Ronald McDonald Cruises Michigan in First Car

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., May 28, 2003 -- Ronald McDonald is famous for his big red shoes -- now he's got wheels too.

Ronald McDonald and his new parade vehicle will begin touring the state this spring. Throughout spring and summer, he will make his way to as many parades and festivals across the state as his little car can handle.

"My first car! This is just so exciting," said an ecstatic Ronald. "It's even got custom-made gas and brake pedals to fit my 28 EEE shoes. I can't wait to show off my new car to all my friends in McDonaldland(TM)."

Built by Global Electric Motorcars (GEM), L.L.C. (a DaimlerChrysler Company), the GEM car is all-electric, zero-emissions with lightweight aluminum frame construction. Fully equipped and street legal, the GEM car will allow Ronald to cruise parade routes in style. If it's cold or rainy outside -- no problem -- the vehicle has removable doors with functioning windows.

"This revolutionary vehicle will help increase McDonald's visibility in all the events we participate in across the state," said Patrick Higgins, Marketing Manager for Michigan McDonald's. "We are trying to find innovative, fun ways to promote America's favorite clown and the nation's most recognized icon, I think the GEM car is a great first step for us."

"It's got blinkers and mirrors and seatbelts and cup-holders, I really love cup-holders," said Ronald. "The horn works too. I wonder if Grimace will fit ... "

The Michigan McDonald's region consists of 556 restaurants and 100 Owner/Operators.

McDonald's is the leading global foodservice retailer, with approximately 30,000 local restaurants serving nearly 46 million people each day. Approximately 80 percent of all McDonald's restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent franchisees.