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Delphi's Electric Power Steering Debuts on Fiat's New Punto

19 August 1999

Delphi's Electric Power Steering Debuts on Fiat's New Punto

 World's First Introduction of Electric Power Steering in Mass Market Vehicle

        Contract Strategically Important to Delphi's European Presence

    SAGINAW, Mich., Aug. 18 -- With the recent unveiling of Fiat
SpA's new Punto at their 100-year anniversary celebration, Delphi
Automotive Systems E-STEER(TM) Electric Power Steering was
introduced to the world of automotive journalists amid rave reviews.  Fiat's
best-selling, high-volume, Punto, which arrives this fall as a 2000 model,
contains Delphi's E-STEER(TM) as standard equipment.
    "This contract demonstrates our ability to leverage Delphi's cutting-edge
technology to supply advanced systems to customers around the world," said
Delphi Chairman, CEO, and President J. T. Battenberg III.  "E-STEER(TM) is a
perfect example of the kind of next-generation technology that fills Delphi's
engineering pipeline.  The global engineering and manufacturing team deserves
tremendous credit for working with the customer to deliver this leading-edge
technology on a high volume vehicle like the Punto," said Battenberg.
    Referred to by Fiat as "Dualdrive", E-STEER(TM) steering effort is
correlated to car speed, steering torque and steering position.  Delphi's
advanced algorithms (mathematical formulas) turn these vehicle inputs into
world-class steering feel.  A special feature for Fiat is a driver-select
switch on the dashboard.  This switch allows the driver to select the steering
feel most suited for the current driving conditions (city or highway).
    "One of the great advantages of E-STEER(TM) over traditional hydraulic
steering is it can be customized to meet specific performance requirements,"
said Dan Crishon, global director of electric power steering.  "With hydraulic
steering, designers must chose an average value between steering wheel
lightness and taut responsiveness that will perform all maneuvers required by
a vehicle.  With E-STEER(TM), steering can be changed depending on the
situation."
    Delphi's E-STEER(TM) eliminates the traditional system's power steering
pump, hoses, hydraulic fluid, and drive belt and pulley on the engine --
offering packaging flexibility and significantly reducing the amount of energy
drawn from the engine -- improving fuel economy, acceleration, and
dependability.  Unlike traditional hydraulic systems, it enhances driver peace
of mind by providing power steering even with the engine off.
    "It is the first full-performing electric power steering system in the
market that actively changes the way the car performs, providing Delphi with a
competitive advantage," said Crishon.
    On the environmental front, a system without any fluids means no leaks --
so warranty costs can be significantly reduced.  Additionally, all of the
materials needed for the pump, reservoir, belts, hoses and fluid won't need to
be manufactured, disposed of, or recycled, making E-STEER(TM) more
environmentally friendly.
    "This totally electric steering system provides the same level of comfort
and control that drivers throughout the world demand, while eliminating many
of the trade-offs inherent in today's hydraulic steering systems," said Paul
Tosch, Delphi Saginaw Steering Systems president and Delphi Automotive Systems
vice president.
    Delphi Automotive Systems, with headquarters in Troy, Mich., USA, is a
world leader in automotive component and systems technology.  Delphi's three
business sectors -- Dynamics & Propulsion; Safety, Thermal & Electrical
Architecture; and Electronics & Mobile Communications -- provide
comprehensive product solutions to complex customer needs.  Delphi has
approximately 201,000 employees and operates 168 wholly owned manufacturing
sites, 38 joint ventures, 51 customer centers and sales offices, and 27
technical centers in 37 countries.  Regional headquarters are located in
Paris, Tokyo and Sao Paulo.  Delphi can be found on the Internet at
http://www.delphiauto.com .