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Email From Tom Stallkamp to DaimlerChrysler Employees in North America

24 September 1999

Tom Stallkamp E-Mail to DaimlerChrysler Employees in North America

    AUBURN HILLS, Mich. and STUTTGART, Germany, Sept. 24  The
following email from Tom Stallkamp was released to DaimlerChrysler
employees in North America on Friday morning:

    I want to explain my decision to retire from DaimlerChrysler at the end of
this year.  Bob and Juergen believe, and I concurred, that as the company
moves into a new phase this is the appropriate time for me to move beyond this
job.  Jim Holden will be named President and will assume the responsibility of
Chrysler/Plymouth/Jeep and Dodge Division in the restructuring of the board.
I will remain as Vice-Chairman to ensure an orderly transition with Jim.
    I am convinced that this is the right path for DaimlerChrysler to take at
this time.  The company is now entering a new phase and with record sales,
record profit levels, a new labor agreement in the U.S., and many synergies
identified, we need to move on.
    As I've said repeatedly, the merger is the best thing that we could have
done.  This is a merger of growth, and it will open great new opportunities
for the future -- just one example would be creating the technology to meet
tougher emissions and safety regulations.  Also, we can increase our
international sales.  Now, with some additional effort, we can build on a more
secure product base in South America, Europe and Asia.
    I'm concerned that the press will highlight some of the more emotional
aspects of my decision, especially over what they think is a rift in the
German/American relationship.  The truth is I have, and expect to continue,
excellent relationships with Juergen and with other members of the Management
Board in Stuttgart.  In any merger, issues may arise as a result of different
styles or corporate cultures.  But, these issues have been worked out, and
will be worked out in the future, because they are not the result of
personalities or national differences.
    I want to thank you for your overwhelming personal support for me over the
past year.  It's that support that makes this decision that much tougher.  The
fact remains, at my age and position, this is the best time for me to make a
change and to take advantage of new opportunities.  DaimlerChrysler will
continue to grow and remain the industry leader with your continued support.