Plastic Omnium: Inergy Automotive Systems Seeks to Acquire Yapp, the Chinese Fuels Systems Market Leader

PARIS, January 20 --

- Memorandum of Understanding signed in Beijing

Inergy Automotive Systems (IAS) and State Development & Investment Corporation (SDIC) of the People's Republic of China announce today that they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding whereby Inergy would acquire a majority stake in Yangzhou Yapp Auto Plastic Parts Co Ltd (Yapp). The transaction is subject to a number of conditions and regulatory approvals and scheduled to be completed in 2005. With EUR50 million sales in 2004, Yapp is China's leading plastic fuel systems manufacturer, with production sites in Yangzhou, Shanghai and Tangshan, which are appropriately located to supply major international car manufacturers operating in China. The Chinese market and production of passenger cars has been experiencing a spectacular growth over recent years, with registrations almost trebling from 2001 to 2004.

"Inergy's firm intention to achieve a successful deal with SDIC is another demonstration of our rapid expansion strategy in Asia, following our launch of operations in Japan, Korea and Thailand," said Mr. Pierre Lecocq, CEO of IAS. "We would be proud and keen to be in a position to deliver our clients with the top quality products they need to serve the Chinese market, which is growing at dazzling speed," he said.

Inergy Automotive Systems is the global Tier One supplier of complete plastic Fuel Systems and fluid storage technologies. The company was founded through a 50/50 joint venture between the French company Plastic Omnium and Solvay. IAS is headquartered in Paris and employs approximately 4,500 people and has 28 facilities in 17 countries around the world. For further information, please visit www.inergyautomotive.com

Plastic Omnium is a world leader in automotive equipment (fuel tanks/systems and exterior components/modules). The Company also holds leadership positions in household waste collection containers and high- performance plastics products. Plastic Omnium is listed on the Paris stock market.