BILSTEIN has for many decades been closely associated with high tech in the field of suspension design, driving comfort and safety. Officially named August Bilstein GmbH & Co. KG, the company was founded in Ennepetal, Germany, in 1873. Originally a manufacturer of window fittings and hardware, the company expanded into automotive components during the early 20th century. Bilstein forever changed the industry in 1954 with the world’s first mass-produced monotube gas-pressure shock absorber, a technology that would become the foundation of the company’s reputation.