TEIN, Inc. is a worldwide company with facilities in Japan, United States, CHINA and United Kingdom. Each facility is capable of complete product sales, support, and R&D. They also have exclusive distributors all around the world which not only stock their products but can also perform all after services (repair, overhaul, and revalving). All TEIN lowering springs and coilover are manufactured and assembled in their factory based in Yokohama, Japan.
What sets TEIN apart from other competitors is their dedication to suspension components. TEIN develops specific product specifications for the different regions based on consumer demands, road conditions, and vehicle specification. This means that their consumers get the best possible product for where they live, and how they drive.
Each of their facilities performs R&D and test fitment locally to ensure the best possible ride, performance, and durability for all their customers.
More flexibility. Crisp handling. The ability to turn corners freely. For ALL drivers in search of total driving pleasure. TEIN continues to pursue the ideal suspension.
A spectacular suspension reminds drivers how fulfilling the driving experience really is. The ability to feel the grip level on different road surfaces, durability to maintain high performance for a long period of time and quality to ensure complete confidence to attack the course.
TEIN passionates about attaining company's goals. TEIN creates total driving pleasure.
The search for "the" driver
"The one, who conquers Kanagawa, conquers the country." In the early 1980s, there were 2 youngsters who stood out in the crowd, in the kingdom of rally; Kanagawa. They were Hakaru Ichino and Yoshio Fujimoto. A co-driver and a 4driver, who actually started out as rivals from different teams. They were very aware of each other. Without a word, their runs and speed fiercely attracted one another. "Where can I find that incredibly fast driver named Fujimoto?" As Ichino's rally activity shifted to all Japan events, he was told to find his partner; "the" driver. Without hesitation, he found out through his friend how to reach Fujimoto and called him.
"Why don't we compete in all Japan events together?" Of course Fujimoto immediately agreed. There was absolutely no reason for him to turn down such offer from Ichino, for whom he had sense of reverence. "Mr. Ichino always stays cool, and is great at gathering information. I can leave everything to him!"
This was where it all began.
Shock absorbers by Ichino and Fujimoto
Confidence built from Worldwide experiences.
Exceptional performance and durability. TEIN shock absorbers were then given high marks not only for use in rally events but also in other fields; on the street and at the circuit. They achieved an astonishingly high 80% share of dampers used in N1 Taikyu races (currently known as Super Taikyu). "There is NO doubt in what we have been doing at TEIN. We can go for it!" In 1990, their wait was over and they released original products under the TEIN brand. In no time, they were flooded with orders, exceeding their production capability. Their success as an International rally team shed light on the company. In 1987, 2 years after their first season competing in all Japan events, they made their first challenge in overseas races; Hong Kong-Beijing Rally. 2 years later in 1989, they finally made their way to WRC. Things went well and smoothly for Fujimoto. He became the first Japanese ever to be chosen as a driver for a Toyota works team. In 1995, he was crowned with an overall victory in the Safari Rally; and again he was the first Japanese to have this distinction. Their names; 'Ichino' and 'Fujimoto', became well known throughout the world. "Rally is where we started. We would always like to be in-touch with the real market. Putting ourselves at the forefront of the scene allows us to listen to the consumers' real voice." By experiencing TEIN products firsthand, their conviction as company executives were developed and refined. Their company, TEIN, continues to compete in motorsports.
For TEIN, there is no such thing as a goal.
1995 marked the turning point for TEIN. Deregulation created a favorable environment in which cars on the street were allowed to have suspension replacements or modifications. Demands for TEIN products suddenly increased. TEIN became the leader of this new 'customize' culture, where people wanted originality in their cars. TEIN, started with only 2 people, has kept growing and is now listed on the stock market, with total sales in the billions of Yen. Their vision is to provide high quality suspension products to the world. "We are confident in the era of globalization that we can overcome any international boundaries as a 'made-in-Japan' brand." Even upon expanding their views into the world, they stand firm in their own convictions even from the beginning, as a suspension specialty manufacturer. "Now the company is stable in various aspects, but we cannot afford to be inattentive. Because, we are yet to master the 'perfect' suspension..." Ichino and Fujimoto talk in chorus. Their presence, looking straight ahead into the future, is just as that of rallyists driving and foreseeing the various changes of the course. "In a simple phrase, TEIN's ideal shock absorber is something that excites and thrills customers. Customers' demands are not that easy to meet at any age. So, there can be NO goal for TEIN." A rally car, carrying enormous dreams entitled, TEIN, continues on its winning ways, driven by Ichino and Fujimoto.
