Accuride Introduces Lightweight GOLD Brake Drum; Drum Features Weight Savings and Extended Product Life Cycle

EVANSVILLE, Ind.--Jan. 1, 20063, 2006--Accuride Corporation introduces the Gunite Optimum Lightweight Drum (GOLD). Gunite, a subsidiary of Accuride, is a leading North American supplier of wheel-end systems and components for the heavy and medium-duty truck market.

"GOLD brake drums are designed to be an optimum balance between durability and thermal capability, providing the performance of Gunite's standard full cast drums, yet saving as much as 170 lbs. vs. standard full cast drums on a typical tractor/trailer combination," said Larry Taylor, Accuride's Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "In addition, Gunite field-testing has indicated that GOLD drums can yield longer life compared to other drums."

"During two years of GOLD drum field-testing, fleets reported longer drum life, without increased lining wear," said Dr. Omar Fakhoury, Vice President/General Manager of Gunite Corporation. "Collectively, drum life expectancy was reported to increase in front (steer) axle applications by 50-75 percent, rear (drive) axle applications by 20-50 percent, and trailer axle applications by 20-40 percent. Gunite field-testing is also showing that GOLD brake drums are effective in reducing brake drum 'squeal' vs. lightweight steel shell composite brake drums."

Gunite GOLD brake drums are available from Gunite authorized distribution points in configurations to fit all common wheel-end applications.

Accuride Corporation is one of the largest and most diversified manufacturers and suppliers of commercial vehicle components in North America. Accuride's products include commercial vehicle wheels, wheel-end components and assemblies, truck body and chassis parts, seating assemblies and other commercial vehicle components. Accuride's products are marketed under its brand names, which include Accuride, Gunite, Imperial, Bostrom, Fabco and Brillion. For more information, visit Accuride's website at http://www.accuridecorp.com