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BorgWarner Presents Drivetrain and Engine Expertise at 2008 SAE World Congress

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., April 9, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — During the 75th anniversary of the SAE World Congress held in Detroit, Michigan, on April 14 - 17, top BorgWarner executives, including Chairman and CEO Tim Manganello, will be featured panelists, sharing their insights on powertrain diversity, new transmission and driveline technologies, the impact of energy and the environment on future powertrains, and the “climate for change” in the auto industry. In addition, BorgWarner engineers and program managers will present technical papers on a number of leading-edge technologies including innovations in turbo technology for diesel engines, friction technology for automatic transmissions, powder metal materials, and driving dynamics. A complete list of papers and their presenters follows this release.”Environmental issues, toughening emissions and fuel economy regulations, and advancing global markets are creating a climate of change in the auto industry,” said Manganello. “At BorgWarner, we are developing the next must-have technologies to address these challenges and propel the auto industry into the future.” Over 35,000 automotive professionals will attend the 2008 SAE World Congress, hosted by Chrysler and BorgWarner, the Tier 1 Strategic Partner.Auburn Hills, Michigan-based BorgWarner Inc. is a product leader in highly engineered components and systems for vehicle powertrain applications worldwide. The FORTUNE 500 company operates manufacturing and technical facilities in 64 locations in 17 countries. Customers include VW/Audi, Ford, Toyota, Renault/Nissan, General Motors, Hyundai/Kia, Daimler, Chrysler, Fiat, BMW, Honda, John Deere, PSA, and MAN. The Internet address for BorgWarner is: . — List of Presentations Follows — BorgWarner Presentations at 2008 SAE World Congress AVL Technology Theater Climate for Change Panelist: Timothy Manganello, Chairman and CEO, BorgWarner Powertrain Diversity Panelist: Dr. Olaf Weber, Vice President Engine Technology, BorgWarner FEV Powertrain Innovation Forum The Other Half of Powertrain: How Will New Transmission and Driveline Technologies Influence Consumer Buying Decisions? Panelist: Dr. Bernd Matthes, President and General Manager, BorgWarner Transmission Systems Original Equipment Suppliers Association (OESA) Conference The Impact of Energy and the Environment on Future Powertrains: Business Opportunities for Suppliers Panelist: Roger Wood, President and General Manager, Turbo & Emissions Systems Technical Presentations Approaches to Achieving AWD Torque Accuracy Presented by: — David Haselton, Sr. Systems Engineer, Controls/Systems Dynamics, BorgWarner TorqTransfer Systems — Russell Scott West, Systems Engineer — Systems Engineering, BorgWarner TorqTransfer Systems High Pressure, High Energy Friction Material without Hot Spots Presented by: — Dr. Robert Lam, Director, Friction Products R&D — Advanced Product Engineering, BorgWarner Transmission Systems — Feng Dong, Technical Specialist — Advanced Product Engineering, BorgWarner Transmission Systems Influence of Pre-Turbo Catalyst Design on Diesel Engine Performance, Emissions and Fuel Economy Co-Presented by: Volker Joergl, Lead Program Engineer, Advanced Development, Diesel Systems, BorgWarner Engine Systems Group Development of a Compact Torque Vectoring Axle for Primary or Secondary Axles Presented by: Dan Showalter, Technical Director, Engineering, Advanced Products, BorgWarner TorqTransfer Systems Material Cost Savings in Powder Metal Transfer Case Sprockets Presented by: Marc Legault, Senior Product Engineer, Engineering Program Development, BorgWarner TorqTransfer SystemsBorgWarner Inc.

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AAA Analysis Finds Teen Crashes Cost Society More Than $34 Billion Annually