The first Japanese to win Safari Rally championship.
On the scorching African continent in the most severe conditions, it was Yoshio Fujimoto (Toyota Celica GT-FOUR) who won the Safari Rally in 1995. He was the first Japanese ever to make such an accomplishment, and he did it in the most grueling rally in the world. In the prior year, he signed a contract with TTE (Toyota Team Europe) as their first Japanese driver. The Safari Rally was his second challenge. The name “Yoshio Fujimoto” left a great mark in the world history of motorsports. There aren’t many companies in the world who are run by world champions.
Amazingly high profile, the TEIN brand name 6% shops in U.S.
Before TEIN made their official entry into U.S. market, Fujimoto spent 2 years performing local market research, and visited over 500 shops across the United States. Among them, there were only 2 shops that did not know TEIN. Despite the fact that Japanese manufacturers don't usually visit shops in U.S., and that all the visits were made without prior appointments, Fujimoto received a warm welcome. In fact one shop posted the message "Suddenly TEIN Came!" on their website, which showed the popularity of how well known TEIN brand was.
There are two choices of shock absorbers; mono-tube and twin-tube. "Which is better?" That's the question comes up often. Some even advertise that mono-tube is simply better in performance. That is absolutely not true. The customer is to decide which is better for him/her. Mono-tube for races. Twin-tube for streets. They perform differently. Just like choosing between desktop and laptop computers, it is up to customers to decide which suits their styles, purpose and/or preferences better. TEIN offers wide variety of products, both mono-tube and twin-tube, deriving the maximum benefit from both.
To put it bluntly, mono-tube shock absorber is most suitable for challenging races on circuits. It manages to control damping force well and exhibits stable performance even in severe runs for a long period of time. TEIN mono-tube suspensions are proven to be high performance, in various motorsports events such as P-WRC, Super Taikyu, etc.
Nurburgring 24h-Race is known to be the toughest race in the world. TEIN put in "TYPE FLEX" damper, the same one readily available on the market, which was considered to be unfavorable for the race. Some say that just finishing the race is even quite difficult without the proper shock absorber. The vehicle fitted with "TYPE FLEX" clinched the class victory! Not only mono-tube system that is good for racing, but TEIN also is capable of pursuing the performance of twin-tube system, as "Nitouryu" manufacturer. The win in this 24h-race left the historic footmarks of the 21st century, proving TEIN's high technology.
Twin-tube is so simple that it's used for OE products. This is totally wrong. The fact is that twin-tube is technically harder to manufacture as more precise parts are required. Just maybe, some only produce mono-tube on the pretext of mono-tube supremacy because they cannot really produce twin-tube... TEIN is the true shock absorber manufacturer that mass-produces both mono-tube and twin-tube in-house. "Nitouryu" can only be achieved upon high technology and wealth of knowledge.
Due to its complicated structure, twin-tube shock absorber requires high manufacturing technology. It is superior in ride comfort and cost performance, thus is suitable for street use. TEIN twin-tube shock absorber provides comfortable driving experience at reasonable price, backed up by high technology cultivated as suspension specialists.
Fusion of the craftsman's spirit and machine's efficiency
Gun drilling machine, originally developed to drill the barrel hole of a gun just as the name indicates, is used at TEIN to drill a hole in the piston rod. A highly accurate and precise hole is essential to enabling fine adjustments of damping force. Change after change was made to improve the manufacturing and processing machinery, adopting cutting-edge technology as well as unique and original ideas. TEIN has made numerous efforts to provide superior performance products at affordable prices, which retain the highest craftsmanship. TEIN has an unyielding commitment and uncompromising attitude when it comes to quality. TEIN's computerized production line is under uniform management. Completed shock absorbers meeting rigid requirements in every aspect, is truly the fruit of the TEIN philosophy.
