Continental Affirms Commitment to Active Vehicle Safety

PHOENIX, Feb. 10, 2004 -- Automotive safety supplier Continental continues its efforts in raising awareness about available technology to prevent crashes, including rollovers, from occurring. Phil Headley, Chief Engineer, Advanced Technologies for Continental, spoke today to a group of journalists from the Phoenix Automotive Press Association.

"Many serious crashes, including rollovers, could be prevented by existing, readily available technology, like electronic stability control (ESC)," he said. "We need to be sure drivers are aware of this safety advantage."

Headley added, "We support giving consumers more information about risk prevention to guide their purchase decisions. They also need to know about what's available to prevent out-of-control crash situations, including rollovers, from even happening."

NHTSA is working on an expanded information program mandated by Congress that rates vehicles for their likelihood of rolling over. Ratings are based on physical measurements of the vehicle and performance in a test track maneuver. The initial results were reported last week. Continental is supportive of this initiative.

"That's helpful information for accessing the stability of a vehicle, but it does not address vehicle controllability, an important facet considering that ninety percent of all rollovers occur off the road," he added. "The point is, we need to help the driver stay on the road, and provide them the tools, like electronic stability control, to help them remain in control.

"Electronic stability control is a technology that is available today that helps the driver maintain control, especially in highly dynamic situations that lead to single vehicle crashes. The evidence of its effectiveness is well-documented and compelling," Headley said.

"We are in the midst of a revolution in smart vehicle safety technologies where the primary focus is crash avoidance. Thanks to microelectronics, the technology is available today," Headley said. "The issue is continuing to increase consumer demand. Surveys indicate safety technologies, including electronic stability control, are among the highest desired by consumers," he added.

Recent studies in Europe and Japan on electronic stability control show significant reductions in crashes and fatalities. These conclude that electronic stability control is especially effective in the higher speed ranges where vehicle dynamics play a greater role in reducing death, injury and crash severity.

Electronic stability control, manufactured by Continental Teves and several other companies, is marketed under various trade names.

Continental Teves, headquartered in Frankfurt/Main Germany, is a unit of Continental AG, Hanover, Germany. With 2002 sales of approximately $12 billion (US), the Continental Corporation is a major supplier of brake systems, chassis components, vehicle electronics, tires and technical rubber products. Continental Teves' North American operation is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich. For additional information, visit these websites: www.conti-online.com and www.contitevesna.com .