BorgWarner Launches Breakthrough VCT Technology for New Family of GM V6 Engines

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Feb. 16, 2005 -- BorgWarner Morse TEC has begun production of its first high-volume variable cam timing (VCT) systems for a new family of General Motors V6 engines being introduced this year. This system uses a Torsional Assist(TM) technology instead of the conventional oil-pressure actuated approach. The new technology is beneficial for both overhead valve and overhead cam engines, and represents a leap to the next generation of cam phasing. The launch is BorgWarner's first production of its VCT technology and constitutes a major step in the expansion of BorgWarner's growing engine management business.

"This production launch is a milestone that has been years in the making, and reflects a breakthrough that will revolutionize the use of variable cam timing," said Roger Wood, President and General Manager, BorgWarner Morse TEC. "VCT is a natural extension of our global capability in the fixed timing drive market. We are delighted to provide GM, and the drivers of vehicles equipped with these new engines, with improved fuel economy, reduced emissions and enhanced performance." These new sophisticated V-6 engines, which include 3.5L and 3.9L variants, are the first mass-produced overhead valve engines to feature cam phasing in an overhead-valve engine design. Later this year, the new 3.5L and 3.9L V-6 engines will debut in the 2006 model year Chevrolet Impala, Chevrolet Monte Carlo, and Pontiac G6.

Variable cam timing is a means of precisely controlling the flow of air into and out of an engine by allowing the camshaft to be dynamically phased relative to its crankshaft. BorgWarner VCT technology includes devices that utilize camshaft torque as their actuation energy, in contrast to conventional phaser devices that depend on engine oil pressure for actuation.

"The Torsional Assist innovation that BorgWarner is providing to GM is unique to the industry," Wood said. "It requires fewer engine architecture changes and yields fuel and emissions benefits greater than conventional oil- pressure actuated devices. This launch is another example of how BorgWarner is exceptionally positioned to engineer, manage and supply completely integrated variable cam timing systems."

Camshaft phasing technology is rapidly becoming a standard in the global engine market. The worldwide market that will utilize this technology is expected to grow 500 percent from 2000 figures of 5.2 million engines, to over 26 million engines by 2009.

Auburn Hills, Michigan-based BorgWarner Inc. is a product leader in highly engineered components and systems for vehicle powertrain applications worldwide. The company operates manufacturing and technical facilities in 62 locations in 17 countries. Customers include Ford, DaimlerChrysler, General Motors, Toyota, Honda, Hyundai/Kia, Caterpillar, Navistar International, Renault/Nissan, Peugeot and VW/Audi. The Internet address for BorgWarner is: http://www.bwauto.com/ .