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ADVISORY/'Visioning the Future of the Automotive Industry' to be Addressed at Oct. 1 Symposium at Kettering University

23 September 1999

ADVISORY/'Visioning the Future of the Automotive Industry' to be Addressed at Oct. 1 Symposium at Kettering University

    --(AutomotiveWire)--

    What strategy is next for Delphi Automotive Systems or Toyota? What technologies are on the drawing board at Ford Motor Company, and what research and design is next for General Motors?
    Strategy insights, along with new product lines and technologies, will be discussed when "Visioning the Future of the Automotive Industry" is presented Friday, Oct. 1, at Kettering University in Flint, Mich.
    A panel of prominent automotive leaders will offer their visions during the 8 a.m. to noon event in Kettering's Recreation Center, 1700 W. Third Ave.
    Moderating the panel discussion will be Marge Sorge, editor-in-chief of Automotive Industries Magazine. Featured speakers will be:

--   J.T. Battenberg III, chairman of the board, CEO and president of
     Delphi Automotive Systems,
--   Dennis C. Cuneo, vice president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing,
     North America,
--   Neil W. Ressler, vice president and chief technical officer,
     research and vehicle technology, Ford Motor Co.,
--   Dr. Lawrence D. Burns, vice president, General Motors research &
     development and planning.

    Sorge said the auto industry is ready to explode with new technology and processes in the next millennium. "Visioning the Future of the Automotive Industry is designed to give companies a look into the next century so they can create long-term strategies. It will open their eyes and minds to things they wouldn't ordinarily consider," she added.
    Burns said customers will see a constant stream of innovative products that meet their mobility needs. "Vehicles will continue to get environmentally cleaner, more fuel-efficient and safer," he said. "Functionality will be enhanced through clever ways to access and reconfigure passenger and cargo space. In-vehicle communications and Internet connectivity will be seamless with home and office information capabilities," he added.
    The Oct. 1 event is a scholarship benefit for Kettering University, formerly known as GMI Engineering & Management Institute. Symposium tickets are $100 for individuals ($75 is tax deductible) or a table of eight is $800 ($600 is tax deductible). Sponsorships range from $1,500 ($1,300 is deductible) to $10,000 ($8,400 is tax deductible).
    Media should call (810) 762-9533.