Mitsubishi Fuso
Trucks and Bus Corporation in Japan
Since January 2011 Head of Procurement
Trucks and Buses and of
Business Development Powertrain
37
Trends
Daimler AG
At Home in India
At Home in India
Daimler AG has gained a new brand: Daimler India Commercial Vehicles Pvt. Ltd. is to build
light- and heavy-duty trucks in Oragadam under the name BharatBenz – in India and for India.
ORAGADAM | INDIA 13° N | 80° E
01
03
02
W
hen Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board
of Management of Daimler AG and Head
of Mercedes-Benz Cars, presented the new
BharatBenz brand in February 2011, he said:
“Our new truck brand clearly demonstrates
that Daimler is at home in India.” And he left
no doubt as to why there is no space, and not
even a hyphen, between the names Bharat
and Benz: Daimler AG’s involvement in India consists of a tight-knit entity
which has no need for any such linking elements.
Brand name BharatBenz conjures up positive associations
The name “Bharat” stands for the country of India and originates from the
Sanskrit word “Bharatam” – the land of the emperor Bharata. In India, the
word Bharat instantly conjures up associations with Bharat Ratna – the
“jewel of India”, which is the country’s highest civilian medal. The name
“Benz” enjoys similarly high repute, Daimler having launched the first
truck in the country together with Tata in 1950. The name Benz has since
been synonymous with progress and reliability in India. The brand name
BharatBenz thus has highly positive connotations both for customers and
within the Indian automobile industry.
Quality and performance ex-factory
In Oragadam near Chennai, preparations for the successful launch of
the new products are already in full swing. At a site covering some 160
hectares, Daimler India Commercial Vehicles Pvt. Ltd. (DICV) has set up
a production plant with a state-of-the-art test track which highlights
the company’s uncompromising pursuit of quality and performance.
Daimler is investing around 700 million euros (over 44 billion Indian
rupees) in Oragadam.
Parts outsourced to Indian suppliers
The BharatBenz brand and the production plant in Oragadam demonstrate
a clear commitment to India in two respects. Firstly, there is Daimler AG’s
involvement in one of the world’s strongest growth markets. “The BharatBenz product range will draw on the full scope of Daimler Trucks’ technical
expertise. The trucks are tailored perfectly to the needs of Indian customers,” stresses Marc Llistosella, Managing Director and CEO Daimler
India Commercial Vehicles. And secondly, rather than taking established
suppliers to India, DICV has decided to procure parts from Indian suppliers, either as standard components or within the scope of development
activities.
Purchasing, supplier management and logistics
Erich Nesselhauf, Vice President Procurement, TG/P7, Supplier Management & Logistics, TG/ISP, TG/ISL, has been on location in Oragadam for
almost three years now and has overseen the localization of procurement
operations from the outset. He heads the Purchasing Unit there, comprising a total of three departments and a purchasing team of 63. His
team is integrated in the global TG/P purchasing structure. The areas of
Supplier Management and Logistics, which are also under Nesselhauf’s
direction, currently have a workforce of 82.
Trends
At Home in India
In view of the comparatively low level of vertical integration, DICV has
outsourced complete assembly of the light-duty truck engine to the AVTEC
company, for example. Some of the axles are to be fitted by American
Axles Manufacturing (AAM) under a contract manufacturing agreement.
Strategically important suppliers, such as MS Autotech for the bodyin-white and KLT for the entire scope of frame assembly, are even to
be located directly at the DICV site in Oragadam. This will enable a high
rate of just-in-time and just-in-sequence deliveries and lead to substantial
savings in logistics and investment costs.
Qualification of suppliers at local level
Central challenges remain the qualification of suppliers and, in particular,
supporting suppliers in development efforts. A development team and
DICV’s supplier management ensure at local level that the components
meet the requirements of the Indian market. In addition, the concept of
“regionally mandated supplier management” promotes communication
between the Daimler Trucks plants and the introduction of global processes, as well as worldwide support in the area of supplier development
and the approval of parts.
Technological support
“Where necessary, the Indian suppliers travel to Germany and Japan for
training and workshops. In the other direction, experts from the global
Daimler Trucks network come to India to provide the suppliers with
technological support,” reports Erich Nesselhauf. As an additional quality
assurance measure, DICV’s supplier management has installed a “100
percent firewall” for all C- and D-samples, which means that suppliers may
only dispatch parts and components to DICV after passing the respective
supplier managers’ quality tests.
Quality standards ensured across the board
The pooling of the areas of Purchasing, Supplier Management and
Logistics under the direction of Erich Nesselhauf is key to the success of
the project. On this basis, DICV has managed to ensure the necessary
quality standards throughout all areas of operations and to develop
the suppliers as potential export suppliers at an early juncture. “In terms
of value, over 90 percent of the materials for both model series of the
light- and heavy-duty trucks have already been outsourced to suppliers.
This means that the quality gate requirements are met in full,” says
Erich Nesselhauf. 2012 will see the start-up of truck production in
Oragadam – and roll-out of the first series production truck representing
the BharatBenz brand.
01 The BharatBenz brand logo.
02 In Oragadam, India, preparations for the successful launch of the new BharatBenz light- and
heavy-duty trucks are already running at full speed.
03 2012 will see the first series production truck representing the BharatBenz brand.
YOUR CONTACT
Globally coordinated procurement strategies and sourcing
“We have outsourced more than 80 percent of our purchasing volume
to local Indian suppliers. At the start of production, almost half of
the suppliers will be based directly in the state of Tamil Nadu,” notes
Erich Nesselhauf.
Erich Nesselhauf, TG/P7, [email protected]
Marion Gillich, TG/ISP, [email protected]
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
“Consistently Global”, Daimler Supplier Magazine 02|2010, Page 33
39
40
Concentrated Skills
Daimler AG
Concentrated Skills
Concentrated Skills
The Center of Competence for Zero-Emission Mobility (CZM) in Mannheim is creating the drive
technology of the future – with input from the divisions and in close collaboration with leading
development partners.
MANNHEIM | GERMANY 49° N | 8° E
41
Daimler AG
01 At the Center of Competence for ZeroEmission Mobility (CZM) pioneering drive
technology is developed for passenger
cars, vans and commercial vehicles.
02 The wealth of knowledge benefits not
only Daimler AG’s commercial vehicles
division.
03 Drive technologies are being developed
in close cooperation among those
responsible for product development,
specialists from the CZM and supply
01
partners.
