With roots reaching back to 1936, Niterra North America manufactures automotive ignition, sensor and vehicle-electronics components under the NGK and NTK brands. The Wixom-based company traces its U.S. manufacturing history to spark-plug assembly in 1976 and oxygen-sensor production in West Virginia beginning in the 1980s, while its products serve both original-equipment manufacturers and the aftermarket. Niterra also supports racing and runs a program that rewards technicians for recycling used oxygen sensors.
PerTronix Performance BrandsFounded in 1962 as Per-Lux, PerTronix Performance Brands grew from a maker of heavy-duty truck lights into an automotive performance manufacturer known for its Ignitor electronic ignition system. The Lenexa, Kansas company serves enthusiasts of classic and modern vehicles as well as motorcycle riders and racing teams, with a 22,000-square-foot custom manufacturing facility opened in 1997.DUNCANSVILLE, PA
MSD IgnitionBorn from a 1970 military testing project at New Mexico’s White Sands Missile Range, MSD Ignition makes high-performance ignition and engine-control components for racers, hot rodders and enthusiasts. The company pioneered capacitive-discharge and Multiple Spark Discharge technology, and now manufactures at a more than 150,000-square-foot El Paso plant staffed by over 275 people. MSD products run everywhere from 12,000-horsepower Top Fuel dragsters to street rods, farm trucks and boats.MENTOR, OH
Neaton Auto Products Manufacturing, IncFounded in 1984, Neaton Auto Products Manufacturing is an Eaton, Ohio company whose 565,000-square-foot campus has supported North American automakers for more than four decades. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Nihon Plast Co., Ltd., Neaton combines local manufacturing with the reach of a global automotive group, supplying OEMs with steering wheels and airbag modules. Its associate-centered culture and role in the Eaton community remain central to how the company describes itself.EATON, OH
JET Performance ProductsJET Performance Products began 50 years ago as a Southern California engine-building and carburetor shop and now makes electronic tuning products and performance upgrades for cars and trucks. The company’s roots remain visible in its carburetor work, while its history also includes race cars that set national records in three NHRA and IHRA classes and the development of its first General Motors performance chip. Bryant Seller has owned the company since 1985.ST CLAIRSVILLE, OH