Rugby-based Autins Group (www.autins.co.uk), which makes lightweight acoustic and thermal components for a range of vehicles including the Jaguar Land Rover XE and Evoque models, has joined up with Birmingham-based plastic and composites manufacturer Thermotec Plastics (www.thermotecplastics.co.uk) to develop new products.

Group chief executive Jim Griffin said: “Developing lightweight solutions for automotive manufacturers and their customers is an increasingly important part of vehicle design and manufacture.

"We have a range of ‘state of the art’ machinery on our site with extensive testing facilities. Thermotec’s capabilities perfectly complement our own facilities and products. Together, we can offer our respective customers a ‘one-stop shop’ for all their lightweight components.”

The two companies are already developing a noise, vibration and harshness product for one of Thermotec’s customers. Thermotec managing director Ian Thurman said: “I am pleased to be working with the team at Autins. Our complementary processes and our close proximity allow us to work seamlessly together, providing best-in-class solutions.”