02
T
he Mercedes-Benz plant in Mannheim exclusively builds
engines and assembles buses. Well, not exactly the whole
plant. In factory buildings 55, 56 and 57, Daimler AG
operates the Center of Competence for Zero-Emission
Mobility (CZM) where pioneering drive technology is
developed for passenger cars, vans and commercial
vehicles. Back in 1998, ten Atego 1217 trucks with hybrid
drives were built as test vehicles. Here, the small series
vehicle Citaro FuelCell was successfully launched in 2003. In 2004, the
Mercedes-Benz E200 NGT (natural gas technology) series followed, and
then in 2008 the B180 NGT and Sprinter NGT. In 2010, the first vehicles
from the innovative Atego BlueTec Hybrid fleet were built. That same year,
they received the German Sustainability Prize in the “Products” category.
Part of the Group-wide skill network
The CZM was founded in Mannheim in 1994 – back then as a competence
center for zero-emission commercial vehicles. But it soon became obvious
that such a wealth of knowledge could benefit not only Daimler AG’s
commercial vehicles division but also the entire group. Today, the CZM
is working with development and planning departments from all vehicle
divisions that bring alternative drive technologies to the production stage,
from natural gas to hybrid electric to hydrogen. Long-term strategies like
“The road to zero-emission mobility” and “Shaping future transportation”
are implemented in collaboration with partners.
Test factory for alternative drive systems
The CZM’s production objectives are clearly defined, from prototype
to series. Prototypes or small series of vehicles with alternative drives
42
don’t fit into an environment of mass-produced passenger cars, vans and
commercial vehicles. However, it is not expected that new drives will be
a direct part of mass market production in the near future. This is exactly
where the Center of Competence for Zero-Emission Mobility in Mannheim
comes in: It is responsible for building prototypes, and using the
In all project phases, the Center of Competence for
Zero-Emission Mobility works closely with suppliers to
bring alternative drive systems to series production.
knowledge gained to transfer the project into small series production.
After the successful startup of the small series, the CZM develops and
tests series-ready production technologies with a view to switching the
manufacture to mass production once the number of units rises.
Close cooperation with suppliers
In all project phases, the CZM works closely with suppliers to bring
alternative drive systems to series production. This applies in particular to
the core competencies for gas tank and hybrid systems. The high voltage
system for the Atego BlueTec Hybrid was developed in close cooperation
among those responsible for product development, specialists from
the CZM and employees of the Eaton Corporation, a technology leader
in electric, hydraulic and mechanical drives. “Particularly with regard to
new technologies, the cooperation with suppliers often extends beyond
the usual technical scope,” explains Axel Becker, department Head
03
01
of Production in the Center of Competence for Zero-Emission Mobility.
“We must work together to develop new testing methods for quality
assurance, tools for diagnosing and commissioning hybrid systems, right
up to new aftersales and transport concepts.”
New ideas need creative cooperation partners
Conversely, the CZM also supports the suppliers as a partner for technical
and qualitative challenges. “For instance, due to the initial qualitative
challenges in the first CRP (carbon reinforced plastic) containers to store
natural gas, we sent a resident engineer to our supplier to help us find
the best solution together,” says Becker. New, unconventional ideas in
particular need reliable, creative cooperation partners on both sides. The
special knowledge that the CZM employees have acquired has become
absolutely essential – especially when it comes to quality or manufacturing processes for installing and commissioning compressed gas or
hybrid systems. Even when it comes to the most high-tech new drives,
the employees of the CZM have a good starting point thanks to their
vast experience.
Innovative testing technologies for securing innovative drives
The CZM’s equipment is also impressive. Among the manufacturing
innovations are density tests for compressed gas systems. The industry
standard prescribes manual checks using gas detectors. The CZM
has gone a step beyond: Automating the testing procedure means 100
percent process-ready density of the gas system. Moreover, the CZM
has test stations that can supply up to 600 volts to the drive systems – a
prerequisite for testing specific high voltage components for hybrid
and fuel cell systems before commissioning a vehicle. For this reason,
44
acceptance of the Atego BlueTec Hybrid truck and the Citaro FuelCELL
hybrid city buses, for example, is given together with the experts of CZM
on their test stations.
Precursor to zero-emission mobility
The number of projects and employees, along with the manufactured
vehicles in CZM, is continually on the rise. The unit numbers are impressive: The CZM’s bestseller is the B-Class natural gas model which entered
series production in 2008, the B180 NGT. The NGT Sprinter is also
developing well: In recent years, the CZM has outfitted and commissioned
more than 20,000 Mercedes-Benz vehicles with optional natural gas
drives. Hermann Doppler, Head of the Mercedes-Benz Mannheim plant,
in charge of the global production of commercial vehicle diesel engines,
can be proud of the CZM’s success. “We’ve been known for more than a
century for advanced engines, trucks, and buses. We want to do the same
for highly sustainable mobility.” This vision has become a reality at the
Center of Competence for Zero-Emission Mobility.
01 Among the manufacturing innovations
at the CZM are density tests for compressed gas systems and test stations
for specific high voltage components.
Dos and Don’ts
Dos and Don’ts
Daimler AG expects compliant conduct of its employees and suppliers. The company has now compiled the most
important “Dos and Don’ts” for its suppliers.
C
ompliance is an integral component
of corporate culture at Daimler AG –
regardless of unit, activity, management level or country. This also applies
extensively to the cooperation with Daimler’s
global supplier network. The Integrity Code
of Daimler AG is not just a binding internal
standard for its employees, it has also been sent
to all suppliers in the past and is available to
supply partners in the Daimler Supplier Portal.
Dos and Don’ts for Daimler Suppliers
In daily operations, Daimler employees bear as
much personal responsibility for compliant conduct as supply partners. The central questions
each individual must ask themselves are: What
am I allowed to do? What should I avoid under
any circumstances? Vital guidance is available
here from an overview of the “Dos and Don’ts
for Daimler Suppliers”, which has been available
in German, English, Portuguese, Spanish and
Japanese since January 2011. The document can
also be accessed by all suppliers in the Daimler
Supplier Portal (http://daimler.covisint.com).
DOS
DON‘TS
GIFTS
— You may give our employees everyday business courtesies,
— According to the Integrity Code, Daimler employees and their
promotional materials or other items of a value of not more
relatives are not permitted to request gifts from suppliers,
than /USD 30 if they are granted voluntarily and it can be
dealers or customers.
ruled out that there is any intention to exercise influence
— Do not offer any gifts of a value greater than /USD 30.
on our employees’ decisions. However, there can be no prior
agreement or understanding between the parties so that
Daimler employees and their relatives are not permitted to
accept them.
decisions cannot be influenced.
— Do not send gifts to our employees’ private addresses.
— Do not offer gifts of money or unspecific non-cash benefits
— Please give your gift openly and with no false intent.
(e.g. vouchers, cash, checks or money transfers).
DISCOUNTS
— Do not give discounts benefiting individual Daimler employees
— A discount is only acceptable if it is available to all
or groups of Daimler employees.
Daimler employees.
HOSPITALITY AND ENTERTAINMENT
— Do not invite the same Daimler business partners to events
— You can invite the same Daimler employees to events that
more than twice per year.
you also attend up to two times per year.
