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International Carwash Association Names Saturn Aura Most Washable Car of 2007

Saturn Aura

LAS VEGAS - March 27, 2007: The International Carwash Association (ICA) named the Saturn Aura as the Most Washable Car 2007 yesterday at the Car Care World Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada. The annual award acknowledges the vehicle that car wash operators consider the most wash-friendly car of the year.

The honor is a critical distinction in the car care industry as research shows that nearly $24 billion a year is spent battling automobile corrosion damage. With the number of consumers keeping their cars longer, this award is an important nod to Saturn's dedication to designing cars that are easier for car owners to maintain.

"The sleek, European lines which give the Aura its visual appeal, also make it easier to keep clean," said Lisa Hutchinson, director of brand and product development for Saturn. "We took great pride in the attention to detail and quality of the Aura, because we know that Saturn owners take great pride in their vehicles."

The International Carwash Association members considered the following criterion for choosing the Most Washable Car:

-- Smooth aerodynamic lines that do not catch and retain dirt
-- Moldings and ornamentation that do not protrude and are securely attached
-- Bumpers, mirrors, wipers, etc. that are securely attached
-- Radio antennas that are securely attached or are hidden in the windshield or back window glass
-- Retractable side view mirrors that are robust at the pivot or mirrors that do not retract at all
-- Ground affects and desk lid spoilers that are aerodynamic and securely attached or do not exist
-- Windshield wipers that are concealed under the rear edge of the hood
-- Rear window wipers on Sport-Utility vehicles that do not protrude
-- Front license plate attachments (when required) are secure and are not susceptible to damage

"Keeping your car clean certainly helps its appearance, but it also contributes to its long-term condition and value," said Mark Thorsby, International Carwash Association executive director. "Our members recognize the Saturn Aura as a vehicle that washes easily professionally, therefore contributing to its preservation."

The biggest car-finish culprits include the corrosive mixture of sand and salt on roads, pollutants from rain fall, bird droppings, road grime and tree sap. They can harm a car finish if not removed in just a couple of days. According to a survey by the International Carwash Association, more than half of all car owners wash their cars less than once a month, and 16 percent say they never wash their cars. And, once kids ride in a vehicle, food is reported as the number one leave-behind odor, followed by sweat and old shoes.

The International Carwash Association is a non-profit trade association serving 3,000 businesses in the United States, Canada and overseas. Membership includes car wash operators, equipment manufacturers, distributors, and related suppliers. ICA members represent approximately 25,000 car wash and car care locations in North America. The ICA provides facts on car care at www.carlove.org.