Automotive supplier Brose has expanded its product portfolio to include a system for power opening and closing of truck tailgates. It has been in series production since the beginning of this year and opens up a promising growth segment for the family-owned company in North America. With a market share of around 20 percent, pickups are the most popular vehicles in the USA.

The system includes a new drive, a control unit and two latches with power cinching. All components are developed and produced in-house by Brose. There were several special features to consider when developing the tailgate drive. For instance, customers often use trucks in dusty and muddy terrain or to lower boats into water. Based on a door drive, Brose states that it developed a product that meets the high requirements in terms of water and dust resistance. The system sets new standards in terms of robustness and durability.

"Our products are small, light and powerful. Brose's expertise in developing and manufacturing all three components and integrating them into a cohesive system sets us apart from the competition," explains Matthew Conrad, Senior Vice President Exterior Business Unit in North America.

Brose is one of the five largest family-owned automotive suppliers in the world. Every third new car is equipped with at least one Brose product. The mechatronics specialist develops and manufactures systems for vehicle doors, liftgates and seats. Brose also produces electric motors from 200 watts to 14 kilowatts for various applications such as steering, thermal management or drives for e-bikes and e-scooters. The company employs around 32,000 people at 68 locations in 24 countries including India. In 2023, the Brose Group generated a turnover of 7.9 billion euros.