WASHINGTON, April 9, 2008 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — A first-ever analysis from AAA finds that crashes involving teen drivers ages 15 to 17 cost American society more than $34 billion annually in medical expenses, lost work, property damage, quality of life loss and other related costs in 2006.(Logo: )”The impact of a teen crash extends beyond the emotional tragedies and physical injury at the crash scene, with costs that can extend to employers, families, the government and society overall,” said AAA President and CEO Robert L. Darbelnet. “These economic figures provide one more reason for legislators to improve graduated driver licensing in their states - a proven measure governments can take to reduce the deadly toll of teen driver crashes.”Comprehensive graduated driver licensing (GDL) systems ease teens into driving through a combination of mandatory practice and limited driving at night and with peer passengers. Comprehensive GDL systems have been shown to reduce fatal crashes involving teen drivers by an average of 38 percent. AAA is a leading advocate for teen driver safety issues and remains committed to encouraging states to improve upon their graduated driver licensing (GDL) systems.According to the analysis conducted by the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation for AAA, drivers ages 15 to 17 in 2006 were involved in about 974,000 crashes, injuring 406,427 people and killing 2,541.The $34.4 billion cost in 2006 included $9.8 billion in cost from fatal crashes, with an average cost of $3.841 million per fatality. Injury crashes averaged $50,512, with their large numbers producing a total cost of $20.5 billion - more than twice the cost of fatal crashes. Property damage crashes accounted for the remaining $4.1 billion in cost.”Some of these costs are paid directly by government through Medicaid, police, paramedics and courts. Many other costs - like lost wages, traffic delay and reduced quality of life - don’t show up directly, but also reflect the very large, very real cost of crashes involving teen drivers,” said Darbelnet. “States that improve their graduated driver licensing programs will reduce crashes, injuries, and deaths for road users of all ages and reduce crash-related costs that are paid by the state, too.”The cost of teen crashes was calculated using modeling that researchers at PIRE have used for economic analysis for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The analysis draws upon a broad range of databases and research involving crashes, injury types, medical costs by state and more.As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 51 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at . AAA

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Consumer Reports Ranks Volkswagen Eos Best in Its Tests of Seven Convertibles

