Grammer's Center Console Provides Functionality

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich., Aug. 4, 2004 -- A brainstorming session by engineers at Grammer AG's Automotive Division has yielded a clever center console prototype that is generating interest from automotive engineers in the U.K. and Germany.

The console incorporates several armrest variations, including one in which a convenience tray, used during winter months, can be removed and replaced by a refrigerator module linked to the vehicle's air conditioning system.

"Our ideas can meet a wide variety of individual requirements," says Andreas Schaefer, manager of Grammer's prototype construction team located in Langenfeld in Germany's Rhineland region. "We came together to share ideas that were then seriously evaluated for practical use. Ten ideas survived and were developed for presentation."

A working model of the console recently was presented to program managers at a Big Three automaker for use in the company's European multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs).

The console integrates a special tray on the driver's side that can be hooked to the steering wheel. For professionals, such as sales people, the tray serves as a convenient table for snacks, or as a desk for doing paperwork or computer work.

The console also features a specially cushioned cover that offers tall people comfortable support at knee height during long-distance driving. The passenger side of the console incorporates a spacious shopping bag.

The Grammer console also extends into the rear of the passenger cabin and can be used for collapsible screens, game consoles, cup holders or small trays.

"Our intent was to develop a common center console for passenger convenience," adds Detlef Schulz-Lekies, product development engineer. "We have the advantage of a group of highly-experienced prototype construction people who are willing to stretch their imaginations to bring new ideas to our customers."

Grammer AG is a world leader in the development and manufacture of innovative components and systems for automobile interiors. Wherever people use vehicles, Grammer, based in Amberg, Germany, sets the standards for security, comfort and ergonomics. Automotive is the company's largest division and supplies headrests, armrests, center consoles and integrated child booster seats to vehicle manufacturers and their tier 1 systems suppliers. The company's second division, Seating Systems, provides driver seats for heavy trucks and off-road vehicles (tractors, construction machinery, fork-lifts) as well as passenger seats for trains and buses. Grammer Seating Systems is active both as an original-equipment supplier and as a retrofitter.

As a global player, the Grammer Group operates with a strong customer focus that includes location of development and production facilities close to clients and relies on an international network of partners. In fiscal 2003, Grammer Group sales were $992 million; North American sales totaled $145 million. With more than 7,000 employees, Grammer and its 20 consolidated companies operate in 13 different countries worldwide.

Additional information is available by E-mail at AutomotiveInfo.Troy@grammer.com .

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