High quality, strength, and efficiency
Even the slightest error can not be tolerated, from start to finish in producing high quality products. TEIN utilizes the most-advanced machinery, including custom-designed "both-end processing machine" to process materials efficiently and precisely. Spot welding machines enable instant yet secure welding, and welding robots have been developed and programmed in-house for optimum results. Consistent processing by machine combined with well trained operator inspection produces products high in both quality and intensity.
TEIN's ultimate powder coating method; '2-layer / 1-bake'
A powder coat paint is not only used for superior appearance but also for rust protection and high durability. First a base coat is sprayed on, then a green powder paint is applied as a top layer, and finally the product is baked in a furnace. Usually, one baking process is required per one layer of powder paint, thus 2-layers requires 2-baking processes. TEIN, however, succeeded in developing a patent-pending "2-layer/1-bake" method, in pursuit of high-efficiency.
Desire for professional craftsmanship and exceptional machinery
The piston valve, which is the heart of shock absorber and controls damping force, is assembled using a special machine designed exclusively by TEIN. The final assembly of mono-tube shock absorbers is performed by custom-designed and custom-made machinery, while final assembly of twin-tube shock absorbers is performed by highly-skilled TEIN staffs. Both are assembled carefully, undergo close inspection, and then are delivered to customers.
Made in Yokohama. TEIN quality, only made possible by in-house integrated manufacturing.
TEIN's policy is to provide high quality products upon customers demand. Based on this policy, TEIN is producing various high quality part numbers in small quantities. TEIN's production line is under uniform management, meaning that a single system enters the data into every machine. No factory workers can change machining data on the spot. If changes need to be made to parts, they are made on the system. This also means changes to those parts and related parts can be carried out at the touch of a button. TEIN controls most everything, therefore TEIN is able to take prompt action in case of problems, and this allows the company to provide high-quality products consistently. TEIN does rely on machinery in some part, but the final assembly in many ways depends on craftsmanship. That is the moment TEIN gives 'life' to each and every product.
Extraordinary 10 million strokes
All 4 shock absorbers move constantly during driving. To test the product life, TEIN shock absorbers are stroked repeatedly, over 10 million times each. That is equivalent to the load of about 5 years of use. Durability testing is being done around the clock and the shock absorber stays on the testing equipment for about 60 days. Speed of the piston on the tester is 0.6m/s, simulating the most violent movement of shock absorber on street. The temperature inside the shock absorber reaches 80 to 100°C, which is hotter than the conditions the shocks would experience on a Super Taikyu race car in mid-summer. Testing imposed on TEIN products is unbelievably tough and precise. Durability is not the only thing tested, but all parts are disassembled and inspected for abnormality. These tests are performed on all TEIN products, not just race-use products. TEIN strives to improve performance and durability of products, fully utilizing the most-advanced testing equipment. Severe tests are done daily for superior quality. TEIN does whatever it takes to provide all customers with safety and peace of mind.
All kinds of road conditions re-enacted
Hydraulic Damper Tester precisely re-creates various road conditions and obtains data. This could be a lap around the Nurburgring circuit, or it could be a trip around the TEIN office on public roads. With this tester, movements of the shock absorber are truly reproduced, allowing TEIN to measure inner pressure and/or other details instantly. This reduces the need for testing with real vehicles, thus drastically cutting down the time required for testing. Time required for product evaluation is much shorter than before, as engineers can more quickly test initial damping force settings for each vehicle application
Rustless; proof of TEIN technology
Sooner or later, iron rusts. But with outstanding surface treatment, occurrence of rust can be minimized. TEIN uses a "Salt Spray Tester," to test the corrosion resistance of various surface treatment methods. Salt water is sprayed in testing chamber for 96 hours continuously, which is equivalent to about 1 year of regular use. Competitors' products are also tested for comparison. This testing led to the development of our exclusive painting technology that can withstand conditions from heavy snowfall areas.
Bring out the full potential of every single part
TEIN has introduced the latest CAD/CAE systems, which let computers assist design and analysis. Strength analysis of each and every part can be simulated on computers. This combined with real strength testing brings out the full potential of even the tiniest parts. Also, custom-developed programs ensure better product designs and analysis, to reduce development time and costs.
