Hella Acquires Danish Software Specialist

PLYMOUTH TWP., Mich., Oct. 9, 2006 -- Hella KGaA Hueck & Co., a tier one supplier of automotive lighting and electronic equipment, has acquired a majority ownership share in Demark-based software specialist Tolerance A/S.

Founded in 1982, Tolerance develops and sells software for Internet-based technical service, including the diagnosis and repair of passenger cars and commercial vehicles for motor-vehicle garages in Europe.

The acquisition of Tolerance strengthens Hella's aftermarket business division in support of independent garages and motor-vehicle parts wholesaling. The firm is headquartered in Viborg, Denmark.

"We see the acquisition of Tolerance as a strategic investment in the strengthening of our services competence for independent garages in the area of vehicle repair," according to Martin Herbst, chief executive officer of Aftermarket and Special Original Equipment Business Division, at Hella KGaA Hueck & Co.

Hella maintains one of the world's largest aftermarket organizations for motor-vehicle parts and accessories, including its own sales companies and partners in more than 100 countries.

The company's North American aftermarket subsidiary, supplies the automotive aftermarket and garages with a range of products in the competence fields of lighting, electrics, electronics and thermal management. In addition, the aftermarket and garages receive effective sales support, as well as competent technical service.

Hella, a global supplier, develops and manufactures components and systems for lighting and electronics for the automotive industry, including advanced driver-assistance systems enhancing safety and comfort. In addition, joint- venture companies produce complete vehicle modules, air-conditioning systems and vehicle electric systems. Hella is also one of the world's largest companies selling automotive aftermarket parts and accessories, with its own sales companies and partners in more than 100 countries. Annual consolidated sales for the Hella Group total $3.8 billion.

Hella is one of the 100 largest industrial companies in Germany. A total of 24,000 people are employed in 65 production facilities, production subsidiaries and joint-venture companies. More than 2,900 Hella engineers and technicians work in research and development. Customers include all of the world's leading automakers and system manufacturers, as well as the automotive aftermarket.

Additional information is available at http://www.hella.com/ .