— Without your attendance, your invitations will be considered
— Do not invite Daimler employees to events or meals without
being personally present.
a gift and its value must be limited to /USD 30.
— Do not extend invitations to Daimler employees during
contract negotiations or if the invitation could be
misconstrued as influence.
Advice concerning conflicts of interest
In line with Section IV of Daimler AG’s Integrity
Code, specific advice in cases of conflicts of
interest is provided. The “Dos and Don’ts”
can be helpful when Daimler employees and
suppliers are working together. For example, the
cases in which Daimler employees can accept
gifts up to a value of a maximum of /USD 30
are explained, and rules of conduct in cases
of conflicts of interest involving discounts, hospitality and events of an entertainment nature,
travel and accommodation, sponsorship and
financial services are defined.
— Do not offer Daimler employees inappropriately excessive
invitations (e.g. in gourmet restaurants).
TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION
— Exceptions are permitted for Daimler employees for business
travel in a business partner’s plane with the prior approval of
the immediate supervisor and at least a Senior Vice President
(level C or higher). However, the business partner’s invitation
— Third-party business partners are not permitted to pay travel
or accommodation expenses for Daimler employees.
— Do not offer to cover the costs of family members or cash
payments through flat rates.
must be made voluntarily and there must be no reasonable
likelihood that this will influence the employee’s judgment or
actions in performing his or her duties for Daimler.
SPONSORSHIP
— Do not offer support for events of Daimler AG or of employees
of Daimler AG.
FINANCIAL SERVICES
— Do not offer Daimler employees any financial services.
YOUR CONTACT
Dr. Mona Ferguson, TG/PPC-C, [email protected]
45
Tools & Processes
By Users, for Users
By Users, for Users
Daimler AG has upgraded its Daimler Supplier Portal based on feedback
from suppliers. Registering on the portal is now much easier, as is navigating to relevant information and applications.
01 The new design of the Daimler Supplier Portal is based on the latest
corporate standards. The primary navigation is now placed horizontally in
the upper margin of the page. The second level is organized by functional
area; the third level is opened as a pull-down menu.
46
Daimler AG
Tools & Processes
I
n response to the latest survey about the Daimler Supplier Portal
(October 2010 to January 2011), the comments from one user at a
supplier company were nearly identical to the results themselves:
“The Daimler Supplier Portal has a very clean, clear structure!
If I do need help, the staff can give me excellent information.” This
praise is also reflected in the statistics of the survey results.
More than two thirds of users are happy with the Daimler Supplier
Portal, and nearly two thirds rate the helpdesk as “very good”
or “good.” “Of course, we’re very pleased with this positive feedback,”
says Ralph Greiner, who is in charge of the Daimler Supplier Portal for
TG/PPC-P. “But it’s also important to us that we continually upgrade
the Daimler Supplier Portal in cooperation with our suppliers. The
survey results are forwarded to the respective areas, which determine and
implement further measures.”
Central interface for a wealth of applications
The survey results show that the Daimler Supplier Portal is primarily used
as a central interface for many applications used in operational activities
around the world. The portal is available in five languages; a total of
11 Daimler AG subsidiaries were added to the portal in recent years. The
newest site is India. More than 60 applications cover the entire supply
chain – from supplier applications (SRT) and digital purchasing documents
(eDocs) to Electronic Change Management (eÄM) and logistic components
Daimler Supplier Portal has a new layout
Users of the Daimler Supplier Portal will now find navigation and functions
with a new layout. “The new design of the Daimler Supplier Portal is based
on the latest corporate standards for internal and external online communications,” confirms Sebastian Forchhammer, the portal team member
in charge of content and the “look & feel.” The primary navigation is
now placed horizontally in the upper margin of the page. The second
level is organized by functional area; the third level is opened as a
pull-down menu. All portal pages now offer users the option of direct links
in the right margin, which takes them to the relevant applications and
downloads.
User-friendly and expedient
Together with Covisint, which operates the site, Daimler AG has significantly optimized the Daimler Supplier Portal for users – for both sides
of the equation. Daimler’s departments can manage their applications
EVALUATION OF DAIMLER SUPPLIER PORTAL HELPDESK
1%
7%
22%
EVALUATION OF DAIMLER SUPPLIER PORTAL
VERY GOOD
1%
5%
11%
6%
By Users, for Users
GOOD
SATISFYING
4%
16%
50%
SUFFICIENT
INADEQUATE
VERY GOOD
GOOD
32%
45%
SATISFYING
SUFFICIENT
INADEQUATE
INSUFFICIENT
AVERAGE: 2,68
management (SMB) to supplier evaluations (EBSC). The latter is probably
also the reason that according to the survey, five percent of users are
already part of the suppliers’ executive staff. The portal is also widely
used as a source of information for current topics from the segments of
Development, Procurement, Quality and Supply.
Easier portal registration
Two thirds of those surveyed use the portal regularly, i.e., every day
or several times per week. In order to further expand and simplify this
extensive use, Ralph Greiner’s team has taken numerous measures
to improve the site. As Greiner explains, “The easier it is to access the
Daimler Supplier Portal, the more often it will be used.” At the end of
February 2011, a Daimler-specific portal registration system was launched
to greatly facilitate access. Now, the supplier number determines the
user profile and the available options to the user. The main problems
familiar from the previous registration process – for company and user
registration alike – have been solved by adjusting the original Covisint
registration process.
INSUFFICIENT
AVERAGE: 2,37
and downloads more conveniently and provide them to suppliers. The suppliers’ users, in turn, benefit from the fact that registration and finding
pertinent information and applications is much easier, thus making it user
friendly. “By supporting our users, meaning our suppliers, the new registration and updated portal layout is more user-friendly and specialized
than ever before. This helps our suppliers concentrate on what matters
most: working with the information and applications on the Daimler
Supplier Portal,” says Ralph Greiner.
YOUR CONTACT
Ralph Greiner, TG/PPC-P, [email protected]
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
http://daimler.covisint.com
47
Locations
Daimler AG
Just a few months after the new driving simulation center, Daimler AG is set to open the adjoining
climatic wind tunnels in summer 2011 – marking yet another milestone for vehicle development at
the Mercedes-Benz Technology Center Sindelfingen.
SINDELFINGEN | GERMANY 48° N | 9° E
48
Locations
49
Locations
Daimler AG
01 Inside the climatic wind tunnels vehicles
must withstand extreme tests before
they reach the market – here the new
Mercedes-Benz SLK.
02 In a total of six conditioning chambers
several vehicles can be simultaneously
prepared for test scenarios.
