2019 FINALIST
BUSINESS:
The Dynamic Engineering Solutions P/L (T/A Supashock)
PRODUCT:
Supashock Advanced Suspension Systems
AWARD CATEGORY:
Design Strategy
INDUSTRY SECTOR:
Automotive/Transport
DESIGN:
Supashock Team
EXPORTING to:
Europe, New Zealand
1: ENTRY INTRODUCTION
Supashock specialises in the design, development and manufacture of bespoke automotive components and parts, specifically advanced suspension systems. The company applies world leading engineering, design and manufacturing capabilities to produce innovative performance enhanced suspension and vibration control systems.
2: DESIGN CHALLENGE
The overriding design challenge is the effective and efficient control of the negative impact of vibration. Supashock's design strategy and technology can be applied to numerous industry challenges and activities. The company operates with IP and experienced 'know-how' built up across numerous sectors.
In broad terms the company operates to achieve :
- improved safety through improved handling and vehicle stability
- improved performance through creating active and intelligent suspension systems that act as the vehicles first point of information collection and assessment.
- minimising manual handling and automating processes where possible
- reducing cost and thru-life support
3: DESIGN SOLUTION
Supashock's design strategy and technology (CAD/FEA/VR/Simulation and Modelling, etc) can be applied to a wide range of industries or anything that moves !. Supashock does not sell "commoditiies" - it sells bespoke solutions across virtually any industry sector.
The Company evolved from the Motorsports sector where it designed an innovative lightweight suspension system.
Further development was undertaken in mining and defence where the anti-roll capabilities was applied to large scale suspension systems.
In concert with Adelaide's 3 Universities, we continually review global trends in motion control systems including autonomous systems, Artificial intelligence and eletro-magnetic systems.
4: DESIGN IMPACT
Supashock has a clear purpose and global vision, aligned to an aggressive strategy. Our vision is to become the global leader in motion and vibration control by 2025 driving technology with high value collaborative solutions.
Design and engineering is Supashock's DNA and the company is recognised globally for its innovation. This advanced design capability has enabled the company to evolve to a full service design and manufacturer.
The Company's designs are focused around improved performance and safety and therefore, make a positive contribution to wider society.
Exports are currently around 60% of revenue and expected to grow to 85% by 2024, bringing benefits to our local suppliers.
5: OTHER KEY FEATURES
Supashock's leadership in design and engineering capabilities have enabled the company to establish unique relationships with global customers in defence and autonomous systems that will grow significantly both vertically and horizontally.
To date, the company exports to Germany, Austria, US, Indonesia, Philipines and India.
Rheinmetall has taken 49% equity in Supashock, a deliberate decision on the part of the Owner and founder in order to provide introductions and access to Rheinmetall divisions globally. The Company has invested in establishing an office in Germany and the US via the placement of Senior Engineers working in conjunction with major customers and has initiated exchange arrangements hosting Engineers and fitters from Germany in Adelaide. We regularly attend international exhibitions such as Eurosatory in Paris, often collaborating with Rheinmetall to exhibit leading edge product.
Supashock has developed international recognition for its design and engineering expertise recently winning a DTC Award for development of its revolutionary Advanced Load Handling System and also won the FastMovers Top 5 Award in 2018.
Export success driven by our unique design and development capabilities has led to commercial success and growth. Revenue has grown 720% since 2015 (from $1.1m to nearly $8m) while employment has grown from 15 FTEs to 50 FTEs over the same period.