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Companies Launch Global Forecasting Product

26 May 1998

J.D. Power and Associates/LMC Automotive Forecasting Services Launches Global Forecasting Product

    AGOURA HILLS, Calif., May 26 -- J.D. Power and Associates, in
cooperation with Britain's LMC Automotive Services, has released its new
Global Product Advance (GPA), an exclusive electronic database developed for
the worldwide auto industry.
    Available on CD-ROM, the new Global Product Advance is a comprehensive
planning tool that provides detailed information on worldwide future light-
vehicle programs and life cycles, as well as manufacturers' global strategies,
according to Jeff Schuster, GPA global coordinator.
    "The Global Product Advance allows users to combine expert information
from J.D. Power-LMC Automotive Forecasting Services with internal data to
develop client-specific strategic business plans," Schuster said.  "The global
nature of the product parallels the manufacturers' continued movement toward
global vehicle platforms and component sourcing."
    Global Product Advance information is stored in a Windows-based electronic
database.  The system combines predetermined forms with a query utility to
allow complete user-defined flexibility.
    The GPA examines the forward plans and life cycles of all light vehicles
over at least a five-year horizon.  The database is updated on a continuous
basis for quarterly delivery in electronic format and as a hard copy reference
manual.  Target users include manufacturers, suppliers, transportation
companies, logistics providers and the investment community.
    In addition to the Global Report, regional versions are available for the
Americas, Europe and Asia/Pacific.  All Product Advance Reports are available
with optional information on engines and transmissions, including specific
vehicle applications.
    "In this era of rapid change in the global automotive market, it is
increasingly important to obtain timely, accurate and insightful data to
ensure the competitive edge," Schuster said.  "With in-depth analysis and
access to the most informed sources around the world, the Global Product
Advance provides the insight essential for success in tomorrow's market."
    J.D. Power and Associates is an international firm best known for its
marketing information services in key business sectors including market
research, forecasting and customer satisfaction.  The firm's quality and
satisfaction measurements are based on actual customer responses from over one
million consumers annually.  With its headquarters in Agoura Hills,
California, the firm also has U.S. offices in Torrance, California; Michigan;
and Connecticut.  Its international locations include Japan, Korea, England,
Canada and Brazil.
    J.D. Power and Associates can be accessed through the World Wide Web at
http://www.jdpower.com.  Media email contact: john.pepitone@jdpower.com.
    This press release is provided for editorial use only.  No advertising or
other promotional use can be made of the information in this release or J.D.
Power and Associates survey results without the express prior written consent
of J.D. Power and Associates.