DuPont 'Catalyst' Demonstrates Future Thinking in Automotive Design

    TROY, Mich., Jan. 8, 2003; Automotive interior and exterior
design are merging into a new kind of driving experience -- matching lifestyle
with personality and functionality.  On Jan. 8 at 9:30 a.m. EST, DuPont will
reveal "Catalyst" at a press conference at the DuPont World Automotive
Headquarters in Troy, Mich.  Intended to serve as a vehicle for future
thinking, "Catalyst" is an entirely new presentation of innovative interior
and exterior design, materials and finishes ideas.
    "Catalyst" integrates 96 custom interior and exterior design elements and
the latest materials and finishes into six proposals for concept vehicles,
according to Larry Cole, executive product planning manager, interior systems,
DuPont Automotive.  "Catalyst is our best demonstration yet of how outside
influences impact automotive design inside and out.  It's about the
integration of sensory perceptions in aesthetics to meet consumers' individual
desires."
    The hands-on presentation is a holistic approach showcasing a unique style
for each of the six vehicle concepts and uses 19 different DuPont technologies
from 12 DuPont businesses.  The unique styles are designed to reflect current
trends in the market and demonstrate how they may develop in the future.
"DuPont has long demonstrated its consistent attention to future trends in
exterior colors," said Bill Kings, color marketing manager, DuPont Performance
Coatings Europe.  "Color design is an integral part of branding and, in
'Catalyst', we are demonstrating what a powerful tool it can be."
    "Catalyst" design elements were inspired mostly by sources outside the
automotive design industry.  They combine urban motifs, along with inspiration
from nature, diverse textures and seasonal elements into key themes that are
influenced by design from different regions of the world.
    DuPont is a 200-year-old science company offering innovative products,
technologies and services that improve the lives of people everywhere.
Headquartered in Wilmington, Del., DuPont delivers science-based solutions to
markets including agriculture, nutrition, electronics, communications, safety
and protection, home and construction, transportation, apparel, home and
textiles.