Magna Powertrain, a group of Magna International Inc., a global top five tier-one supplier in the auto industry, announced on August 16 that Magna Powertrain (Changzhou) Co. Ltd., had been established and put into production in the Changzhou National Hi-Tech District in Jiangsu, where the company has founded the first engineering (R&D) center in this district of China, besides the already-existing manufacturing facility.

On the 16th Aug., Mr. Guenther Apfalter, President of Magna Powertrain Europe and Asia, said in Changzhou that the investment in Magna Powertrain (Changzhou) Co. Ltd. totaled 50 million US dollars.

Magna Powertrain (Changzhou) Co. Ltd. is producing and will assemble in its serial production Transmission Oil Pumps, Mass Balancer Systems, Power Take Off units including a small die casting operation including subsequent machining processes to ensure an optimized vertical integration. Around 130 employees are currently producing products for SGM and 2010 onwards; more than 300 employees will ensure that the customers are satisfied with "the better product for a better price."

In 2006, the sales of Magna International Inc. totaled 24.2 billion US dollars, ranking the 273rd in the Global Fortune 500. The global sales of Magna Powertrain were 3.4 billion US dollars. After investigating many cities in the Yangtze River Delta in 2005, Magna decided to establish a powertrain plant and an R&D center in the Changzhou Hi-Tech District. "We had considered locating our engineering R&D center in Shanghai, but the industrial support and excellent investment environment here persuaded us to land our R&D center in the Changzhou Hi-Tech District. Eventually." According to Xiuzhan Zhu, Headquarter Controller Europe/Asia of Magna Powertrain. The major customers of Magna Powertrain (Changzhou) Co. Ltd. are Shanghai-GM, Ford in America, and companies along that line, and the export for the orders from American Ford accounts for one third of its total orders.

"Our sales in Asia only account for 3% of our total sales and at the same time our sales in the North American market and Europe account for 71% and 26% respectively. Judging from the development trend and forecast from China State Information Center, China will surpass USA and become the largest auto consumption market in the world till 2015. Therefore it is of strategic importance to establish both a factory and an R&D center in China. We hope our market share in Asia will be increased by 10% in the next couple of years," said Xiuzhan Zhu. Of the 19 of the world's top 500 companies currently residing in the Changzhou Hi-Tech District, Magna Powertrain (Changzhou) Co. Ltd. is the first wholly foreign-owned company that has established an R&D center in Changzhou.

The Magna Powertrain Engineering (R&D) Center has had a RMB15 million investment from a couple of months ago up until now, including as much as RMB4 million spent on laboratory testing equipments, and with just over 20 R&D staff. This center has independently developed a testing equipment-lubricating and accelerating test bench with a max performance of 9,000 revolutions per minute. Its performance is comparable to that of big international companies, while its price is only one tenth of theirs. The test bench can incline to a 45-degree angle in all directions at maximum to simulate the performance of various types of vehicles as they travel uphill and downhill, accelerate, decelerate, turn and tilt about on actual roads. And it's also equipped with many precision test sensors for the speed, torque, acceleration, temperature, angle, etc.

The Engineering R&D Center in Changzhou is developing the power takeoff and balancing shaft and other powertrain parts for local Chinese OEMs, it shares the same powertrain development platform with the engineering centers in Europe and North America. The Changzhou Engineering R&D Center will strive to be a supporter of vehicle powertrain engineering in the Asia-Pacific region and strengthen strong design, analysis, program management and testing capabilities for key parts of Engine, Axle, AWD/4x4 and Transmission.

Magna Powertrain plans to put its second testing laboratory into formal use in January 2008, which consists of the MTS static test bench, oil pump test bench, gear boxes test bench, SAE friction test bench, etc. This laboratory will also be opened to external users and serve foreign and Chinese enterprises.

Source: Changzhou National Hi-Tech District

Furion Bridges Commercial and Custom Markets, Completes the Spartan Chassis Product Line

Spartan Chassis, Inc., a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. (NASDAQ:SPAR) , will unveil the Furion(R) today at the Fire-Rescue International Expo (IAFC) in Atlanta.

The Furion, which is the third fire truck cab and chassis in the Spartan Chassis product line, is designed to bridge the market between custom and commercial vehicles. This new product offers many of the key product features that Spartan Chassis is known -- and prized -- for, yet will enable the body builder to offer a fire truck at a price competitive to a fire truck built on a commercial chassis.



The Furion will be on display August 24-25 at Booth 1912 at FRI, which is sponsored by the International Association of Fire Chiefs and is one of the emergency-rescue industry's largest trade shows. Spartan Chassis will host a brief media conference on Friday, August 24, at 11 a.m.

"The addition of the Furion completes our line up of custom cabs and chassis," said Richard Schalter, president of Spartan Chassis. "Between the Gladiator(TM), Metro Star(R) and Furion, we offer departments the opportunity to build what they want -- and get what they want.

"Spartan Chassis offers the next generation of custom by offering more than 5,000 options. Because of Spartan's flexible design capability we can meet the specific needs -- and budgets - of fire departments from coast to coast."

Unlike its commercial counterparts, which might wind up as a delivery or moving truck, the Furion is a purpose-built cab-and-chassis specifically designed for the emergency-rescue industry. When a Furion rolls off the Spartan Chassis line, it is ready for an apparatus to be fitted, which will save the body builder hours of time and labor in chassis preparation currently required on commercial chassis.

"The Furion is a major initiative for Spartan Chassis and Spartan Motors and marks our entry into the customized commercial chassis market," said John Sztykiel, president and CEO of Spartan Motors. "Historically, we have been very good at converting commercial markets to custom. Over the years, we have secured increasingly large shares in our key markets.

"The Spartan Chassis brand has tremendous cache. We feel this is an excellent time to launch the Furion, which will put the power and performance of a Spartan Chassis into the affordable range for virtually all fire departments."

The Furion features:

-- A 94-inch galvanized steel cab designed for safety, roominess and maneuverability
-- Plenty of room for six crew members and equipment
-- Cab-over-engine design, which allows for greater visibility and maneuverability
-- Advanced electrical system, featuring an under-dash heating and air conditioning system


In crash tests conducted by the Center for Advanced Product Evaluation, the Furion cab complied with roof strength, occupant protection and frontal impact requirements as defined by SAE J2422, ECE R29 and SAE J2420.

"The Furion fills a niche in our product line by removing the price barrier and providing a rugged, dependable and performance-oriented Spartan at a price that is within reach of commercial products," Schalter said.

During IAFC, show goers will be able to do side-by-side comparisons with Spartan's Gladiator and Metro Star products. The Gladiator starts with a base cab width of 96 inches and the Metro Star starts with a base cab width of 94 inches. Both offer more standard features and option packages than the Furion, and both can be customized to meet the specific needs of any department. The Gladiator is selected by fire departments that are looking for engine horsepower above 425.

About Spartan Chassis, Inc.

Spartan Chassis, Inc., a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. (NASDAQ:SPAR) , is a leading developer and manufacturer of custom chassis for recreational vehicles, fire trucks and specialty vehicles. Spartan Motors, which also manufactures emergency rescue vehicles under the brand names of Crimson Fire, Crimson Fire Aerials and Road Rescue, reported sales of $445 million in 2006 and is focused on becoming the premier manufacturer of specialty vehicles and chassis in North America.

Source: Spartan Motors, Inc.

Engine experts have dreamt about it, talked about it and lectured about it, and today – for the first time – General Motors is letting outside parties drive the “most awaited advanced combustion technology” of the past 30 years.

GM demonstrated the combustion process, known formally as homogeneous charge compression ignition, or HCCI, for the first time in two driveable concept vehicles, a 2007 Saturn Aura and Opel Vectra. When combined with the enabling advanced technologies such as direct injection, electric cam phasing, variable valve lift and cylinder pressure sensing, HCCI provides up to a 15-percent fuel savings, while meeting current emissions standards.



“I remember debating the limits of combustion capability when I was in college,” said Tom Stephens, group vice president, GM Powertrain and Quality. “HCCI was just a dream then. Today, using math-based predictive analysis and other tools, we are beginning to see how we can make this technology real. By combining HCCI with other advanced gasoline engine and control technologies we can deliver a good fuel savings value for consumers.

In an integrated engine concept, HCCI, along with other enabling advanced technologies, approaches the engine efficiency benefit of a diesel, but without the need for expensive lean NOx after-treatment systems. Its efficiency comes from burning fuel at lower temperatures and reducing the heat energy lost during the combustion process. Consequently, less carbon dioxide is released because the vehicle’s operation in HCCI mode is more efficient.

The HCCI-powered concept vehicles – a production-based Saturn Aura and the Opel Vectra, both with a modified 2.2L Ecotec four-cylinder engine – drive like conventionally powered vehicles, but offer up to 15 percent improved fuel efficiency relative to a comparable port fuel-injected engine. (This fuel efficiency improvement will vary depending on the vehicle application and the customer driving cycle.) The driveable concept vehicles represent some of the first tangible demonstrations of HCCI technology outside of the laboratory.

“I am pleased with our engineering team’s progress,” said Stephens. “It is another initiative in GM’s advanced propulsion technology strategy to lessen our dependence on oil. HCCI, direct-injection and variable valve timing and lift all help improve the fuel economy and performance of our internal
combustion engines. I am confident that HCCI will one day have a place within our portfolio of future fuel-saving technologies.”

Highlights of HCCI technology include:

* Diesel-like engine efficiency with substantially reduced after-treatment cost
* Builds off proven gasoline direct-injection and variable valve actuation technologies
* Adaptable to conventional gasoline engine architectures
* Requires only conventional automotive exhaust after-treatment
* Compatible with all commercially available gasoline and E85 ethanol fuels.

