Benteler Automotive Receives Shingo Prize For Manufacturing Excellence

    GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., April 26 Benteler Automotive
announced today that it has earned the prestigious 2001 Shingo Prize for
Excellence in Manufacturing in the Large Manufacturers category.  The award
was given to honor the world-class manufacturing practices at the company's
Hagen Exhaust Systems manufacturing facilities in Grand Rapids, Mich.

    "In this tightening economy, it's more critical than ever for suppliers to
utilize lean manufacturing processes to offer our customers an excellent
value," said John Buchan, vice president of Exhaust Systems, Benteler
Automotive North America.  "By honoring our lean manufacturing efforts, the
Shingo Prize motivates our manufacturing operations and the entire Benteler
Automotive team, to continue our ongoing efforts to achieve 'best-in-class'
recognition."