AXN Heavy Duty has announced the launch of its new line of Modular Air Ride Suspensions (MARS), in concert with its European partner, VDL Weweler.

The new line of lightweight air suspensions has a patented “weldless” axle connection that uses formed retention grooves on the axle. The design eliminates all suspension-to-axle welds. The result is said to be an easier installation for the OEM, plus easier and less expensive service for the fleet.

VDL Weweler is a well established company and the partnership allows AXN to provide a full suspension line tailored for the North American market.

The launch plan includes availability of the MARS-23 now, with releases of  25,000-, 30,000-, and 20,000-lb versions to follow. A slider-mounted tandem for vans and reefers will be available by the end of 2012.

Not yet well known, AXN Heavy Duty is a privately-held manufacturer and supplier of undercarriage systems to the heavy-duty trucking industry, both trucks and trailers, plus the bus segment. It serves both OEM production and related aftermarkets. Based In Louisville, KY, the company has a truly state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Taishan, China.