Ford's Scheele to Address Journalists at Opening Breakfast New York Auto Show Press Preview: April 16 & 17

New York, NY -- (March 2003): Nick Scheele, the president and chief operating officer of Ford Motor Company, will be the featured speaker at the 2003 New York International Auto Show/International Motor Press Association press breakfast. Scheele is responsible for Ford's global automotive business and is a member of the company's board of directors.

The event, scheduled for 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 16, will kick off the Show's Press Days, where thousands of journalists will be given a preview of the industry's latest products. In his remarks, Scheele will reflect on Ford's 100-year history as well as provide insight into the company's future.

"As we celebrate our Centennial in 2003, I want to share some thoughts as to how we got here," said Scheele. "I believe very much that there are answers to be found in history for present-day questions. And there's ample evidence in our past of rising to an occasion, of overcoming great obstacles, and of meeting great challenges. It's in the genes at Ford -- figuratively and literally," he added.

Looking ahead, Scheele says Ford will bring to market an average of 20 new products per year over the next five years. Some of the first of this new generation of vehicles will include a production version of the Mustang GT concept coupe and convertible, the 2004-model Ford F-150 pickup truck, a new range of concepts, plus major product announcements, which are planned for release in New York.

A 35-year veteran of Ford Motor Company, Scheele has held key positions around the globe and is a true believer in the power of auto shows.

"I can think of no other event that generates the excitement and passion that a major international auto show does, and the New York International Auto Show is certainly one of the premier shows in the entire world," he said.

By delivering this year's keynote address, Scheele joins an illustrious group of automotive executives including Robert Lutz, Carlos Ghosn, Jacques Nasser, Robert Eaton, and Lee Iacocca, who have also opened North America's first and highest-attended auto show.

                           Important Show Dates

                   Press Preview                April 16 & 17
                   Dealer/Industry Preview      April 18
                   Public Sneak Preview         April 18 (11 am - 8 pm)
                   Public Show Dates            April 18 - 27

   Contacts:  Chris Sams / Nick Crispe
              (212) 560-9494

PRNewswire -- March 4