TRW Automotive Holdings Corp is introducing a new version of its small pyrotechnic inflator with weight and size advantages at Airbag 2014 to be held from December 1-3 at Frauhofer ICT, Germany. The SPI2 EVO will launch on TRW's new lightweight roof rail airbag for micro- through mid-sized vehicles in Europe and China.

Norbert Kagerer, vice-president of Engineering, TRW Occupant Safety Systems, said: "The SPI2 EVO represents TRW's evolution toward curtain airbag solutions that meet the requirements of European, Asia Pacific and emerging markets. In this application, weight reduction was the primary inflator development goal, and the results have been successful."

The SPI2 EVO for the roof rail airbag is approximately 5mm smaller in diameter, 50mm shorter in length, and weighs about 35 percent less than former solutions.

Global production of the inflator is scheduled to start in early 2015 in Laage, Germany; Xi'an, China; and Mesa, Arizona, USA. TRW has already signed six development contracts for the SPI2 EVO with five vehicle manufacturers.

Kagerer added: "The SPI2 EVO is based on TRW's well-established line of pyrotechnic inflators, and it has the weight advantages that automakers in Europe and China are seeking in their quest to produce more fuel-efficient vehicles."

With 2013 sales of $17.4 billion, TRW Automotive ranks among the world's leading automotive suppliers. Headquartered in Livonia, Michigan, USA, the Company, through its subsidiaries, operates in 24 countries and employs approximately 65,000 people worldwide.  TRW Automotive products include integrated vehicle control and driver assist systems, braking systems, steering systems, suspension systems, occupant safety systems (seatbelts and airbags), electronics, engine components, fastening systems and aftermarket replacement parts and services.