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Ecostar Electric Powertrain and Power Conversion Systems Awarded ISO 9001/QS 9000 Certification

23 October 2000

Ecostar Electric Powertrain and Power Conversion Systems Awarded ISO 9001/QS 9000 Certification

    DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 23 Ecostar Electric Powertrain and
Power Conversion Systems announced today that it has successfully achieved
ISO 9001/QS 9000 registration.
    QS 9000 certification is the automotive quality standard pertaining to all
processes within a company including product development, design control,
testing and manufacturing.  Prior to being awarded QS 9000 approval, Ecostar's
facility underwent rigorous and extensive inspections.  QS 9000 standards
include all elements of ISO 9001 as well as other significant automotive
focused quality requirements.  QS 9000 is recognized throughout the world for
encouraging the highest quality processes and products.
    "Our compliance with QS 9000 shows our customers that we are committed to
fulfilling their needs with the highest quality products.  The QS 9000
certification confirms our commitment to excellence and continuous quality,"
says Ross Witschonke, President and CEO of Ecostar.
    Ecostar is the world's leading supplier of complete powertrain systems for
electric vehicles.  Their products drive some of the world's most advanced
battery and fuel cell vehicles.  Ecostar is also a world leader in the design
and development of power conversion systems for stationary power applications.
    Ecostar was formed in 1998 and is part of the Fuel Cell Alliance formed
between Ford Motor Company, DaimlerChrysler and Ballard Power Systems.
Ecostar is the primary development center for the Alliance's power electronics
and electric powertrains.  Headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan, Ecostar also
has offices in Germany and Canada.
    For more information, please visit their website at http://www.ecostardrives.com