How HCCI works

An HCCI engine ignites a mixture of fuel and air by compressing it in the cylinder. Unlike a spark ignition gas engine or diesel engine, HCCI produces a low-temperature, flameless release of energy throughout the entire combustion chamber. All of the fuel in the chamber is burned simultaneously. This produces power similar to today’s conventional gas engines, but uses less fuel to do it. Heat is a necessary enabler for the HCCI process, so a traditional spark ignition is used when the engine is started cold to generate heat within the cylinders and quickly heat up the exhaust catalyst and enable
HCCI operation. During HCCI mode, the mixture’s dilution is comparatively lean, meaning there is a larger percentage of air in the mixture. The lean operation of HCCI helps the engine approach the efficiency of a diesel, but it requires only a conventional automotive exhaust after-treatment. Diesel engines require more elaborate and more expensive after-treatment to reduce emissions.

HCCI builds on the integration of other advanced engine technologies – some of which are already in production and can be adapted to existing gas engines. The cylinder compression ratio is similar to a conventional direct-injected gas engine and is compatible with all commercially available gasoline and E85 fuels.

The prototype vehicles

GM demonstrated the adaptation of the HCCI technology in driveable concept vehicles based on conventional, production-based products like the Saturn Aura and Opel Vectra. The Aura features an automatic transmission; the Vectra, which is aimed at the European market, has a manual transmission. Both vehicles are powered by a 2.2-liter Ecotec engine (180 horsepower [134 kW] and 170 lb.-ft [230 Nm] of torque) that features a central direct-injection system, with variable valve lift on both the intake and exhaust sides, dual electric camshaft phasers and individual cylinder pressure transducers to control the combustion as well as deliver a smooth transition between combustion modes.

A sophisticated controller, using cylinder pressure sensors and GM-developed control algorithms, manages the HCCI combustion process, as well as the transition between HCCI combustion and conventional spark-ignition combustion. The transition between the combustion processes is notable in the demonstration prototypes, but production versions are intended to deliver an imperceptible transition while driving, similar to the deactivation performance of GM’s Active Fuel Management system.

Currently, the GM demonstration prototypes can operate on HCCI up to approximately 55 mph, transitioning to spark ignition at higher vehicle speeds and during heavy engine load. An extended range for HCCI operation is intended as further refinements to the control system and engine hardware are made. “Perhaps the biggest challenge of HCCI is controlling the combustion process,” said Prof. Dr. Uwe Grebe, executive director for GM Powertrain Advanced Engineering. “With spark ignition, you can adjust the timing and intensity of the spark, but with HCCI’s flameless combustion, you need to change the mixture composition and temperature in a complex and timely manner to achieve comparable performance.”

GM’s global HCCI team will continue to refine the technology in the wide range of driving conditions experienced around the globe, from extreme heat and cold to the thin air effects of driving at high altitude. “Although our development costs for HCCI have been substantial, we have made tremendous strides in bringing this most awaited combustion technology out of the lab and onto the test track with the Saturn Aura and Opel Vectra vehicles. Additional development costs, including research and testing programs, are required to make the technology ready for the great variety of driving conditions that customers experience,” said Prof. Grebe.

# # #

Source: GM Powertrain Communications

Atmel(R) Corporation (NASDAQ:ATML) announced today the availability of its new ATA6836 low-cost half-bridge driver IC. As a result of the device's high voltage capability (up to 40V), the ATA6836 can be used in both passenger car applications (e.g., flap control of air condition systems) and in 24V truck applications. The ATA6836 is manufactured using Atmel's high-voltage 0.8 um BCD-on-SOI technology (SMARTISTM) and incorporates a broad range of protection features. This manufacturing technology also enables the use of much smaller lower-cost QFN packages, which reduces the cost of automotive comfort applications.

In contrast to standard BCDMOS bulk technology, Atmel's innovative SMARTIS technology uses an SOI (Silicon-On-Insulator) substrate. Due to the SOI technology's dielectric isolation, junction leakage, a major issue in high-temperature designs, is minimized. Furthermore, SOI devices provide superior latch-up immunity leading to increased circuit reliability.



The ATA6836 is a fully protected hex half-bridge driver with integrated power stages. Each of the six high-side and low-side drivers is capable of driving currents up to 650 mA via a microcontroller, e.g., Atmel's automotive-qualified microcontroller ATmega88. Customers' assembly efforts are substantially reduced as external clamping diodes are not needed due to the half-bridge configuration.

One of the main applications of the ATA6836 is the actuation of three fully independent DC motors in three H-bridges. The ATA6836 also supports the operation of up to five DC motors sharing four common lines, as long as the motors are not all actuated at the same time. This configuration can be used, for example, in automotive air conditioning systems, where five air-flow control flaps can be operated from one ATA6836. Software can be used to avoid the simultaneous actuation of the DC motors. In addition, the half-bridge configuration also enables the operation of six different resistive or inductive loads.

The ATA6836 provides several protection features such as overtemperature warning and shutdown, overload, overvoltage protection, and full protection against short-circuits. The SPI output register contains a number of diagnostic bits, which can be read by the microcontroller. In the event of undervoltage at the supply pin, the power-supply fail bit in the output register is set and all outputs are disabled. If the overtemperature pre-warning bit is set, software routines to decrease the power dissipation and temperature can be implemented. Temperature increases beyond a certain level can force the IC to shut down to prevent destruction.

The ATA6836 features 4 kV ESD protection, which provides maximum safety against damage during assembly. The device also meets the strict automotive qualification demands (protection against conducted interference, EMC, and ESD protection) and can withstand transients as specified in ISO/TR 7637.

Availability and Pricing

Samples of the ATA6836 driver IC are available now in Pb-free QFN24 packages, measuring only 5 mm x 5 mm. Customers using the predecessor version, T6816, can easily switch to the SO28 package to accommodate new designs. For applications with more powerful DC motors, Atmel offers the high-power version ATA6838 with 1.5A output stages. All other features are identical to the ATA6836. Pricing starts at US $2.00 for the ATA6836 and at US $2.10 for the ATA6838 for 10k-piece quantities each. An application board for development support can be ordered for US $130.

Footnote
BCDMOS = Mixed-signal technology with Bipolar, CMOS and DMOS components
DC = Direct Current
EMC = Electro Magnetic Compatibility
ESD = Electronic Static Discharge
QFN = Quad Flat No Leads
SOI = Silicon On Insulator technology
SPI = Serial Peripheral Interface

About Atmel

Atmel is a worldwide leader in the design and manufacture of microcontrollers, advanced logic, mixed-signal, nonvolatile memory and radio frequency (RF) components. Leveraging one of the industry's broadest intellectual property (IP) technology portfolios, Atmel is able to provide the electronics industry with complete system solutions focused on consumer, industrial, security, communications, computing and automotive markets.

(C) 2007 Atmel Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Atmel(R), logo and combinations thereof, and others are registered trademarks, SMARTIS(TM) and others are trademarks of Atmel Corporation or its subsidiaries. Other terms and product names may be trademarks of others.

Information

Product information on Atmel's new hex half-bridge driver IC ATA6836 may be retrieved at:
http://www.atmel.com/dyn/products/product_card.asp?part_id=4194

Automotive Sensors: Frost & Sullivan to Host Quarterly Analyst Briefing on the Automotive Sensor Market on 11 July 2007

Frost & Sullivan will host a conference call on Wednesday 11 July 2007 at 15.00 BST to provide industry participants with an overview of the recently published study focusing on Automotive Sensors in the European market.

In Europe, automotive sensors are a dynamic market driven by the increasing number of electronic modules controlling various applications such as powertrain, chassis, comfort and safety. The sensors covered by the study include pressure, position and temperature sensors.

Highlights of the briefing will include: market drivers, restraints and challenges for automotive sensor applications; the impact of emissions regulations and their implications for sensor suppliers; and identifying key growth applications.

Read free strategic insights at:
http://www.automotive.frost.com

This briefing will benefit vehicle manufacturers, as well as tier 1, tier 2 and other OE suppliers supplying the European region, with an interest in current and future trends in the automotive sensor market. As the use of electronic control units is on the rise and these have substantial sensing requirements, we will explore the key application areas for sensors during this briefing.

"Regulations to reduce CO2 emissions, in combination with legislative recommendations to provide TPMS and gear-shift indicators as standard, are driving the market for position and pressure sensors. Growth in the European sensor market is expected to be driven by technology trends in applications rather than by technology advancements in sensor components themselves," says Roshan Gowri D, Research Analyst for Frost & Sullivan's Automotive & Transportation group.

Frost & Sullivan will hold this conference call at 15.00 BST on Wednesday 11 July 2007, which will provide industry participants with an outlook on the Automotive Sensor Market. To participate, please e-mail Michael Banks at michael.banks@frost.com with the following information: your full name, company name, title, telephone number, e-mail address, city, state and country. Upon receipt of the above information, a registration link will be e-mailed to you. Additionally, a recorded version of the briefing will be accessible to anyone at any time for three months following the live briefing date.

Frost & Sullivan, a global growth consulting company, has been partnering with clients to support the development of innovative strategies for more than 40 years. The company's industry expertise integrates growth consulting, growth partnership services, and corporate management training to identify and develop opportunities. Frost & Sullivan serves an extensive clientele that includes Global 1000 companies, emerging companies, and the investment community by providing comprehensive industry coverage that reflects a unique global perspective and combines ongoing analysis of markets, technologies, econometrics, and demographics.

