Hayes Lemmerz Announces International Wheel Group

NORTHVILLE, Mich., Jan. 26, 2004 -- Hayes Lemmerz International, Inc. announced today that it has changed the name of its European Wheel Group to the International Wheel Group. The new name has been chosen to reflect the increased global awareness and presence of the Group.

The Group has undergone important and extensive growth in areas outside of Europe, including South Africa, India, Brazil, Thailand, Mexico and Turkey.

Fred Bentley, President of Hayes Lemmerz' International Wheel Group said, "The change better aligns the name with our strategic direction. Investment is focused on low-cost manufacturing areas throughout the world, recently highlighted by our acquisitions in Turkey and Mexico. It also provides a clear message to our customers of our global capabilities as the number one wheel producer in the world."

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.