Visteon Supplier and Development Partner to BMW

MUNICH, Germany, and COLOGNE, Germany, Aug. 26 Visteon Corporation has joined forces with BMW to create innovative electronic technologies for passenger cars. A prime example of the development partnership is Visteon's Wireless Interface Module based on Bluetooth(TM) technology for in-car mobile phone integration. The voice- controlled system will allow BMW drivers the wireless and hands-free use of mobile phones. This innovative technology will be on the market in September 2002 and the modules will be available as optional extras for all current BMW X5, BMW 3 Series and 5 Series cars.

Visteon has extensive development and manufacturing experience in the fields of systems integration, cockpits, instrument electronics and multimedia solutions. The product portfolio of the automotive supplier is geared towards innovation and future technologies, meaning that it is well placed to offer cutting-edge support to BMW's internal development work.

"With this programme and by signing a development contract for further future technologies, BMW has documented the faith it has in Visteon," explained Dr. Marlis Basili-Hartmann, Visteon's Global Account Manager for the BMW Group. "We are committed to underpinning our business relations with BMW both now and in the future by supplying innovative, high quality systems and technologies and also by offering excellent customer service."

"Our collaboration with BMW clearly underlines the fact that Visteon chose the correct course of action in setting up a customer-facing organisation," said Dr. Wilfried Janke, Vice President and General Manager, German Customer Business Groups. "The staff at our Munich office ensures that the programme management runs efficiently, benefiting from direct communications with the customer."

Visteon's Bluetooth Interface Module with Visteon Voice Technology(TM), which extends voice control from vehicle systems to consumer devices, is an integrated, user-friendly solution. Data and voice commands are transferred quickly and reliably, helping drivers manage their information, entertainment and communication. The hands-free system, featured mainly in telecommunications products until now, integrates the benefits of Bluetooth wireless technology with Visteon's Voice Technology and applies it to automotive applications.

The product is being manufactured in Visteon's state-of-the-art electronics plant in Cadiz, Spain.