AB Automotive Electronics, a subsidiary of the global electronics manufacturer TT electronics, has become one of the first UK-based manufacturing companies to achieve registration under the ISO/TS 16949:2002 automotive quality system standard.

Technical specification ISO/TS 16949, was developed by the automotive industry in conjunction with the International Standards Organisation (ISO), to align existing American, (QS-9000), German (VDA6.1), French (EAQF) and Italian (AVSQ) automotive quality system standards. It is now commonly recognised and globally accepted as an international standard promoting the harmonisation of quality management systems.

AB Automotive Electronics (ABAE) is a global supplier of automotive electronics, heater and air conditioning controls and switch assemblies, with design and manufacturing facilities throughout Europe and North America. Initial registration to ISO/TS 16949:1999 was first achieved by ABAE back in September 2000. Following the introduction of the 2002 version of the specification, ABAE embarked upon upgrading to this in March 2003 and the process took a total of 6 months to complete. Achieving registration to ISO/TS 16949 has been a key priority for ABAE since the standard’s introduction, strengthening its position as a supplier to Tier one system integrators and directly to the automotive vehicle manufacturers.

Key benefits of registration to ISO/TS 16949 include improved product and process quality, the reassignment of supplier resources to quality improvement and a common quality system approach in the supply chain for supplier/subcontractor development and consistency. It also aids reduction in multiple third party registrations and encourages confidence for global sourcing.

David Oates, Managing Director of ABAE, says: “Thanks to the concerted efforts and hard work of staff at AB Automotive, the process of registration to ISO/TS 16949:2002 was completed in September 2003. Registration was a strategic business priority for ABAE, and will be fundamental in the progression and growth of our business. Gaining registration to this automotive standard is a considerable achievement and reflects ABAE’s commitment to providing superior quality products to the automotive industry.”

For further information please contact :-

Ruth Phillips AB Automotive Electronics +44 (0) 29 2030 0000

Sara Schmid/Natalie Booker Broadgate +44 (0) 20 7726 6111