For more information, visit http://www.frost.com

Source: Frost & Sullivan
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Changzhou National Hi- Tech District (CND) announced today that on June 19, Japanese Denso Corporation, one of the world's top 500 enterprises, established the solely- funded Denso (Changzhou) Fuel Injection System Co., Ltd. in the Changzhou High-tech Zone, Jiangsu Province. The Company's business license has also been granted, with the event being reported by many Japanese media including Nikkei Business Publications and Jiji Press.

With a total investment of US$58.4 million, and a registered capital of US$25.4 million, this project will mainly focus on production of the common rail fuel injection systems for heavy-duty diesel engines. This system can inject diesel into cylinders under high pressure to increase the vehicle's mileage and to help reduce emissions and noise levels. Currently, nearly all the diesel engines in China adopt the standard pump to transmit fuel to cylinders.

The local production of the common rail fuel injection system will meet the Chinese customers' need to reduce costs and lower pollution levels. The construction of the new company is scheduled to be started in October 2007, and is expected to be completed in August 2008. Operations at the new venture are expected to commence in July 2009, and the yearly sales volume is expected to reach US$150 million by 2012.

Denso Corporation is the biggest automotive components & parts manufacturer in Japan, and is also the third biggest in the world, ranking 207 among the top 500 enterprises in the world. Originally an enterprise under Toyota Group, it produces parts and components for many well-known automakers like Toyota, Honda, and Germany's Volkswagen, with yearly sales reaching US$20 billion. Having established manufacturing bases in 60 countries and regions, this corporation established Denso (China) Investment Co., Ltd. in February 2003. It has set up branch companies in Tianjin, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, and at the same time has built 22 manufacturing enterprises in cities including Tianjin, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Yantai, Chongqing, Dongguan, Wuxi, Foshan, and Kunshan. Consequently, it has already accumulated a rich experience in investing in China.

The new company, established in Changzhou by Denso Corporation, is its fourth important manufacturing base of the common rail system. Previously, Denso had set up three bases to produce the common rail system in Japan, Hungry, and Thailand, respectively. Up to now, 20 of the world's top 500 enterprises have made investments and built 23 plants in the Changzhou High- tech Zone.

Source: Changzhou National Hi-Tech District

Global automotive supplier Visteon Corporation (NYSE:VC) has begun building a manufacturing and assembly facility in Eureka, Mo., to support new business in North America with automakers including Chrysler Group. The plant is expected to begin production in the summer of 2008 and employ about 200 people by early 2009.

Visteon officially launched the project today in a ceremony at the plant site in Eureka Commercial Park, located along I-44 about 20 miles southwest of St. Louis. The event was attended by representatives of Visteon, the City of Eureka, the St. Louis County Economic Council and the St. Louis Regional Chamber and Growth Association.

The Visteon plant initially will supply door panels, consoles and cockpits to Chrysler Group's St. Louis North Assembly Plant.

Visteon President and Chief Operating Officer Donald J. Stebbins said the new plant supports Visteon's three-year plan to restructure, improve base operations and grow the business.

"Our significant business growth requires us to add strategic manufacturing capacity, and we're pleased to be creating new jobs in Missouri," Stebbins said. "This project demonstrates the confidence our customers are placing in Visteon to meet their quality, delivery and cost requirements for vehicle systems."

The new Missouri facility will use innovative manufacturing processes designed to deliver interior products for in-sequence, just-in-time installation in vehicles. Visteon's products and production processes are designed to reduce tooling costs, cycle time and scrap, while promoting recyclability.

Julie Fream, vice president of Visteon's North America customer groups, commended the efforts of state, regional and local officials in helping Visteon select the site. Visteon received property tax abatements, payroll tax incentives and training grants for the new facility.

"We are very appreciative of the assistance and support received from the Missouri Department of Economic Development, the St. Louis County Economic Council and the St. Louis Regional Chamber and Growth Association," Fream said.

"Business growth is a key component of Visteon's improvement plan," she added. "Through the commitment of our employees and the cooperation of state and local governments, this will be a cost-competitive manufacturing operation that will effectively serve our customers, while creating opportunities for our employees and the local community."

Eureka Mayor Kevin M. Coffey welcomed Visteon's decision to build in the community. "We are pleased to have a global company of Visteon's caliber choose our community for its new manufacturing plant, and we look forward to the new jobs and economic stimulus that this new facility will generate," Coffey said.

St. Louis County Executive Charlie A. Dooley said: "I am extremely pleased to welcome Visteon Corporation to St. Louis County. This commitment to our community is exciting and welcome news."

Visteon Corporation is a leading global automotive supplier that designs, engineers and manufactures innovative climate, interior, electronic and lighting products for vehicle manufacturers, and also provides a range of products and services to aftermarket customers. With corporate offices in Van Buren Township, Mich. (U.S.); Shanghai, China; and Kerpen, Germany; the company has facilities in 26 countries and employs approximately 45,000 people.


Source: Visteon Corporation

Harbin Electric, Inc. (NASDAQ:HRBN) a developer and manufacturer of customized linear motors and other special electric motors, today announced that its has entered into a definitive asset purchase agreement to acquire all of the non cash assets of Harbin Taifu Auto Electric Co., Ltd. ("Taifu Auto"). As consideration for the assets to be acquired, Taifu Auto will receive $4 million in cash and 473,354 shares of the Company's common stock. Based on the closing price of Harbin's common stock on Friday, June 15, 2007 of $14.67, the transaction would be valued at approximately $10,944,000, which is within the limitations established by the Company's indenture relating to its senior secured floating rate notes.

Based in Harbin, China, Harbin Taifu Auto Electric Co. Ltd. is a manufacturer of electric motors for various automobile applications. Taifu Auto products are used in applications such as power seat adjusters, electronic sliding doors and the company is testing motors for power steering applications. Taifu Auto holds patents in the PRC for Direct Current Motor for Automobile Seats and for Electromotor for Automobile Electric Aid Steering System. Its current production facility has capacity to produce 2,400,000 motor units annually and is based Harbin China. These production lines will operate continually in Harbin and then later be integrated into Harbin Electric's new Shanghai motor production plant facility. The Shanghai facility is expected to be completed during the fourth quarter of 2007.



Harbin Taifu Auto Electric Co. Ltd. is 98% owned by a separate company controlled by Harbin Electric Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Tianfu Yang. As a related party transaction, Harbin Electric's Board of Directors established an independent committee to evaluate the Taifu Auto acquisition and engaged a globally recognized financial advisor to provide a fairness opinion on the acquisition. This related party affiliation has been reported in past company financial documents filed with the SEC, including the company's indenture agreement filed on August 31, 2006. Harbin Electric expects to close the acquisition within the next three weeks. The Company expects the acquisition to be accretive to earnings immediately upon closing and believes Taifu Auto will add approximately $4.5 million in sales and contribute approximately $1.3 million in net profit for the second half of fiscal 2007.

"We are happy that the independent committee of the Harbin Electric Board of Directors has undertaken the proper methods to evaluate and consider this transaction," stated Barry L. Raeburn, Head of US Operations for Harbin Electric Inc. "Taifu Auto is becoming a leading supplier in China's automotive industry and this acquisition will enhance our automotive product platform in China and abroad, in our view. In addition to our recently announced North American customer, this acquisition provides us with an established production base and a highly regarded group of customers that will help to position our business for continued expansion in the years ahead."

Tianfu Yang, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Harbin Electric stated, "This acquisition is central to our growth plans in the automotive business and has been disclosed and contemplated since company's Indenture agreement of August 31, 2006. We welcome Taifu Auto to our growing business operations and believe that together it will strengthen our presence in the global automotive supply chain. Taifu Auto is experiencing rapid growth and acceptance in the automotive supply base within China and is in discussions with some of the world's top automakers. This will be an exciting addition to Harbin Electric's growth, recognition and expansion in the international markets."

About Harbin Electric, Inc.

Harbin Electric, Inc. designs, develops and manufactures linear motors and special electric motors. With proprietary technology and core patents, the Company builds a wide array of customized linear motors and other special motor for a variety of applications and industries. The Company currently designs and supplies its motor products and systems to numerous end users throughout the Chinese domestic market, as well as, to other industrial OEM customers overseas. Industry applications for linear motors include oilfield services, conveyor systems, factory automation, packaging equipment, as well as mass transportation systems. The Company is based in Harbin, China along with its wholly owned subsidiaries. The Company has approximately 270 employees with approximately 270,000 square feet of state-of-the-art manufacturing space. For further information, please see our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission ( http://www.sec.gov/ ).

Safe Harbor Statement

The actual results of Harbin Electric, Inc. could differ materially from those described in this press release. Detailed information regarding factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied by statements in this press release may be found in the Company's periodic filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including the factors described in the section entitled "Risk Factors" in its annual report on Form 10-QSB for the quarter ended March 31, 2007. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this press release. This press release contains forward-looking information about the Company that is intended to be covered by the safe harbor for forward-looking statements provided by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. These statements can be identified by the use of forward- looking terminology such as "believe," "expect," "may," "will," "should," "project," "plan," "seek," "intend," or "anticipate" or the negative thereof or comparable terminology, and include discussions of strategy, and statements about industry trends and the Company's future performance, operations and products.

Source: Harbin Electric, Inc.

Wide Range of Customers Attends Aluminium Innovation Event

SIERRE, Switzerland, June 18/PRNewswire/ -- They may come from very different sectors, but executives attending the Novelis Europe Innovation Days event on June 12 and 13 had one thing in common: the desire to see first-hand how the world's largest aluminium rolled products company can help create value for them through innovation and materials expertise.

