Auto Club of Southern California and AAA Missouri Reach Agreement to Affiliate

LOS ANGELES--April 7, 2006--The Automobile Club of Southern California today announced it has entered into an affiliation arrangement with AAA Missouri, which operates in several Midwest and southern states. The Auto Club already has Texas, New Mexico and Hawaii as part of its operating territory along with Southern California. In addition, a similar affiliation arrangement was established with AAA Northern New England in 2003.

Upon completion of the affiliation, the Auto Club and its affiliates will serve 9.5 million members in 14 states, or about 22 percent of AAA members. This affiliation is consistent with the national trend toward combining operations of AAA organizations to gain efficiencies, maintain preeminence in roadside assistance, and keep membership dues low. The Auto Club is not purchasing AAA Missouri, nor are the two clubs or their insurance affiliates merging. Instead, they will collaborate to establish and implement long-term strategic plans and standardize service delivery systems while remaining separate entities with independent local identities.

"AAA Missouri chose to affiliate with the Auto Club because we excel at service delivery," said Thomas McKernan, president and CEO of the Auto Club. "Our mutual goals are to continue excellence in roadside assistance, offer competitive travel and insurance services, and provide multiple ways for members to obtain services."

AAA is a national federation of motor clubs that are affiliated to provide consistent services nationwide. In recent years there has been a move toward consolidation within AAA as increasing levels of capital are needed to invest in roadside service, technology, service delivery and new services. This affiliation is consistent with other such affiliations taking place and will add to the combined organization's ability to continue the highest levels of member service at the most efficient cost.

The Automobile Club of Southern California is the largest member in the AAA federation. It has been recognized on numerous occasions for the outstanding value it provides its members. Members have access to reliable and high-quality roadside assistance, automotive services, travel services, member discount programs and very competitive auto, home and boat insurance.