Valeo, World Leader in Ultrasonic Park Assist, Produces its Fifty Millionth Sensor

FRANKFURT, Germany, September 13 -- Valeo today confirms its world leadership on the global market of Utrasonic Park Assist (UPA) systems. The Group that invented this driver aid for stress-free and convenient vehicle manoeuvres during parking and reversing 14 years ago, was the first automotive supplier to market this system which is on its way to becoming standard on most cars.

With increasing traffic density, especially in urban conditions, parking can be a tricky manoeuvre and an error can cost 500 euros or more, in the event of contact with other parked cars or hidden obstacles. Such accident repairs are more and more frequent and expensive. Drivers can prevent such costly, time consuming and stressful situations by selecting a UPA system when buying a new vehicle or installing Valeo's Beep&Park system as post-equipment, both cheaper than the average repair.

UPA is available for rear applications using a maximum of six sensors mounted discreetly behind the rear bumper or a combined front and rear system using eight to twelve sensors. This system provides a visual or acoustic warning which alerts the driver of the presence of, and distance to any obstacles to the rear or front the vehicle.

A smart feature that is becoming more and more standard

Worldwide, statistics show that 6% of vehicles were equipped with UPAs in 2003, 9% in 2004, 12% in 2005 and this market penetration could reach 20% in 2006.

A recent study has revealed that more than 80% of drivers with vehicles equipped with a UPA system were very satisfied with its performance and benefits and that 90% of these respondents intend to purchase their next car with this feature.

This success of UPA is easily understood - drivers can safely park and reverse with maximum convenience and minimum stress while avoiding unwelcome repair bills.

Alexandre Telinge, Tel: +33-6-16-23-86-91, alexandre.telinge@valeo.com