Hosted by the Automotive, Painted and Specialities division of Novelis Europe at the company's rolling mill in Sierre, Switzerland, the event demonstrated how Novelis Fusion(TM) technology, Novelis paint systems and other aluminium rolled products can help improve or create the next generation of high-performance aluminium solutions.

Representatives from companies in the automotive, building and engineering sectors attended sessions on a range of topics including:

- Novelis Fusion(TM) technology - recent applications and new product offerings (including brazing and automotive sheet); global production capabilities
- Automotive - new surface treatments for bonding of structural components
- Painted - latest innovations such as Stainless Color, Luminous Color, and nano-technology for painted surfaces
- Industrial and Specialities - new bright surface developments and product ideas for anodising applications
- Laser blanking capabilities for automotive sheet

Feedback was very positive. Walter Pacher, managing director of Prefa, one of Europe's leading manufacturers and marketers of aluminium roofing, said: "Novelis has developed a reputation for bringing innovative ideas to the market quickly and this week's event demonstrates that very clearly."

Dr. Ing Bernd Gruenenwald, director Material and Joining Technology, Behr GmbH & Co. KG, Stuttgart, the globally-respected manufacturer of automotive air conditioning and engine cooling systems, added: "I am particularly excited by the huge potential offered by Novelis Fusion(TM), which opens up many possibilities for heat exchanger products tailored to our precise needs."

Arnaud de Weert, president of Novelis Europe said: "This event is all about value: creating value for our customers and creating value for Novelis by being the first to bring breakthrough solutions to the market. We are delighted by the response and look forward to our next innovation event."

About Novelis Fusion(TM)

The commercial introduction of Novelis Fusion(TM) technology marks the first time in the history of the aluminium industry that different alloys can be cast simultaneously into a single ingot, creating a perfect metallurgical bond between the alloys. Now, alloy combinations that were not feasible with the traditional manufacturing method can be produced with Novelis Fusion. It enables the company to produce sheet with different properties and characteristics on the surface and in its core: for example, a high-strength core with a highly corrosion-resistant surface. This is a significant breakthrough since it will enable new applications and high performance solutions for a whole new generation of innovative products.

Visit http://www.novelis.com/fusion.

About Novelis

Novelis Inc. is the global leader in aluminium rolled products and aluminium can recycling. The company operates in 11 countries, has approximately 12,900 employees and reported revenue of US$9.8 billion in 2006. Novelis supplies premium aluminium sheet and foil products to automotive, transportation, packaging, construction, industrial and printing markets throughout Asia, Europe, North America and South America. Novelis is a subsidiary of Hindalco Industries Limited, Asia's largest integrated producer of aluminium and a leading copper producer. Hindalco is the flagship company of the Aditya Birla Group, a multinational conglomerate based in Mumbai, India.

Web site: http://www.novelis.com


Source: Novelis Inc.
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St. Louis area media are invited to join global automotive supplier Visteon Corporation -- along with local and regional government officials - in a ceremony at 10 a.m. CDT Wednesday, June 20, in Eureka Commercial Park, marking the start of construction of a Visteon manufacturing facility that will bring new jobs to Eureka, Missouri.

Officials from the St. Louis County Economic Council, St. Louis Regional Chamber and Growth Association and the City of Eureka are expected to join representatives of Visteon and ARCO Construction at the plant site, located at 101 Workman Court along I-44, near Six Flags St. Louis.

Julie Fream, a Visteon vice president, will discuss Visteon's plans, timetable and employment projections for the plant. The event will include an opportunity for photos of one of the first walls of the facility being "tilted" into place.

Visteon Corporation is a leading global automotive supplier that designs, engineers and manufactures innovative climate, interior, electronic and lighting products for vehicle manufacturers, and also provides a range of products and services to aftermarket customers. With corporate offices in Van Buren Township, Mich. (U.S.); Shanghai, China; and Kerpen, Germany; the company has facilities in 26 countries and employs approximately 45,000 people.

Visteon product specification details are available at www.visteon.com


Source: Visteon Corporation

AK Steel (NYSE:AKS) said today that it will increase transaction base prices by 10% to 16% for stainless steel alloys used primarily in automotive exhaust applications, effective with shipments on July 1, 2007.

The transaction price will increase by 10%, or $120 per ton, for Type 409, and by 10%, or $180 per ton, for Type 439. Transaction prices will also increase by 10% for Type 409 Ni, Aluminized 409 and Aluminized 439. Due to recent increases in the cost of columbium (also known as niobium), transaction base prices for 18 Cr-Cb(TM), 15 Cr-Cb(TM) and 410 Cb will increase by approximately 16%.

The company said that all of its existing raw material surcharges will remain in effect. Surcharges are posted monthly on the company's web site at www.aksteel.com

Headquartered in Middletown, Ohio, AK Steel produces flat-rolled carbon, stainless and electrical steel products, as well as carbon and stainless tubular steel products, for automotive, appliance, construction and manufacturing markets.

Source: AK Steel Corporation

Chrome Systems Inc., an industry leader in collecting, enhancing, and distributing best-in-class automotive data, today announces the offering of enhanced eVox static image packages and multiple angle eVox vehicle color profiles. The new eVox image packages meet the demand of the marketplace for a set of five comprehensive images of a vehicle that include: 3/4 front, 3/4 back, side, interior and mechanical views. The enhanced color profiles allow online consumers to view a vehicle in different colors not only with a side view, but now with a 3/4 front view and a 3/4 back view.

The new eVox offerings complement and complete Chrome's current arsenal of vehicle imagery (also produced by eVox Productions) which includes 360-degree vehicle spins, movies of interiors and exteriors, zoom views, and detailed vehicles stills. The image libraries can be used alone or integrated with Chrome's comprehensive vehicle data to provide consumers with the information and knowledge they need when considering a vehicle purchase.

"The new eVox image packages and color profiles give our customers even more flexibility for their products with proven high yield ROI. The eVox images deliver high quality, value and coverage and form the bedrock of any execution where vehicle images are required," says Scott Haugen, National Sales Director for Chrome Systems.

"As shown in many recent market surveys, images, spins and movies of a vehicle make the online comparison and buying experience faster and more pleasing to the consumer, and we're happy to be able to provide industry- leading images," says Stephen Hearn, eVox Vice President of Sales & Distribution. "Our relationship with Chrome is so valuable because it means we can provide a fully integrated and 'single-sourced' option for many automotive dealerships and portal operations."

About eVox Productions LLC (www.evox.com)

eVox provides the complete creative solution for high quality automotive images and other visual assets. The most extensive library of stock automotive images, videos and 360-degree spins, specifically developed for the automobile marketplace, is continuously created in-studio by a team of expert automotive photographers and post-production specialists.

About Chrome (www.chrome.com)

Chrome provides vehicle content, software, technology and services to deliver complete enterprise solutions to all segments of the automotive retail industry. These segments include manufacturers, fleet companies, dealers, Internet sites, and financial institutions. Chrome pioneered the technology behind electronic vehicle configuration with the introduction of PC Carbook(R), and since 1986 has collected, analyzed and enhanced "raw" automotive data from all manufacturers. Chrome Systems Inc. is a subsidiary of DealerTrack Data Services, Inc., a DealerTrack Holdings, Inc. company (NASDAQ: TRAK) .

Safe Harbor for Forward-Looking and Cautionary Statements

Statements in this press release regarding Chrome's distribution of enhanced eVox static image packages, the benefits of such packabes and all other statements in this release other than the recitation of historical facts are forward-looking statements (as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995). These statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements of DealerTrack Holdings, Inc. to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements.

Factors that might cause such a difference include: Chrome's success in expanding its customer base and product and service offerings; and other risks listed in DealerTrack's reports filed with the SEC, including DealerTrack's 2006 Form 10-K.

These filings can be found on DealerTrack's website at www.dealertrack.com and the SEC's website at www.sec.gov

Forward-looking statements included herein speak only as of the date hereof and the DealerTrack disclaims any obligation to revise or update such statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events or circumstances.



Source: Chrome Systems Inc.

East Meets in the West - Hollywood, CA - Aug. 5-8

The engineering stars of cars will converge on Hollywood to promote automotive engineering development worldwide during the 14th Asia Pacific Automotive Engineering Conference (APAC), Aug 5-8, at the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel.

SAE International will host this shared event, with patronage by the International Federation of Automotive Engineering Societies (FISITA), to bring together experts in the industry to address issues the world is talking about :

-- Dr. Chris Borroni-Bird, Director of Advanced Technology Vehicle Concepts for General Motors Corporation, will discuss "Reinvention of the Automobile." Borroni-Bird is one of the world's leading fuel-cell experts.
-- Graham R. Napier, President and Chief Executive Officer of TradeBeam, will lead a panel discussion focusing on multi-national sourcing and global trade management.
-- Ward Atkinson, President of Sun Test Engineering, heads a panel on government and industry cooperation in development of the next generation of refrigerants, highlighting technical and policy developments from Japan, Europe and North America.


The event is organized by the APAC member societies, including SAE International; The Korean Society of Automotive Engineers; Society of Automotive Engineers-Australasia; Society of Automotive Engineers of China; SAE India; SAE Indonesia; Iran Society of Automotive Engineering; Society of Automotive Engineers of Japan; The Institute of Automotive Engineers-Sri Lanka; Society of Automotive Engineers of Thailand and the Vietnamese Society of Automotive Engineers. The conference's General Chairman is Dr. James Smith, Director of the Center for Industrial Research of Applied Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at West Virginia University.

