Valeo LaneVue (TM) System Selected as 2005 Automotive News PACE Award Finalist

AUBURN HILLS, Michigan, October 19 -- Valeo today announced that its Lane Departure Warning System LaneVue (TM) has been selected as a finalist for the 2005 Automotive News PACE Awards in its product innovation category. The nomination comes following Valeo's LaneVue (TM) introduction in the 2005 Infiniti FX SUV.

"We are honoured to have our lane departure warning technology recognised by the prestigious PACE Awards," said Thierry Morin, Chairman and CEO. "Valeo's lane departure technology is a key system for protecting drivers and passengers from the many hazards on today's roads." The latest figures show that over 40% of accidents in the United States occur during lane change.

Valeo's LaneVue (TM), developed along with technology partner Iteris, consists of a miniature video sensor that uses complex proprietary software algorithms to continuously monitor the lane markings in front of the vehicle. During unintentional lane departures - detected when the driver fails to use their turn signal - the driver is alerted and may then take corrective action.

Infiniti was the first passenger car brand to install a vision based LDWS in the US market. The LDWS is available on 2005 FX sport-utility vehicle models. The company also recently announced that its 2006 M45 will also feature Valeo's LaneVue (TM) system. The vehicle will be available to consumers in the spring of 2005.

The PACE Awards, now in their 11th year, are presented annually and are co-sponsored by Automotive News, CapGemini and the Transportation Research Center. The awards honour automotive suppliers for innovations in both products and practices. According to the award's Web site, the winners of the PACE award "set the standard for game-changing innovation and excellence within the automotive supply industry."

Valeo's start-stop starter alternator was a PACE Award finalist last year.

Valeo is an independent industrial group fully focused on the design, production and sale of components, integrated systems and modules for cars and trucks. Valeo ranks among the world's top automotive suppliers. The Group has 130 plants, 65 R&D centres, 9 distribution centres and employs 70,200 people in 26 countries worldwide.