DaimlerChrysler Natural-Fiber Car Components

DaimlerChrysler has undertaken a project to transfer technology for the manufacture of vehicle components from natural fibers from Germany to South Africa. The objectives of the project were to set up an entire process chain based on the use of sisal fibers. This included the farming of sisal, the processing of the fibers, the manufacture of the components, and the release to Daimler Chrysler South Africa.

The technology came from the German firm Johann Borgers GmbH & Co. KG (Borgers), which was already experienced in natural-fiber component production. The technology recipients were two local South African firms, Brits Textiles & NCI. In addition, DaimlerChrysler has worked with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research to improve the entire supply chain, including production at sisal farms.

Brits Textiles signed a technology agreement with Borgers to receive technology for the manufacture of molded parts produced from natural fibers for the automotive industry. Brits Textiles made a one-time payment of $80,000 for this technology. Borgers