OEM Design Execs to Discuss Plans for Future Vehicle Interiors

ANN ARBOR, Mich., May 16, 2005 -- Design executives from DaimlerChrysler, Toyota and Audi are slated to discuss what automakers are thinking and planning for future interior designs and features in a special panel presentation scheduled for Wednesday, May 18. This session is part of the overall 2005 Auto Interiors Show set for Detroit's Cobo Conference/Exhibition Center May 18-19. This special panel program is organized by the Society of Automotive Analysts, and is sponsored by WJR Radio and National City Bank.

  Panelists include:
    *  John Sgalia, Director - Design, DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    *  Mike Sweers, General Manager - Engineering Design / Seats, Toyota

* Roland Stermann, Executive Design Director - Design Center / California, Audi

Presentations will focus on:

* The importance of interior design to vehicle sales and product differentiation

    *  The consumer appeal of various safety and convenience features
    *  What OEMs will be looking to suppliers for in the future

The panel will run from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., and is followed by a reception hosted by DuPont on the show floor for registered attendees. The highlight of the reception will be the presentation of the Sixth Annual Interior of the Year Awards, with over 20 nominated vehicles on hand for viewing.

The Auto Interiors Show is presented and produced by Ward's AutoWorld.

SAA members and "friends" of SAA are invited to attend the panel and reception at no cost. Registration is available on-site at Cobo Center. Log onto http://www.autointeriors.com/ for full conference and show details.

The Society of Automotive Analysts is dedicated to providing outstanding educational programs and superior networking opportunities to its members. SAA offers conferences, programs, its website and other forums in which to discuss, debate, and learn about a broad variety of subjects and timely industry issues.