YONKERS, N.Y., April 7, 2008 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The Volkswagen Eos achieved the best overall score in Consumer Reports’ tests of seven convertibles for the May issue, narrowly outpointing the BMW 328i. Both vehicles earned “Very Good” overall scores.Two vehicles in the group, the Saab 9-3 and Volvo C70, earned somewhat lower overall road-test scores, but were still within the “Very Good” range.The three remaining vehicles, the Pontiac G6, Mitsubishi Eclipse, and Chrysler Sebring, posted only “Good” scores and so were at the bottom of CR’s rankings for convertibles.Five of the seven cars tested have retracting hard tops, while two have traditional fabric tops. All of the tops are power-operated. The vehicles range in price from $32,660 to $49,525.The latest trend in convertibles, folding hard tops improve visibility and security. But they have some downsides, too — they take up considerable trunk space when open, and can’t be operated on the move.”The VW Eos is a well-rounded car that works well in all seasons,” said David Champion, senior director of automotive testing for Consumer Reports. “Volkswagen has engineered a glass sunroof into the Eos’ hard-top so that you can enjoy just a little sun, or get the full wind-in-your-hair convertible experience.”Consumer Reports is Recommending three of the vehicles in this test group, the Eos, 328i, and C70. The 9-3 and G6 are not recommended because of below average reliability. The Eclipse and Sebring did not score high enough in CR’s testing to be recommended. Consumer Reports only recommends vehicles that have performed well in its tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on CR’s Annual Car Reliability Survey of its own subscribers, and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test.Full tests and ratings of the test group appear in the May issue of Consumer Reports, which goes on sale April 8. The reports are also available to subscribers at . Road-test videos of all the vehicles in this group are also available free of charge at CR’s Web site.The VW Eos, which is equipped with the same eager turbocharged four-cylinder engine and responsive transmission found in the GTI and Audi A3, provides a good blend of power and fuel economy. CR’s engineers also liked the Eos’s controls and impressive interior fit and finish. But the back seat is cramped and, despite the hard top, there is notable wind and road noise. The Eos Lux ($35,829 Manufacturer’sSuggested Retail Price as tested) is powered by a turbocharged 200-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed sequential, or automated manual, transmission that is one of the quickest and smoothest around. The Eos delivered 25 mpg overall in CR’s own fuel economy tests, the best of the convertibles in this group. Braking is very good overall.The convertible version of the BMW 3 Series gives up very little in terms of the driving experience. The body is free of the flex typical of convertibles, and the 328i is agile and fun to drive, with a strong and smooth powertrain. Like the 3 Series sedan, the convertible has a supple, well-controlled ride and sporty handling. The cabin is well finished and quiet, but the back seat and trunk space are very tight. The 328i ($49,525 MSRP as tested) is equipped with a 230-hp, 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic that deliver strong and smooth performance. But it weighs 400 pounds more than the sedan, which hurts both fuel economy and acceleration. Braking is very good overall.The Saab 9-3 doesn’t stand out among sports sedans, but the pleasant convertible version is more competitive. The ride is on the stiff side, but the body has little flex and wind buffeting is not excessive with the top down. Like the others in this group, rear-seat room is tight. The 9-3 2.0T is powered by a 210-hp, turbocharged four-cylinder engine and five-speed automatic transmission that provides a nice combination of performance and economy.Volvo’s C70 convertible offers a well-finished hard top, a sleek interior with impressive fit and finish, and many safety features including side curtain air bags. But it’s sluggish from a stop, the ride is stiff, and it’s not very agile. Interior space is tight, with a tiny rear seat. The C70 T5 ($43,880 MSRP as tested) is propelled by a 227-hp, turbocharged, 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine and five-speed transmission that provide decent performance. Braking is very good overall.Pontiac’s four-seat convertible is the least expensive in this group with a retractable hard top and a rear seat that can accommodate two adults in a pinch. The driving position is roomy and acceleration is brisk. But the G6 has an unsettled ride, lacks agility, and creaks and groans constantly. Interior fit and finish is subpar, rear access is extremely difficult, and the trunk lid is heavy. The G6 GT that CR bought ($32,660 MSRP as tested) came with the Sport package, which includes a 222-hp, 3.9-liter V6 that delivers lively acceleration. The four-speed automatic shifts smoothly. Braking in the G6 is also very good overall.The Eclipse Spyder’s sporty impression is only skin deep. While acceleration is quick and handling seems agile at first, CR’s tests exposed diminished handling capabilities at its limits. Its awful visibility, intrusive noise, hard ride, vestigial back seat, and wide turning circle are constant annoyances. The Eclipse Spyder GT is powered by a 260-hp, 3.8-liter V6 engine that delivers strong acceleration. Its five-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive. The Eclipse’s braking is also very good overall.Much like the sedan on which it is based, the Sebring is a mediocre convertible. On the plus side, it has a relatively roomy rear seat and trunk, easy-to-use controls and–in Limited trim–a strong powertrain. But the Sebring’s handling is clumsy, the ride is unsettled, the front seats are uncomfortable, and the body groans and squeaks. The Sebring Limited ($37,030 MSRP as tested) is equipped with a 235-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers ample performance. The six-speed automatic transmission is neither as quick nor as smooth as most six-speeds. Braking is good overall.Consumer Reports is one of the most trusted sources for information and advice on consumer products and services. It conducts the most comprehensive auto-test program of any U.S. publication or Web site; the magazine’s auto experts have decades of experience in driving, testing, and reporting on cars. To subscribe to Consumer Reports, call 1-800-234-1645. Information and articles from the magazine can be accessed online at .MAY 2008The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for commercial or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports(R) is published by Consumers Union, an expert, independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves. To achieve this mission, we test, inform, and protect. To maintain our independence and impartiality, Consumers Union accepts no outside advertising, no free test samples, and has no agenda other than the interests of consumers. Consumers Union supports itself through the sale of our information products and services, individual contributions, and a few noncommercial grants. Consumer Reports

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Harley-Davidson Employees in Wisconsin Approve New Labor Agreements

