Trading on target at Torotrak

FIRST quarter trading has been in line with expectations at Torotrak, the Lancashire vehicle transmission specialist.

In an interim management statement the Leyland firm said interest in its products was at a “high level” but full-year figures could be affected by the timing and outcome of potential licence discussions.

Torotrak’s two main commercial vehicle customers are US-based Allison Transmission and an unnamed major European truck and bus manufacturer.

In May it bought a 15% stake in Danish engineering business Rotrex and launched a UK-based joint venture called Rotrak. The new business will exploit opportunities associated with the downsizing of engines, a growing trend in the automotive sector.

Torotrak said it was encouraged by the progress the venture had made. It is now working on a prototype variable speed supercharger which can improve engine fuel efficiency and reduce Co2 emissions.