(October 19, 2011) Honeywell announced today that it is considering a new automotive brake pad manufacturing facility near Ploiesti, Romania. The new site could begin production by the end of 2012 and focus on leading edge, environmental-friendly brake pad technology for European passenger vehicles.

The new Romanian site would be Honeywell's first European site entirely equipped with state-of-the-art Hot Press manufacturing lines, an improvement from existing technology, and a critical enabler to delivering new business with customers demanding both innovative and competitive brake pads.

The new Hot Press manufacturing equipment and processes help increase product quality, deliver energy efficiency, and increase delivery time, while reducing overall cost.

"The Romanian plant reflects the commitment we want to make in our friction business to upgrade our manufacturing technology with the latest available processes and equipment to better compete in Europe and around the world," said Rainer Bostel, President of Friction Materials. "The site would enable Honeywell to operate closer to our customers' manufacturing footprint in Eastern Europe, while investing in the best valued brake pad solutions available."

Honeywell Friction Materials is headquartered in Glinde, Germany, serving both original equipment and aftermarket customers.