CLIMATIC WIND TUNNELS
PERFORMANCE DATA
Number of tunnels
2
Number of conditioning chambers
Temperature ranges
Wind speeds
6
- 40°C to + 60°C
0 — 250 km/h
A
t the southern edge of the MercedesBenz Sindelfingen plant, the areas
that belong together are gradually
growing together. A mere stone’s
throw from the Design Center, the
new functional areas and test stands
at the Mercedes-Benz Technology
Center have taken shape: First came
the development of an enormous site and the associated media supply infrastructure; then the driving
simulation center equipped with the very latest driving
simulators in the automotive field; and now the climatic
wind tunnels. The exchange between the individual
units involved in vehicle development could not be any
closer or more thorough, enthused Dr. Thomas Weber,
responsible on the Board of Management of Daimler AG
for Group Research & Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, at the inauguration of the driving simulator. What
he was referring to will become even more apparent
when the climatic wind tunnels are commissioned
this summer.
Extreme climatic tests under one roof
By providing reproducible and precise test results,
the new building will play a key role in the validation of
vehicle development. “The new climatic wind tunnels
allow us to simulate extreme climatic conditions, which
will further reduce the very complex process of testing
vehicles in the various climatic regions of the world,
irrespective of season, weather conditions and country,”
explains Dr. Teddy Woll, Head of Aerodynamics Development at Mercedes-Benz. In performance terms, it
means that temperature ranges of - 40°C to + 60°C and
wind speeds of up to 250 km/h can be duplicated under
a single roof. These are the kinds of extreme tests that
vehicles from a premium manufacturer must withstand
before they reach the market.
Prime contractor plans and builds
A building like the one housing the climatic wind tunnels
along with their technical interior is clearly not an everyday construction project. The task of Hilmar Stockinger,
Team Leader of Corporate Facility Management for
Construction and Infrastructure Projects, CFM/RD, who
supported the project from the outset, was similarly
challenging. Based on the technical specifications of the
test stands, his team and the factory planning department supported the future users in creating functional
performance specifications based on the highest standards. What followed was not a conventional tendering
process based on lots. Instead, Daimler AG opted for
a new approach – the general contractor model. “In this
case, some of the applicants formed a consortium that
could draw on the core competencies in order to achieve
the best possible outcome from a technical and
economic perspective,” explains Peter Weiler, Manager
of Procurement Plant Equipment, IPS/PE1. The job was
ultimately awarded to the ARGE Daimler KWK, a joint
50
venture involving several global supply partners: Aiolos
Engineering Corporation based in Toronto, Canada,
MCE Stahl- und Maschinenbau from Linz in Austria
and Imtech GmbH & Co. KG from Hamburg. A general
contractor agreement jointly drawn up by Procurement
from IPS/PE1 and the legal department for the first time
in this project formed the basis for the cooperation.
Highest technical requirements
“It was important to us that we provided very thorough
support for the work of the general contractor from
the time that the tender was awarded – and across all
departments,” explains Hilmar Stockinger. In a series
of workshops lasting several days, all of the participants
gathered to clarify the key issues in all phases of the
construction. “In close consultation with us as the future
users of these test facilities, the function and layout
of all the technical installations were agreed in detail,
processes optimized and costs reconciled at regular
intervals,” explains Mathias Heidrich, Team Leader
of the new wind tunnels in Dr. Woll’s department. In
addition, all processes and milestones were documented
on a daily basis in a central “process-oriented project
“It was important to us that we provided
very thorough support for the work of the
general contractor.” Hilmar Stockinger
management” system (PPM). Thanks to this close coordination, it was possible to almost completely avoid
any changes, thereby keeping to the tight schedule and
remaining within budget. “In view of the complexity
of the project and the highest technical requirements,
this joint success cannot be rated highly enough,”
stresses Stockinger.
Preparing for the next building phase
In the interim, the first vehicles have already completed
tests on the test stand – naturally under the most
extreme climatic conditions. For Mathias Heidrich, the
capabilities of the climatic wind tunnels are reflected
not just by the climatic conditions that can be reproduced, but above all by the significantly higher
throughput volume. This is facilitated by a total of
six conditioning chambers in which several vehicles
can be simultaneously prepared for test scenarios.
At the “Südlicher Mittelpfad” Project House, staff
from Development, Procurement, Corporate Facility
Management and Factory Planning are meanwhile
already thinking one step ahead: The next building
phase of the Mercedes-Benz Technology Center is being
prepared – the new aero-acoustics wind tunnel, a crash
and test center and other projects.
01
02
Locations
Daimler AG
Maximum Efficiency
Maximum Efficiency
For 50 years now, Daimler AG has developed automatic transmissions, which it produces at the
Hedelfingen plant. The latest generations are making an important contribution to cutting fuel
consumption and emissions.
B
HEDELFINGEN | GERMANY 48° N | 9° E
etween the River Neckar and vineyards to the east lies
the Mercedes-Benz Hedelfingen plant. Automatic transmissions have been manufactured and assembled here
for over fifty years. Five generations and some 18 million
units have left the Hedelfingen plant since the early
1960s. Back then, Mercedes-Benz launched a groundbreaking technical innovation, soberly designated
K4A 025, onto the German automotive market. It was
an automatic transmission equipped with a hydraulic clutch, four speeds
and speed-dependent gear selection. In technical terms, the original and
the latest transmission generations are of course worlds apart. However,
the motivation to continuously improve the comfort and efficiency of
automatic transmissions is still the driving force at the Hedelfingen plant.
Half a century of innovative strength
Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard, Member of the Daimler AG Board of Management,
responsible for Production and Procurement Mercedes-Benz Cars and the
Mercedes-Benz Vans division, marked the 50th anniversary in November
2010 by highlighting the importance of the location: “Hedelfingen represents half a century of innovative strength, excellent know-how and an
uncompromising quality philosophy. This kind of expertise is a key factor
in the international competition on the road to the automotive future.” It is
all the more important for Daimler AG to retain this expertise within the
company, in contrast to many other automotive manufacturers.
Optimized automatic transmissions for the future
In reality, optimized automatic transmissions make a significant contribution to reducing fuel consumption and emissions. One such example is
the evolved 7G-Tronic Plus seven-speed transmission: The unit is designed
for start/stop operation of gasoline and diesel engines and further reduces
consumption by up to seven percent depending on the vehicle model.
Assembly of the new seven-speed transmission is currently operating at
full steam – the Hedelfingen plant has even been expanded by the addition
of a new two-story building with over 25,000 square meters of floor space.
In addition to the electronically controlled 7G-Tronic Plus for rear-wheel
drive applications, the new dual clutch transmission (DCT) will be manufactured in Hedelfingen in the future. The new front-wheel drive DCT has
just successfully completed production test 2. The unit will be used in the
next generation of A-Class and B-Class vehicles.
