Alcoa Wheel Products Introduces New Dura-Bright(R) Wheels With XBR(TM) Technology; Now Even Brighter, Wheels Still Clean With Just Soap and Water

CLEVELAND--Aug. 24, 2006--Alcoa Wheel Products introduces its latest innovation with the premiere of Dura-Bright(R) wheels with XBR(TM) technology.

Alcoa's new Dura-Bright(R) wheels with XBR technology are now brighter than ever and provide customers with wheels that are 53% more reflective and with 74% more image clarity! In fact, effective September 1, Alcoa Wheel Products will officially begin transitioning from original Dura-Bright(R) wheels to new Dura-Bright(R) wheels with XBR(TM) technology. As always, you still get all the same advantages and value of Alcoa forged aluminum wheels including:

-- Less weight for greater fuel efficiency and/or increased payload.

-- Better heat dissipation for extended tire and brake life

-- One-piece, forged in-strength that is 4.5 times stronger than steel

-- The widest selection of wheels and wheel accessories in the industry

New Dura-Bright(R) wheels with XBR(TM) technology feature the same patented treatment consumers have grown to appreciate with Dura-Bright(R) wheels. The XBR(TM) technology continues to resist corrosion and eliminate the need for polishing wheels to maintain their shine. Unlike competitive surface coatings that can crack, peel, corrode and dull quickly, Alcoa's new Dura-Bright(R) wheels with XBR(TM) technology penetrates the wheel and allows the brilliant shine to last even after years of use. Brake dust, grime and oil residue wash off quickly and easily with a spray of soap and water. As before, Dura-Bright(R) wheels with XBR(TM) technology combat liquid road de-icers and chemicals.

For more information on new Alcoa Dura-Bright(R) wheels with XBR(TM) technology or Alcoa Wheel Products, call 1-800-242-9898 or visit www.alcoawheels.com/durabrightxbr

About Alcoa Wheel Products

Alcoa Wheel Products is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, and employs more than 2,000 associates in seven locations globally. The Alcoa business unit manufactures cast and forged aluminum wheels for the heavy truck, automotive, and motorcycle industries.

About Alcoa

Alcoa is the world's leading producer and manager of primary aluminum, fabricated aluminum and alumina facilities, and is active in all major aspects of the industry. Alcoa serves the aerospace, automotive, packaging, building and construction, commercial transportation and industrial markets, bringing design, engineering, production and other capabilities of Alcoa's businesses to customers. In addition to aluminum products and components, Alcoa also markets consumer brands including Reynolds Wrap(R) foils and plastic wraps, Alcoa(R) wheels, and Baco(R) household wraps. Among its other businesses are closures, fastening systems, precision castings, and electrical distribution systems for cars and trucks. The company has 129,000 employees in 43 countries and has been named one of the top most sustainable corporations in the world at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. More information can be found at www.alcoa.com