Valeo is a French automotive components manufacturer.
History
The Société Anonyme Française du Ferodo was founded in 1923 in Saint-Ouen, a suburb of Paris. It first distributed brake linings and clutch facings under license of Ferodo UK. The society engaged in a diversification in the 1960’s by producing braking systems (1961), thermal systems (1962), electronical components (1963), and lightning systems (1970). In May 1980, the society was renamed Valeo, which means “I am well” in Latin.
Valeo then engaged in an aggressive strategy of expansion, through many international acquisitions. Today, Valeo is split in 11 branches, most of which were bought from foreign competitors. Recent acquisitions include the engine systems division of Johnson Controls in France, and a former Visteon plant in the USA.
Organisation
As of 31 Dec 2008, Valeo manages 121 production sites, 61 Research & Development centres and 10 distribution platforms in 27 countries. In 2005, its sales were distributed as follows: 69% in Europe, 15% in North America, 12% in Asia, and 4% in South America.
The Valeo Group is split in 3 main domains and 11 product families:
- Driving Assistance:
- Interior Controls (VIC);
- Lighting Systems (VLS);
- Wiper Systems (VWS);
- Powertrain Efficiency:
- Engine Management Systems (VEMS);
- Electrical Systems (VES);
- Engine Cooling (VEC);
- Compressors (VC);
- Transmissions (VT);
- Comfort Enhancement:
- Security Systems (VSS);
- Climate Control (VCC);
- Electronics & Connective Systems (VECS)
Going Abroad
- In 2005, Valeo launched a software services center in Egypt (out-sourcing), under the name of VIAS (Valeo Interbranch Automotive Software). This center provides all software services for all Valeo branches,as well as it applies state of the art software development technology along with the needed validation and testing tools for other VALEO branches.
In addition, Valeo Service supplies aftermarket products to professionals.
- Turnover repartition by product line
- Electronics: 63 %
- Thermal: 30 %
- Transmissions: 7 %
CEOs
- Noël Goutard: 1987 - May 2000
- André Navarri: May 2000 - February 2001
- Thierry Morin: February 2001 - March 2009
- Jacques Aschenbroich: Since March 2009
The 5 Axes
Valeo has designed the 5 Axes methodology, which is the backbone of the firm’s identity. Its aim is to satisfy the client by achieving zero quality incidents, whichever the product and wherever it is manufactured. The 5 Axes are:
- Involvement of personnel;
- Production system;
- Supplier integration;
- Constant innovation;
- Total quality.
Competition
Main competition comes from Bosch, Delphi, Denso, TRW Automotive and Visteon.
Alternative propulsion
Valeo is a leader in the segment with its StARS micro-hyrbid system.[1][citation needed] although several other suppliers are offering and delivering a comparable solution done with reinforced starters and alternators.
Key economic figures
- Turnover (millions)
- 2004: €9,229
- 2005: €9,933
- 2006: >€10,000
- Operating margin
Present in 27 countries, the Group employs 51,200 people at 121 production sites, 61 Research & Development centers and 10 distribution platforms.
Links
By the end of 2007, the Group Valeo presents in 28 countries, employs 61,200 people representing 93 nationalities, at 125 sites, 62 research & development centres and 9 distribution platforms.
References
- ^ Micro-Hybrid Segment in Start Mode