MILWAUKEE, April 4, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — All three unions representing Harley-Davidson employees in Wisconsin voted today to ratify new collective bargaining agreements with the Company. The new four-year agreements, which cover approximately 2,210 employees, became effective retroactive to April 1.The Company has individual labor agreements with United Steelworkers (USW) Local 2-209, representing about 1,700 employees and International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Lodge 78, representing about 150 employees, in the Milwaukee area; and with USW Local 460 in Tomahawk, Wis., which represents about 360 employees.”Harley-Davidson has a long history of working with our union partners to manage the business. We thank our employees and the union leaders for their important contributions to the success of these negotiations and to the success of Harley-Davidson,” said Harold Scott, Harley-Davidson Vice President, Human Resources.”The new contracts balance Harley Davidson’s need to responsibly manage our business for the long term in a competitive global market with our desire to continue to provide a strong wage and benefits package for employees,” Scott said.In addition to improvements in wages, the new contracts provide for the establishment of Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRA) for bargaining unit employees, under which they can use HRA dollars to help pay for out of pocket health care costs. Other health care plan provisions are designed to moderate the rise in plan costs yet maintain Harley-Davidson’s position as a provider of top-tier health care benefits.Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company for the group of companies doing business as Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Buell Motorcycle Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services, Inc. Harley-Davidson Motor Company, the only major U.S.-based motorcycle manufacturer, produces heavyweight motorcycles and offers a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories, apparel, and general merchandise. Buell Motorcycle Company produces sport motorcycles in addition to motorcycle parts, accessories and apparel. Harley-Davidson Financial Services, Inc. provides wholesale and retail financing and insurance programs to Harley-Davidson dealers and customers. Harley-Davidson, Inc.

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Ford Motor Company Details 2007 Performance and Executive Compensation in Annual Report and Proxy

DEARBORN, Mich., April 4, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Ford Motor Company today reiterated the significant progress it is making on its plan to transform and position the company to grow profitably around the world with the release of its 2007 Annual Report and notice of its 2008 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and Proxy Statement.The Annual Report and Proxy Statement were mailed today to approximately 730,000 shareholders and the Proxy Statement was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The documents outline the company’s performance in 2007, announce information about the company’s Annual Meeting to be held on May 8, 2008, and proposals to be presented there, as well as provide details of compensation for select corporate officers.”The year 2007 marked a major turning point for Ford Motor Company,” Ford Executive Chairman Bill Ford writes in the Annual Report. “We made significant progress toward our plan to return to profitability in North America and in our total operations in 2009. At the same time, we laid the foundation for future growth.”"To achieve profitable growth, we need to take advantage of every potential economy of scale and best practice we can find,” President and CEO Alan Mulally added. “In the months ahead, you will see more of the building blocks of the new Ford Motor Company start to emerge — as we work together to create a dynamic global enterprise growing profitably around the world.”During 2007, Ford made significant progress toward its transformation plan. All Ford automotive operations were profitable outside of North America, excluding special items, as was the company’s Financial Services sector. Specifically, the company achieved a $10 billion year-over-year improvement in overall financial performance before taxes, positive total automotive operating-related cash flow, significant improvements in vehicle quality, further cost reductions and successful introductions of new products and innovative technologies around the world.The improved performance and results also will be discussed during Ford’s Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which will begin at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time, Thursday, May 8, at the Hotel du Pont, 11th and Market Streets, Wilmington, Del.In addition to information about the Annual Meeting, the 2008 proxy provides a detailed review of total 2007 compensation provided, granted to or received by five named executive officers during the year — based on the company’s 2007 performance. Details include: — Alan Mulally, Ford president and chief executive officer, earned $2,000,000 in salary and received incentive bonus awards of $7 million. Total 2007 compensation was $21,670,674, which includes salary, bonuses, the Company-recognized expense for stock options and other stock-based awards, as well as all other compensation. — Don Leclair, Ford executive vice president and chief financial officer, earned $1,005,633 in salary and received incentive bonus awards of $3 million. His 2007 compensation totaled $11,703,127. — Mark Fields, Ford executive vice president and president, The Americas, earned $1,255,634 in salary and received incentive bonus awards of $2,850,000. His 2007 compensation totaled $8,389,898. — Lewis Booth, Ford executive vice president, Ford of Europe and Premier Automotive Group, earned $868,133 in salary and received incentive bonus awards of $2,250,000. His 2007 compensation totaled $10,264,463. — Mike Bannister, Ford executive vice president and CEO, Ford Motor Credit Company earned $708,700 in salary and received incentive bonus awards of $2,150,000. His 2007 compensation totaled $8,677,747.Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 245,000 employees and about 100 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit . Ford Motor Company

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Plexus Systems, Inc. Designates Cystic Fibrosis Foundation as Philanthropic Partner for PowerPlex 2008