For more information on APAC-14, please visit http://www.sae.org/events/apac/

Source: SAE International
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While the European market for belt and chain drives is mature, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are continuing to focus on improving the design and the performance of their products. Retrofitting of parts as well as maintenance and servicing operations are likely to generate business, particularly in regions showing signs of market saturation.

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan (http://www.industrailautomation.frost.com), European Belts and Chain Drives in the Industrial Automation Sector, finds that the belts and chain drives markets in Europe earned revenues of $1058.6 million in 2006 and estimates this to reach $1100.5 in 2013.

If you are interested in a virtual brochure, which provides manufacturers, end users, and other industry participants with an overview of the latest analysis of the European Belts and Chain Drives in the Industrial Automation Sector, send an e-mail to Joanna Lewandowska, Corporate Communications, at joanna.lewandowska@frost.com with your full name, company name, title, telephone number, e-mail address, city, state, and country. We will send you the information by email upon receipt of the above information.

"The belt and chain drives market in the industrial automation sector in Europe is being driven primarily by the end users' need for increased accuracy in motion control," Frost & Sullivan Research Analyst Satheesh Natarajan. "In addition, retrofitting of existing units and inadequate maintenance is likely to sustain after sales market."

End users are looking at ways to increase their manufacturing efficiency and productivity while maintaining low costs and are thus switching to synchronous belt drives. These belt drives allow better motion control and also increase productivity by synchronising different plant functions. The concept is popular in processing plants where the final product is a result of several progressive steps. A good example is the mixing of chemicals for pesticides.

In the context of retrofitting, as most of the end users do not follow the recommended operation and maintenance instructions that are provided by manufacturers, the life of belt and chain drives is reduced. Failure to keep a proper maintenance schedule is thus resulting in greater wear on the belt and chain drives. Accordingly, an increase in unit shipment and revenues is expected.

While the above trends augur well, the absence of advanced technology is affecting the market. With the market being mature, there is little potential for expansion and manufacturers are finding it difficult to increase their market share.

"Competing for the existing customer base offers the only possibility for growth, apart from the few opportunities to focus on sophisticated technology such as direct drives," explains Natarajan. "However, manufacturers are experiencing challenges in penetrating and establishing themselves in these niche markets."

The reduction in the price of direct drives is making the market more competitive for belt and chain drives. Moreover, the manufacturers of variable-speed drives are more affected by this restraint than those producing V-belt and flat belt drives.

European Belts and Chain Drives in the Industrial Automation Sector is part of the Power Transmission Growth Partnership Service, which also includes research on European belt and chain drive components market. All research included in subscriptions provide detailed market opportunities and industry trends that have been evaluated following extensive interviews with market participants.

Frost & Sullivan, a global growth consulting company, has been partnering with clients to support the development of innovative strategies for more than 40 years. The company's industry expertise integrates growth consulting, growth partnership services, and corporate management training to identify and develop opportunities. Frost & Sullivan serves an extensive clientele that includes Global 1000 companies, emerging companies, and the investment community by providing comprehensive industry coverage that reflects a unique global perspective and combines ongoing analysis of markets, technologies, econometrics, and demographics.

For more information, visit http://www.frost.com

Source: Frost & Sullivan

According to research conducted by the Information Technology Committee of CIC, repairers spend an average of 21 minutes per estimate re-keying insurer-written sheets into their systems. To address this issue and to help repairers reclaim some of the $17.6M that CIC estimates is lost annually to the manual re-keying process CCC has introduced its enhanced Auto Workfile Entry (AWE) solution. CCC is a leading provider of information technology to the auto-claims industry.

Integrated into CCC Pathways(R) Estimating Solution version 4.4, the AWE tool will help repairers looking to quickly take insurer-written estimates and put them into an electronic format in order to set the repair process in motion. According to Chris Abraham, Operations Account Manager, Service King, CCC's AWE functionality is saving his staff three-to-four hours a day at each location using the feature.

"Repairers now assume more of the administrative workload associated with claims management, which can mean fewer hours spent repairing vehicles," continued Abraham. "CCC's enhanced AWE tool allows us to reclaim some of that lost time. By eliminating the need to re-key estimates we reduce the chances for human error and are able to get the repair started more quickly, helping us to better serve our customers."

CCC offers the ultimate in flexibility when it comes to AWE. For shops that have an EZNet(R) connection, repairers can now electronically download a replica of the CCC Pathways staff estimate using the unique reference identification number now given to each estimate. Introduced previously, CCC Pathways users can also electronically transfer estimates using email, CDs or a flash drive.

"CCC is constantly looking for ways to help repair facilities improve productivity and reduce cycle time," said Jim Dickens, Senior Vice President, CCC Information Services Inc. "The Auto Workfile Entry tool is a simple solution to an ongoing challenge repairer's face. By automating the transfer of estimate data, repairers can get on with the business of repairing vehicles, while minimizing hours of clerical time."

About CCC

CCC Information Services Inc. provides leading automotive claims and repair solutions that drive efficiencies and enable its clients to make smarter decisions in every step of the process. CCC delivers integrated products and deep industry insight to clients through its network of insurers, repair facilities and information providers. CCC's network includes 350 insurance carriers, in excess of 22,000 repair facilities and information from more than 30 data providers that has resulted in the industry's most comprehensive data warehouse of claims file information.

For more information about CCC Information Services Inc., visit our Web site at http://www.cccis.com/

Source: CCC Information Services Inc.
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The Association of International Automobile Manufacturers, Inc. (AIAM) announced today that Kim Custer will be its new director of communications. Custer, a seasoned corporate communications executive, has extensive automotive industry experience managing public affairs, corporate communications, media relations and crisis management. In his new role at AIAM, Custer will help the organization reach policy makers, industry executives, and consumers with information about the views of member companies on issues important to the motor vehicle industry.

"Our members are at the forefront of the American automotive industry and the economy, and Kim's experience will help us communicate that success," said Michael Stanton, president and chief executive officer of AIAM. "Kim will contribute great depth to both our internal and external communications -- making him an excellent addition to our team."



Prior to joining AIAM, Kim Custer worked with Nanjing Auto Corporation where he implemented a media relations and public affairs plan to support the upcoming re-launch of the MG brand in Europe. For more than 15 years, Custer was in charge of communications for two AIAM members: Kia Motors America and Mitsubishi Motors.

"The AIAM member companies are the best in the business, and it's their proven success creating good jobs, building plants, and increasing their research and development operations in the United States that makes this so important," said Kim. "There are many challenges ahead of us, and I look forward to taking them on."

AIAM member companies have become the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. motor vehicle industry, investing over $35.5 billion in new factories and creating more than 92,500 new, high-paying jobs over the past two decades. AIAM members continue to fuel the growth in the industry with innovative, fuel-efficient vehicles that are in high demand.

About AIAM -- The Association of International Automobile Manufacturers, Inc. (AIAM) is a trade association representing 14 international motor vehicle manufacturers who account for 40 percent of all passenger cars and light trucks sold annually in the United States. AIAM provides members with information, analysis and advocacy on a wide variety of legislative and regulatory issues impacting the auto sector. AIAM is dedicated to the promotion of free trade and to policies that enhance motor vehicle safety and the protection of the environment.

For more information, visit our website at http://www.aiam.org/


Source: Association of International Automobile Manufacturers, Inc.

High Precision Mixed Signal Technology and Multi-site Capability Enable Cost-Effective and Comprehensive Testing from Design through Debug and Production

Credence Systems Corporation (NASDAQ:CMOS) , a leading provider of innovative and cost-effective test solutions from design to production for the worldwide semiconductor industry, today announced that ELMOS, a leading developer and producer of customer-specific system solutions for the automotive sector, has selected its FALCON systems for the testing of semiconductors used in automotive devices through 2010. With the design of automotive semiconductors becoming more cost-sensitive and integral to future success, the Germany-based semiconductor manufacturer will use the FALCON GLX from Credence to achieve industry-leading scalability, cost-performance and flexibility. In evolving its use of Credence's FALCON Piranha systems to include the GLX, ELMOS extends a highly successful customer support relationship and continues to leverage Credence's 20 years experience in automotive device testing. The two companies plan to continue working closely to define future needs.

Electronics innovation is a key market driver in the automotive industry leading to greater electronics device complexity and a resultant increase in the number of sophisticated complex ICs (integrated circuits) required to power diverse functions such as distance control, advanced vehicle safety systems, electronic engine and chassis control, and a host of wireless technologies. Auto makers are required to ensure the performance and durability of electronic systems for exceptionally long periods and demanding not only greater functionality but zero-defect components from semiconductor manufacturers. To meet these evolving requirements, IC manufacturers are combining analog, power and digital cores on single silicon chips while setting unprecedented cost-performance benchmarks, relying on sophisticated test processes such as multi-site and highest-precision mixed signal to accelerate delivery of advanced products at reduced cost.

"Modern system on chip (SoC) devices for the automotive industry require a test system with a wide and flexible instrumentation," said Dr. Anton Mindl, Chief Executive Officer of ELMOS. "Credence's FALCON GLX delivers excellent mixed-signal technology to cover the whole range of diverse testing requirements from design through debug and production. Fast testing speed and excellent multi-site capability, on the other hand, safeguard the cost efficiency needed in the automotive environment."

ELMOS supplies a broad range of semiconductors, partnering closely with its customers from initial concepts through development. ELMOS products are used by nearly all auto manufacturers all over the world to power everything from data transmission and motor control to airbag systems and specialized solutions for high-temperature applications such as an alternator control with Credence testing its entire portfolio. The newly available FALCON GLX from Credence covers ELMOS' broad product range and best meets evolving value requirements with the fastest test speeds and multi-site testing at more than 48 sites.

