PEI Mobility’s bellow supply exceeds 10,000 systems worldwide
By Jim Gibbins - 23rd April 2024
A bird's eye view of PEI Mobility's bellows in operation
Italy - PEI Mobility, a business unit and brand name of P.E.I. Srl based in Bologna, Italy has announced that its bellow production* during its 20 year history now exceeds some 10,000 units. The medium-sized Italian family-owned business has been producing bespoke bellows for gangways on articulated buses for many different bus builders worldwide with sales to OEMs outside Europe now almost reaching 50% of total sales. Examples of customers in Europe include Castrosua in Spain and MAN in Germany and in Latin America, Volvo Buses and Marcopolo. About plans for market development, a PEI Mobility spokesperson said: “Our current commercial policy is focused on consolidation in already known markets, however, we are considering expanding our presence in South America.”
PEI Mobility’s special zips (patented design)
PEI Mobility says investment in product innovation and use of high-tech materials has allowed it to continue to expand its global customer base and supply. PEI Mobility’s bellows, the company states, are made with a UV-resistant copolymer complying with the highest safety regulations in the automotive field and that these are fastened together (bellow to bellow) and to the carriage body using several patented systems. Examples of its patented systems include the connecting clips between bellows allowing for quick and easy installation, the fastening of internal bellows to the body and central hoop, which enhances vehicle structure and stability and allows for fast replacement, if required, and a third example, is the use of special zips to reduce the tension of the bottom part of the fabrics to ensure a more effective sealed area.
PEI Mobility's patented connecting clips between bellows
Each new bellow design is tested on in-house 1-to-1 scale test benches, which meet IATF and VDA automotive standards. The test benches, PEI states, can simulate all possible movements in accordance with a customer's technical specifications. Tests include a static bench test, water test, single dynamics test as well as hose guiding system dynamic test.
PEI Mobility can offer a wide range of colours, in addition to the traditional grey; a translucent fabric option is available, which allows more natural light to enter the vehicle’s interior.
The company at IAA in 2022 announced it was diversifying into articulation chassis systems for buses.
