American Axle & Manufacturing Announces Launch of HUMMER H3 Program

DETROIT, April 29 -- American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. (AAM), which is traded as AXL on the NYSE, today announced the launch of the front axle, rear axle and driveshafts for the new midsize HUMMER H3 sport utility vehicle (SUV).

The HUMMER H3 features an electronically controlled four-wheel-drive system that incorporates AAM's PowerLite(R) aluminum front axle, and a cast iron rear axle. In addition, the HUMMER H3 features AAM front and rear driveshafts.

The entire driveline system will incorporate unique AAM technologies that provide enhanced traction, stability, handling, durability and vehicle NVH characteristics. PowerLite(R) independent front drive axles and cast iron rear axles, utilizing PowerDense(R) gear technology, have been designed using AAM's standard four-point vehicle noise reduction plan to ensure the vehicle meets demanding customer requirements.

"The driveline system was designed for extreme off-road capability," says AAM Co-Founder, Chairman & CEO Richard E. Dauch. "We are pleased to play a role in the growth and increased sophistication of the HUMMER brand as it extends its style and superior off-road performance into the midsized marketplace. AAM has leveraged its global capabilities to provide these products that offer world class performance in technology, quality, manufacturing, and delivery."

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.