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