State-of-the-art transmission assembly
The evolution of the automatic transmission over the past 50 years has
been accompanied by significant changes in the requirements relating to
their assembly. Christian Lehmann, Head of Production Planning Compo52
nents/Transmissions (PPA/G), explains this evolution of the front-wheel
drive transmissions: “The original front-wheel drive automatic transmission was a spur gear set. This was followed by the continuously variable
automatic transmission incorporating a push-link chain system. The latest
generation is a dual clutch transmission – a completely new technology
that offers unprecedented efficiency.” Consequently, the production facilities and assembly lines at the Hedelfingen plant have been continuously
developed from one transmission generation to the next and are stateof-the-art today. For the expansion of the assembly plant for the 7G-Tronic
Plus including hybrid technology at the Hedelfingen plant, GROB-WERKE
GmbH & Co. KG recently developed and implemented a completely new
“We were able to significantly boost efficiency and improve
the quality of transmission production.” Andreas Engling
assembly system of a high ergonomic standard within a tight schedule.
“Crucial to the success of the project were the cooperative nature of the
highly competent partnership on the one hand and exceptionally focused
project management by both sides on the other, as well as short decisionmaking channels when it came to resolving problems,” stresses Jochen
Nahl, Managing Director of Sales at GROB-WERKE GmbH & Co. KG.
Center of Excellence for transmissions
The expansion of the Hedelfingen plant to create an enhanced Center of
Excellence for transmission production has had extremely positive effects
according to Andreas Engling, Head of Transmission Production at
the Mercedes-Benz Untertürkheim plant: “Tailored solutions and rapid
networking have enabled us to significantly boost efficiency while at the
same time continuously improving the quality of transmission production.”
For those in charge in Hedelfingen, it is clear that transmissions will play
a key role in achieving sustainable mobility – not least when it comes to
optimizing the efficiency of electrical drive systems in their own right or
in conjunction with the internal combustion engine. Particularly in this
context, there are noticeable volume increases. Peter Schabert, Head of
the Mercedes-Benz Untertürkheim plant and of Production Powertrain
Mercedes-Benz Cars, believes the transmission plant is well equipped to
meet these future challenges: “The bundling of production expertise
in automatic transmissions at the Hedelfingen site is a key factor in implementing the tasks that lie ahead. I am confident that this location now also
offers the best prerequisites for continued success in the future production of transmissions that will allow fully electric driving as well.”
Locations
Maximum Efficiency
01—03 The Mercedes-Benz Hedelfingen
plant in the past and present: The
evolution of the automatic transmission over the past 50 years has been
accompanied by significant changes
in the requirements relating to their
assembly.
01
03
53
02
A state-of-the-art logistics center is under construction outside the gates to the Mercedes-Benz plant
in Rastatt. In future, a central logistics service provider will control the flow of materials in the Plant
Consolidation Center (PCC).
MALSCH | GERMANY 48° N | 8° E
54
C
onstruction units are still busy with heavy equipment
on the grounds of the former cement works in Malsch,
Germany. The property will be given over to the new
logistics center in June 2011. Just a few months afterwards, great numbers of trucks will begin unloading
vehicle components and production materials. From
here they will swarm into the warehouse before
landing on the Rastatt plant production line in the
right order, the right quantities and at the right time.
The impressive dimensions of the Plant Consolidation Center
From September 2011, the new compact cars will be produced at the
Mercedes-Benz plant in Rastatt. The first out of four Mercedes-Benz
models in the future will be the successor of the B-Class. Already in 2012,
the next compact car model is to follow. In total, three out of four
new compact cars will be manufactured at the Rastatt plant – with the
effect that more and more parts and components will have to be delivered
to the plant in the future. The new logistics center in Malsch will meet
the additional space requirements to supply production while bringing
together services that were previously performed at different locations
literally under one roof. Even the dimensions of the Plant Consolidation
Center (PCC) are impressive: The logistics center has 36,000 m2 of warehousing space, 1,600 m2 of offices and 8,300 m2 of loading and unloading
zones. Around 200 suppliers will store vehicle parts pre-produced in
their own plants in the PCC or even see them completed in the final stage
of assembly.
Optimum conditions for logistics at location
The logistics concept of the Plant Consolidation Center is geared towards
creating optimum logistics conditions for Mercedes-Benz plants around
the world. “At its core, we worked from the Central Logistics Planning
standards, which were adapted in line with the specific requirements
of the respective location,” explains Ingolf Gluthe, Head of Logistics
Structure Project Planning at Mercedes-Benz Cars Production Planning.
“The logistics concept provides for two models where, depending on
the available space, the PCC can be built either on the grounds of
the Mercedes-Benz plant, such as at the new production location in
Kecskemét, Hungary, or outside. The decision as to whether Daimler AG
builds and owns the PCC itself or if it works with a partner also stands
and falls by this.”
Project partner of Daimler AG
For the Mercedes-Benz plant at Rastatt, it was decided to build the Plant
Consolidation Center outside the grounds. As partner, Daimler AG found
a global property company with long-standing expertise in the areas of
industrial parks, warehouses and distribution centers. The lessee and
operator of the PCC in Malsch is Seifert Logistics GmbH. The logistics
service provider will perform all logistics services, from storing parts to
transporting them to the Rastatt plant. At full capacity, around 200
employees will work at the Malsch location.
Locations
tial providers. Seifert Logistics GmbH was selected from five finalists
during an online bidding event (OBE) on the strength of its warehouse
layout planning with a combination of shelf and open storage, sequential
workspaces and optimized materials flow planning.
Advantages of the logistics concept
A crucial advantage of this concept is that haulage company vehicles do
not have to drive to several unloading stations when delivering different
components or parts. Instead, they deliver to a central unloading zone
with warehousing and/or sequencing in the PCC and transportation to
the factory all handled by Seifert Logistics. This significantly reduces
unloading and waiting times for trucks. Procurement IPS/MS2 supports
such concepts as the synergy and volume effects of bundling services
allow sustainably low logistics costs for both Daimler AG and the suppliers
based at the PCC.
Short coordination channels, high expectations
In addition to the logistics service provider’s concept, its implementation
of the project to date has also been highly convincing. According to
Alexander Anstett, “Seifert Logistics is a highly motivated, owner-managed
company with short coordination channels, streamlined processes and
high self-expectations.” The two Managing Directors, Harald Seifert and
Günter Walser, view the PCC as a challenge, which they are primarily
seizing as an opportunity: “The rising complexity of task requirements and
organization structures we have seen in this project is increasingly testing
cutting-edge project management,” says Günter Walser. “Your ability to
handle several projects at once increases accordingly. The more project
managers and teams you have involved in your strategic corporate goals,
the greater your rate of success. That is something we have succeeded
in doing with this major project.”
