Continental's Integrated Starter Alternator Damper (ISAD) Debuts in North America on General Motors Full-Size Hybrid Trucks

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., May 20, 2004 -- Continental announced today its integrated starter alternator damper (ISAD) is now in production on General Motors Corp.'s hybrid Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra full-sized pickup trucks. The ISAD system is the first of its kind to be in production on a North American vehicle.

"We are pleased to be part of General Motors' commitment to hybrid vehicle development," said Continental Teves North America President and CEO Bill Kozyra. "The ISAD system will help vehicles improve fuel economy up to 12 percent by allowing the engine to shut down when the vehicle comes to a stop, and to perform other hybrid functions. It supplies power to accessories while the vehicle is stationary, restarting the engine immediately when the driver presses on the accelerator. The entire process is instant, smooth and virtually transparent to the driver."

The ISAD system replaces the conventional starter, alternator and flywheel with one electronically controlled unit providing instant starts, high- efficiency 12- and 42-volt electrical power and active damping of the powertrain and driveline system. A key feature in each of the applications is the ability to convert braking energy into electricity, a process known as regenerative braking. Also, the ISAD system will power 42-volt accessories in the vehicle such as power steering, and other current and future accessories. This saves energy, parts and weight by eliminating individual components.

A unique feature of the GM hybrid system are the 20 amp, 110-volt AC outlets, located both in the passenger compartment and in the truck bed, allowing the system to operate as a generator suitable for uses such as running power tools and recreational equipment.

With 2003 sales of approximately $13 billion (US), Continental AG is a major supplier of brake systems, chassis components, vehicle electronics, tires and technical rubber products. Continental Automotive Systems' North American operation is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich. For additional information, visit these websites: www.conti-online.com and www.contitevesna.com .