The latest technology is always at the frontline of motorsports
TEIN was born in rally. TEIN’s technological advancements go hand in hand with motorsports activities. Motorsports is crucial for TEIN to elevate its engineering and to refine its ideal suspension. TEIN embodies the famous ‘Laboratory on Wheels’. Utmost technology comes from the competition fields where winning requires competing for every tenth of a second. All the valuable data obtained from competitions are refined and poured into all TEIN products built for the street.
To provide the ultimate products
Specifications, performance, and durability required for motorsports might be a bit excessive in a way. But, for those who are not satisfied with existing suspensions and are seeking the real quality products, no compromise can be made for any type of product whether it be circuit, gravel, or street use products. The purpose of TEIN’s support to various motorsports is NOT to generate name recognition. TEIN would rather spend money on R & D than publicity. TEIN is not sponsoring and supporting just any motorsports events, but it is limited to certain categories that are valuable for improvement of product quality and performance. Everything TEIN does is to deliver the ultimate products to all customers.
Fight to fill a void
TEIN returned to the WRC scene in 2005, after a 7 year absence. TEIN choose to support vehicles in the P-WRC (Production Car World Rally Championship) class for a reason. Engine modification is not allowed in this class, thus the performance of shock absorber has a direct effect on race results. In other words, the performance of suspension can be exhibited to the fullest extent. But, a 7 year absence meant more than expected. The performance and durability that drivers and teams currently require are far greater than expectations for products 7 years ago. Ichino and Fujimoto were not weary of this reality and stated, “we are going to complete shock absorbers that can win the world title!”
Amazing upsets
The brand-new “Type Gr.N Damper” was finally completed and is equipped with the new feature; ‘M.S.V.’ (Micro Speed Valve). This innovative system enables fine control of damping force with the newly added valve. In its debut at P-WRC races, the Gr.N Damper placed 8th. Fujimoto and engineers were not satisfied at all. There still was a gap between TEIN and the rest of the world. That was only a place to start for them. From that point on, engineers put all their efforts, without resting, to develop and improve the Gr.N Damper in astonishing time. About six months later, the evolved Gr.N Damper enjoyed a moment of glory in WRC Finland Rally. An Impreza, sponsored by TEIN and driven by Aki Teiskonen, closed in quickly and clinched the class victory. On his [Teiskonen] at-home win, he told TEIN engineers with a big smile on his face. "TEIN shock absorber was really great!"
What it means to keep fighting
Nothing could stop the success of TEIN shock absorbers equipped with 'M.S.V.' technology. Vehicles with this new system have won the Super Taikyu series for 2 consecutive years. Its capability is not limited to battles being waged on the circuit but instead its advantages can be felt on the streets as well. TEIN decided to include 'M.S.V.' into mass-producution dampers for street use starting with the 'MONO FLEX' and 'COMFORT SPORT' in 2006. For street use, it is useful when changing lanes on highways. Softer damping force settings tend to worsen steering response thus losing the ability to make quick turns. With 'M.S.V.', damping force is more precisely controlled, thus enabling both comfortable ride and acute steering response. All the cultivated technology is fed back into TEIN products. For that purpose, TEIN remains on the 'competition field'. TEIN keeps competing well into the future.
Ever-intensifying TEIN
TEIN keeps challenging to competitions held all over the world. There are races that compete for one thousandth of a second, have big jumps at 170km/h and/or run on extremely cold icy road or on scorching hot desert. Technology and know-how cultivated in worldwide competitions under such severe conditions is poured into each and every TEIN shock absorber. Superior performance and superior quality for your shock absorbers.
TEIN keeps evolving, forever and ever.
The Top Level Support System, Stunned the Whole World
After TEIN's return to the WRC scene in 2005, TEIN felt that they were scoring a solid hit as its products were enjoying a burst of popularity, however they also felt they had reached their limits on one point. That was the on-site support system. They attended races all over the world throughout the year, thus it became difficult for them to provide prompt service from their base factory in Yokohama. TEIN made the decision to introduce the concept of factory on wheels; ‘rally service container’. 3 workshop containers are now deployed around the world to provide on-site support, which is in no way inferior to that of the Yokohama-factory. The containers have been used in many locations around the world such as China, U.S., Europe, Africa, etc. Even long-established European suppliers are surprised by TEIN’s worldwide and top-level support system, which is drawing the attention of motosports teams from around the world.