An historic opportunity in two senses
Günter Walser praises the cooperative partnership with Daimler AG
representatives: The pulling together and continuous flow of information
in regular communications meetings has enabled rapid recognition and
joint analysis of project changes and the corresponding adjustments of
concepts and processes. With regard to the Automotive division, Harald
Seifert views the Plant Consolidation Center as an historic opportunity in
two respects: “We are delighted to be laying the foundation for the new
automotive logistics center around the time of the 125th birthday of the
automobile. The Malsch location will be yet another key component of our
Automotive Logistics division.”
01 The dimensions of the new Plant Consolidation Center (PCC) are impressive:
The logistics center has 36,000 m2 of
Many functions from a single source
“The logistics service provider plays a central role in the Plant Consolidation Center since it performs a number of different functions,” noted
Alexander Anstett from Logistics and Travel Service Procurement (IPS/
MS2) at International Procurement Services. “That’s why we formulated
our key requirements together with Central Logistics Planning when
we were tendering the project.” Talks were held with more than 20 poten-
warehousing space.
55
Locations
Daimler AG
America, again the Land of Opportunity
America, again the
Land of Opportunity
Since 2005 Detroit Diesel operates the Redford Supplier Mall. For suppliers,
the Mall is more than just a leased production area – they also benefit from
shared professional services, low-cost Tier 2 labor, a mature infrastructure
and consequently lowest overhead.
REDFORD | USA 42° N | 83° W
01 There is a mood of optimism in Redford,
Michigan. At the Detroit Diesel plant
production is being expanded.
02 To allow the concentration of expertise
and production capacity to be leveraged to an even greater extent in future,
Detroit Diesel established the Redford
Supplier Mall.
03 The Redford Supplier Mall offers a
mature infrastructure, ranging from
typical plant services and planning,
engineering and testing to laboratory
and tooling facilities.
YOUR CONTACT
Johannes Kuhn, TG/ER
T
here is a mood of optimism in Redford,
Michigan. Around 20 miles west of
Detroit, the Daimler subsidiary Detroit
Diesel manufactures heavy-duty diesel
engines with BlueTec technology.
Known as the DD13, 15 and 16, they
have already met the US environmental
standard EPA 2010 for the past two
years. Production is being expanded at the Detroit
Diesel plant – a measure announced by Martin Daum,
President and CEO of Daimler Trucks North America,
DTNA, around a year ago: “With a total investment
of around USD 200 million, we are underlining the
importance of the Redford location and our confidence
in Detroit Diesel’s workforce. A commitment of this
magnitude only works when it involves strong partners.”
[email protected]
Strong partners at the Redford Supplier Mall
Outside the plant site, too, the upswing is obvious.
Once again, the supply industry in Michigan can show
full order books. The State is home to nearly all major
automotive suppliers with production facilities, sales
and engineering offices. With locations in Michigan,
suppliers have the unique opportunity to work directly
with the “Big 3” and a number of Asian manufacturers
that have engineering offices in the state. German suppliers and OEMs are also well represented and organized
in Michigan. Therefore, production facilities which are
56
as close as possible to the automotive manufacturers
are much in demand. To allow this concentration of
expertise and production capacity to be leveraged to an
even greater extent in future, Detroit Diesel established
the Redford Supplier Mall. The state-of-the-art supplier
park is tailored for small and medium-sized suppliers
in particular, for whom the construction of their own
production facilities would represent too great an
“Setting up production in the USA is easier than many foreign supplier companies
think.” Johannes Kuhn
investment risk. Furthermore, a highly-qualified workforce is readily available in Michigan. Labor is organized
at Detroit Diesel by the Toyota-style ‘Team-Concept’ and
a new Tier 2 wage system cuts direct labor and benefit
costs significantly.
Mature infrastructure with minimal overheads
Detroit Diesel opened the Redford Supplier Mall six
years ago. From 2005 to 2007, it was comprehensively
renovated with the financial support of the State of
Michigan. As a result, Detroit Diesel can offer a mature
infrastructure, ranging from typical plant services and
planning, engineering and testing to laboratory and
tooling facilities. All services are billed by the hour,
meaning they can be scaled to reflect individual needs
and requirements. This allows existing Supplier Mall
suppliers to minimize overheads in their production
structures and quickly generate a profit from their
current series production.
“Soft landing” – support for foreign suppliers
“Setting up production in the USA is easier than many
foreign suppliers think. The Redford Supplier Mall
provides valuable support – particularly when it comes
to meeting the individual requirements of supplying
companies”, underlines Johannes Kuhn, Plant Project
Manager at Detroit Diesel. A “soft landing” program
assists foreign suppliers in legal and employment
law matters and the relocation of production units
to the Michigan industrial region. Working in close
contact with economic bodies in the State of Michigan,
01
Increasing interest in the Redford Supplier
Mall is being received from European and,
in particular, German supplier companies.
such as the Michigan Economic Development Council,
Detroit Diesel has pre-negotiated specific tax conditions
for smaller suppliers establishing their production at
the Supplier Mall using skilled labor from the region.
The aim of the “soft landing” program is to lower
administrative barriers, minimize capital investment
and overhead and allow suppliers at the Supplier Mall
to focus entirely on their core business in shortest time
to market time.
The signs are pointing towards growth
“We have built up well-qualified and capable maintenance, technician, engineering, quality, supplier
management, purchasing, human resource, legal and
IT teams. Our onsite Redford Consolidation Center
allows for lowest cost transatlantic logistics. At Detroit
Diesel, we understand that modern business requires
a high level of competence in order to react fast to
market opportunities”, explains Johannes Kuhn. Particularly now that the signs are pointing to significant
growth in the US-Market again, consumer products,
car and truck orders are showing steady demand and
inquiries are increasingly being received from European
and, in particular, German supplier companies seeking
to establish a production location at the Redford
Supplier Mall: close to the customer, in a professional
environment, and in a cost-effective manner. As Kuhn
puts it, “We at Detroit Diesel would like to use the U.S.
economy upswing to invite more European suppliers to
join us in Redford and take part in the North American
growth.”
02
03
Locations
Successful
Localization
At the Mercedes-Benz plant in González Catán,
Argentina, preparations are in full swing for the
production launch of the NCV3. Procurement
Mercedes-Benz Cars and Vans is managing the
localization of procurement scopes on site.
GONZÁLEZ CATÁN | ARGENTINA 34° S | 58° W
T
he Mercedes-Benz plant located in the Argentine city of
González Catán, which is named after the famous Silver
Arrow pilot Juan Manuel Fangio, has been producing the
Sprinter model T1N since 1996, primarily for customers
in the Mercosur region. A new milestone is set to be
achieved in early 2012 with the production changeover
to the current NCV3, which will be manufactured for
the first time for the Mercosur domestic market, a region
with a population of 260 million. The preparations in González Catán
are already in full swing. The Procurement Mercedes-Benz Cars and Vans
team, which is located approximately 70 kilometers from the plant in the
capital city of Buenos Aires, is working emphatically to find high-quality
and reliable local partners.
