shock absorbers

The global shock absorber market is technically mature with competition firmly centered on price. Despite the continual innovation in the shocks market, price pressure from OEMs remains intense, effectively dampening revenue growth. Consequently, the major shock producers have shifted some production to some low-cost Eastern European countries. Faced with diminished profit potential, the major manufacturers also continue to educate the motorist about the dangers of using worn out shock absorbers in an effort to lift sales in an increasingly competitive aftermarket. For its part, Tenneco Automotive is pursuing a global marketing campaign to educate consumers on the critical role shock absorbers and struts play in vehicle safety. This campaign concentrates on how these products affect the Safety Triangle - steering, stopping and stability - and emphasizes the need to replace worn shocks and struts for safe driving. The global shocks market has become highly oligopolistic following a spate of past mergers and acquisition activity. Manufacturers have joined forces in an effort to extend their global activities and bolster their positions in individual markets. Today, the major competitors on the world stage are Kayaba, ArvinMeritor, ZF Sachs, Tenneco Automotive and Delphi. New entrants in the ride control market are unlikely.