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Visteon Technology Provides Peace of Mind

6 March 2000

Visteon Technology Provides Peace of Mind

    DETROIT, March 6 Consumers looking for increased personal
safety and security while driving their vehicle will be reassured by Visteon's
powerful technology on display at the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
2000 World Congress.  Visteon is showcasing a variety of innovative safety
features, including a collision simulator that demonstrates Visteon technology
in action.
    "Visteon is focused on designing and manufacturing safety systems that
matter most to consumers," said Steve Delaney, Visteon's vice president of
interior and exterior systems.  "Our vehicle systems engineering expertise and
vast consumer insight offer automotive manufacturers a powerful combination
for delivering what consumers want most in their vehicle -- peace of mind."
    Visteon technology designed to provide security for consumers include:

    Visteon Safety Seat - includes integrated seat restraints, occupant weight
and position system, safety buckle pretensioner, energy management retractor
with interlock capability, seat-mounted airbags and anti-whiplash feature --
all created to enhance occupant protection in crash situations.  The safety
systems incorporated in the seat automatically adjust to crash severity and
are designed to improve comfort and reach of the occupant.  The anti-whiplash
feature -- an industry first for seat hardware safety -- senses occupant
movement in the event of a rear impact crash and triggers a controlled
reaction in the seat's recliner mechanism.  This reaction allows the seatback
to pivot toward and cradle the occupant and is designed to reduce neck
injuries.
    Adaptive Restraint Module (ARM) - functions as the central command center
for today's most advanced occupant restraint systems.  The ARM detects crash
events and severity, vehicle rollover, whether the safety belt is engaged, and
position of the seats.  In addition, it can connect up to 16 external crash
sensors, including four side satellite sensors.  The ARM deploys airbags (side
and/or front) based upon input from internal and external sensors and its own
intricate deployment algorithms.
    Collapsible Steering Column - transmits driver input to the steering gear
and supports the steering wheel while ensuring that the airbag maintains its
position for proper inflation.  The steering column is designed to collapse if
the driver comes in contact with it during a crash, thus reducing the crash
energy absorbed by the driver.
    Vehicle Emergency Messaging System - an in-vehicle response system that
locates and identifies the vehicle, and provides assistance when needed.  At
the touch of a button, the system automatically dials a fixed cellular phone,
putting the driver in hands-free contact with a 24-hour response center.
Using Global Positioning System technology and mapping software, the response
center determines the vehicle's location.  Roadside assistance, emergency
assistance, and routing information are provided as necessary.

    With a global delivery system of more than 125 technological,
manufacturing, sales and service facilities located in 22 countries, Visteon
is leveraging the talents of its 77,000 employees to deliver innovative,
consumer-driven systems solutions to its customers.