American Axle & Manufacturing Announces Launch of Ssangyong Motors Driveline System

DETROIT, April 28 -- American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. (AAM), which is traded as AXL on the NYSE, today announced the initial launch of the driveline systems for Ssangyong Motors' Rexton and D100 sport utility vehicles (SUV). The vehicles incorporate AAM's independent rear drive axles (IRDA) and independent front drive axles (IFDA). AAM content will appear on future Ssangyong models including an all-wheel-drive/rear-wheel- drive car.

The independent front drive axle (IFDA), which will launch early next year, incorporates AAM's proven PowerLite(R) aluminum Integrated Oil Pan (IOP) design for reduced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) and improved packaging. The IOP provides lower vehicle height and weight reduction for improved fuel economy, as well as improved road handling, performance, durability, and operating temperature control.

The newly launched IRDA utilizes AAM's PowerLite(R) aluminum carrier and state-of-the-art, high technology PowerDense(R) ring and pinion gear design. Produced using advanced material, thermal and mechanical processes, PowerDense gear sets are capable of carrying more torque in a smaller package.

"The launch of this program marks several milestones for AAM," says AAM Co-Founder, Chairman & CEO Richard E. Dauch. "It marks our first major penetration into the Asian market and demonstrates our ability to compete globally and earn new business based on our customers' quality, manufacturing, technology and delivery requirements anywhere in the world."

AAM is a world leader in the manufacture, engineering, design and validation of driveline systems and related components and modules, chassis systems and metal-formed products for light trucks, sport utility vehicles and passenger cars. In addition to its locations in the United States (in Michigan, New York and Ohio), AAM also has offices or facilities in Brazil, China, England, Germany, India, Japan, Mexico, Scotland and South Korea.