Exide Introduces the Exide X-treme Battery for the Automotive Market

PRINCETON, N.J., Oct. 7, 2003 -- Exide Technologies, ( www.exide.com ), a global leader in stored electrical-energy solutions, will launch the Exide X-treme, an automotive battery with extreme cycling capacity, at the Equip' Auto 2003 automotive show in Paris later this month.

The Exide X-treme, which offers 50 percent better cycling performance and 20 percent more vibration resistance than a conventional automotive battery requirement, is designed for the extreme energy power supply requirements of modern vehicles. Accessories such as global positioning systems, air conditioning, entertainment systems, climate control and computer systems draw large electrical loads from the battery. These systems require a battery with the capability to be deeply discharged and recharged repeatedly.

A typical automotive starting battery provides a short burst of high power to start the engine, but is not designed for deep discharges and recharges. By comparison, a typical cycling battery provides a steady level of power over a longer period of time to support electrical accessories. The Exide X-treme is constructed as a dual-purpose battery combining good starting capability with superb cycling ability. The Exide X-treme uses the same proven technology principle as Exide's Commercial Vehicle batteries, and incorporates the latest separator technology. This special envelope separator, made of a special polyFX fiber, exerts pressure on the battery plates, keeping the active material firmly bonded to the plates. The envelope separators fully enclose each plate, which also reduces the risk of short circuiting.

The Exide X-treme features Exide's patented STS secure lid technology for maximum safety and a visual device to indicate state of charge. All six vent plugs in the sealed lid are fitted with a labyrinth system and a chemical- resistant membrane filter, which help prevent acid spills. A central gassing system allows any gas to be vented through a single vent into a controlled environment. The battery also is fitted with a "magic eye" indicating the state of charge for preventive maintenance and protection against unexpected battery failure. The Exide X-treme comes in seven different fitment configurations, ranging from 350 to 800 cold cranking amps.

"Exide Technologies is aggressive about making our customers successful. The Exide X-treme is a result of our laser-like focus on customer needs. It is an advanced battery designed for today's vehicles which demand the highest performance, safety and ease of operation," said David Enstone, President of the Exide Technologies Transportation Business Group.

About Exide Technologies:

Exide Technologies, with operations in 89 countries and fiscal 2003 net sales of approximately $2.4 billion, is one of the world's largest producers and recyclers of lead-acid batteries. The company's two global business groups -- industrial energy and transportation -- provide a comprehensive range of stored electrical energy products and services for industrial and transportation applications.

Industrial uses include network power applications such as telecommunications systems, electric utilities, railroads, photovoltaic (solar-power related) and uninterruptible power supply (UPS); and motive-power applications for a broad range of equipment uses, including lift trucks, mining vehicles and commercial vehicles.

Transportation applications include automotive, heavy-duty truck, agricultural and marine, as well as new technologies being developed for hybrid vehicles and new 42-volt automotive applications. The company supplies both aftermarket and original-equipment transportation customers.

Further information about Exide Technologies, its financial results and other information can be found at www.exide.com .