Bilstein
ActiveOverview
Bilstein manufactures shock absorbers and suspension systems, supplying original equipment to car manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Jaguar Land Rover, and Maserati, while also serving the aftermarket and motorsport sectors. The company produces monotube gas pressure shock absorbers and related chassis components at nine locations worldwide. It developed innovations in damping technology starting post-World War II, with annual production of around 13 million shock absorbers.123
History
Founded in 1873 by August Bilstein in Altenvoerde (now Ennepetal), Germany, initially producing window fittings, nuts, bolts, and later automotive components like chrome-plated bumpers and jacks from 1927. After World War II, it focused on innovative shock absorbers, becoming original equipment for Mercedes-Benz and performance cars. Structured as a group in 1988, acquired by Krupp Stahl AG in 1991 (trading as Krupp Bilstein GmbH), and became a 100% thyssenkrupp subsidiary in 2005 following the Thyssen-Krupp merger.123
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| B4 OE Replacement Dampers | Direct OE-quality series replacement | $100 - $400 |
| B6 Performance Dampers | Enhanced handling for performance street use | $150 - $500 |
| B8 Performance Plus | Optimized for lowered springs and sport suspension | $200 - $600 |
| B16 PSS Coilover Kits | Adjustable coilovers for track and street | $1,000 - $2,000 |
| M 610/710/920 Series | Motorsport monotube shock absorbers | $400 - $1,200 |
| Air Springs | Electronic air suspension systems | $500 - $1,800 |
Manufacturing
Bilstein develops and produces products in six countries including Germany, Great Britain, the United States, and China, with headquarters and main operations in Ennepetal in Germany's Ruhr region. Manufacturing emphasizes in-house production of high-quality shock absorbers using monotube and twin-tube technologies. The company operates at nine locations worldwide.12
Notable Products
- Monotube Gas Pressure Shock Absorbers - Developed by Bilstein, used in performance vehicles from Bugatti Veyron to Porsche 911 as original equipment.
- B6 Heavy Duty Dampers - Performance upgrade shocks for improved handling on street and light track use.
- B16 PSS Coilover Suspension - Adjustable coilover systems for track day and tuning applications.
- M 920 Rally Shocks - Motorsport dampers proven in race victories worldwide.
- Electronic Damper Systems - State-of-the-art chassis technologies for OEM partners like Jaguar Land Rover.
Reputation
Bilstein is regarded by enthusiasts and professionals for setting benchmarks in suspension technology, particularly monotube designs and motorsport performance, with OE supply to premium marques and race successes. Strengths include durability, handling precision, and innovation from 70+ years in damping. Criticisms are limited in sources, though some note higher pricing compared to generic aftermarket options.123