The latest in Credence's FALCON test series, the FALCON GLX is architected to deliver the sophistication, speed and flexibility needed to satisfy the long-term needs of automobile manufacturers and their IC suppliers. Introduced last year, FALCON GLX introduces a mixed-signal test platform that combines a true per-pin architecture with advanced analog instrumentation to enable extensive multi-site test capabilities. While multi-site testing delivers the higher throughput essential to staying competitive, FALCON's field-proven software and extensive suite of tools deliver the flexibility semiconductor manufacturers need to meet both current and future applications requirements.

"Suppliers of semiconductors for the automotive industry manufacturers are dealing with smaller lot sizes and longer-term lifecycle performance guarantees of ten or even twenty years," says Lavi Lev, Chief Executive Officer of Credence Systems. "Like military and aerospace systems, every aspect of the design, development and production processes must be optimized to ensure predictable performance, reliability, and profitability. ELMOS is setting new standards with its outstanding performance and our goal at Credence, as we continue to work closely with them, is to continue to provide comprehensive coverage of both current and future test requirements for the automotive industry."

About ELMOS

ELMOS is a leading developer and producer of customer-specific system solutions for many years in the automotive sector. Based on the modular high-voltage CMOS technology, a great amount of analog mixed-signal circuitry elements such as voltage regulators, analog/digital converters, power-drives and NVM storage offer a huge range of integration possibilities for customers' ideas. http://www.elmos.de/

About Credence

Credence Systems Corporation is a leading provider of debug, characterization and ATE solutions for the global semiconductor industry. With a commitment to applying innovative technology to lower the cost-of-test, Credence delivers competitive cost and performance advantages to integrated device manufacturers (IDMs), wafer foundries, outsource assembly and test (OSAT) suppliers and fabless chip companies worldwide. A global, ISO 9001-certified company with a presence in 20 countries, Credence is headquartered in Milpitas, California.

More information is available at http://www.credence.com/

Source: Credence Systems Corporation

Republic Engineered Products, Inc., North America's largest producer of special bar quality (SBQ) steel, today announced it has joined a national coalition of automobile manufacturers, steel industry associations and environmental groups to implement the voluntary National Vehicle Mercury Switch Recovery Program (NVMSRP).

The NVMSRP program encourages the removal of mercury switches from scrap automobiles before they are crushed or shredded. Steelmakers such as Republic will strongly encourage their scrap suppliers and others in the scrap supply chain to support and participate in mercury switch removal and collection efforts.

Developed in cooperation with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the NVMSRP program includes involvement from vehicle manufacturers, steelmakers, vehicle dismantlers, vehicle shredders, and the environmental community.

Mercury light switches were used in automobiles for convenience lights (under the hood or in the trunk) and in anti-lock braking systems. Automakers have phased out the use of mercury switches in new vehicles. When retired vehicles are recycled, it is important for vehicle dismantlers to recover and properly dispose of mercury switches.

"Participation in the National Vehicle Mercury Switch Recovery Program is another demonstration of Republic's commitment to environmental protection and this program is a natural fit for us," said Jaime Vigil, president and chief executive officer. "We have integrated these practices into our ISO 14001- certified environmental management system, and we are committed to working with all of the program participants to reach the reduction goals established in the NVMSRP including preventing mercury from entering the environment."

Republic Engineered Products, Inc., is North America's leading supplier of special bar quality (SBQ) steel, a highly engineered product used in axles, drive trains, suspensions and other critical components of automobiles, off- highway vehicles and industrial equipment. With headquarters in Fairlawn, Ohio, the company operates steelmaking centers in Canton and Lorain, Ohio, and value-added rolling and finishing facilities in Canton, Lorain and Massillon, Ohio; Lackawanna, N.Y.; Gary, Ind.; and Hamilton, Ontario. Republic employs approximately 2,500 people.

Source: Republic Engineered Products Inc.

As a gold sponsor of this year's Formula SAE(R) event, Henkel Corporation is creating real-world automotive experiences for university students by donating materials and providing counsel. Henkel also is taking the opportunity to gain feedback from the students about its products before they are brought to market.

For this year's May 16-20 competition, Henkel is sponsoring individual teams by supplying products for University of Guelph, University of Windsor, Cornell University, University of Toledo, University of California Berkeley and Virginia Tech. In addition, Henkel intends to distribute free samples of its industry-leading materials to teams throughout the competition.

"The Formula SAE(R) competition is important to Henkel because it gives us the opportunity to offer design expertise, establish corporate awareness and build strong relationships with students on the brink of their careers," said Dan Wohletz, vice president, automotive North American, Henkel. "The 'next generation of automotive innovators' can practice honing their skills while they test our existing materials and give us honest input for future product direction."

The goal of the Formula SAE(R) competition is to develop high-performance prototype cars that are cost effective, easy to maintain and reliable. In addition, students are encouraged to consider other factors such as aesthetics, comfort and use of common parts.

The Formula SAE(R) competition is for SAE student members to conceive, design, fabricate and compete with small formula-style racing cars. The restrictions on the car frame and engine are limited so that the knowledge, creativity, and imagination of the students are challenged. The cars are built with a team effort over a period of about one year and are taken to the annual competition for judging and comparison with approximately 120 other vehicles from colleges and universities throughout the world. The end result is a great experience for young engineers in a meaningful engineering project as well as the opportunity of working in a dedicated team effort.

Henkel is the market leader in adhesives, sealants and surface treatments to the transportation industry. Backed by extensive design capabilities, a broad product range, specific application knowledge and technical expertise, the company delivers solutions to all segments of automotive development - automotive body, interior, chassis, electronics and powertrain production. Through powerful brands like Loctite(R), Teroson(R), Autophoretic(R), Bonderite(R), Frekote(R) and Multan(TM), Henkel provides significant economic and environmental advantages for today's vehicles, making them safer, more comfortable and extending vehicle value.

"Henkel - A Brand like a Friend." Henkel is a leader with brands and technologies that make people's lives easier, better and more beautiful. Henkel, a Fortune Global 500 company, operates in three strategic business areas - Home Care, Personal Care, and Adhesives, Sealants and Surface Treatment. In fiscal 2006 Henkel generated sales of $16.6 billion. More than 50,000 employees work for Henkel worldwide. People in approximately 125 countries around the world trust in brands and technologies from Henkel.

Source: Henkel Corporation

As a gold sponsor of this year's Formula SAE(R) event, Henkel Corporation is creating real-world automotive experiences for university students by donating materials and providing counsel. Henkel also is taking the opportunity to gain feedback from the students about its products before they are brought to market.

For this year's May 16-20 competition, Henkel is sponsoring individual teams by supplying products for University of Guelph, University of Windsor, Cornell University, University of Toledo, University of California Berkeley and Virginia Tech. In addition, Henkel intends to distribute free samples of its industry-leading materials to teams throughout the competition.

"The Formula SAE(R) competition is important to Henkel because it gives us the opportunity to offer design expertise, establish corporate awareness and build strong relationships with students on the brink of their careers," said Dan Wohletz, vice president, automotive North American, Henkel. "The 'next generation of automotive innovators' can practice honing their skills while they test our existing materials and give us honest input for future product direction."

The goal of the Formula SAE(R) competition is to develop high-performance prototype cars that are cost effective, easy to maintain and reliable. In addition, students are encouraged to consider other factors such as aesthetics, comfort and use of common parts.

The Formula SAE(R) competition is for SAE student members to conceive, design, fabricate and compete with small formula-style racing cars. The restrictions on the car frame and engine are limited so that the knowledge, creativity, and imagination of the students are challenged. The cars are built with a team effort over a period of about one year and are taken to the annual competition for judging and comparison with approximately 120 other vehicles from colleges and universities throughout the world. The end result is a great experience for young engineers in a meaningful engineering project as well as the opportunity of working in a dedicated team effort.

Henkel is the market leader in adhesives, sealants and surface treatments to the transportation industry. Backed by extensive design capabilities, a broad product range, specific application knowledge and technical expertise, the company delivers solutions to all segments of automotive development - automotive body, interior, chassis, electronics and powertrain production. Through powerful brands like Loctite(R), Teroson(R), Autophoretic(R), Bonderite(R), Frekote(R) and Multan(TM), Henkel provides significant economic and environmental advantages for today's vehicles, making them safer, more comfortable and extending vehicle value.

"Henkel - A Brand like a Friend." Henkel is a leader with brands and technologies that make people's lives easier, better and more beautiful. Henkel, a Fortune Global 500 company, operates in three strategic business areas - Home Care, Personal Care, and Adhesives, Sealants and Surface Treatment. In fiscal 2006 Henkel generated sales of $16.6 billion. More than 50,000 employees work for Henkel worldwide. People in approximately 125 countries around the world trust in brands and technologies from Henkel.

Source: Henkel Corporation

The United States Council for Automotive Research (USCAR), an organization composed of DaimlerChrysler, Ford Motor Company and General Motors Corporation, recently joined the Virtual Soldier Research (VSR) program partnership at the University of Iowa with a $1.5 million contract for manufacturing ergonomics research.

At UI, a team of 35 researchers is advancing state-of-the-art performance in computerized human modeling and simulation. Their work with USCAR will be aimed at helping the U.S. automakers use computer representations of people, called "digital humans," to design safer and more ergonomically acceptable manufacturing plants.

