© Marco Schilling

Vibracoustic’s history is marked by consistent transformation. In your opinion, what are the company’s major early successes? 

One example of Vibracoustic’s early successes is its air spring business. When Vibracoustic was founded, it already had advanced air spring systems for premium vehicles. The company quickly expanded its customer base and vehicle classes, increasing its air spring sales sixfold in a short period of time.  

Another important factor in Vibracoustic’s early success was that it always responded to the constant pressure for change from vehicle manufacturers with innovations, which further consolidated a leading market position. For example, despite the increasing downsizing of vehicles, products such as electronically adjustable hydromounts from 2005 and mechanical freewheeling in decoupled pulleys, also from 2005, made it possible to increase driving comfort and even reduce fuel consumption. 

Looking at the bigger picture: What milestones or innovations define Vibracoustic’s contribution to the automotive world in your opinion? 

It’s a difficult question, as Vibracoustic has introduced many innovations to the automotive industry that have led to lasting improvements in vehicle technology. I’m thinking about developments that reduce CO2 emissions from vehicles, like innovative air spring technologies and lightweight vibration dampers. Another important milestone was the establishment of the TrelleborgVibracoustic joint venture in 2012. This made Vibracoustic a full-range supplier of vibration control technology for all vehicle classes, manufacturers, and regions important to the automotive industry globally. Or innovative products that are specifically designed to enhance the ride comfort of electric and hybrid vehicles. One early example is the DualRubber mount from 2014. 

As the guardian of the archives, you certainly come across fascinating details … What are your surprise findings or little-known stories from the company’s past? 

Here’s an interesting story about Vibracoustic: In 1957, Freudenberg acquired the Metalastik license from Mac Goldsmith to enter the vibration technology market. Goldsmith had helped to set up the vibration technology department at Phoenix AG in Hamburg in the 1930s. Many years later, the circle closed when Freudenberg and Phoenix AG founded the Vibracoustic joint venture. 

History often shapes the future. Looking ahead, what do you think are take aways for Vibracoustic from its past to shape the future? 

Adapting, evolving, helping to shape industry trends through innovation. And in doing so, strictly adhering to the philosophy of the Freudenberg company’s founder Carl Johann Freudenberg. For him, openness to change and the willingness to embrace change were among the most important principles for successful entrepreneurship. 

Thank you very much for the Interview Michael!