Enormous challenges for the team
In South America, factors such as supply security, cost efficiency of
projects, escalator clauses regarding exchange rates and inflation and
wage increases are of considerable importance. “PMC as a whole, and in
particular the Procurement department in Buenos Aires, are faced with
tremendous challenges that must be overcome,” states Richard Nitzl, who
is in charge of localization management for Procurement Mercedes-Benz
Cars and Vans, PMC/45, in the Latin American region. Procurement is
carried out on site by Manager Udo Worbis with nine employees. “Our
team does excellent work, and even though Stuttgart and Buenos Aires
are around 12,000 kilometers apart, we still work very closely with
the PMC Procurement headquarters,” emphasizes Nitzl. This is evident
with regard to localized procurement scopes, where the procurement
processes developed by PMC are applied consistently and the employees
receive proper training in this area.
58
01 Starting in early 2012 the MercedesBenz Sprinter model NCV3 will be
manufactured for the first time for the
Mercosur domestic market.
Locations
Daimler AG
A localization rate of 60 percent
PMC utilizes a network of over 120 suppliers in Argentina. Seventy suppliers from the Mercosur region have already been selected for the successor model NCV3. Of these, 55 are from Argentina and 15 are from Brazil.
Drawing on suppliers from the Mercosur region is an important factor
in ensuring that a local content of 60 percent is reached. Achieving this
local content level is particularly important for exports in the fast-growing
Brazilian market, which is where approx. 50 percent of the production
from the Mercedes-Benz plant in Argentina is sold. All non-localized parts
are delivered by the suppliers for the NCV3 in Düsseldorf, which results in
an additional volume of 16,000 units per year for these suppliers.
Local suppliers are being called upon
South American suppliers are frequently local subsidiaries of globally
positioned supply companies. However, truly local suppliers are also being
called upon, explains Nitzl. An example of this is the supplier Ventalum.
Ventalum has 192 employees and manufactures aluminum profiles such
as rail systems and sliding windows. For the Sprinter, Ventalum manufactures the aluminum luggage rack. Udo Worbis, Head of Procurement,
is very satisfied with the cooperation. “Together with us the supplier
generated proposals aimed at optimizing the luggage rack, which resulted
in cost and weight savings.” The family-operated company Caimari, which
employs 110 workers, could be considered for a further extensive order.
Located in the metropolitan Buenos Aires area, Caimari supplies headliners for the bus version of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. For parts that
are not available in Europe, options are presently being examined to use
suppliers which are already drawn upon in the Mercosur region to supply
the plant in Düsseldorf. “An initial analysis indicated that it is possible for
a local supplier to supply to Mercedes-Benz on a global scale if this proves
to economically viable,” states Nitzl.
Materials purchasing in Argentina
When purchasing production materials in Argentina, the PMC buyers must
keep a close eye on continuous price increases. Argentina is regarded to
be a soft-currency country with a high rate of inflation. This of course has
an impact on the costs of raw materials and labor. “Inflation in Argentina
cannot be compared with the one to two percent inflation rate that
prevails in Germany,” explains Udo Worbis. “The high rate of inflation in
Argentina makes continuous negotiations with suppliers necessary. The
purchasing contracts are usually readjusted every year, which is always
performed in coordination with the Controlling department in Argentina.”
Another factor is also important for Richard Nitzl: In spite of all of the
regional challenges, the Daimler employees on site pay close attention
to ensure compliance with all laws and guidelines. Due to its stringent
monitoring of regulatory compliance, Mercedes-Benz Argentina is able to
successfully prevent corruption. “Compliance is just as high a priority here
as it is for the rest of the Group,” underscores Nitzl.
Commissioning largely completed
Udo Worbis and his team in Buenos Aires have already assigned the
orders with the largest volumes to suppliers and found qualified suppliers
for seats, wiring harnesses, air conditioning and transmission systems,
gaskets and tires. The engine for the current Sprinter is also set to be
localized in the future. “A short engine is being supplemented in Argentina
with 45 add-on parts,” explains Udo Worbis. “Even the turbocharger, which
is a high-quality and very complex component, has been localized.” The
stage is now set for production of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter for South
America to commence at the beginning of the year.
60
01
02
01 Procurement Mercedes-Benz Cars and
Vans, PMC/45, manages the localization of supply parts in South America.
02 At Mercedes-Benz plant in González
Catán preparations for the production
of the actual Sprinter model are running
at full speed.
Locations
The next generation of the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class is to be manufactured for the
first time simultaneously on four continents. Accordingly, Daimler is making heavy
investments in the East London, South Africa plant. Thanks also to Daimler’s “Supplier
Strategy South Africa,” this means great opportunities for the local supplier industry.
EAST LONDON | SOUTH AFRICA 33° S | 27° E
S
ince 1994, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class has also
been manufactured in the East London, South
Africa plant, located four hours’ drive east of
Port Elizabeth on the Indian Ocean. The current
series has been in production since 2007; since 1998,
sedans have been exported to the left-hand drive
markets and since 2000 to the right-hand drive markets.
The next generation of the series, to be launched
worldwide starting 2014, will also be manufactured in
East London. Daimler is investing some 2 billion rand
(more than 200 million euros) to get the plant ready.
Among other things, the technical capacity is being
expanded so that a third shift can be introduced if
market demand so requires. The next generation of
the C-Class will be produced on four continents for the
first time, following the realignment of the global production network: at the Bremen plant, the future Center
of Competence for the series, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama,
at the BBAC plant in Beijing, China and in East London,
which will account for around one-tenth of the future
annual C-Class production. “We expect that the positive
overall economic effects of our activities in South Africa
will continue to flourish – particularly with regard to the
supplier landscape,” says Dr. Klaus Zehender, Head of
Procurement Mercedes-Benz Cars and Vans, PMC.
New procurement strategy
On “South Africa Supplier Day 2011,” the “Supplier
Strategy South Africa” was presented to the invited
guests. Dr. Klaus Zehender explained the procurement
strategy arising from the global production of the
next C-Class generation. “PMC’s procurement strategy
is based on purchasing module components applied
across several model series, that are put out to tender
and procured for all production sites. The main purpose
here is to reach an optimum between cost factors
in production material, tools and logistics within the
framework of each location’s localization strategy,”
added Dr. Zehender.
Mercedes-Benz Vans business division, drew particular
attention to the great opportunity for suppliers, who
will be able to expand their business relations with
Daimler AG thanks to the East London plant. “They
will have the opportunity to grow together with us here
in South Africa.” The procurement packages to be
considered for localization have already been identified
by PMC. “The parts to be localized in South Africa
are primarily parts whose properties demand close
physical proximity to the plant for logistics reasons.
The same applies to parts that must be delivered justin-time or just-in-sequence due to their variance,” says
Dr. Zehender. At the same time, a local incentive system
will ensure that parts related to high local value creation
are also manufactured locally.
