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Japan's Automakers and U.S. Tool & Equipment Manufacturers Hold End-Of-Century Technical Cooperation Week

13 December 1999

Japan's Automakers and U.S. Tool & Equipment Manufacturers Hold End-Of-Century Technical Cooperation Week

     Groups Review New 2000 Vehicle Models While Facing Challenge of More
                     Efficient Yet More Complex Products

    TOKYO, Dec. 10- Major U.S. automotive tool and equipment
manufacturers met with Japanese automakers to review servicing for the new
2000 vehicle models.  Previewing the new century vehicles, this event marks
the twelfth annual "Japanese Technical Week" co-sponsored by the Japan
Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA) and Equipment and Tool Institute
(ETI).
    The briefings, December 6th through 10th, help ETI members develop tools
and equipment so U.S. customers continue receiving the proper service for
their Japanese-branded new cars. The nine-member ETI delegation, led by
Technical Committee chairman Greg Potter, visited with Nissan, Isuzu, Honda
and Fuji Heavy Industries.
    This annual event has become more critical as the complexity of the auto
increases through the employment of high technology components such as
computer-operated electronics and more efficient emissions controls systems.
    In addition, the growing international partnerships reflecting the
continued globalization of the auto industry places more pressure on the
industry to ensure high level of service quality control -- all to the benefit
of the automobile owner.
    "We believe this business-oriented relationship benefits our American
customers and continues the win-win situation between ETI and JAMA," said
Toshihiro Iwatake, General Director, International Department.
    These briefings are part of activities stemming from The "JAMA Action Plan
for International Cooperation." This is a continuing effort to encourage
interchange and understanding between car-related industries throughout the
world.