Alcon Components conclude deals with Tekne for safety brake system.

Alcon Components Ltd, a leading UK-based brake and clutch manufacturer, announced with a press release on April 10, 2024 has been chosen by the Italian specialist vehicle producer, Tekne, to supply a bespoke braking solution for their new Graelion off-road multi-purpose vehicle. This partnership highlights Alcon's capability to develop advanced braking technologies suitable for demanding and harsh environments.
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 Graelion by Tekne (Picture source Alcon )

 The selected CIR15 caliper, part of Alcon’s renowned CIR family, is designed to perform optimally in severe off-road conditions. It features an opposed-piston design that avoids the use of slide mechanisms, which can wear out or seize in muddy environments, a common issue in traditional calipers. Additionally, the calipers utilize a piston sealing system proven in various off-road racing applications, echoing the company's extensive experience in motorsport engineering.

Alcon’s choice of SG cast iron for the caliper’s construction over aluminum ensures increased stiffness and resistance to electrolytic corrosion, vital for vehicles like the Graelion which weighs up to 7500 kg and operate frequently in water and rough terrain. This material choice is critical for maintaining the integrity of the brake system under the high loads and pressures experienced during off-road navigation.

The Graelion vehicle itself is engineered to meet the diverse needs of specialist sectors, including emergency services, utility providers, and tourism. It boasts high ground clearance and can be configured to various wheelbase lengths from 3000mm to 4250mm, allowing it to handle water fording up to a depth of 1100mm. This versatility makes the Graelion an ideal choice for a wide range of applications, from fire and rescue missions to mining and construction operations.

Carlo Ulacco, Design Authority for Vehicle Business Unit and Board Member at Tekne, emphasized the vehicle’s design flexibility, stating, "Our Graelion vehicle was specifically designed to be versatile and compact, necessitating a braking system that aligns with its multifaceted nature and delivers high performance and safety across its operational range."

Jonathan Edwards, Group Sales Director at Alcon, expressed pride in their selection by Tekne, noting that it underscores Alcon’s proficiency in the field of specialist vehicle braking systems. “Being chosen to provide the braking system for the Graelion is a testament to our bespoke capabilities and our understanding of the needs within more extreme and harsh environments,” Edwards said.

This collaboration marks a continued relationship between Alcon and Tekne, which began in 2020 when Alcon supplied brake kits for Tekne's Toyota Land Cruisers. Following the success of the initial prototype in 2022, Alcon has now moved into production, having delivered braking systems for over 30 Graelion vehicles to date.

Alcon's involvement with Tekne is part of a broader strategy to position itself as a leading provider of both bespoke and off-the-shelf braking solutions for a wide array of vehicles, from heavy-duty 60-tonne military machines to lightweight motorsport vehicles. The partnership not only enhances the Graelion’s operational capabilities but also highlights Alcon's commitment to innovation and quality in creating solutions for the specialist vehicle market.

Defense News April 2024