YOUR CONTACT
Dr. Jürgen Gleichauf, PMC/34
[email protected]
Supplier park offers great benefits
One possible way for suppliers to expand their local
base in South Africa and increase their production
capacities is to move to the Automotive Supplier
Park close to the East London plant in the International
Development Zone (IDZ) there. “The proximity of
the Supplier Park to the plant offers great benefits to
suppliers,” explained Dr. Jürgen Gleichauf, Head of
Procurement and Export Components at Mercedes-Benz
South Africa. The Supplier Park is not the only place
where the progress of localization in South Africa is
obvious. While only seven percent of installed parts,
above all glass, tires and batteries, originated with local
suppliers when production of Mercedes-Benz vehicles
began in South Africa, the localization rate of the C-Class
currently produced in East London is 40 percent. The
supplier base, which is now strong and internationally
competitive in terms of technology and price, has
been built up with the help of Mercedes-Benz South
Africa and the company is actively promoting its further
development.
Local value creation
Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard, Member of the Daimler AG
Board of Management, responsible for Production and
Procurement at Mercedes-Benz Cars as well as the
61
01
02
03
04
Places of Interest
Gottlieb Daimler was born on Schorndorfer Höllgasse in 1834. The automotive pioneer’s
birth house was purchased in 1979 by what was then Daimler-Benz AG, and renovated as
closely to its original condition as possible.
SCHORNDORF | GERMANY 48° N | 9° E
T
wo automobiles can scarcely fit at the
same time on Höllgasse in the Swabian
city of Schorndorf – about 30 kilometers east of Stuttgart. When the
street was named, no one was thinking
about “Hölle,” which is German for
“hell.” Rather, they considered the
paved street, full of tall half-timbered
buildings, a “helle Gasse” (“bright street”), relative to
the other cramped, dark streets in Schorndorf. Today,
Höllgasse is in Schorndorf’s pedestrian zone – only
Not revolution, but evolution
In the revolutionary year 1848, when Gottlieb began
his apprenticeship in Schorndorf, a large portion of the
German population was parttaking in a loud, chaotic
revolution, dreaming of overturning the ruling political
and social structures. Young Daimler was focused
on something else entirely: He wanted to become a
tradesman and achieve progress not through revolution,
but evolution – with perseverence and hard work. That
same year, Schondorf’s pastor gave him some sage
advice upon his confirmation: “Stick with what you’ve
learned and what you already know.”
01—04 Schorndorf was home to the man
who would later revolutionize
human mobility. Today, the Gottlieb
Daimler Birth House presents a
true-to-life copy of his journeyman’s
piece as well as drawings of animals
and personal items.
GOTTLIEB DAIMLER BIRTH HOUSE
Höllgasse 7, 73614 Schorndorf, Germany
Opening hours: Tues. — Fri. 2 pm — 5 pm,
Sat. — Sun. 11 am — 5 pm
Free admission
The young Gottlieb Daimler started and
continued his way – with perseverence
and hard work.
automobiles with special permission are allowed
here. Ironic then, that house number 7 was home to
the man who would later revolutionize human mobility:
Gottlieb Daimler.
A trademan’s family in Schorndorf
Gottlieb Daimler was born the second of five children
on March 17, 1834. His father owned a bakery and wine
shop. His ancestors, who originally came from Vogtland
to Swabia’s Schorndorf in 1660 with the name of
Deumbler, were all tradesmen. They were master
bakers, pretzel sellers, tailors, milliners, carpenters and
gunsmiths. Gottlieb Daimler also followed the path of
these crafts- and tradesmen. He learned his vocation
right next door to his narrow, three-story childhood
home at Raidle gunsmiths. A true-to-life copy of
the double barrel pistol Daimler made while in training,
fittings and grips precisely chiseled and oxidized, is
on view at Höllgasse 7. In addition to the pistol, visitors
to Daimler’s birth house can view drawings of animals
that show young Gottlieb’s artistic talent. There are also
some personal items, copies of workpieces and – in text
and images – the various life stages of the man who
became a technological miracle.
Tests, improvements, upgrades
It’s unlikely that the young baker’s son ever forgot
those words. He remained true to his craft while progressing far beyond. Daimler left Schorndorf in 1853.
Ferdinand Steinbeis, a driving force of industrialization
in Württemberg, discovered his talent and helped
him prepare for the Polytechnical School by sending
him as an industrial worker to Graffenstaden, near
Straßburg. After his studies and vocational experience
in Geislingen an der Steige, Reutlingen and at the
Deutz gas engine factory in Cologne, Gottlieb Daimler
For dates and times of city tours relating
to Gottlieb Daimler, please see
www.schorndorf.de
Born in Schorndorf, Gottlieb Daimler
remained true to his craft while progressing far beyond.
developed the “light, fast-running gas engine for general
application, particularly in transport” in his famous
workshop in a greenhouse in Bad Cannstatt. On April 3,
1885, Daimler received patent no. 43926 for his grandfather clock motor. His invention was not a sensational
overnight discovery, but rather the result of many years
of hard, honest work, improvements, and upgrades: the
work of a true master craftsman from Schorndorf.
63
Published by
Daimler AG
Responsible for content
Daimler AG
Sabine Brändle
Procurement Communications
HPC T728, 70546 Stuttgart, DE
Phone +49 711 17-26354, Fax +49 711 17-41355
[email protected]
Your contact South Africa
Daimler South Africa (Pty) Ltd.
Anna Ahlschlager
Phone +27 43 706-2484, Fax +27 43 706-2611
[email protected]
Your contact Brazil
Mercedes-Benz do Brasil Ltda.
Cristina Duchecou
Phone +55 11 4173-6520
[email protected]
Editorial office
aexea – communication. content. consulting
Augustenstraße 15, 70178 Stuttgart, DE
Phone +49 711 699 486 10, Fax +49 711 699 486 60
[email protected]
Editorial Management
Daimler AG
Jochen Schaefers
Editor
Ralf Christofori (Chief Editor)
Holger Müller, Frank Feulner
Editorial staff
Andrea Klopstein, Natalie Teglev,
Janine Thiele, Anja Westinger
Design
Ingo Ditges, yama inc. – Büro für Gestaltung
Alexanderstraße 164b, 70180 Stuttgart, DE
The Daimler Supplier Magazine is published twice a year in German and English. You can subscribe to it
through the Daimler Supplier Portal: http://daimler.covisint.com
Reproduction / Printing
Dr. Cantz’sche Druckerei GmbH & Co. KG
Zeppelinstraße 29-31, 73760 Ostfildern, DE
Photography
Daimler AG, KD Busch
© 2011 Daimler AG. No parts of this publication may be reproduced without prior written permission from
the publisher and reference to “Daimler AG”.

2011_1_Daimler Supplier Magazine_eng

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