Visteon Expands Automotive Testing Laboratory in Brazil

GUARULHOS, Brazil, May 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Visteon Corporation (NYSE: VC) is expanding automotive component testing capabilities at its engineering test center in Brazil − one of the most advanced automotive technical centers in Latin America.

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The Visteon Tech Center, located at the company's Arbor manufacturing facility in Guarulhos (SP), will now start performing thermal cycle tests on internal and external components for vehicles.

"The thermal chamber simulates extreme climate and environmental conditions, and has been equipped with six new solar panels, broadening the spectrum of tests that can be performed," said Andreas Jancso, director of Visteon's climate group for South America.

The six new panels were developed by the company's engineering team. With the expansion, vehicle manufacturers will be able to perform thermal tests locally, reducing the cost and time of performing certain tests outside of Brazil. The test center also offers a fast, cost-efficient alternative to on-highway evaluations – reducing the time required for certain tests from months to a few weeks, Jancso said.

A wide range of tests can be conducted at the Visteon laboratory, including field tests to validate products and vehicle climate systems.

In addition to performing technical measurements for electronic, climate and audio systems – as well as thermal chamber tests − the Tech Center features a laboratory with an engine dynamometer. This lab carries out tests for performance (torque/power), fuel economy, mapping of the injection/ignition system, and several other facets of engine operation. These tests can be performed under different air temperatures, pressures and humidity levels.

Since the opening of the technical center in April 2008, demand for testing services has doubled, according to Jancso.

"The Tech Center adds value to our business by helping us offer complete solutions to the automotive industry through the knowledge and experience we gain through these broad testing services," Jancso concluded.

Visteon is a leading global automotive supplier that designs, engineers and manufactures innovative climate, electronic, interior and lighting products for vehicle manufacturers. With corporate offices in Van Buren Township, Mich. (U.S.); Shanghai, China; and Chelmsford, UK; the company has facilities in 26 countries and employs approximately 26,500 people. Learn more at www.visteon.com.

SOURCE Visteon Corporation

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