Vari-Form to Provide Tubular Hydroform Components for the All-New 2014 Jeep Cherokee

TROY, MI--Nov. 5, 2013: Early reviews of the 2014 Jeep Cherokee have given the automotive press, fans, enthusiasts and consumers a first look at an all-new mid-size SUV. Among the essential components of the much-anticipated vehicle, which combines Jeep's legendary off-road prowess with the comfort, fuel economy and amenities demanded by today's buyers, is the upper cross member manufactured by Vari-Form using proprietary Pressure-Sequence Hydroforming technology.

"We are proud to be a part of the Jeep Cherokee," said Vari-Form director of sales & engineering Doug Viohl. "The cross member is part of a highly-engineered front end module that possesses a complex architectural form and provides a weight reduction solution."

The intricate contours within the cross member facilitate integration of other front-end module components, including the hood seal, latching, wiring harnesses, headlights, and mounts for the cooling system. The Vari-Form tube hydroforming process is uniquely capable of providing these formations.

"Our patented Pressure-Sequence Hydroforming produces the thinnest hydroformed tubular part," pointed out Mr. Viohl, explaining that the part is produced using 0.8 mm steel. The resulting structure is very lightweight. "Vari-Form technology stretches the limits of thin wall hydroforming, staying within finite tube thickness limits. I'm pleased to say this is something that competing hydroforming processes simply cannot do."

Vari-Form delivers the hydroformed upper cross members to be integrated into a front-end module for the Cherokee by Bayloff Stamped Products.