Development cycles, ordering and the questions buyers actually ask

Hetian’s standard development cycle adapts dynamically to product complexity, with three core phases: design verification, prototype trial, and batch validation.

Phase 1: Design stage (7–15 days)

• Technical feasibility: rapid CAD design and simulation using mature processes (e.g., aluminum forging, stamping).
• Prototyping: initial samples via manual/RPT (rapid prototyping technology, e.g., 3D printing) for functional validation.

Phase 2: Validation stage (15–30 days)

• Performance testing: fatigue tests and dimensional inspection in CNAS-accredited labs, ensuring compliance (e.g., German OEM standards).
• Process optimization: pilot runs to refine mold parameters and line layout, mitigating mass-production risks.

Phase 3: Batch validation (10–15 days)

• Supply-chain synergy: concurrent raw-material sourcing and supplier development (e.g., rubber damper partners) to compress lead times.
• Mass-production launch: PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) documentation ensures a seamless transition after customer approval.

Critical factors: cycles may extend to 3 months for special materials (e.g., imported aluminum alloys) or complex structures (e.g., multi-link suspensions).

For OEM projects, Hetian employs a “simultaneous engineering + phased validation” model with the following workflow.

Phase 1: Simultaneous engineering (3–6 months)

• Requirements alignment: jointly define technical specs with OEMs (e.g., load requirements for lightweight aluminum forgings), reducing sourcing decision time.
• Co-design: 60 development engineers run synchronous product development with the OEM, including digital mock-up (DMU) reviews to optimize structural compatibility.

Phase 2: Road testing & validation (2–4 months)

• Prototype iteration: A-sample (functional) → B-sample (performance) → C-sample (process stability) validation.
• Environmental testing: simulate extreme conditions (−40°C to 120°C / salt spray) to ensure 10-year / 200,000-km lifespan compliance.

Phase 3: Production ramp-up (3–6 months)

• Line expansion (if required): install automated forging lines and assembly equipment.
• SOP launch: pass the OEM run-at-rate audit for zero-defect delivery.

Recent EV programs show the payoff of this model: running simultaneous engineering from the first DMU review compresses both the overall development window and mould commissioning.

• Technology maturity: standard products leverage existing process libraries (e.g., rubber compound formulas and an application database built up since our 1998 founding), while major projects require new material/process R&D (e.g., high-strength aluminum forgings).
• Resource commitment: major projects need cross-functional teams (procurement/legal for supply-chain compliance), versus standalone tech teams for standard products.
• Validation depth: OEM projects mandate full-vehicle durability tests (100,000-km road trials), exceeding lab sampling for standard parts.

Part-number dependent — typically full export cartons. The exact minimum is stated in your quotation, so you always know the order quantity before committing.

Yes — sample policy and lead time are confirmed by sales per part. Send the part number or OE reference and the sales desk will quote the sample options alongside the series price.

Send your part list via the inquiry form, or build it directly in the OE reference — the sales desk replies with a quotation on working days. Drawings, photos and OE numbers all work as input.

Standard items ship per the current production plan; lead time for new orders is confirmed at PO and stated on the order confirmation. If a part needs a production slot, the sales desk will tell you before you commit.

Payment terms are agreed per order — T/T is the common route for aftermarket orders, and the terms are spelled out in the quotation before you commit. Long-term program customers agree individual terms with the sales desk.

We quote under the common Incoterms — EXW, FOB and CIF — on request. Tell us your destination port and preferred term and the quotation will be built on that basis, so freight and insurance are never ambiguous.

Parts ship in standard export cartons; neutral or customer-branded packaging can be arranged — confirm at quotation. Transit time depends on destination and loading port, and the delivery schedule is confirmed with the sales desk at PO.

Claims are handled case by case under our IATF 16949-certified quality management system: report the part number and batch, and the traceability records plus the 8D process take over — from containment to corrective action. See how the quality system is organized.

The IATF 16949 certificate and CNAS-accredited laboratory test reports are available on request — the IATF 16949 page and the CNAS laboratory page show what each covers. Material certificates and dimensional reports ship with the goods where agreed at PO.