TRW Automotive Supplies Steering Angle Sensor to Various Chrysler Group Vehicles

LIVONIA, Mich., Oct. 18, 2006 -- TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. , the global leader in automotive safety systems, is supplying an innovative steering angle sensor technology from its Kelsey-Hayes Company subsidiary to Chrysler Group for several 2007 model year vehicles. This technology provides accurate and timely information to the vehicle's Electronic Stability Program (ESP) system.

Making its debut on the 2007 Dodge Caliber, TRW's steering angle sensor monitors the rotational speed and angular position of the steering wheel and feeds this information to the ESP system. If erratic movement of the steering wheel or other signs of a loss of vehicle control are detected by the steering angle sensor, the ESP calculates the driver's intended vehicle motion and compares this to the vehicle's actual motion. The ESP system can then adjust the vehicle's dynamics, helping to direct the vehicle in the path intended by the driver.

The sensor consists of multiple optical emitters and receivers that are integrated directly into the steering column clockspring, helping improve accuracy, robustness and durability.

Unlike other traditional steering angle sensors that are mounted separately onto the steering column, the compact design of the TRW steering angle sensor allows it to be easily incorporated into the steering column module -- which includes the clockspring, turn signal, windshield wiper switch and other components -- reducing the complexity of the system. In addition, the sensor's high level of integration enables vehicle manufacturers to include the technology within existing clockspring packaging environments at a relatively low cost.

The technology is the first of its kind in North America to communicate its functions on multiple vehicle information networks. The sensor uses a high-speed control area network (CAN) to transmit information to the vehicle's ESP system and a low-speed local interconnect network (LIN) to operate the turn signals and other body control devices. The combination of CAN and LIN in a steering column module offers increased reliability through the reduction of connectors and is more cost effective due to reductions in wire harnesses and vehicle weight.

Another added benefit of the technology is that the performance of the sensor can be adjusted to meet an automaker's specifications and requirements of the vehicle's stability control system.

"This steering angle sensor demonstrates TRW's commitment to providing our customers with safety technologies that are not only cost-effective, but that are also easily adaptable for various vehicle platforms," said Jonathan Penvose, product manager of TRW body control systems. "We are pleased to supply the technology to several Chrysler Group vehicles and to play a role in helping to enhance the safety performance of these vehicles."

About TRW

With 2005 sales of $12.6 billion, TRW Automotive ranks among the world's leading automotive suppliers. Headquartered in Livonia, Michigan, USA, the Company, through its subsidiaries, employs approximately 63,000 people in 25 countries. TRW Automotive products include integrated vehicle control and driver assist systems, braking systems, steering systems, suspension systems, occupant safety systems (seat belts and airbags), electronics, engine components, fastening systems and aftermarket replacement parts and services. All references to "TRW Automotive," "TRW" or the "Company" in this press release refer to TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. and its subsidiaries, unless otherwise indicated. TRW Automotive news is available on the Internet at http://www.trwauto.com/ .