Bosch Achieves Production Milestone of 25-Millionth Diesel Common Rail System

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich., Aug. 4, 2005 -- At the end of July, Bosch delivered its 25-millionth common rail injection system for diesel vehicles. In 2004 alone, the automotive supplier produced 5.8 million systems. "Bosch's introduction of common rail in 1997 transformed the diesel engine into a clean and economical powertrain option that delivers a powerful and quiet driving experience," said Kevin DeHart, senior vice president, North American diesel systems business unit, Robert Bosch Corporation. "These advancements continue today. In 2003, Bosch launched its third-generation common rail system featuring piezo electric inline injectors, which assist in reducing engine emissions by 15 to 20 percent, while simultaneously decreasing combustion noise and fuel consumption."

As a result of continuously improved, high-pressure injection systems from Bosch, including common rail and unit injector systems, particulate emissions from new diesel passenger vehicle engines have been reduced by 90 percent since 1990. Other emissions, including carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide and hydrocarbons, have been reduced by at least 95 percent. "Common rail offers automakers great potential to meet stringent emissions standards taking effect in the U.S. in 2007," said DeHart. "Additionally, diesel offers inherent environmental advantages, such as decreasing carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 15 to 20 percent."

The Bosch Group is a leading global manufacturer of automotive and industrial technology, consumer goods, and building technology. In fiscal year 2004, some 242,000 associates generated sales of 40 billion euros. Set up in Stuttgart in 1886 by Robert Bosch (1861-1942) as "Workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering," the Bosch Group today comprises a manufacturing, sales, and after-sales service network of some 260 subsidiaries and more than 10,000 service centers in over 130 countries.

In North America, the Bosch Group manufactures and markets automotive original equipment and aftermarket products, industrial automation and mobile products, power tools and accessories, security technology, thermo-technology, packaging equipment and household appliances. Bosch employs nearly 23,000 associates in more than 80 primary and 20 associated facilities throughout the region with reported sales of $7.8 billion in 2004. For more information, visit http://www.boschus.com/ .