New UGN Trunk System Makes Trips Quieter

CHICAGO, May 28, 2003 -- Continuing its commitment to addressing Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) concerns, UGN has developed an aesthetically and acoustically sound trunk system. The first-of-its-kind system utilizes the revolutionary RIETER ULTRA LIGHT(TM) technology to greatly reduce noise generated from the much-overlooked trunk area of a vehicle.

Today's trunk systems are manufactured with materials having minimal effect on reducing outside sound in the vehicle's interior. UGN's trunk system is designed to reduce sound levels in the cabin caused by the exhaust system and road, splash, and stone impact noise generated by the rear tires. Furthermore, the fully integrated system including side-walls, trunk floors and lid covers is cost competitive to current trunk systems.

"UGN currently develops components for numerous areas of a vehicle," said Peter Anthony, president and CEO, UGN, Inc. "Developing a trunk system is a major advancement in our pursuit of providing total vehicle solutions."

Currently, trunk systems featuring RIETER ULTRA LIGHT(TM) technology are on production vehicles in Europe. UGN anticipates introducing the new system to North American vehicles in 2004. UGN's newest facility in Jackson, Tenn., will manufacture these trunk systems.

"As today's consumers spend more time in their cars, they are becoming more aware of vehicle performance and comfort. With the increase in cellular phone and in-vehicle communication system usage, the need for quiet vehicle interiors has increased," said Anthony. "UGN is committed to researching and developing revolutionary solutions to continually reduce the noise level in a vehicle's interior, ultimately making the driving experience better."

RIETER ULTRA LIGHT(TM) made its North American Japanese vehicle debut on the 2002 Lexus ES 300. A revolutionary patented product, RIETER ULTRA LIGHT(TM) takes a completely new approach to the acoustic treatment of the entire vehicle by positively impacting cost, fuel economy, safety and acoustic performance. Made from tuned, multi-layered materials, RIETER ULTRA LIGHT(TM) is environmentally friendly and replaces insulation products that reflect sound with lightweight, sound-absorbing products.

Headquartered in Chicago, UGN was incorporated in 1986 as a joint venture between Rieter Automotive Systems and Nihon Tokushu Toryo (Nittoku). Rieter's innovative leadership in theoretical acoustics combined with advanced manufacturing processes and quality system design by Nittoku have established UGN as a preferred supplier of acoustic, interior trim and thermal management products to the Japanese transplant automotive industry in North America. For more information on UGN, visit the company's Web site at www.ugnusa.com .