In a joint development with Audi, Sogefi’s will introduce new patented lightweight coil spring technology before the end of the year. Audi will be the world’s first car manufacturer to launch this type of spring in series production.

Best known for its work in filtration systems, Sogefi is also has a major presence in flexible suspension components, air management and engine cooling systems. It has now patented a new type of coil spring made from glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP), which weighs between 40 and 70% less than the traditional steel springs. The new GFRP coil springs can be assembled on cars and light commercial vehicles without affecting the suspension system architecture, in turn allowing for a weight reduction of 4-6 kilos per vehicle, depending on coil spring design and type of vehicle, as well as a significant reduction of the unsprung mass. The new spring brings many benefits, including more precise driving and lower fuel consumption with consequent reduction in CO2 emissions of up to 0.5 g per km. The new design also offers enhanced noise-vibrational-harshness (NVH) comfort and full protection against corrosion. 

Guglielmo Fiocchi, CEO of Sogefi, said,  “Research and development is a key factor for the future growth of Sogefi. Innovation in the car sector, starting from reducing weight and improving the efficiency of vehicles, now depends significantly on the components companies. Sogefi in particular is gradually increasing its investment in research and development, which has gone up in recent years from around 2% to just under 3% of its total revenues. We are very proud of the choice that Audi has made”.

This innovation also guarantees a significant reduction of CO2 emissions during the manufacturing process as the overall energy required is significantly lower than in traditional steel coil spring manufacturing.

Andrea Taschini, Director of Sogefi's Aftermarket Business Unit comments, "The introduction of the patented GFRP coil spring is a world first that reinforces Sogefi group's position as innovative premium partner to OEMs." He added, “The Aftermarket will also benefit in the medium to longer-term from the stream of innovative products coming from our focused R&D activities."

The collaboration with Audi on this latest initiative reflects the growing significance of Sogefi to the car sector, especially with German car manufacturers. Many of last year´s top selling cars contain Sogefi components as original equipment, including both the BMW 1 and 3 series, VW Polo and Tiguan, plus Opel Corsa and Astra.

Sogefi Aftermarket Business Unit is one of Europe’s leading vehicle filter suppliers through its Purflux, Fram®, CoopersFiaam and Sogefi Pro brands.