- First contract utilising Quickstep’s automotive RST technology
- Letter of intent to produce parts for Thales Australia’s Hawkei protected mobility vehicle
- Potential order value in excess of $8 million
- Initial deliveries anticipated in 2015
Sydney based manufacturer of high-grade carbon fibre composite components, Quickstep Holdings Limited, today announced that it has entered into its first agreement to utilise its new “Resin Spray Transfer” (RST) technology developed for the automotive industry.
Supply of the bonnet, side skirts & mud guards for Hawkei vehicles
Quickstep has signed a letter of intent with defence contractor Thales Australia confirming Quickstep’s selection as exclusive supplier of the bonnet, side skirts and mud guards for Hawkei vehicles. Thales is currently bidding to supply the Australian designed and manufactured Hawkei to the Defence Materiel Organisation, to replace Army Land Rovers.
‘Robotised’ process reduces manufacturing times
Quickstep’s RST technology uses a ‘robotised’ process that significantly reduces manufacturing times and costs for producing carbon fibre composite vehicle parts. The process delivers parts that are strong and corrosion-resistant yet lightweight. Importantly, these same criteria are crucial for future commercial vehicles required to comply with US and European fuel efficiency legislation, leading Quickstep to advance discussions with several leading car makers.
Bonnet is made in one piece using a sandwich structure
Quickstep’s Executive Director Mr Philippe Odouard said that the agreement with Thales represented a crucial stepping-stone towards commercialising its RST technology within the automotive industry. According to the company, the new technology will reduce the weight of key components by up to 50% and allows, for example, to produce the bonnet in one piece using a sandwich structure.
“This agreement enhances our opportunity to sell the RST technology to the world’s leading automobile producers. This is a highly innovative technology which demonstrates a positive future for carbon fibre manufacturing in Australia.”
