QS 9000 is the name given to the Quality System Requirements of the automotive industry which were developed by Chrysler, Ford, General Motors and major truck manufacturers and issued in late 1994. QS-9000 replaces such quality system requirements as Ford Q-101, Chrysler's Supplier Quality Assurance Manual, GM's NAO Targets for Excellence and the Truck Manufacturer's quality system manuals.
The influence of QS-9000 is being seen throughout the automotive industry as it has virtually eliminated varying demands and waste associated with redundant systems. Proof of conformance to QS-9000 is certification/registration by an accredited third party such as Underwriter's Laboratories (UL) or the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). Companies that become registered under QS-9000 will be considered to have higher standards and better quality products.