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., April 2, 2008 /PRNewswire/ — Plexus Systems, Inc. proudly designates the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation as the beneficiary of its fundraising activities during PowerPlex 2008. The company’s user conference will take place May 19-21, 2008 at the new JW Marriott Hotel in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan.(Logo: )The main fundraiser is Plexus Systems’ first annual charity golf tournament on May 19 at the Thousand Oaks Golf Club in Grand Rapids. Sponsorship funding and golfer entry fees will go toward the charity, and Plexus Systems will match the funds raised at the tournament. A raffle also will help raise donations.”Our employees selected this charity, because they are aware of the great need to find a cure for cystic fibrosis. Some of our fellow employees are caring for children affected by this disease. The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has assists these families. We are grateful for these services and our company wants to give back with full support,” said Mark Symonds, chief executive officer of Plexus Systems, Inc.Representatives from the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation will be at PowerPlex 2008 to inform more than 200 attendees about research, therapy and services provided to people affected by the disease.”Because we receive no federal funding, we depend on the generosity of corporations. We remain committed to enhancing the lives of those with cystic fibrosis and ultimately to finding a cure,” said Pam Ogg, executive director of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s Metro Detroit-Northwest Ohio Chapter.Plexus Systems welcomes technology and manufacturing professionals to attend the conference, as well as participate in the charity golf tournament. A detailed agenda and other information are available online at: .Plexus Online is an on-demand software for the manufacturing enterprise. It is built on the “Software as a Service” (SaaS) model pioneered by Salesforce.com and NetSuite. Plexus Online offers over 350 functional modules, providing companies instant access to vital information and management functions using a simple web browser.The on-demand solution features enterprise resource planning (ERP) functions such as accounting and finance modules, customer relationship management (CRM) features such as order entry and tracking, manufacturing execution systems (MES) functions such as production scheduling and machine integration, and supply chain management (SCM) functions such as supplier quality and traceability.About the Cystic Fibrosis FoundationThe Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is the leading organization devoted to curing and controlling cystic fibrosis. Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., the Foundation funds CF research, has 80 chapter and branch offices throughout the country, and accredits a nationwide network of 115 CF care centers, which provide vital treatments and other CF resources to patients and families. To advance the search for a cure, CFF has invested nearly $300 million in promising scientific research in the biotechnology industry since 1998. As a result, the Foundation has more than 30 potential therapies in its drug discovery and development pipeline. Virtually every approved CF drug available today was made possible because of Cystic Fibrosis Foundation support. For more information visit .About Plexus Systems, Inc.Since 1995, Plexus Systems, Inc. (Auburn Hills, Mich.) has maintained a singular vision — to drive significant cost, quality and productivity improvements for manufacturers, from the shop floor to the top floor. Plexus Online(TM) is an on-demand software for the manufacturing enterprise. Plexus Systems originated as an internal solution at a manufacturing company, designed to resolve quality challenges, including production, distribution and global supply chains management issues. Today, Plexus Online enables businesses to manage accounting, financials, compliance and human resources and other critical priorities. Plexus Systems serves a global cross section of manufacturing industries (OEM and suppliers), particularly automotive, defense, medical device and aerospace companies. In 2006, Apax Partners () made a strategic investment in Plexus Systems, joining the founding investment group as stakeholders in Plexus. For more information, visit . Plexus Systems, Inc.

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Toyota Establishes Research Institute in North America

