Lear Comfort & Convenience Solutions Designed to Meet the Wants and Needs of Automotive Commuters

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., April 3 -- Comfort and convenience features used to be found almost exclusively in expensive luxury vehicles, but not anymore. Like most new technologies, automotive trends tend to become standard in more affordable vehicles as their popularity grows. While vehicle styling is still important, consumers are increasingly attracted to vehicles that offer innovative storage options and other features that make their driving experience more enjoyable.

Responsive automakers understand that the same vehicle may be used for commuting, shuttling the kids and taking the family on a vacation. Manufacturers can set themselves apart from their competitors by providing consumers with a variety of ergonomic design elements that keep up with their fast-paced lifestyles and address their need for comfort and convenience.

For instance, low back pain is second only to the common cold when it comes to reasons people consult a physician. Annual costs for low back pain in the United States alone exceed $50 billion, according to physician Rowland Hazard (SAE Paper 018-186).

"When you slide into your car, whether it is after a long work day or a short trip around town, our goal is to help create an environment which makes the driving experience something to anticipate as opposed to dread," said Douglas DelGrosso, president and chief operating officer of Lear. "We want our customers to trust that we understand consumer preferences and can provide best-in-class interior products and services."

Lear Quadriflex(TM) Thin Profile bolster seat is a thin, folding rear seat that provides excellent back and cushion support and is easily operated with one hand. Quadriflex provides for maximum storage space when folded flat and looks as stylish and well-crafted as the driver's seat. Available in manual and power versions, the bolster seat can be applied to any passenger seat positions.

Lear also is a leader in wireless control systems enhancing driver convenience and meeting consumers' demand with innovative products like Car2U(TM) Home Automation System and the Car2U(TM) Two-Way Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System. Lear's Car2U wireless control system contains an integrated transmitter that can be programmed to activate radio frequency devices such as garage doors, entry doors and home and office lighting and has a better range than existing products on the market. The Car2U two-way RKE system with an integrated transceiver can control and display the status of the vehicle, such as engine, lock/unlock trunk, air-conditioning, cabin temperature and more.

Lear Corporation is one of the world's largest suppliers of automotive interior systems and components. Lear provides complete seat systems, electronic products and electrical distribution systems and other interior products. With annual net sales of $17.1 billion, Lear ranks #127 among the Fortune 500. The company's world-class products are designed, engineered and manufactured by a diverse team of 115,000 employees at 282 locations in 34 countries. Lear's headquarters are in Southfield, Michigan, and Lear is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol [LEA].

Further information about Lear is available on the Internet at http://www.lear.com/ .