The suppliers are Dana Corporation (NYSE: DCN), Delphi Automotive Systems Corporation (DPH), Eaton Corporation (ETN), Motorola Inc. (MOT), TRW Inc. (TRW), and Valeo S.A. (PA: VLOF).

The companies plan to address technology issues facing the industry and identify business-to-business technology solutions. Through their efforts they hope to identify and implement technology solutions at lower costs, resulting in greater benefits for each participant and its customers.

Speaking on behalf of the participating suppliers, Dana President and CEO Joe Magliochetti said, "This initiative will be complementary to initiatives currently underway with all our customers. The intent of this exploration is to support and complement the activities of each participating supplier's automotive original-equipment and aftermarket customers. We will coordinate with our customers to be sure that we are addressing cost savings and efficiency opportunities across the entire supply chain of the automotive manufacturing and independent aftermarket industries."

The six companies have identified several areas of mutual interest to explore the use of emerging e-business technologies to improve supply-chain management, customer support initiatives, and independent aftermarket activities. Their representatives will meet to refine those objectives, develop plans, and evaluate technology solutions.

(April 3, 2000)