ANN ARBOR, Mich., April 1, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Toyota Technical Center (TTC) a division of Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, today announced the establishment of the Toyota Research Institute of North America (TRI-NA). Toyota plans to spend $100 million during the next four years on advanced research activity in North America and will utilize existing facility space at the Toyota Technical Center Ann Arbor campus.Toyota has been pursuing Sustainable Mobility, which addresses four key priorities: advanced technologies, urban environment, energy, and partnerships with government and academia. Based on these priorities, TRI-NA will accelerate advanced research on energy and environment, safety, and mobility infrastructure.The Toyota Research Institute will be directed by Dr. Noboru Kikuchi, who is the Roger L. McCarthy Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Michigan and also a Director of Toyota Central Research & Development Laboratories, Inc. in Japan. Dr. Kikuchi will report directly to Mr. Yasuhiko Ichihashi, President of Toyota Technical Center-NA. TRI-NA initially will employ 35 researchers and administration staff, and plans to add 10 researchers in 2008 and an additional 20 by 2010. “Creating the Toyota Research Institute is the next step to strengthen Toyota’s advanced research function throughout North America and to discover cutting-edge technologies for sustainable mobility,” said Dr. Kikuchi.”Toyota’s decision to establish the Toyota Research Institute in Ann Arbor to direct advanced research activities for North America is another piece of good news for Michigan,” Governor Jennifer M. Granholm said. “Toyota’s decision demonstrates that Michigan is a leading state for research and offers an attractive business climate for companies to grow.”Toyota established operations in North America in 1957 and currently operates 13 manufacturing plants. In addition, new plants are under construction in Ontario, Canada and Mississippi. There are more than 1,700 Toyota, Lexus and Scion dealerships in North America which sold more than 2.9 million vehicles in 2007. Toyota directly employs over 43,000 in North America and its investment here is currently valued at more than $21 billion, including sales and manufacturing operations, research and development, financial services and design. Toyota’s annual purchasing of parts, materials, goods and services from North American suppliers totals more than $30 billion per year.Toyota currently produces 11 vehicles in North America, including the Avalon, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Corolla, Matrix, Sienna, Solara, Sequoia, Tacoma, Tundra and the Lexus RX 350. When production begins in Ontario and Mississippi, Toyota will have 15 manufacturing plants with the annual capacity to build approximately 2.2 million cars and trucks, 1.49 million engines and 425,000 automatic transmissions. For more information about Toyota, visit . Toyota

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The Search for the ‘Fastest Person on Earth’ Is Accelerating

SPANAWAY, Wash., April 1, 2008 /PRNewswire/ — The biggest one-day sporting event of 2008 may well be the breaking of the Land Speed Record by the North American Eagle (NAE), a group of Canadians and Americans working together for a common goal; creating a 50,000 horsepower car that will travel faster than the speed of sound. This huge event will inspire people all over the world and re-ignite the spirit of every American and Canadian.NAE is currently searching North America for a young man or woman that wants to be trained by veteran land speed racing driver and NAE co-owner, Ed Shadle, to be the fastest person on earth. NAE is seeking a person with experience in high-speed motorsports as well as experience being on camera and with speaking to large audiences.Land speed racing has been an important part of motorsports for over 100 years. About one billion people were watching the event live on television in 1997 when ThrustSSC broke the record. The ThrustSSC website received 3.5 million page hits that same day. Since then, seven television documentaries have been screened continuously about ThrustSSC and the car continues to receive 300,000 visitors a year at the Coventry Museum of Transportation.NAE is also seeking a sponsor interested in reaching the 18 - 40-year-old market through advertising and point-of-purchase marketing tie-ins, as well as through television coverage of the selection process, training, medium speed test runs, and the attempt of breaking the current land speed record of 763.055 mph. Sponsorship of the Fastest Person on Earth reality show may also be available.The North American Eagle is an innovative, purpose-built craft created for one goal: breaking the World Land Speed Record (LSR) which is so challenging to do, it has held for 11 years. If you are between 20 and 40 feel you have what it takes to be the fastest person on earth, send a 400 word email about your qualifications, along with a photo of yourself to . (No phone calls please).Companies interested in learning more about sponsorship opportunities and production groups media interested in discussing a reality show, documentary, or news coverage opportunities, please contact Douglas Schwartz at or call 408-554-8674This release was issued through The Xpress Press News Service, merging e-mail and satellite distribution technologies to reach business analysts and media outlets worldwide. For more information, visit North American Eagle

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Plexus Systems, Inc. to Present and Exhibit at METALFORM Show

