MANN+HUMMEL Uses Innovative Technology to Meet Environmental Challenges

DETROIT, April 3 -- MANN+HUMMEL, a leader in combining engineering technologies, uses innovative components crafted of advanced materials, sophisticated plastics and composites to provide automakers with the tools required to produce environmentally responsible, fuel-efficient vehicles. Many of their most advanced products will be featured at the SAE 2006 World Congress in Detroit, April 3 - 6, 2006.

MANN+HUMMEL is a leader in the development of Hydrocarbon Absorption technology to meet expanded California emissions requirements. The CARB (California Air Resources Board) Evaporative Emission Standards are the most stringent in the world. The CARB PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle) regulations are among the most difficult to achieve. MANN+HUMMEL has created a solution to address the CARB PZEV requirements for California and the other Green States (MA, ME, NY and VT).

The solution consists of hydrocarbon adsorptive media permanently installed in the vehicle's air intake system -- usually in the air cleaner assembly. The media collects, or traps, all hydrocarbon fumes emanating from the intake system after engine shutdown and holds them until the engine is re- started; at which time the fumes are released into the incoming air stream and burned in the combustion process.

Only vehicles that must pass the CARB PZEV requirements require an HC- trap. However, the MANN+HUMMEL solution is sufficiently cost effective that the OEMs could choose to spread their HC-trap costs over a given vehicle's entire volume to reduce manufacturing complexity. In addition, MANN+HUMMEL's HC-trap can be integrated into the air cleaner system in either a 'full-flow' or 'bypass' version for greater packaging flexibility. Ever sensitive to dealing with the need to recycle components, MANN+HUMMEL also is the source of the world's first all-plastic oil module and metal free filter elements. The module is recyclable and the element completely incinerateable at the end of its service life.

In the U.S., new diesel emissions regulations and cleaner diesel fuels slated for 2006 raise the need for innovative engine-performance solutions. Both U.S. and European automakers recognize the opportunities created by these changes and are planning to increase their offerings of clean diesel-powered vehicles to their customers. One technology that allows for the reduction of NOx exhaust emissions is Urea Injection. Urea, an ammonia-based aqueous solution, is injected into the exhaust stream where it reacts with the NOx to release harmless Nitrogen and water vapor into the atmosphere. MANN+HUMMEL has developed a urea filtration module that integrates the functions of filtration, heating, and temperature- and pressure-regulation sensors, all integral components for these Urea injection systems.

One of the product innovations, the Secondary Air Charger, helps meet stringent emissions requirements by introducing fresh air into the exhaust system to improve the oxidation of NMHC and CO and reducing the time to heat up the catalyst.

The Secondary Air Charger (SAC) is integrated into the air induction system of the engine. It consists of a turbine wheel and compressor wheel. The turbine, driven by the pressure difference at the throttle body, powers the compressor. The compressor provides the exhaust system with fresh air.

Compared to secondary air pumps, the secondary air charger provides advantages in performance, packaging and weight. The secondary air charger starts directly at engine start-up, with the onset of manifold vacuum and has a higher level of startup performance than air pumps.

MANN+HUMMEL, is a development partner and original equipment supplier for the international automotive industry.

As an experienced, recognized pioneer in the development of air, oil and fuel filtration systems, MANN+HUMMEL is continuing to provide automakers with innovative, high-quality product solutions, like the Secondary Air Charger, Hydrocarbon traps and urea filter. These products, including an Air Cleaner with integrated Beauty Cover and Hydrocarbon Trap, will be displayed at the MANN+HUMMEL SAE 2006 exhibit, in booth # 1532.

About MANN+HUMMEL

The MANN+HUMMEL Group is an international company. In 2005, the company achieved sales of $1.6 billion. The MANN+HUMMEL Group currently employs approximately 9,300 people at around 41 locations worldwide. The company develops, produces and sells technically complex automotive components such as air filter systems, intake manifold systems, liquid filter systems and cabin filters for the automotive industry, and filter elements for vehicle servicing and repair. For general engineering, process engineering and industrial manufacturing sectors the company's product range includes industrial filters, filter systems, and materials handling systems and equipment. MANN+HUMMEL's customers come from a large number of sectors, with series production for the automotive industry occupying a key position. Further information about MANN+HUMMEL can be found under http://www.mann-hummel.com/ .