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With the three millionth axle manufactured, SAF-HOLLAND reached an important milestone at its Plant 03 in Bessenbach in Germany in mid April. This figure is more than just a number – it reflects the technical development, strong teamwork and continuous development of the site. As a central factory for the SAF INTRA premium product, Bessenbach underlines its role within the SAF-HOLLAND Group – as a reliable manufacturing partner of the trailer industry and as a site with a clear perspective.
It was a significant moment for SAF-HOLLAND at the production line in Bessenbach in Bavaria, Germany, in the middle of April: The three millionth axle had been completed at Plant 03. This marks a milestone in the history of the production site, which has been one of the central building blocks of the axle and suspension manufacturing division since 2000.
Consistently enhanced SAF INTRA technology
The milestone axle comes from the SAF INTRA family which is trusted by millions of users and has been in use on Europe’s roads for more than two decades. As a robust air suspension system for 9-ton applications, the SAF INTRA features high economic efficiency, easy maintenance and clever product design. Improved in close cooperation with fleet customers, it now offers variants with electric recuperation (SAF TRAKr) and the worldwide unique SAF INTRADISC plus INTEGRAL with a two-part brake disc, or a 10-year warranty against corrosion with the Premium Coated option. Fleet operators in long-distance haulage in particular appreciate the durability and efficiency of the range.
Efficiency through continuity and CIP
The success story of Plant 03 is founded on a continuous improvement process that has significantly increased productivity as well as quality over the years. The PPM rate was consistently lowered while automation was continuously expanded. Several employees have been at the factory since its early days in the year 2000 and are still contributing their experience to the manufacturing processes today. With flexible shift models, the factory was able to easily weather volatile market phases and dynamically adapt to the requirements of the trailer manufacturers.
Looking forward: sustainability and expansion
With a view to the future, SAF-HOLLAND keeps investing in the site: Planned expansions like the new wheel hub assembly from Q4/2025 and an additional logistics area for optimising material supply are strengthening the competitiveness of the site. In addition to this, the site has been generating 25 percent of its power with its own photovoltaic systems since 2024. Providing enclosures for all welding systems improved not only the environmental conditions, but also the comfort for the workforce.
“The 3-million mark is much more than just a number to us – it is proof of the efficiency of our team, of sustainable production and of the quality of our products that are on the road throughout Europe every single day,” said Peter Bahmer, Senior Director Operations Germany, when thanking the team for this achievement.