Frost & Sullivan Recognizes Robert Bosch's Leadership Position in the North American Fuel Injector Aftermarket

PALO ALTO, Calif.--Nov. 4, 2003--In a recent study of the North American fuel injector aftermarket, Frost & Sullivan recognized Robert Bosch Corporation (Bosch) as the industry's product leader. This position is based on industry leading product quality, end-user regard, and manufacturing reputation.

Frost & Sullivan presented its 2003 Product Leadership Award for fuel injectors today to Robert Bosch Corporation at the Automotive Aftermarket Parts Expo (AAPEX) show in Las Vegas, Nev.

Findings from Frost & Sullivan's survey of over two-dozen manufacturers, distributors, and end-users revealed that Bosch's aftermarket fuel injectors offer a precise spray pattern, a highly consistent performance, and easy installation. These features are critical for product appeal because fuel injectors require a high degree of manufacturing precision and quality for optimal performance.

Bosch's fuel injectors are widely regarded as the quality and performance standard in the fuel injector aftermarket. As the recipient of this award, Bosch is building upon a strong heritage of fuel injector innovation and product leadership. The company was the first manufacturer to introduce a mass-produced, electronic fuel injection system, which it did with the D-Jetronic, initially used in the 1967 Volkswagen Type III motors. Bosch has continued this pioneering effort over the decades with its K-Jetronic, L-Jetronic, and Motronic series of fuel injectors.

Since product quality forms the basis for consumer trust in aftermarket products, leadership in this aspect is critically important for demonstrating a company's aftermarket potential. Bosch's manufacturing plant in Charleston, S.C. meets the most stringent quality standards and is QS-9000 and ISO/TS 16949 (TS) certified. The company is also an original equipment supplier to companies such as the Ford Motor Company and DaimlerChrysler AG.

"The company's design pre-eminence and its superior manufacturing standards have established Robert Bosch Corp. as the fuel injector product leader in the North American aftermarket," notes Christopher Chen, automotive industry analyst with Frost & Sullivan.

About the Robert Bosch Corporation

Robert Bosch Corporation, a subsidiary of Robert Bosch GmbH, headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, has been committed to developing innovative products for the automotive industry for more than 117 years. A global company, Bosch has earned a reputation as a quality supplier to both the automotive original equipment market and the automotive aftermarket. For more information, visit www.boschusa.com.

About Frost & Sullivan

Founded in 1961, Frost & Sullivan is recognized as a global leader in growth consulting. Frost & Sullivan Awards are presented to companies that demonstrate excellence in their industry, commending the diligence, commitment, and innovative business strategies required to advance in the global marketplace. Frost & Sullivan rigorously analyzes specific criteria to determine award recipients in a vast variety of market industries and landscapes. For further information, visit www.frost.com.