Hayes Lemmerz International Expands its Aluminum Wheel Presence

NORTHVILLE, Mich., Jan. 15, 2004 -- Hayes Lemmerz International, Inc. announced today that it purchased certain assets from Hayes Wheels de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. and sold its equity interest in Hayes Wheels de Mexico, S.A. de C.V., to DESC, S.A. de C.V. .

Under terms of the agreement, Hayes Lemmerz purchased certain assets from Hayes Wheels Aluminio, S.A. de C.V., which operated a cast aluminum wheel plant in Chihuahua, Mexico. The Chihuahua aluminum wheel plant has been renamed "Hayes Lemmerz Aluminio, S. de R.L. de C.V." and will be part of Hayes Lemmerz' International Wheel Group. Hayes Lemmerz also sold its 40% equity interest in Hayes Wheels de Mexico to DESC, which owned a majority interest in the joint venture.

"We view this transaction as a key step in our strategy to focus on the growth market for aluminum wheels. We will continue to work closely with our customers to enhance our relationships and continue to strengthen our operations for continued high quality production," said Fred Bentley, President of Hayes Lemmerz' International Wheel Group.

Hayes Lemmerz International, Inc. is a world leading global supplier of automotive and commercial highway wheels, brakes, powertrain, suspension, structural and other lightweight components. The Company has 44 plants and approximately 11,000 employees worldwide. For more information about Hayes Lemmerz International, visit the Company's website at www.hayes-lemmerz.com .