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Mexican Otay Mesa Auto Plant at 75% of Production Capacity

25 September 1998

Mexican Otay Mesa Auto Plant at 75% of Production Capacity

    CHULA VISTA, Calif., Sept. 25 -- B.A.T. International's
(OTC Bulletin Board:  BAAT)  is operating its new composite chassis auto plant
in Otay Mesa, Mexico at 75% of capacity of the Phase I production schedule
(3.5 vehicles per week), one month ahead of the projected schedule.  In the
next month, the work force will be expanded to complete one vehicle per day
and accomplish Phase I goals.  Phase II will gradually increase plant capacity
to 3 vehicles per day.  B.A.T., through one of its subsidiaries, has bought
out the 40% share of one of the partners, Detech Corp., and has increased its
ownership position in the Otay Mesa plant to 80%.  The plant will be producing
electric, gasoline and propane vehicles.  B.A.T. will assume all existing and
future responsibilities for operating the plant in conjunction with the
remaining partner, Environmental Process Advanced (E.P.A.) of Mexico.
    The plant is designed to manufacture complete composite chassis, fenders,
hoods, roofs, and all mechanical components including fixtures such as brake
and gas pedal assemblies.  Future production schedules may be affected by lead
times on vendor supplied components, since in-plant production activities are
ahead of schedule.  The monocoque composite chassis is ideal for electric,
gasoline and propane vehicles because it is extremely durable, strong, safe
and can carry heavy loads.
    The Mexican auto plant is a showcase facility and training center to setup
other vehicle manufacturing plants across Mexico.
   Initial orders for vehicle remain strong from various high profile
customers.
    B.A.T. International is organized as a holding company with major
ownership positions in a set of subsidiary companies now commercializing
advanced automotive and energy technology products developed by B.A.T. over
the last six years, including anti-friction metal treatment, electric
vehicles, super-efficient or high powered engines, advanced batteries and
power electronics, electric bicycles & scooters and electric power generation,
(for more information on B.A.T. Int., see B.A.T.'s web site at http://www.baat.com).
    This press release contains forward-looking statements that should not be
used to make an investment decision.  Please refer to B.A.T. International's
web site & other sources for more detailed Company information or call Cheryl
Mitchell, investor relations (360-384-2730).