CTS Wins Multiple Electronic Accelerator Pedal Module Programs with Major Japanese Automotive Manufacturer
ELKHART, Ind.--Feb. 2, 20046, 2004--CTS Corporation , a global leader in electronic pedal modules, today announced that a major Japanese automotive manufacturer has awarded CTS Automotive Products four programs for non-contacting Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Accelerator Pedal Modules. Production of the first program will start in early 2005 and the other programs will launch later in 2005. The four programs will generate over $20 million in new revenues for CTS over the five-year estimated life of the programs. Successful launch of these programs will position CTS to be awarded additional pedal module business opportunities on other models offered by this customer. The CTS' ETC pedal modules will be installed in passenger vehicles built in both North America and Europe."The vast majority of global vehicle manufacturers will be using ETC pedals within five years," said Jeffrey McCurley, vice president and general manager of CTS Automotive Products. "The total annual market for this product is estimated at about $270 million in 2008. Based on the platforms we have captured to date, we believe a 30% market share is achievable," added McCurley.
The ETC pedal module is replacing existing mechanical accelerator pedals and transparently substitutes a fast and accurate electronic signal for the conventional throttle cable. This advanced design reduces the number of components and associated wear, while providing the vehicle manufacturer with the capability to tune the vehicle drivability and performance by platform and model. CTS' ETC pedal modules enable engine control calibration for improved fuel economy and emissions control, are compatible with multiple engine control units, and are equally efficient in gasoline and diesel applications.
The criteria for CTS' selection over other suppliers include the Company's proven experience with non-contacting sensor and ETC pedal module design and production, local support capability in Japan, and regional engineering resources and production facilities in both North America and Europe.
CTS Automotive Products designs and manufactures sensors, actuators and subsystems used in powertrain, safety, suspension, fuel and emissions control systems for automotive manufacturers worldwide. The Company manufactures automotive and related products in Elkhart and Berne, Indiana; Streetsville, Ontario, Canada; High Blantyre, Scotland; Matamoros, Mexico; Kaohsiung, Taiwan; and Dongguan, China.
For more information on non-contacting accelerator pedal modules and related products, please contact Ken Kochanowski at (574) 295-3575 (North America), Dave Russell at 011 44 1698 503941 (Europe), or Takeshi Shimizu at 011 81 45 4502363 (Japan).
CTS Corporation is a leading designer and manufacturer of electronic components and sensors, and a provider of EMS products and services for the automotive, computer and communications markets. We manufacture products in North America, Europe and Asia. Our network of direct sales personnel, independent manufacturers' representatives and electronic distributors provides worldwide sales coverage. Our stock is traded on the NYSE under the ticker symbol "CTS." To find out more, visit our Web site at www.ctscorp.com.
The foregoing are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on management's expectations, certain assumptions and currently available information. Actual results may differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements due to a variety of geopolitical, economic, health, industry and other factors which could affect the Company's operating results, liquidity and financial condition. Investors are encouraged to examine the Company's SEC filings, which more fully describe the risks and uncertainties associated with the Company's business.