Tenneco Automotive launches a new Monroe^® suspension springs programme for aftermarket applications, incorporating advanced technology for increasingly safer vehicles.

Brussels, Belgium, 23 July, 2004 - Tenneco Automotive today announced the introduction of its new Monroe^® Springs, a perfect fit for the leading shock absorber manufacturer. Springs together with shock absorbers are an essential part of the suspension system and along with brakes and tyres, constitute one of the three essential elements that make up a car’s “safety triangle”. These three elements are so closely interconnected that wear of just one of them can seriously reduce a driver’s ability to stop, steer and maintain vehicle stability.

A recent study of the causes of the 200,000 accidents that occurred on Spanish roads in the period 1997-2001 has underlined the importance of the suspension as the key element in the “safety triangle”. This study, published by the University of Valencia in August 2003, revealed that 5,000 of these accidents were caused by mechanical failure, in 40% of cases traceable to a problem with the suspension system.

The main problems resulting from worn-out or defective springs include less contact and grip between the tyre and the road, over or under steering problems on bends and a less comfortable ride for occupants, due, among other things, to the noise produced by coil friction. In addition, the vehicle loses its recommended height and the resulting changes in the steering geometry affect road handling and damage the shock absorbers and even the tyres. Fatigued springs also affect the camber, toe and turning circle of the vehicle. This is the reason why springs should be checked every 20,000 km and it is recommended they are changed every 100,000 km.

The quality of these components, which are so crucial to vehicle safety, is thus of paramount importance. The new Monroe^® springs guarantee quality levels unbeaten even by its closest competitors, at competitive prices. Monroe^® springs guarantee a large series of advantages: unrivalled market coverage, greater strength and improved harmonic behaviour to compensate for the wearing of suspension components.

According to a market study conducted by Tenneco Automotive, Monroe^® is today the best known brand in Europe, recognised by over 70% of drivers. The new suspension spring programme that Tenneco Automotive is launching on the market will target the whole of Europe.

Monroe^® springs enhance the value of the Tenneco Automotive package thanks to both the intrinsic quality of these products and the quick time to market. The new Monroe^® catalogue, with over 3,000 items covering 97% of all cars currently circulating on European roads, also includes hi-tech coil spring types such as the banana, taper-wire, and mini-block springs – a real plus for installers as most aftermarket suppliers do not have this OEM technology.

Banana springs apply radial force due to their special shape and ensure optimal control of the vehicle at all speeds. Unlike conventional coil spring types, in taper wire springs, the wire diameter varies in size to achieve progressive spring rate. As a result, the spring rate increases in proportion to the spring compression rate. Monroe^® taper wire springs are fitted with protective sleeves used to avoid wear due to coils touching each other when the spring is compressed.

Lastly, the mini-block springs are an advanced development of the taper-wire type: they have a rugby ball shape, offer longer life, less noise and compact dimensions. In addition, mini-block spring coils compress perfectly without touching. These increasingly popular springs are fitted only on rear axles, therefore they also improve boot space. Mini-block springs are included in the original equipment of popular car models such as the Audi A3 and A6, BMW 3-series, Opel Zafira, VW Golf IV and Passat.

The launch of the new springs will involve both installers and drivers, aiming to increase awareness of springs as an essential safety component, and enhancing the value of the Monroe shocks and springs concept. The springs will be included in Monroe’s marketing activities and promotions.

Finally, the Monroe^® Springs package will also include specific training and sales support. According to the Monroe^® Springs Partner programme, special efforts and specific resources will be devoted to training installers in each national market, with appropriate training courses, installer meetings and co-operation at regional and local level, as these operators will be required to be highly efficient, working to achieve high service standards.

In summary, the launch of the new Monroe springs programme is further proof that Monroe is committed to improving the overall safety of all vehicles.

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Tenneco Automotive is a $3.8 billion manufacturing company with headquarters in Lake Forest, Illinois (USA), and approximately 19,200 employees worldwide. Tenneco Automotive is one of the world's largest producers and marketers of ride control and exhaust system products, which are sold under the Monroe^â and Walker^â global brand names.

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For further information please contact:

Simonetta Esposito

Communications Manager Europe

Tel: (00)(322)706-9000

Fax: (00)(322)706-9199

E-mail:simonetta.esposito@eu.tenneco-automotive.com