Autoform i Malung AB

The Challenge

Autoform i Malung was established in 1988 and since 1991 it has been part of the Calix Group AB. They have 75 employees, and sales for 2005 were approximately 13.5 million euros. The core product lines are roof boxes, cargo trays, cargo liners, and storage boxes for vehicle compartment areas. As a result of customer demand and to keep up with developments in their field, they wanted to change to 3D CAD software.

The Solution

Autoform chose SolidWorks as their new 3D CAD tool. By the time they bought the first license there really was no serious competitor in the mid-market range. Since Autoform receives most of the input for trunk mats in the form of different 3D CAD files from car manufacturers, conversion is a critical feature. Today they use neutral file formats like IGES and Step but also FormatWorks to handle data exchanges. One of the benefits of SolidWorks is the ability to read and create many different file formats. Autoform can also design the vacuum tools they need in-house thanks to SolidWorks. Before they had to buy the tools externally. That means more flexibility, shorter time-to-market, increased control, and more profit that stays in the company. All of these are very important factors for the company to retain its competitive edge.