HKS USA Hires Driven Media Communications as PR Agency of Record

- HKS Hires Orange County Automotive Firm to Drive Its Communications Efforts -

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 3 -- HKS USA, Inc., a leading manufacturer and supplier of automotive aftermarket performance parts and accessories, today announced that it will retain Driven Media Communications as its new public relations agency of record to support its 2005 communications initiatives.

Driven's efforts will include working in conjunction with HKS' existing internal public relations team to assist in elevating HKS' overall brand. In addition, Driven will help promote HKS through mainstream media outreach, as well as assist in public relations efforts revolving around motorsports events, trade shows and upcoming product launches.

"With an impressive background in automotive public relations and marketing, Driven will make a great addition to our team," said Rick Lafferty, president, HKS USA. "Driven has already begun to demonstrate that it can deliver solid results that expand awareness and understanding of our philosophy of driving performance."

As HKS USA's public relations agency, Driven will leverage past experiences gained through working in the automotive industry with Ford Motor Company, Mazda North America, Lincoln Mercury, Mazda Motorsports, E3 Spark Plugs, as well as other automotive-focused companies.

"We are delighted that Driven was selected by one of the most respected automotive performance manufacturers in the industry," said Michael Caudill, president and CEO, Driven Media Communications. "We believe our team's extensive background and experience in the automotive industry will help separate HKS from the rest of the pack."

About HKS USA, Inc.

HKS USA, Inc. is a leading manufacturer and supplier of automotive aftermarket performance systems, parts and accessories. Delivering its products to both the import and domestic car markets, HKS has been recognized for its engineering and performance excellence in the automotive industry since 1973. Established in 1982, HKS USA, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of HKS Company, Ltd. Japan and distributes its products through its worldwide dealer network. For more information about HKS USA, visit their website at www.hksusa.com.

About Driven Media Communications, Inc.

Based in Orange County, California, Driven Media Communications, Inc. is a specialized public relations firm that delivers high-impact and targeted public relations programs for the greater automotive and hi-tech industries. Driven's core competencies include: brand building, media relations, strategic counsel, executive visibility, event management, press material development, trade show support and product launches. For more information about Driven Media Communications, please visit their website at www.drivenontheweb.com.