TRW Demonstrates Integrated Systems and Modules at International Auto Show; Exhibit Underscores Value of LucasVarity Acquisition

13 September 1999

TRW Demonstrates Integrated Systems and Modules at International Auto Show; Exhibit Underscores Value of LucasVarity Acquisition

    FRANKFURT, Germany--Sept. 13, 1999--TRW Inc.'s exhibit at the 1999 International Automobil Ausstellung (IAA), Sept. 14-26 in Frankfurt, illustrates to automakers and consumers the value of integration. At the booth, located in the Frankfurt Messe, hall 8, stand E14, TRW is using demonstrations and displays in English and German to show how its advanced technologies and integration skills -- increasingly in demand by automakers -- are adding value to critical automotive systems.
    This year, TRW is showcasing a variety of products and systems in its three major lines of vehicle dynamics control systems, electronics systems, and occupant safety systems. For example, a display vehicle at the booth features integrated TRW systems and modules that offer customers improved performance and lower costs.
    In addition, visitors to the booth will experience the synergies resulting from TRW's recent acquisition of LucasVarity. The purchase in May 1999 was TRW's largest -- and the largest ever in the automotive supply industry -- offering myriad advantages, including complementary product lines, greater global presence, increased purchasing leverage, and tremendous strategic flexibility.
    "This combination has remarkable synergy," says TRW Chairman and CEO Joseph T. Gorman, "synergy that will enable each of the businesses to grow together at a far more rapid rate than either could grow independently. As integrated companies," he added, "TRW and LucasVarity will be positioned more effectively to meet the increasing demands of vehicle manufacturers for complete modular systems."
    What's more, integrating world-class technology was a catalyst in the company's strategic alliance with Magna International last year. The two companies recently opened Advanced Car Technology Systems (ACTS), the world's most advanced independent automotive development and testing center for modular, functional, and safety systems. The 50-50 joint venture in Sailauf, Germany, offers new opportunities for global vehicle manufacturers to develop and integrate all-inclusive vehicle systems, using the most modern equipment and the far-reaching experience of ACTS engineers.

    Exhibit highlights

    Headed by executive vice president and general manager John Plant, the company's vehicle dynamics control systems comprise:


--   Vehicle braking systems, including antilock braking, traction
     control, and foundation brake systems
--   Steering and suspension components and systems
--   Front and rear chassis modules
--   Electronic subsystem control units

Featured is TRW's family of Electrically Assisted Steering (EAS) systems, which offer manufacturers reduced development time, faster assembly, and overall lower costs. Demand for electric steering technology is expected to boom, eventually increasing to an estimated one out of every three cars built by the year 2010.
Executive Vice President and General Manager Heinz Pfannschmidt has been tapped to head TRW's expanded automotive electronics business, which includes:


--   Safety electronics
--   Access and security electronics
--   Vehicle dynamics electronics
--   Display and heating, ventilating and air conditioning electronics
--   Power management controls
--   Man/machine interface, controls, and switches
--   Powertrain electronics
--   Control systems
--   Fasteners

Showcased is the Generation 5E sensor, which contains dual-stage air bag inflator interfaces as well as a proprietary crash-severity algorithm and buckle-switch sensing to provide multi-staged inflation capabilities. Production of the cost-effective sensor was recently launched for European applications.
James F. Smith, executive vice president and general manager, heads TRW's occupant safety systems. With 22 advanced restraint systems contracts with global vehicle manufacturers, TRW is a world leader in the development of advanced restraint systems. Among the technologies being shown at IAA are:


--   Driver, passenger, side-impact, and rollover air bags
--   Inflatable head rests and knee bolsters
--   Frontal dual-stage inflators
--   Seat belt pretensioners and energy management devices
--   Inflatable seat belts
--   Seat belt buckle switches
--   Integrated steering wheels

TRW Inc. provides advanced technology products and services for the global automotive, aerospace and information systems markets. The company, headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, is one of the world's largest independent automotive component suppliers. TRW Automotive produces electronic safety and security systems, occupant restraint systems, steering and suspension systems, engineered fastening systems, engine components, braking systems, diesel systems and aftermarket replacement parts for the global automotive industry. The company's news releases are available through TRW's corporate Web site (www.trw.com).