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DaimlerChrysler Commercial Buses North America Completes Integration of Brands

GREENSBORO, N.C. September 25, 2006 - Effective today, DaimlerChrysler, the world's leader in commercial vehicles, has completed the integration of its three bus brands under the corporate name DaimlerChrysler Commercial Buses North America (DCCBNA). DCCBNA provides the North American market with three trusted brands: Orion transit buses, a pacesetter in low-emission technology; Setra motorcoaches, known for superb comfort and safety; and the efficient and reliable Dodge Sprinter shuttle buses. Until now, the brands noted above operated under their own legal entities and this latest integration will ensure clarity, consistency and cohesiveness to the market.

"We are proud to fully integrate the DaimlerChrysler corporate name for our North America operations," said Andreas Strecker, president and CEO of DCCBNA. "It emphasizes to our customers that each of our products will reflect the values of our parent -- an absolute commitment to leadership in safety, reliability, economy, and environmental compatibility."

The integration comes as DaimlerChrysler Buses and Coaches worldwide continues its success story globally and in North America. Last year DaimlerChrysler sold 44,000 buses and coaches around the world; 1,015 of those units sold in the U.S. and Canada.

North America has also been the leading market for DaimlerChrysler buses with hybrid technology. The Orion VII diesel-electric hybrid bus has set the standard for low emissions and fuel economy and boasts the largest installed single customer base in New York City with additional customers throughout the continent including Toronto and San Francisco to name only a few. In fact, New York City's Orion VII hybrid buses, have recently surpassed 10 million miles of revenue service demonstrating significant fuel savings along with major emissions reduction.

In the motorcoach sector, the Setra S 417 luxury motorcoach launched in North America in 2003 continues to lead the luxury motorcoach market. The Setra S 417 has especially grown in popularity in Canada where sales have more than doubled since 2005.

The Dodge Sprinter Shuttle bus also continues its industry leading performance by providing optimal fuel economy with a stylish, modern and flexible design.

Along with its successful products, DCCBNA has further strengthened its after-sales service support as well. A specific focus area has been the motorcoach segment where DCCBNA recently introduced Setra CAN (Customer Assistance Network) that encompasses a toll-free product support hotline, authorized service centers, coach training academy, and much more. The same commitment to its transit bus customers and shuttle bus customers also exists through similar programs and partnerships.

"DaimlerChrysler Commercial Buses leverages the unparalleled global technology and service support of its parent company to the benefit of its customers, now and in the future, and we look forward to continuing to provide our customers with the latest technology while delivering low operating costs," noted Strecker.

ABOUT DAIMLERCHRYSLER COMMERCIAL BUSES NORTH AMERICA:

DaimlerChrysler Commercial Buses North America (DCCBNA), headquartered in Greensboro, N.C., combines three trusted commercial bus brands under one corporate structure: Orion transit buses, Setra motorcoaches, and the Dodge Sprinter shuttle bus. Backed by the advanced technological expertise and financial strength of its parent DaimlerChrysler, the global leader in commercial vehicles, the division provides the commercial bus market with a powerful combination of product knowledge, resources, and service/ support systems.

DCCBNA is a frontrunner in environmentally compatible mass transit. It was the first to introduce diesel hybrid-electric technology to North America with its Orion transit bus, which is being produced in ISO-certified facilities in Oriskany (N.Y.) and Mississauga (Ontario).

For more information please visit www.dcbusna.com.