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Gentex Debuts Auto-Dimming Mirror with LED Map Lamps

26 May 1998

Gentex Debuts World's First Auto-Dimming Mirror with LED Map Lamps

    ZEELAND, Mich., May 26, -- Gentex Corporation ,
the Zeeland, Michigan-based manufacturer of automatic-dimming mirrors and fire
protection products, has introduced an auto-dimming mirror with a new map-lamp
technology that utilizes light emitting diodes (LEDs).  It is the first time
LEDs have ever been used for lighting in rearview mirrors.
    Gentex pioneered the Night Vision Safety(TM) (NVS(R)) Mirror, which
automatically darkens to reduce glare from the headlamps of vehicles
approaching from the rear.  The brighter the glare, the darker the mirrors
become, making nighttime driving safer.
    The first vehicle to feature the new lighting technology will be the
19981/2 Intrigue, a new sedan by Oldsmobile.  In addition to LED map lamps,
the Intrigue mirror will contain the PathPoint(TM) Compass System, a compass
display technology developed by Prince, a Johnson Controls company.
    Gentex developed its LED technology because of the increasing electronic
content found in vehicle mirrors, which often come with compass systems,
temperature displays, remote keyless entry receivers, and other electronic
devices.
   "The challenge was to develop a lighting system that wouldn't damage the
other electronic devices housed in the mirror," said Gentex Executive Vice
President Kenneth La Grand.  "Traditional incandescent lamps generate intense
heat that substantially limits the life of the mirror's other electronic
devices.  Our new LED lighting technology allows us to offer customers a
lighted mirror with all the added-value features they desire without
sacrificing quality."
   LEDs are semiconductor diodes that emit light when voltage is applied.
LEDs are very durable, even in harsh conditions, lasting up to 15 years, or
five-times longer than standard incandescent lamps.  They also draw
significantly less electricity, have a lower operating temperature, and make
it easier to control lighting color and patterns.
    The Intrigue is fast becoming known for its remarkable agility and
outstanding handling.  It is a refined, sophisticated sport sedan that
provides luxury and performance with mid-size functionality.  Critics and
consumers alike have been enamored of the ride and handling which helped make
Oldsmobile's all-new Intrigue a 1998 Automobile Magazine "all-star" winner for
"Best Family Sedan."
    Gentex Corporation is an international company that provides high-quality
products to the worldwide automotive industry and North American fire
protection market.  The Company develops, manufactures and markets proprietary
electro-optic products, including interior and exterior electrochromic,
automatic-dimming Night Vision Safety(TM) (NVS(R)) automotive rearview mirrors
that dim in proportion to the amount of headlight glare from trailing vehicle
headlamps, and an extensive line of fire protection products for commercial
applications.
    Gentex was the first company in the world to successfully develop and
produce a commercial electrochromic mirror for the motor vehicle industry.
The Company is the leading supplier of these mirrors to the worldwide
automotive industry.  Gentex customers include Audi, Bentley, BMW, Chrysler,
Daewoo, Fiat, Ford, General Motors, Gulf States Toyota, Honda, Hyundai,
Infiniti, Kia Motors, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Opel, Porsche,
Rolls Royce and Southeast Toyota Distributors.
    Founded in 1974, Gentex operates out of three facilities in Zeeland,
Michigan; an automotive sales office in Livonia, Michigan; automotive sales
and engineering subsidiaries in Germany and Japan; and five regional U.S.
sales offices for the Fire Protection Products Group.  The Company is
recognized for its quality products, its application of world class
manufacturing principles, for its commitment to developing and maintaining a
highly skilled workforce, and for encouraging employee ownership of the
Company's stock.