Hendrickson’s recent activities internationally highlight the manufacturer’s strategic approach to growth and innovation.
From its acquisition of Brunner International in North America, which strengthens its product portfolio and market presence, to its product launches overseas which reflect its commitment to providing high quality products and durable solutions, its global footprint is expanding.
“Hendrickson’s dedication to innovation, quality and customer satisfaction remains unwavering,” said Hendrickson President and CEO, Matt Joy. “Our ability to adapt to the unique requirements of different markets, and our focus on delivering reliable and high-performance suspension solutions, position us as a leader in the global commercial transportation industry.”
North America
In 2023, Hendrickson purchased New York-based Brunner International Inc., as well as Brunner Manufacturing and Sales LTD, located in Niagara Falls, Canada.
The deal with Brunner, which specialises in manufacturing components for the commercial vehicle, bus and trailer markets, including brake shoes and s-cams, was all part of the Illinois-based manufacturer’s plan to expand its North American footprint. Adding to its growth was the more recent acquisition of Reyco Granning, a suspension business located in Mt. Vernon, Missouri.
Reyco Granning specialises in manufacturing suspension solutions for heavy and medium-duty vehicles, including motorhomes, commercial trucks, emergency response vehicles, specialty trailers, buses and the aftermarket sector. This acquisition is expected to enhance Hendrickson’s product portfolio and strengthens its position in the commercial vehicle industry.
At home, Hendrickson has also introduced an innovative new suspension system. The ROADMAAX® Z, is its lightest weight, 28,600-kilogram capacity rear air suspension, which features Hendrickson’s patented Zero Maintenance Damping ® (ZMD ®) technology. ZMD eliminates conventional shock absorbers and integrates the damping function into the air springs. This design provides a consistent ride over the life of the air spring, reducing maintenance costs and enhancing ride quality for both on and off-highway applications.
China
In China, Hendrickson has introduced the W&C TRR (Truck Rear Rubber) suspension system, designed to provide outstanding traction and mobility while reducing life cycle costs for fleets in daily operation.
The TRR suspension system features a unique spring system that adjusts to the load, delivering an enhanced combination of unladen ride quality and laden stability. This system is particularly suitable for new energy vehicles, such as battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell trucks, offering a lightweight yet durable solution that enhances vehicle performance and reduces maintenance requirements.
Australia
In Australia, Hendrickson has been recognised for its contributions to the trucking industry. The company was recently named Supplier of the Year by Kenworth Australia, a testament to its commitment to quality and innovation.
This recognition comes as Hendrickson celebrates 50 years of operations in Australia, a milestone that underscores its long-standing presence and impact in the region. Hendrickson’s success in Australia is attributed to its ability to provide bespoke solutions tailored to the unique requirements of the Australian market, leveraging its extensive engineering expertise and innovative product offerings.
India
In India, Hendrickson has made significant strides with the launch of the W&C TA14L suspension. The TA series, part of the Watson & Chalin brand, is a primary trailer suspension known for its rugged performance and excellent ride quality.
The TA14L, with a rated capacity of 14 tonnes, is designed to meet the demands of fleet managers and owner-operators across India. This suspension system is particularly well-suited for applications such as dry vans, reefers, drop frame vans, auto haulers, container chassis, flat or platforms, lowboy and drop deck, as well as livestock trailers.
The launch of the W&C TA suspension in India represents Hendrickson’s commitment to providing reliable and high-performance suspension solutions to that market.
Europe
In Europe, Hendrickson continues to innovate and expand its product offerings. One of the recent highlights has been the launch of the ULTIMAAX ® rubber suspension system, designed for severe-duty applications.
The ULTIMAAX system balances outstanding durability, empty ride quality, loaded stability and mobility, making it ideal for fire/rescue, dump, logging, refuse, mixer, oil field, military, and mining applications. This suspension system integrates Hendrickson’s proven walking beam technology with a progressive rate spring, providing a unique balance of unloaded ride quality and loaded stability. Additionally, Hendrickson Europe has adopted a monitoring system to reduce energy consumption, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Hendrickson will be at IAA Transportation 2024, Hall 26, B47.