'Different Strokes' for Different Applications Key Topic of Discussion at SAE Small Engine Technology Conference in Madison

WARRENDALE, Pa., Aug. 13, 2003 -- Two-stroke engines are small, powerful, and inexpensive. Four-stroke engines are durable, easy to start, and produce fewer emissions. Diesel engines are simple and can last a lifetime with proper maintenance and care. Advances in small engine technology have yielded a plethora of choices to a world constantly on the move. On September 15-18, 2003, the engineers and designers of the world's compact power plants will converge on Madison, Wisconsin to present these advances in the most comprehensive technical event for the global small engine, small vehicle community. Making its first U.S. stop since 1999, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE International) Small Engine Technology Conference and Exhibition (SETC) provides an exceptional venue to debut new products, discuss industry issues, and conduct business at the heart of small engine technology.

Starting in 1989 and held on a rotating basis in Asia, Europe, and North America, the SETC was established to address the unique needs of small engine applications by providing a forum for a very broad and comprehensive exchange of information based on the most advanced research and development worldwide.

This year, the three-day event will allow participants to explore U.S. and global environmental policy and state-of-the-art advances in engineering technology through papers and presentations by engineers at Yamaha, Honda R&D, Mercury Marine, TVS Motor, Kubota, Komatsu, Southwest Research Institute, and Kawasaki. An extensive exhibition complements the technical program, where the parts, components, and systems technology can be examined up close and explained through product demonstrations. SETC also provides participants with an ideal opportunity to exchange technical information, network, and interact with leading suppliers and nearly 1,000 industry decision-makers, including managers, corporate officials, and engineers involved in R&D, design, and testing. An all-inclusive tour of the renowned University of Wisconsin Engine Research Center will be offered after the closing ceremony.

The 2003 SETC is being held in collaboration with the Japan Society of Automotive Engineers (JSAE).

Program information is available online at http://www.sae.org/calendar/set. Accredited journalists are invited to attend this program free of charge. For media registration, please forward name, title, and media outlet information to Steve Yaeger, SAE PR, at syaeger@sae.org or by calling 1-800-441-2919.