Mercedes-Benz G-Class production continued

Continuation of the long-term and successful cooperation between DaimlerChrysler and Magna Steyr

GRAZ, Austria, Nov. 11 -- As recently announced by DaimlerChrysler, the Mercedes-Benz Car Group will continue production of their Mercedes-Benz G-Class beyond 2006 at Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria.

"The decision to continue the production of the G-Class is not only of great economic relevance, but is of historical significance", stated Magna Steyr CEO Manfred Remmel. "This classic off-roader is inseparably connected with the identity of our plant in Graz and its growth to become the largest contract assembler of automobiles worldwide".

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class has been produced in Graz since 1979. Since then, more than 185,000 vehicles manufactured. During the past 26 years, the G-Class has been permanently kept at a state-of-the-art level and, owing to its unique appearance and legendary off-road quality, has gained cult status.

Mr. Remmel also stated "The G-Class has been the foundation of our long-term and successful cooperation with DaimlerChrysler. We are very pleased that our cooperation is continued with this vehicle."

DaimlerChrysler also announced that it will manufacture the Mercedes-Benz E-Class 4MATIC together with all other E-Class models in their own plant in Sindelfingen from 2007. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class 4MATIC has been manufactured in Graz since 1996. Magna Steyr's long-term relationship with DaimlerChrysler continues with two new production orders: the new Chrysler 300C launched this past June and production of the new Jeep Commander launching in Graz at the beginning of 2006.

The Magna Powertrain plants in Lannach and Ilz, Austria will continue to supply essential components for the four-wheel drive system (transfer case, front axle differential) of all 4MATIC models of the Mercedes-Benz Car Group.

Magna International, the most diversified automotive supplier in the world, designs, develops and manufactures automotive systems, assemblies, modules and components, and engineers and assembles complete vehicles, primarily for sale to original equipment manufacturers of cars and light trucks in North America, Europe, Asia and South America. Magna's capabilities include the design, engineering, testing and manufacture of automotive interior and closures systems; metal body and structural systems; exterior and interior mirror and engineered glass systems; exterior systems including front and rear end modules, plastic body panels, exterior trim and other systems; various powertrain and drivetrain systems; as well as complete vehicle engineering and assembly.

Magna has over 82,000 employees in 222 manufacturing operations and 58 product development and engineering centers in 22 countries.