Eaton Corp.'s Clutch Division has partnered with Kongsberg Automotive for mutual design and marketing of clutch actuation and gearshift systems.

This is a five-year exclusive agreement for business in North America, and includes Eaton's Aeroquip hoses and fittings from its Fluid Power business unit.
"There are many independent manual clutch actuation suppliers, with each one supplying a portion of the system," said Gene Stein, customer service manager for Eaton's Clutch division. "Increasingly, our customers are seeking system solutions along with a reduced supplier base, and these agreements give us the ability to provide that value, with a single point of contact for OEMs, truck owners and service providers. The Kongsberg partnership will add important technology and user value to the Roadranger Drivetrain System.
"We see a clear trend toward hydraulic clutch actuation for ease of packaging the components in the vehicle in both markets," continued Stein. "This also provides opportunities to provide improved clutch pedal efforts to our customers with the use of optional boosted systems."
Kongsberg Automotive ASA develops, manufactures and markets truck systems, gearshifters for passenger cars and seat-related products. Commercial vehicles such as trucks, buses and construction equipment make up 40% of Kongsberg's production.
Eaton is a global leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of drivetrain systems and components for medium-duty and heavy-duty commercial vehicles. In concert with its manufacturing and marketing partners -- principally Dana Corp. -- Eaton provides a complete Roadranger System of manual and automatic transmissions, clutches, collision warning systems, driveshafts, steer, drive and trailer axles, brakes and chassis control systems.