Japan-based Denso and Daihatsu Motor have jointly developed a light front-end module for automobiles that is 30% lighter than conventional components.
Denso is to supply the product to Daihatsu for its light sports vehicle, Copen.
The new front-end module contains the carrier, radiator, electric fan and condenser for the car’s air-conditioner, intercooler and air cleaner. After delivery, Daihatsu will affix the bumper and headlights to the Denso-manufactured, front-end module.
The front-end carrier is usually made of iron for strength and impact resistance. Other conventional carrier types are glass mat reinforced thermoplastics (GMT) and resin-moulded carriers reinforced with iron plates.
The new Denso carrier is made of a polypropylene (PP) material reinforced with long-fibre glass, which reduces weight and cost. The resin material used to build the carrier is also recyclable.
