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Model E Unveils World's First Internet Build-to-Order Vehicle

2 November 2000

Model E Unveils World's First Internet Build-to-Order Vehicle LAS VEGAS, Nov. 1 Model E, the world's first Internet build-to-order automotive company, will today unveil Project Ironman, a rugged new concept vehicle designed and built in 90 days using Computer Aided Industrial Design (CAID) techniques that eliminate the need for traditional clay modeling. With its unique center driver seating position and exoskeletal frame design, Project Ironman was created with real-time input from customers through Model E's online Virtual Design Center. (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20001101/SFW004-a http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20001101/SFW004-b ) Model E will showcase Project Ironman at the SEMA 2000 Rock 'n' Rods event in Las Vegas, November 1st and 2nd at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. The official vehicle unveiling for SEMA PRESS ONLY is scheduled for November 1st at 5:00 p.m. at the Hard Rock's North Beach Club, with the public unveiling beginning at 7:30 p.m. Rugged Design -- Built-to-Order To create Project Ironman, Model E teamed with renowned race driver and Pikes Peak Hill Climb world record holder Rod Millen, who incorporated extensive military and racing influence in the design, functionality, materials and construction techniques. Model E also partnered with engineering and technology firm Autokinetics, the company that pioneered and patented the "stainless steel safety structure" method for vehicle architecture. The result -- the ultimate adventure vehicle -- combines off-road mobility, low-speed obstacle clearance and exhilarating performance. Model E's ability to go quickly from sketch-to-concept demonstrates how collaborative partnerships and CAID technology can cut the industry's traditional sketch-to-concept vehicle time frame from 12 to 18 months to 90 days or less. Key Project Ironman features include: -- Teutonic design -- Autokinetics stainless steel space frame construction -- Center driver positioning for maximum downvision -- V8 engine with automatic transmission -- High-travel SLA suspension with coil over digressive shock absorbers -- Maximum ground clearance for low speed obstacle avoidance -- 0 to 60 mph in less than 6.0 seconds (estimated). Model E's breakthrough Internet build-to-order strategy employs several techniques, including web-based configuration and ordering, zero-asset production via networked micro-factory partners, computer-aided industrial design with real-time customer input through a web-based Virtual Design Center, and modular component technologies. Project Ironman and future Model E vehicles will be distributed via the Internet. "Think of Model E as the Dell of the auto industry, designing products based on what consumers truly want and leveraging best-in-class components and micro-factory approaches for rapid design, launch and direct delivery," said William Santana Li, president and CEO of Model E. Model E is currently utilizing its Internet build-to-order methodology to customize a premium portfolio of existing vehicles, including vehicles from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, and Porsche, and will transform the entire supply chain from design to production with its limited-edition rollout of Project Ironman. The company is combining its breakthrough Internet build-to-order approach with the industry's first Subscribe & Drive(SM) service, providing clients with a flexible alternative to owning or leasing a vehicle. For an all-inclusive monthly subscription fee, Model E and its eConcierge team will handle all of the client's automotive needs -- from vehicle registration and insurance through ongoing maintenance and repairs. "With Model E, all you need to do is buy gas and drive," added Li. Silicon Valley Meets Motor City To execute on its Internet build-to-order business model, Model E has assembled a blue-chip team of executive managers with extensive experience in the automotive, Internet commerce, technology, financial services, consumer products and hospitality industries. The company has recruited experts in engineering, design, planning, marketing, development, procurement, mass customization and service from major manufacturers, suppliers and vehicle management firms including DaimlerChrysler, Enterprise, Ford, GM, Hertz, Infiniti, Lexus, Magna International, Nissan, Saturn and Toyota. William Santana Li, the company's president and chief executive officer, is a former executive at a global auto company where he held a range of engineering, marketing and development positions. Model E is currently offering its products and services to clients in the San Francisco Bay Area. These clients include individuals, as well as businesses and organizations that want to have their vehicle needs taken care of. About Model E Corporation Model E is the first company to offer Internet build-to-order vehicles and all-inclusive service in the form of a subscription. Backed by SOFTBANK Venture Capital, one of the world's leading Internet venture capital firms, Model E is transforming the trillion-dollar automotive industry on behalf of the consumer by providing the model automotive experience. For the first time in automotive history, Model E is offering a flexible alternative to buying or leasing a car and the convenience of a single point of contact for all of a client's automotive needs, from design and customization to insurance, registration and maintenance. With Model E's unique "Subscribe & Drive" service, all a client needs to do is buy gas and drive. For time-constrained individuals, auto enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to be liberated from automotive hassles, Model E offers a customized portfolio of existing vehicles, as well as original build-to-order vehicles including Project Ironman. Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Fremont, Calif., Model E can be reached at http://www.modele.com or 510-791-3500. About SEMA The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is a trade group comprised of more than 4,400 member companies that make up the specialty automotive aftermarket industry. The seven diverse niches in which SEMA members specialize include light-truck, off-road, racing, performance, street rod, restoration and restyling. All combined, the markets add up to $23.2 billion in retail business annually. For more information about the 2000 SEMA Show, contact 909-396-0289 or visit the website at http://www.semashow.com. About Rock 'n' Rods Held in conjunction with the annual SEMA show from October 31st - November 3rd at the Las Vegas Convention Center, the Rock 'n' Rods event will take place at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on Wednesday, November 1st from 5-11 p.m. and Thursday, November 2nd from 5-10 p.m. The event is designed to be the ultimate car show for exhibitors, attendees, and -- for the first time ever -- consumers. SEMA attendees and exhibitors get free admission by showing their badge. FREE transportation to Rock 'n' Rods will be provided for SEMA show exhibitors and attendees from the Las Vegas Convention Center. NOTE: Subscribe & Drive is a servicemark of Model E Corporation. All other company and product names used herein are for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective companies.