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Visteon Signs $250,000 Agreement with Mechanical Dynamics

1 December 1999

Visteon Signs $250,000 Agreement with Mechanical Dynamics, Adopts ADAMS(R) Virtual Prototyping Tools for Driveline Development
    ANN ARBOR, Mich., Nov. 30 -- Visteon Automotive Systems, one
of the world's leading automotive suppliers, has signed a two-year agreement
with Mechanical Dynamics, Inc. , creator of ADAMS(R) mechanical
system simulation software, to acquire driveline virtual prototyping software
for use throughout Visteon's Chassis Systems organization.
    Under terms of the agreement, worth approximately $250,000, Visteon will
implement a new ADAMS simulation software package specifically designed to
capture the company's proprietary driveline design and engineering methods.
The software will allow Visteon engineers to model and test driveline
components and systems such as differentials, axles, driveshafts, and
independent rear suspensions on the computer, before building physical
prototypes.  They can then incorporate these models into their customers' full
vehicle models.
    "Visteon recognizes the value of ADAMS virtual prototyping technology, and
we're pleased they have committed to implementing it as an enterprise-wide
solution in driveline development," said Robert R. Ryan, Mechanical Dynamics'
president and chief operating officer.  "In today's incredibly competitive
global automotive marketplace, suppliers are an integral part of the total
solution.  By adopting this ADAMS tool, Visteon will be able to maximize the
value they offer their customers."
    Visteon executives noted that embedding ADAMS technology into the
development process gives the organization a leading-edge simulation tool and
a significant competitive advantage.  Along with streamlining internal
processes, Visteon will be able to integrate its driveline component and
system models more closely with those of its customers, many of whom are using
ADAMS to develop full vehicle models.  Along with the ADAMS/Driveline product,
Mechanical Dynamics will provide implementation services as Visteon deploys
the new technology throughout its Chassis Systems organization.
    Recognized as the de facto standard for virtual prototyping in the
automotive industry, ADAMS is used by every major automotive manufacturer as
well as many leading automotive suppliers and tire manufacturers.  The
ADAMS/Driveline product is part of Mechanical Dynamics' strategy to provide
software that allows automotive manufacturers and suppliers to simulate the
functional performance of a complete "digital car."  By using common tools in
the design process, OEMs and suppliers can reduce design iterations, improve
product quality, and speed time-to-market.
    Visteon, based in Dearborn, Mich., has 77,000 employees and a global
delivery system of more than 125 technical, manufacturing, sales, and service
facilities in 21 countries.  In a recent survey, automotive executives named
Visteon the world's leading systems integrator, best body exterior supplier,
and best supplier of transmission and drivetrain systems.
    Mechanical Dynamics pioneered the field of mechanical system simulation,
and has remained focused on this technology since its founding in 1977.
Thousands of engineering teams in nearly every manufacturing industry use the
company's ADAMS software to build and test virtual prototypes, realistically
simulating on their computers the full-motion behavior of complex mechanical
system designs.  Using ADAMS can help manufacturers reduce the number of
costly physical prototypes, improve design quality, and significantly shorten
product development cycles.
    Additional information about Mechanical Dynamics can be obtained by
writing to the company at 2301 Commonwealth Boulevard, Ann Arbor, Michigan
48105.  Phone: 734-994-3800.  Fax: 734-994-6418.  E-mail: info@adams.com.
World Wide Web: http://www.adams.com

    ADAMS and the Mechanical Dynamics logo are registered trademarks of
Mechanical Dynamics, Inc.  All other company, brand, or product names are or
may be trademarks of their respective holders.