21st Century Insurance Expands into Illinois; Strong Growth Triggers Expansion into the Midwest

WOODLAND HILLS, Calif.--May 1, 20042, 2004--

Auto Insurance Pioneer Launches Ad Campaign Featuring Chicago Establishments and Unveils "Consumer's Guide" to Buying Auto Insurance

21st Century Insurance Group , a pioneer in direct-to-consumer marketing of personal automobile insurance, has begun selling auto insurance policies to Illinois residents through its subsidiary, 21st Century Insurance Company. This expansion into the Midwest, which also includes Indiana and Ohio, coincides with seven straight quarters of double-digit growth and underwriting profit by 21st Century.

"Our entry into the Illinois auto insurance market is part of our disciplined but relentless strategy for growth," said Bruce Marlow, President and Chief Executive Officer of 21st Century. "We're a company that believes strongly in straight-talk, and we're optimistic that the people of Illinois will respond favorably to our superior combination of coverage, service and savings."

To introduce itself, 21st Century Insurance launched its advertising campaign throughout Illinois with television, radio and outdoor advertisements with a theme of "More Features. Less Money. Since 1958." The company's television commercials include a local flavor by picturing a series of motorists buckling up with the "Red 21st Century Seatbelt" while wearing t-shirts from such Chicago area legends as Billy Goat Tavern, Shedd's Aquarium, Home Run Inn Pizza, Buddy Guy's Legends, Museum of Science and Industry and others. These commercials began running in April of this year and the red safety seatbelt billboards can be seen throughout the greater Chicago area.

"We are pleased to see our shirts in such an eye catching commercial on television," said Dave Katzman, Production Manager at Buddy Guy's Legends. "We're happy to be a part of introducing our new friends at 21st Century Insurance to our old friends in Chicagoland."

As part of its commitment to consumer education, 21st Century has also published "The Consumer Guide to Buying Illinois Auto Insurance." The "Consumer Guide" includes actual price comparisons, explanation of the declarations page of a policy, description of limits and deductibles, as well as including phone numbers and web sites for the Top 10 auto insurance providers so consumers can comparison shop.

The Illinois insurance premium survey found in the "Consumer Guide" reveals auto insurance rates for a typical individual can vary dramatically -- to the tune of several hundred dollars -- among leading companies. For example, for a married couple, late 20s, with clean driving records and excellent credit, the difference between the highest and lowest premiums were:

--  Chicago     60018     $529
--  Skokie      60203     $889
--  Rockford    61101     $532
--  Peoria      61614     $639
--  Springfield 62701     $713

"In addition to price, it makes sense to consider policy features and service options. Too many people end up paying too much, for the wrong coverage, with a company that isn't available when they need them," said Jennifer Zalokar, Product Manager at 21st Century Insurance. "21st Century is providing the 'Consumer Guide' to give people the information they need to take control and make a good decision for themselves," added Zalokar.

The "Consumer Guide" recommends that consumers comparison shop themselves because: (1) of the extreme variations in premiums among the leading companies; (2) there are many conditions where your premium can change such as marriage, purchase of a new car or change of address; and (3) no agent or broker can provide quotes from all of the leading types of companies. Copies of the "Consumer's Guide" can be obtained visiting its web site, www.21st.com/safety or by contacting the company at 1-800-211-SAVE.

Founded in 1958, 21st Century Insurance Group provides personal automobile insurance to customers in California, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.

21st provides a superior combination of policy features and customer service at a competitive price. Twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year, customers have the option to purchase insurance, service their policy or report a claim at 1-800-211-SAVE or through the Company's full-service Web site at www.21st.com. Service is also provided at the Company's neighborhood centers during normal business hours. 21st Century Insurance Company is rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best and A+ by Standard & Poor's.