HOLLAND, Mich. SAF-Holland has acquired the landing leg (trailer support) product line from Austin-Westran, including its China-based production operation.

“This acquisition represents a significant strengthening of our China strategy,” said CEO of SAF-Holland, Rudi Ludwig. “Based on discussions with existing and future customers, we are increasing our presence in the Chinese market with a wholly-owned manufacturing footprint, to deliver our broad range of market-leading technology.”

The head of SAF-Holland in China indicates that the company is prepared for predicted growth, in what is considered to be the world’s third largest and fastest-growing market for commercial vehicles.

“Road transport volumes in China will double from one to two trillion tonne kilometres, in the next five years,” said Jeff Talaga. “We intend to be part of that growth in a big way. This acquisition is a key piece of our strategy to make that happen.”

The Austin-Westran manufacturing site for landing legs is based at Xiamen, China. SAF-Holland has also purchased associated assets in the US. Austin-Westran will continue its other U.S.-based product lines, according to SAF-Holland.

Fifteen months ago the Holland Group, Inc. and Otto Sauer Achsenfabrik GmbH (SAF) announced that the two companies would merge. SAF is a supplier of integrated axle and suspension systems for trailers, with headquarters in Germany. Holland Group is a supplier of coupling, lift and suspension systems for trucks, tractors and trailers, with headquarters in Michigan, US.