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., March 27 /PRNewswire/ — Plexus Systems, Inc., provider of Plexus Online on-demand software for the manufacturing enterprise, announced it will present and exhibit at METALFORM, the premier exposition for the metal-forming industry in Birmingham, Alabama on April 1-3.(Logo: )Plexus Systems Chief Executive Officer Mark Symonds will present “Shop Floor to Top Floor,” an overview of Plexus Online’s reporting capabilities. He also will address “Overall Equipment Effectiveness and Lean,” which refers to the Plexus modules specific to manufacturing equipment efficacy in the areas of Availability, Performance Rate, and Quality Rate.”We are looking forward to participating at METALFORM and educating world- class manufacturers about Plexus Online,” said Symonds. “Customers are constantly seeking an edge to help enhance manufacturing efficiency and profitability - areas where we consistently bring superior results on behalf of our clients.”The METALFORM conference offers the opportunity to educate the world’s leading metal stamping and fabricating suppliers and manufacturers about the virtues of Plexus Online “Software as a Service” (SaaS) modules and the benefits they bring to all facets of the enterprise. Plexus Online modules are specifically designed to improve production in precision manufacturing industries, such as medical devices, aerospace, food processing and automotive.Plexus Online offers over 350 functional modules, providing manufacturers instant access to vital information and management functions using a simple Web browser. The on-demand solution features enterprise resource planning (ERP) functions such as accounting and finance modules, customer relationship management (CRM) features such as order entry and tracking, manufacturing execution systems (MES) functions such as production scheduling and machine integration and supply chain management (SCM) functions such as supplier quality and traceability.About Plexus Systems, Inc.Since 1995, Plexus Systems, Inc. (Auburn Hills, Mich.) has maintained a singular vision — to drive significant cost, quality and productivity improvements for manufacturers, from the shop floor to the top floor. Plexus Online(TM) is an on-demand software for the manufacturing enterprise. Plexus Systems originated as an internal solution at a manufacturing company, designed to resolve quality challenges, including production, distribution and global supply chains management issues. Today, Plexus Online enables businesses to manage accounting, financials, compliance and human resources and other critical priorities. Plexus Systems serves a global cross section of manufacturing industries (OEM and suppliers), particularly automotive, defense, medical device and aerospace companies. In 2006, Apax Partners () made a strategic investment in Plexus Systems, joining the founding investment group as stakeholders in Plexus. For more information, visit . Plexus Systems, Inc.

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AutoScout24 is Expanding to Eastern Europe

MUNICH, Germany, March 27 /PRNewswire/ — - New Used Car Search in Poland, Rumania and Bulgaria The internationalising of AutoScout24 is continuing at full speed.Already present in 13 countries, Europe’s leading online car market isexpanding into Poland, Rumania and Bulgaria with a new used car search facility. Professional dealers and private users have access as of immediately to around 1.6 million motor vehicle offerings at http://www.autoscout24.pl, http://www.autoscout24.ro and http://www.bg.autoscout24.com. “Poland, Rumania and Bulgaria are very dynamic and strongly growth oriented markets with a large demand for used vehicles from Western Europe, in particular from Germany,” says Dr. Nicola Carbonari, CEO of AutoScout24. “With our European wide search, we make the dealers and private users in these countries a unique offer: we are the only ones to offer an almost full European online car market with the full functional scope of our AutoScout24 search. We thus guarantee an enormous selection of vehicles in every price class and in every segment.” In addition to the used car search, AutoScout24 is offering for the firsttime in Poland, Rumania and Bulgaria detailed information on the importconditions of the respective countries. Different checklists - from questionsabout import and export through the safe purchase of a used car to the trialdrive - are ready to download. With questions, customer consultants can helpyou via e-mail in the respective national language.”This first step to Eastern Europe is a central component of ourinternationalisation strategy and helps us to continue to expand our marketleading position in Europe,” Carbonari said. “Also our trading partners inWestern Europe will profit - through a clear plus of qualified inquiries fromPoland, Rumania and Bulgaria.” About AutoScout24 AutoScout24 is Europe’s large Internet-based car portal, offering to morethan 4.6 million users per month (ACTA 2007) roughly 1.6 million vehicles infive different market places: new vehicles and used vehicles, utilityvehicles and motorbikes as well as parts & equipment. More than 35,000dealers are using AutoScout24 Europe-wide for buying and selling from eachother vehicles as well as selling cars to private buyers. AutoScout24 is part of the Scout24 Group, which offers services toroughly six million users every month. Scout24 makes it easier for itsclients to find and offer products, services and contacts, helping them tosave time and money. In addition to AutoScout24, the Scout24 group comprisesElectronicScout24, FinanceScout24, FriendScout24, ImmobilienScout24,JobScout24 and TravelScout24. Scout24 is part of the Deutsche Telekom Group. Contact: Sabine Ilzhöfer PR Manager AutoScout24 GmbH Rosenheimer Str. 143 b D-81671 München Tel.: 49(0)89-450-990-892 Fax: 49(0)89-450-990-889 E-Mail: silzhoefer@autoscout24.comAutoScout24 GmbH