TRW Automotive Launches Its Next Generation Active Control Retractor Seatbelt System

LIVONIA, Mich., Feb. 28, 2005 -- TRW Occupant Safety Systems Holding GmbH, a subsidiary of TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. , today unveiled its next generation TRW Active Control Retractor system. The new product offers improved packaging flexibility and additional functionality compared to TRW's first generation active seatbelt system launched in 2002. TRW currently has two contracts for the new version with two different vehicle manufacturers and will launch the product in 2007.

The TRW Active Control Retractor (ACR) is among the industry's first technologies linking active and passive safety systems. ACR is designed to use braking and stability control sensor information to sense a potential accident. The system removes the seatbelt slack to help better position the occupant in relation to the vehicle's airbag restraint system. TRW was first to market an active seatbelt system when it launched on the Mercedes S Class, and ACR remains standard equipment as part of the S Class's "Pre-Safe" system.

The next generation product offers several new comfort features including slack take-up after the belt is buckled and retraction support when it is unbuckled, automatically returning the seatbelt to the park position. Additionally, dynamic driving support has been developed to help keep the driver in the optimal position in the seat during highly dynamic situations and during rapid deceleration. Compared to its predecessor, the new system is significantly reduced in both size and weight providing improved packaging and design flexibility for vehicle manufacturers.

Uwe Class, manager reversible systems for TRW's Occupant Safety Systems business, said; "We have worked independently and in collaboration with vehicle manufacturers to enhance the TRW ACR system to offer a cost optimized product while improving its safety and convenience features.

"In the new generation product, its situation management algorithm continuously processes signals from the vehicle's relevant dynamic systems such as ABS, electronic stability control or the TRW Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) radar. The algorithm evaluates events such as braking, sliding or vehicle angle, and if a critical situation is identified, the ACR system pretensions the seatbelt, optimizing the position of the occupants and acting as a warning to the driver that an accident may be likely. Should the accident be avoided, the system automatically resets itself via the reversible actuator."

TRW is working to integrate the Active Control Retractor system with other advanced comfort and safety systems including drowsy driver warning functions and interaction with radar enabled emergency brake assist technology.

About TRW

With 2004 sales of $12.0 billion, TRW Automotive ranks among the world's top 10 automotive suppliers. Headquartered in Livonia, Michigan, USA, the Company, through its subsidiaries, employs approximately 60,000 people in 24 countries. TRW Automotive products include integrated vehicle control and driver assist systems, braking systems, steering systems, suspension systems, occupant safety systems (seat belts and airbags), electronics, engine components, fastening systems and aftermarket replacement parts and services. All references to "TRW Automotive", "TRW" or the "Company" in this press release refer to TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. and its subsidiaries, unless otherwise indicated. TRW Automotive news is available on the Internet at http://www.trwauto.com/ .