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"They [Aisin Seiki] came to us out
of the blue and said they wanted us to
make something that show people exactly
where our parts were used," says Toshiyuki
Kuroyanagi, President of Kuroyanagi Kogyo,
a maker of metal prototypes. The company
handles about 200 parts, and it is a difficult
decision whether they should all be made
public. Many of them are strategic parts
that so far have only been shown to specific
customers. As you enter the North Hall
from the Event Hall side, there is a " skeleton
model" of a minivan on the right side
of the central aisle. It stands out in
the parts corner, where most of the displays
tend to be small. The model was a collaboration
between the Aisin Group and Kuroyanagi
Kogyo. Aisin Group's Chairman Akihiro Wada
says, "I think this will show you
how varied our products are. The challenge
we face is selling to companies not in
our keiretsu."
Denso has new ITS equipment and hybrid
car components on bdisplay. Seat manufacturer
Araco is also unveiling for the first time
many of its most advanced technologies
and strategic products in an impressive
attempt to widen its market.
Chairman Haruo Ohno of Calsonic Kansei
says, "Modular parts are a great survival
opportunity for parts companies." His
company's display focuses on its "next
generation cockpit module." Bridgestone
is showing its new suspension module developed
in collaboration with Akebono Brake Industry
and Kayaba Industry. Modular parts are
an effective means of reducing costs, and
they have quickly gained attention at the
show. Other highlights in the parts section
include the "virtual tour" offered
by Koyo Seiko on its projection system,
and the audienceparticipation shows put
on by car audio and navigation system makers
to attract visitors to hear about their
new products. Some are even holding bingo
games. Atmosphere of the parts booths was
filled with excitement.
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