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KBAutosys (KBA), a leading developer and manufacturer of brake pads for the global OEM market, is well-established across Korea, China, and India. Recently, KBA has expanded its engineering and manufacturing footprint into the North American market to support growing demand.
“Our expansion into North America is a strategic move to better serve our global customers and meet the increasing demand for high-quality brake systems,” said Rick Kaatz, General Manager of KBAutosys America. “The new facility in Georgia allows us to be closer to our customers, providing faster response times and localized support.”
KBAutosys America (KBAA) was established in 2019 as an engineering center in the metro Detroit area. Since its inception, KBAA has steadily enhanced its engineering capabilities, including the addition of Joel Sanford to the team. Joel brings 29 years of experience from General Motors, primarily in brake development at the Milford Proving Grounds. He has a wealth of expertise in both lab and vehicle brake testing and played a pivotal role in developing GM’s dyno test procedures and component performance specifications. Joel’s contributions were instrumental in transitioning GM’s brake development from on-road testing to lab and simulation, significantly improving customer satisfaction while reducing development and warranty costs.
“With the addition of Joel Sanford and the new manufacturing facility, we are fully committed to elevating our engineering and production capabilities to meet the needs of North American OEMs,” Kaatz added. “Our goal is to be a reliable partner that delivers innovation, quality, and cost-effectiveness.”
In the spring of 2021, following several program awards, KBAutosys acquired land and began construction of a new manufacturing facility in Hogansville, Georgia. Today, KBA Manufacturing America (KBAMA) is operational, supporting multiple programs for North American Tier 1 suppliers and original equipment manufacturers.
About KBAutosys
Since being established in 1985, KBAutosys has strived to lay the foundation for the development of Korea’s automotive industry and brake pad manufacturers. With accumulated technology and a stable market, we have established ourselves as a leading brake pad specialist.
With years of accumulated technology in producing brake pads and our highly automated manufacturing approach, we are growing into the leader of knowledge-based management and asset protection while creating an automotive culture that embraces customers’ safety. We are focused on growing into a global company that can compete with the most advanced businesses in the world market.
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