Omron Automotive Launches Accessory Switch Product Line

DETROIT, March 8 -- Omron Automotive Electronics, Inc., today announced the availability of a new line of automotive accessory switches. The new product line encompasses nearly all human interface/ergonomic switches required by automotive manufacturers for interior cabin applications.

"By adding the accessory switch product line to our already established ergonomic switch line, Omron Automotive Electronics is able to provide nearly one-stop-shopping for automotive OEMs as well as Tier 1 interior integrators," said Jerry Bricker, vice president and general manager.

The Omron accessory switch line includes both single switch and switch bank products. A variety of flexible, single switches are available for applications that perform a single distinct function such as traction control, instrument panel dimmers, pedal adjusters, hazard lights, door locks, trunk releases, fog lamps, power mirrors, and sunroofs. These products utilize Omron's switch cell technology that allows for design and application flexibility while meeting strict automotive specifications. Omron's switch cell technology provides a standard, high quality switching component inside the switch assembly with an ergonomic and styling coordinated user interface such as a knob or button. This assures high quality and low cost while meeting the application requirements.

In addition, Omron offers a variety of accessory "switch bank" solutions (utilizing single or multiple connector systems). Omron's "switch bank" solutions allow customers to cost effectively add or delete content from a vehicle while maintaining uniform appearance and visual quality to suit the designer's requirements.

Omron's new accessory switch product line was launched in the summer of 2003 for a major North American manufacturer. Additional new orders have been booked. Production volumes are projected to reach over three million per year by Model Year 2006.

Omron offers competitive pricing from our automotive manufacturing facilities throughout the world.

About Omron

Omron Automotive Electronics, headquartered in Novi, Michigan, USA, is a division of Omron Automotive Electronic Components Company, Nagoya, Japan. Omron Automotive designs and manufactures a wide range of advanced electronic control units and sensors, including laser radar sensors, remote keyless entry systems and power window and sliding door anti-pinch controls. Other products include various ergonomic switch assemblies and PCB and plug-in relays. The division has 700 employees in North America with one manufacturing facility in the U.S. and two in Canada. Sales for the 2002 fiscal year were $200 million.

Omron Corporation was founded as a maker of relays for x-ray timers in 1933. In addition to automotive electronic components, the company's major markets include industrial automation, electronic and mechanical components for commercial and industrial uses, healthcare products, ATM machines, card readers and traffic control systems, plus new ventures into intelligent transportation systems, information technology and wireless communications. The corporation has more than 23,000 employees in 30 countries globally. Fiscal year 2002 sales exceeded $5 billion.