Dana To Supply Driveline For New Nissan Pickup Truck.

Dana Corp. said that it will supply front- and rear-axle assemblies and propshafts for Nissan's all new 2004 Titan full-size pickup truck. The new Nissan vehicle, which will be styled, engineered, and assembled in the United States, will be introduced in late 2003.

"We are extremely excited by this new opportunity to employ our torque and traction technology expertise on the behalf of Nissan," said Dana Chairman and CEO Joe Magliochetti. "This important program also adds to the solid growth Dana is experiencing with overseas manufacturers with U.S. operations."

Along with Dana's torque and traction technologies, the new Nissan pickup will offer truck owners a package that features a large V-8 engine, a completely new platform, and increased horsepower, payload, and towing capacity.

Axle production is expected to begin in mid 2003. The lightweight, aluminum, independent front axle assemblies and cast-iron, beam rear axle assemblies will incorporate several Dana-first innovations, including: Optional rear electrical locking differential for improved traction; Improved pinion sealing technology to prevent contamination; Advanced gear manufacturing for improved strength; life expectancy and noise; vibration, and harshness (NVH); Industry-first, one-piece die cast carrier for increased axle strength; and Advanced oil flow design, which improves towing capabilities and vehicle maneuverability.

Dana will also produce steel and aluminum propshafts for both 4x4 and 4x2 models. All assemblies include maintenance-free universal joints.