SOUTHFIELD, Mich. … Diversified industrial manufacturer Eaton Corporation today was recognized by Automotive News with an Honorable Mention in the product category for its front-wheel-drive transaxle mounted electronic locking differential (FWD ELocker™), an evolutionary adaptation of the original Eaton ELocker™ designed to enhance drivability, traction, and performance of two-wheel, front-wheel drive applications.

“This is great recognition for our entire team and the effort they put forth in bringing the FWD ELocker to market,” said Chris Ostrander, vice president – Eaton Torque Control Products Division. “This validates that our ELocker can be packaged to accommodate a variety of applications when combining the engineering expertise of both Eaton and our customer.”

The FWD ELocker debuted in 2008 on the Fiat Adventure Locker series of vehicles in Brazil. The Eaton FWD ELocker design allows an OEM to reduce cost and weight when compared to AWD and 4x4, thus increasing the fuel economy of the vehicle while attaining similar performance. With a simple push of a button, a driver has the ability to lock the front axle providing traction to both wheels evenly when there is limited traction.

The Eaton ELocker, which originally appeared on the HUMMER H2, is available today in various applications worldwide, including passenger cars, light trucks, military vehicles and for aftermarket applications.

The PACE Award, which stands for Premier Automotive Suppliers’ Contribution to Excellence, is accepted around the world as the industry symbol of innovation. The Eaton FWD ELocker was selected as an Honorable Mention in the product category after an extensive review by an independent panel of judges.

With sales of $1.9 billion in 2008 and 8,000 employees around the world, Eaton’s Automotive Group supplies the automotive industry with critical components that reduce emissions and fuel consumption, and improve vehicle stability and performance. Principal products include engine valvetrain components, torque control products, fluid conveyance components, superchargers, fuel emission and powertrain controls.

Eaton Corporation is a diversified power management company with 2008 sales of $15.4 billion. Eaton is a global technology leader in electrical components and systems for power quality, distribution and control; hydraulics components, systems and services for industrial and mobile equipment; aerospace fuel, hydraulics and pneumatic systems for commercial and military use; and truck and automotive drivetrain and powertrain systems for performance, fuel economy and safety. Eaton has approximately 75,000 employees and sells products to customers in more than 150 countries. For more information, visit www.eaton.com.

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