The partnership will address three large projects:

* A study of the strength and fatigue limits of automotive manufacturing plant workers.
* The development and integration of ergonomics tools into "Santos" – VSR's computer representation of a human.
* The advancement of the field of predictive mathematics, also referred to as "Predictive Dynamics," to enable Santos to predict such variables as his own walking speed and direction while carrying various loads and while mathematically predicting various postures.


“We are excited to be partners in innovation with the Virtual Soldier Research program in pursuing a better understanding of the human component within automotive manufacturing,” said Allison Stephens, chair of USCAR’s Ergonomics Task Force and technical specialist in Ford’s Vehicle Operations Manufacturing Engineering Department.

“We are proud to have Ford, DaimlerChrysler and General Motors join the program as partners through USCAR,” said Karim Abdel-Malek, CCAD and VSR director and UI professor of biomedical and mechanical engineering. “Their shared vision in our quest to develop the most advanced human simulation system will add significant value to our efforts.”

Initiated by VSR researchers, the use of Predictive Dynamics within Santos has already made a significant impact on the field of human motion prediction. The tool makes it possible to accurately calculate walking and running motions for digital humans, when given such variables as body size, strength, weight, load-carrying abilities and clothing.

UI researchers say human simulation can revolutionize existing technology by reducing the amount of physical prototypes made and providing new tools for simulating safety issues in manufacturing and assembly plants. "The Santos human model is poised to make a significant impact in the fields of manufacturing, ergonomics, safety, rehabilitation, assembly and more," Abdel-Malek said.

The VSR program was established in 2003 to conduct basic and applied research aimed at creating the most advanced human simulation tools. While the program was first aimed at the military, it has grown very rapidly over the past three years. The VSR program has active partnerships with the U.S. Army Tank Automotive Command Center, Caterpillar, U.S. Army Natick Soldier Systems Center, and Rockwell Collins. Including the recent USCAR funding, more than $11 million in external funding has been allocated to VSR in the past three years.

VSR researchers include faculty, staff, scientists, engineers, clinical researchers and graduate students from fields including engineering, gaming, psychology, biomechanics, human factors, computers, optimization and industrial design. Additional information can be found at: www.digital-humans.org.

Founded in 1992, the United States Council for Automotive Research (USCAR) is the umbrella organization for collaborative research among DaimlerChrysler, Ford Motor Company and General Motors Corporation. The goal of USCAR is to further strengthen the technology base of the domestic auto industry through cooperative research and development.

For more information, visit USCAR’s Web site at www.uscar.org

###

Source: United States Council for Automotive Research (USCAR)

Preh, Inc. a leading international supplier of automotive interior control systems, sensors and electronic control units, was named the winner of the Seventh Annual MERLIN Award for Excellence in Business for 2007 in a gala ceremony on May 4.

The award gala is the signature event of the German American Chamber of Commerce in which companies with a presence in both the U.S. Midwest and Germany are selected as exemplifying outstanding achievements in German- American business.

Named after one of the founders of the German American Chamber of Commerce, Peter H. Merlin, the festive gala evening takes place annually in an exclusive and elegant location in downtown Chicago.

Approximately 300 top executives of the German American Business community of the Midwest and their guests attended the event.

Chamber members nominate companies engaged in German American business in the Midwest that offer a unique product, innovative service or breakthrough technology, or feature exemplary international business practices and consistent creative management.

"We are proud to be selected from a strong pool of candidates for the MERLIN Award 2007. The award testifies that we are on the right track with our business strategy for North America," said Dr. Michael Roesnick, president and CEO of Preh GmbH.

About Preh

Preh was founded in Germany in 1919. As a full-service supplier, Preh works directly with major automakers in the development and manufacture of complete interior control systems, sensors and electronic control units.

The company maintains in-house capabilities for plastics injection molding, precision mechanics, light-pipe design, electronics hardware, surface finishing, laser etching and software development.

With sales of $360 million (USD) in 2006, Preh employs over 1,900 people located in Germany, Portugal, France, Mexico and the U.S. 86 percent of Preh's annual revenue comes from its automotive business. Preh's U.S. customer service center is located in Novi, Mich.

Source: Preh, Inc.
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The Roewe KV6 was awarded "best engine" by a panel of leading media representatives at the Shanghai auto show, the first time that this prize has been bestowed on a Chinese own-brand product

The KV6 went into production in China in December 2006 following an intensive program of production engineering, localization of component supply and commissioning of SAIC's brand new 15 million pound Baoshan engine manufacturing plant near Shanghai. Ricardo 2010 Consultants Ltd was actively engaged in this program, which included upgrading of the design for its new application.

The KV6 engine has already proved successful in its first application, the Roewe 750, which was itself unveiled at the Beijing auto show in November 2006. SAIC Motor's first product under its new Roewe own-brand, the KV6 powered Roewe 750 received over 7000 orders in the two months following its launch.

"We congratulate SAIC Motor on the award of 'best engine' at the Auto Shanghai," said Mark Garrett, Ricardo group engineering and products director. "This is a well deserved award for what is a truly premium product in the Chinese market. We wish SAIC Motor every success with its Roewe brand and products."

Ricardo plc: With technical centers in the UK, USA, Germany and the Czech Republic, and offices in Shanghai and Tokyo, Ricardo is a leading independent technology provider and strategic consultant to the world's automotive industries. The company's engineering expertise ranges from vehicle systems integration, controls, electronics and software development, to the latest driveline and transmission systems and gasoline, diesel, hybrid and fuel cell powertrain technologies. Its customers include the world's major vehicle, engine and transmission manufacturers, tier 1 suppliers and leading motorsport teams. Ricardo is committed to excellence and industry leadership in people, technology and knowledge; approximately 70 percent of its employees are highly qualified multi-disciplined professional engineers and technicians. A public company, Ricardo plc posted sales of 173 million pounds in financial year 2006 and is a constituent of the FTSE techMark 100 index -- a group of innovative technology companies listed on the London Stock Exchange.

Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC) is one of China's leading automakers. In 2005 alone it produced over 318,000 mainly GM-brand and VW- badged cars in China to international quality standards through its manufacturing joint ventures with General Motors and Volkswagen AG respectively. As such, SAIC is already a significant automotive manufacturer on the international stage and is growing rapidly: 2005 production was up 34 percent on the previous year. Yet as a major element of its forward strategy the company aspires to acquire the capability to develop world-class automotive products under its own brand, both for distribution in China as well as for export to major international markets. In 2004 SAIC purchased the intellectual property rights of the Rover 75 and 25 products of former UK automaker MG Rover, as well as the K series gasoline and G series diesel engine families.

Ricardo 2010 Consultants Ltd was formed and is currently managed as an operating subsidiary of Ricardo plc to act as the overseas engineering center of SAIC motor. Through its links with the wider Ricardo group it has ready- made access to specialist technology, design, test and development facilities -- assets which are invaluable for state-of-the-art automotive product development. On formation of Ricardo 2010, some of the most talented and highly skilled engineering staff of the former MG Rover organization were recruited and the UK engineering team rapidly grew to approximately 150 staff, representing some of the best talent available from the former MG Rover and other automotive organizations, assisted by fellow engineers and resources as necessary from other Ricardo divisions.

In addition to its role in developing the first new products for SAIC, Ricardo 2010 Consultants is assisting in the development of processes and systems for SAIC's growing in-house engineering organization, the Shanghai Automotive Engineering Academy (SAEA). It is envisaged that Ricardo 2010 Consultants will ultimately form the European development center of SAEA, focusing on advanced research and development and product adaptation for European markets.

Source: Ricardo

GKN Driveline, the market leader in India, is to expand its presence by building a new factory for the manufacture of sideshafts, including a state-of-the-art test centre, near Chennai. GKN Driveline will invest 14 million pounds in the new plant that will go into production at the beginning of next year - it will have a capacity of 600,000 vehicle sets.

The new facility will expand GKN Driveline's capability in Southern India and position the company to meet the rapid growth of the Indian car market.

GKN Driveline currently employs 450 people in three factories in India: Faridabad and Dharuhera, near Delhi in the north, and Gummidipoondi, near Chennai, in the south.

GKN Driveline is a global enterprise with 21,000 people working at more than 40 locations in over 30 countries. Recognised as the automotive industry's leader in the design and production of driveline components, GKN Driveline provides driveshafts for the smallest front-wheel-drive vehicles up to the most sophisticated four-wheel-drive models. GKN Driveline's first facility in India was established in 1986 at Faridabad in Haryana.

GKN Driveline in India

GKN Driveline's roots in the Indian automotive market go back to the 1980s, forging strong partnerships based on supply reliability, product integrity and quality consistency. Today, GKN Driveline shares its unique application capability with customers to develop dedicated driveline solutions that meet the challenge of improved environmental performance, greater efficiency, lighter weight and enhanced reliability.

Web site: http://www.gkndriveline.com

Source: GKN Driveline

Bosch has produced and shipped the company's 150 millionth brake control system, a milestone for a technology that began with antilock braking system (ABS) approximately 30 years ago, followed by other Bosch system innovations such as traction control system (TCS) and electronic stability control (ESC). Currently, Bosch produces more than 65,000 brake control systems daily at six locations worldwide, and in 2007 the production network will expand with a new facility in Brazil.

"This production milestone is a clear example of our customers' growing demand for our innovative and reliable automotive products that provide increased vehicle safety and stability," said Scott Dahl, director of marketing and product planning, Robert Bosch LLC. "Bosch's ABS, TCS and ESC technologies are proven to deliver an outstanding level of safety for consumers, and we continue to develop additional features to increase future vehicle safety."

