The Japanese company supplies OEM (original equipment manufacturer) and aftermarket components and advanced automotive technology and systems for most of the world’s carmakers that run into billions of dollars a year.

“We supply our products to all the world’s major automakers, and operate in 33 countries and regions with approximately 120,000 employees. Global consolidated sales totaled $32 billion for fiscal year that ended March 31, 2010,” a DENSO official told Arab News on the sidelines of a press conference on Saturday.

“This agreement with DENSO, which also specializes in truck air-conditioners, will contribute to our strategy that is based on trust and partnership,” Mohammed Saeed Bakhashab, sales manager of Isuzu Holding Co., said.

Yasunari Tajima vice president at Bakhashab Brothers Holding Co. said:  “Our sales results are positive and maintaining a rising graph, especially because of our Isuzu trucks. N series trucks have earned the nickname ‘Super Jumbo’ across Saudi Arabia, and the air-conditioners from DENSO can spell further success for our range of models. The new truck has excellent accessibility and the cabin is designed for maximum utility, safety and comfort. The cab is a new global standard size, allowing three adults to ride in comfort.”

Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Middle East in terms of population and also the number of vehicles imported and so has the largest overall  parts market, which is expanding by leaps and bounds. There is an estimated four percent annual growth in the number of all types of vehicles imported into the Kingdom. More than 340,000 cars, trucks and vans are annually imported into Saudi Arabia, including used cars and buses.