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Western Star Trucks Enters Into Agreement With Mechanical Dynamics

9 May 2000

Western Star Trucks Enters Into $475,000 Agreement With Mechanical Dynamics To Implement Functional Virtual Prototyping In Design of Off-Road Utility Vehicle

    ANN ARBOR, Mich., May 9 Western Star Trucks Holdings Ltd.
(Amex: WSH; Toronto: WS), through its operating subsidiary, Western Star
Trucks Inc., will implement functional virtual prototyping in the development
of a next-generation off-road utility vehicle, using ADAMS(R) mechanical
system simulation software from Mechanical Dynamics, Inc. .
    Under terms of the $475,000 ($688,000 CDN) agreement, Mechanical Dynamics
will provide engineering and consulting services, including design and
structural finite element analysis, to the development program.  The program
will develop a robust utility vehicle intended for severe service applications
such as oil/gas exploration, forestry, and mining.  Western Star, which has
previously used ADAMS for vehicle handling and durability analysis, wants to
minimize the risks of the design process and ensure a long-life, low-
maintenance product.
    "Western Star's commitment to functional virtual prototyping with ADAMS is
evidence of the critical role our technology is playing in vehicle development
today," said Robert R. Ryan, president and chief operating officer of
Mechanical Dynamics.  "Being able to predict system-level performance early in
the design cycle allows engineering teams to quickly identify and correct
design problems, reduce development risk, and optimize quality.  We're pleased
to be working with Western Star as they seek to bring a first-class vehicle to
market more quickly and confidently."
    Mark Gobessi, vice president of engineering for Western Star, said,
"Western Star is committed to using advanced integrated software tools to
accelerate the product development cycle and at the same time achieve world-
class levels of quality and performance.  Working with Mechanical Dynamics and
ADAMS has allowed us to develop a unique and innovative product with a high
degree of confidence.  Mechanical Dynamics has brought considerable experience
and knowledge to the program and has fully supported our need to meet an
aggressive project timeline and budget."