Harris Interactive Reports: Enhanced Fuel Economy Tops List of Automotive Technologies European Vehicle Owners Say They are Likely to Purchase for Their Next New Vehicle

DETROIT and ROCHESTER, New York, May 9, 2006 --

- Harris Interactive AutoTECHCAST Europe study gauges consumer attitudes in five largest European countries toward 61 advanced automotive technologies

A new automotive study conducted by Harris Interactive(R) in the five largest European countries shows that enhanced fuel economy is the top automotive technology vehicle owners say they are very or extremely likely to purchase for their next new vehicle (41%). This is consistent with findings from a U.S. study, also conducted by Harris Interactive, showing that 47% of vehicle owners are very or extremely likely to purchase a new vehicle with enhanced fuel economy(1). However, Europeans in the five major markets are significantly less likely than their U.S. counterparts to say they are very or extremely likely to purchase a new vehicle with hybrid electric technology (20% vs. 30%).

These results are from the inaugural Harris Interactive AutoTECHCAST(SM) Europe study conducted bi-annually among adults in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom. The study is designed to collect consumer-based information on 61 advanced automotive technologies. This study was conducted online between February 15 and March 20, 2006 among 19,382 adults ages 18 and over who own or lease a vehicle, have a valid driver's license, have at least one household vehicle and own a listed European model dated 1998 or newer.

About Harris Interactive(R) Automotive & Transportation Research (ATR) Practice

The Harris Interactive ATR Practice, (http://www.harrisinteractive.com/services/automotive.asp) based in Rochester, New York and Detroit, Michigan, specializes in consumer-based and business-to-business-based market research for vehicle manufacturers, Tier 1-2-3 suppliers and automotive distribution firms. Additional information on the AutoTECHCAST Europe study can be found at: http://www.harrisinteractive.com/services/autotechcasteurope.asp

About Harris Interactive(R)

U.S.-based Harris Interactive Inc. (http://www.harrisinteractive.com) is the 13th largest and fastest-growing market research firm in the world, widely known for The Harris Poll(R) and for pioneering leadership in online market research. Harris Interactive serves clients worldwide through United States, Europe (http://www.harrisinteractive.com/europe) and Asia offices, wholly-owned subsidiary Novatris in Paris, France (http://www.novatris.com), and an independent global network of affiliate market research companies. To become a member of the Harris Poll Online(SM) go to http://www.harrispollonline.com.