GE Retail Sales Finance and Aprilia World Service USA Launch National Credit Programs

STAMFORD, Conn.--Dec. 1, 20030, 2003--Aprilia World Service USA, Inc. and GE Retail Sales Finance today announced the simultaneous launch of national credit programs for the Aprilia and Moto Guzzi brand motorcycles, accessories and apparel. Customers looking for increased purchasing power will have the opportunity to apply for closed-end financing on any new Aprilia or Moto Guzzi model, as well as instant credit financing on an Aprilia or Moto Guzzi branded credit card.

The new programs are being launched through more than 250 Aprilia and Moto Guzzi dealer locations nationwide. Designed to provide dealers and customers with greater financing options, the programs are also expected to build greater brand loyalty and repeat business.

"We're extremely pleased to partner with Aprilia World Services," said Glenn Marino, president and chief executive officer of GE Retail Sales Finance, a unit of GE Consumer Finance. "Aprilia and Moto Guzzi have a great line of products and a loyal customer following. The opportunity to offer both closed-end and revolving credit will help drive sales of scooters and motorcycles, as well as apparel and accessories."

Other key benefits of the program for both brands include low merchant discount rates for revolving promotional financing, prompt funding of sales, seasonal manufacturer sponsored promotions and comprehensive customer service.

"Through GE, we can offer our Aprilia and Moto Guzzi dealers and their customers some very exciting financing programs that are sure to motivate the two wheel consumer," said Tom McDonald, Vice Chairman and General Manager, Aprilia World Service USA. "From the almost instant revolving card to long-term,12-to-72 month loan options, we will offer financing that is very competitive and industry leading."

About GE Retail Sales Finance and GE Consumer Finance

GE Retail Sales Finance, based in Kettering, Ohio, is operated by GE Consumer Finance and provides private label credit card programs, marketing, installment lending and financial services for national and regional retailers in six key industries: automotive/recreational vehicles, consumer electronics and appliances, furniture, floor covering, jewelry and health care.

GE Consumer Finance, a unit of General Electric Company, with more than $95 billion in assets, is a leading provider of credit services to consumers, retailers and auto dealers in 37 countries around the world. GE Consumer Finance, based in Stamford, Conn. (USA), offers a range of financial products, including private label credit cards, personal loans, bank cards, auto loans and leases, mortgages, corporate travel and purchasing cards, debt consolidation and home equity loans and credit insurance. More information can be found online at www.geconsumerfinance.com. GE is a diversified services, technology and manufacturing company with operations worldwide. More information about GE can be found online at www.ge.com.

About Aprilia USA

Since 1999, Aprilia has aggressively expanded in the American market and is now available in more than 125 dealerships and boutique stores across the country. The company's sense of innovation since its inception in 1975 has helped it win 23 world motorcycle racing titles over the past eight years, placing Aprilia at the forefront of innovation and technology. Aprilia's environmentally-friendly Direct Injection Technology (DiTech), which reduces emissions by 80 percent and achieves over 120 miles-per-gallon, is only the latest example of its bold vision of transportation of the future.

Aprilia Word Service, USA, Inc. is a subsidiary of Aprilia S.P.A., a privately-owned Italian motorcycle design and manufacturing company employing more than 1,700 people and recording annual sales in excess of 300,000 units. It is the second largest European manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters. As such, Aprilia Word Service, USA is the exclusive importer of Aprilia brand motorcycles, scooters, apparel and accessories. For more information, consumers can visit the Aprilia USA Web site at www.apriliausa.com or phone 877.277.4542.

About Moto Guzzi North America

Moto Guzzi, Europe's oldest continuous manufacturer of motorcycles, was founded in 1921 in Mandello del Lario, Italy, where the motorcycles are still manufactured today. The "Eagle" brand won its first racing prize, the Targa Florio, that same year and became a long-time force in European racing. Known for its signature 90(degree) V-twin engine, Moto Guzzi later gained enthusiasts the world over with its classic touring machines as well. In 2000, Moto Guzzi was acquired by Aprilia S.p.A. and is a member of Aprilia World Services, USA, Inc. In 2004 sixteen motorcycle models as well as a complete line of apparel and accessories are offered through Moto Guzzi North America, the sole authorized distributor for motorcycles, parts and accessories to a growing dealer network in the U.S. and Canada. For more information, consumers can visit the Moto Guzzi North America Web site at www.motoguzzi-us.com http://www.apriliausa.com or phone 678-238-0902 for more information.