TRW Automotive to Supply Chassis Modules to Beijing Benz-DaimlerChrysler Through New Chinese Subsidiary

LIVONIA, Mich., Nov. 29, 2006 -- TRW FAWER Automobile Safety Systems (Changchun) Co., Ltd. (TFASS), a subsidiary of TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. , has established a manufacturing plant in Beijing, China to produce chassis modules for Beijing Benz-DaimlerChrysler Automotive Co., Ltd. (BBDC).

The 4,500-square meter facility plans to employ up to 100 local workers in the next five years to fulfill its annual capacity of module units at full production. Initially, the plant is committed to supplying rear axles, brake assemblies, front struts and knuckle assemblies to the luxury-car flagship Chrysler 300C and another upcoming sedan platform -- both newly localized in China.

"The continued expansion of our manufacturing footprint in China demonstrates our further commitment to the market and our intention to fully support customers like DaimlerChrysler as they expand here," said Steve Lunn, executive vice president and chief operating officer, TRW Automotive. "The new facility is located near the BBDC assembly plant to allow for sequenced, just-in-time production and will have the capability to supply other customers with chassis modules as well."

TFASS is a joint venture between TRW and the Chinese auto maker First Auto Works (FAW). The venture has recently added the production of airbags and steering wheels to its traditional portfolio of braking and steering systems. The new site, located in Tongzhou District, an industrial suburb of Beijing, extends TFASS' strong chassis capabilities to vehicle manufacturers south of the original manufacturing facility in Changchun, Jilin Province.

Ed Carpenter, vice president, TRW Asia Pacific, says the expansion of TFASS is expected to further strengthen TRW's market position in the region. "Northern China is an increasingly important automotive market, where TRW has achieved great success with the TFASS operation and LucusVarity Langzhong Braking Co., Ltd. As evidenced by the addition of the new Beijing facility, TRW continues to expand where its customers are growing."