In 1978, Bosch launched the first electronically controlled ABS, followed in 1986 by TCS and ESC in 1995. Bosch, the company that pioneered ESC, first brought the technology to market on the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Today, Bosch ESC is featured on such vehicles as the BMW X3, BMW X5, Cadillac Escalade, Chevy Silverado, Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Durango, GMC Acadia and Toyota Camry.

ESC builds on a foundation of ABS and TCS technology to function instantaneously and independently of the driver's actions. The system maintains continuous analysis of driving conditions to determine the driver's intended course with respect to the vehicle's actual movement. If unintended action, such as "fishtailing," is detected, ESC applies precisely defined brake pressure to the appropriate wheels and, if necessary, reduces engine torque, significantly decreasing the risk of an accident.

An Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) study released in 2006 highlighted the significant safety benefits of ESC by determining that if installed on all vehicles, ESC could prevent nearly one-third of fatal crashes each year, up to 10,000; reduce rollover risk by as much as 80 percent; and reduce insurance losses under collision coverage by approximately 15 percent.

Additionally, Bosch is the leader in the ongoing development of ESC by expanding the innovations to include features such as roll mitigation function (RMF), used to aid in the prevention of vehicle rollover in high center of gravity vehicles, and trailer sway mitigation (TSM), used to prevent unstable oscillations and trailer sway. Bosch also offers other value-added ESC functions, including hill descent control, hill hold control, soft stop, traffic jam assist and controlled deceleration driver assistance systems.

The Bosch Group is a leading global manufacturer of automotive and industrial technology, consumer goods, and building technology. In fiscal 2006, approximately 260,000 associates generated sales of 43.7 billion euros, or $54.9 billion. Set up in Stuttgart in 1886 by Robert Bosch (1861-1942) as "Workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering," the Bosch Group today comprises a manufacturing, sales, and after-sales service network of approximately 280 subsidiaries and more than 12,000 service centers in over 140 countries.

In North America, the Bosch Group manufactures and markets automotive original equipment and aftermarket products, industrial automation and mobile products, power tools and accessories, security technology, thermo-technology, packaging equipment and household appliances. Bosch employs 24,750 associates in more than 80 primary and 20 associated facilities throughout the region with reported sales of $8.8 billion in 2006.

For more information on the company, visit www.bosch.us

Source: Robert Bosch LLC

ArvinMeritor's Light Vehicle Customers to Benefit from Regional Chassis Technical Centers

STUTTGART, Germany, May 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- ArvinMeritor, Inc. (NYSE:ARM) today unveiled the company's regional technical support structure for its light vehicle chassis systems customers located in Europe, North America and Asia Pacific. Today's announcement was made from the company's exhibit booth at the 2007 Vehicle Dynamics Expo in Stuttgart.

"ArvinMeritor's ability to serve chassis system customers at the local level is critical in the vehicle design and program management process," said Tom Watson, vice president of Light Vehicle Systems (LVS) Engineering and Technical Planning for ArvinMeritor. "Our technical footprint must mirror the customer to ensure discipline and collaboration throughout the product development process. Our customers need to know we're available and closely integrated into their programs."

Today the company's center of technical competence for light vehicle chassis systems is located in Troy, Mich., U.S.A. From the 35,000-sq. ft. facility, chassis engineers and technicians convert customer needs into design and performance requirements that drive system functionality. Utilizing the latest virtual simulation tools, including several proprietary design models, and state-of-the-art development and test equipment, ArvinMeritor's technical support teams are developing the most cost-effective, efficient and scalable solutions.

"The same capabilities and level of support are needed in Europe and Asia Pacific to meet the increasing customer demand for our suspension modules and advanced chassis solutions," added Watson. "We plan to utilize the current Bonneval, France ride control facility in Europe and our recently-announced technical center in Shanghai, China for Asia Pacific."

The European and Asian technical facilities will be involved in several customer programs beginning in 2008.

About Light Vehicle Systems

ArvinMeritor's LVS business group is a market leader in the product categories it serves, supplying integrated systems and modules to the world's leading passenger car and light truck OEMs. With advanced technology and systems design expertise in apertures, chassis and wheels, LVS combines high- quality components into cost-effective, performance-based solutions for virtually every car and light truck on the road today.

About ArvinMeritor

ArvinMeritor, Inc. is a premier global supplier of a broad range of integrated systems, modules and components to the motor vehicle industry. The company serves light vehicle, commercial truck, trailer and specialty original equipment manufacturers and certain aftermarkets from more than 110 manufacturing facilities globally. Headquartered in Troy, Mich., ArvinMeritor employs approximately 27,500 people in 26 countries. ArvinMeritor common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol ARM.

For more information, visit the company's Web site at: http://www.arvinmeritor.com/

Source: ArvinMeritor, Inc.

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., May 7, 2007 – The United States Automotive Materials Partnership (USAMP), a consortium of the United States Council for Automotive Research (USCAR) composed of DaimlerChrysler AG, Ford Motor Company and General Motors Corporation, is seeking preliminary proposals for processes capable of producing ultra-large casting (UCL) components for automotive use.

Nearly three years ago, USAMP launched a project to demonstrate that lightweight cast automotive and light truck structures can be produced at manufacturing costs competitive with heavier assemblies of steel stampings. A two-phase project was created to conduct this demonstration. Conducted in tandem, one phase is designed to demonstrate a process that is capable of producing a structural ULC component at a size consistent with existing casting equipment, yet requiring a die of modest cost. The other phase is focused on designing, analyzing and testing "real-world" vehicle applications meeting the ULC team's criteria.

Currently, two processes are under development and demonstration. The ULC team of USAMP is expanding its search for other processes capable of producing structural components with a nominal thickness in the 2 to 3 mm range. Those that can produce quality components with major areas thinner than 2 mm are especially welcomed. It’s also preferred that there be a cost-share or in-kind element of at least 50 percent, although others offset by technical risk/opportunity benefits will be considered.

The proposal deadline is Friday, July 25, 2007.

For more information and to view the ULC request for proposal information, visit the USCAR Web site at:

http://www.uscar.org/commands/files_download.php?files_id=128

Founded in 1992, the United States Council for Automotive Research (USCAR) is the umbrella organization for collaborative research among DaimlerChrysler AG, Ford Motor Company and General Motors Corporation. The goal of USCAR is to further strengthen the technology base of the domestic auto industry through cooperative research and development.

USAMP is an industry partnership of DaimlerChrysler, Ford and GM (established in 1993) focused on developing materials and processes that enable the high volume production of vehicles, which when compared to today’s vehicles are: half the mass, as affordable, more recyclable, and of equal or better quality and durability.

Source: USCAR

Requires no disassembly of vehicle, no vehicle battery power

NOVI, Mich., May 7 /PRNewswire/ -- MAHLE Test Systems, a major supplier of end-of-line and diagnostic engineering services to the global automotive industry, today announced industry-wide availability of its new TestLogiq(R) Mobile Evaporative System Dry Leak Tester for automotive and component fuel systems.

"As government regulations for on-board diagnostics evolve, testing tolerances on many emissions systems are becoming more stringent," said Ben Shirey, Director for MAHLE Test Systems. "This tester is engineered to meet current Environmental Protection Agency regulations that require an audit detection of minute leaks in the fuel system, which would be time prohibitive using standard on-board diagnostic routines."

As part of MAHLE Test Systems' TestLogiq(R) Mobile platform, the portable Evaporative System Dry Leak Tester conducts a vacuum-based test that is administered on a fuel system through the vehicle's fuel-tank filler neck. The test, which does not require disassembly of the vehicle, was designed by MAHLE Test Systems' engineers to detect leaks as small as 0.010 inches. The test can be conducted without using vehicle power and within a cycle time suitable for in-line testing on a production assembly line.

An application of the TestLogiq(R) tester has been in use at all Chrysler Group manufacturing plants in North America and at its Toledo Supplier Park rolling chassis plant for more than a year. More recently, the tester has been applied to other critical subsystems, as well as Tier 1 manufacturing.

The MAHLE Group acquired Cosworth Technology in 2005, a consultant and major supplier of powertrain and diagnostic engineering services to the global automotive industry, and created MAHLE Powertrain, LLC. It employs 600 people at its offices in Novi, MI, and Northampton, Wellingborough and Worcester in the United Kingdom. MAHLE Powertrain, LLC is unique in the automotive engi- neering supply business in its wide blend of capabilities, which extend from engineering services in powertrain design, development and systems integration through to complete engine manufacturing, including the casting and machining of major engine components.

MAHLE Test Systems, a division of MAHLE Powertrain, LLC offers end-of-line and diagnostic engineering services and systems that are utilized today worldwide in many fields for the development of new vehicle models, in manufacturing, in service products by authorized dealers and in diagnostic test systems for the aftermarket.

The combined resources of MAHLE Powertrain, LLC and the parent company product divisions and R&D centers provides a worldwide capability to support our customers from individual components through to fully integrated power- train systems from conceptual design through to full manufacturing.

The MAHLE Group is one of the 30 largest automotive suppliers worldwide. As the leading manufacturer of combustion engine components, systems and peripherals, MAHLE is among the top 3 suppliers for piston systems, cylinder components, valve train systems, air management systems and liquid management systems. MAHLE employs more than 40,000 employees in 110 production plants and seven research and development centers. In 2006, MAHLE generated sales in excess of EUR 4.3 billion (USD 5.8 billion).

For more information on MAHLE Powertrain, LLC visit http://www.mahlepowertrain.com/

Web site: http://mahle.quell.com
http://www.mahlepowertrain.com

Source: MAHLE Test Systems