Alcoa Wheel Technology Wins 2007 PACE Award

Alcoa Wheel Products has been named a 2007 Automotive News PACE Award winner. The awards, which are given in recognition of superior innovation, technological advancement and business performance amongst automotive suppliers, were announced on April 16 at a ceremony in Detroit.

Alcoa was awarded for its Dura-Bright wheels that utilise the company’s patented XBR Technology. This unique surface treatment penetrates the aluminium to become an integral part of the wheel. Alcoa claim that, unlike coated wheels, wheels treated with XBR Technology, will not peel, crack, corrode or chip. Dura-Bright wheels only require rinsing with mild soap and water to maintain their appearance.

During his acceptance speech, president of Alcoa Wheel Products Kevin Kramer said, “We are truly honoured to be recognised as a winner for this prestigious award. Dura-Bright technology is now enjoying acceptance from our global OEM partners while we have also recently launched the innovation into our automotive aftermarket business. Winning the Automotive News PACE Award further validates our commitment to wheel innovation.”

Evidence that Dura-Bright technology has gained industry acceptance can be seen from recent OE and aftermarket orders. At the 2007 New York Auto Show, performance car legend Carroll Shelby unveiled the Ford Shelby GT500KR fitted with the first application of Alcoa Dura-Bright technology on a production vehicle platform. Alcoa Wheel Products also recently announced Dura-Bright technology as a wheel surface treatment option on their Adventure Series and Pro Series aftermarket wheel lines, and the company is now accepting orders.

The 13th annual PACE (Premier Automotive Suppliers’ Contribution to Excellence) Award was presented by the print and online journal Automotive News, Microsoft, SAP and Transportation Research Center Inc. The competition was open to suppliers who contribute products, processes, materials or services directly to the manufacture of cars or commercial vehicles.