Midtronics Acquires QuickSmart Technology From Exide Technologies

    WILLOWBROOK, Ill., May 7 Midtronics, Inc., the world
leader in battery management technology, today announced its acquisition of
technology assets related to the QuickSmart(R) Battery Tester/Charger from
Exide Technologies .  Exide Technologies, headquartered in
Princeton, New Jersey, is the global leader in stored electrical energy
solutions.  The QuickSmart technology, developed by Exide Technologies and
introduced in November 1998, provides a means of rapidly charging and testing
a lead-acid battery.

    The acquisition has significant benefits for both companies, further
strengthening their long-time working relationship.  Last year Midtronics
purchased Exide's battery charger business, and has developed battery testing
and charging products that are sold under the Exide brand.  Included in the
acquisition are five U.S. patents, two U.S. patent applications, and overseas
patent rights for which Exide Technologies will earn royalties on any new
Midtronics products that incorporate the QuickSmart technology.  Exide
Technologies and Midtronics will work together to market these new offerings.

    In addition, Midtronics will manage service on the QuickSmart units
already deployed by Exide Technologies at automotive retail outlets across
North America, thus supplying uninterrupted service to those customers.

    "The underlying QuickSmart technology will help further our development
activities and innovation efforts in 'intelligent' diagnostic battery
charging," said Steve McShane, president and CEO of Midtronics.  "We will use
the technology in select future Midtronics diagnostic charging products,
initially in non-automotive applications."

    While Exide Technologies has sold the QuickSmart technology, the company
still maintains a strong and growing presence in diagnostic and charging
technologies and other service-related businesses for its transportation and
industrial customers.  "The QuickSmart sales agreement will allow us to
capitalize on Midtronics' expertise in developing and enhancing this
technology for the ultimate benefit of our customers," said Craig Muhlhauser,
president and chief operating officer of Exide Technologies.  "By serving as
the link between Midtronics and our customer base, Exide Technologies expands
its delivery of superior services -- a key part of our global business
strategy."