For Release: Oct. 28, 2003, 8 a.m. ET

GM ACCESSORIES EXPANDS PRODUCT PORTFOLIO

GM Accessories continues to broaden its portfolio in the 2004 model year with all-new 20-inch wheels, interior trim kits and high performance crate engines. Since 2001, the GM Accessories product portfolio has increased 300 percent with more on the way. Collaboration with suppliers, including members of the Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association (SEMA), has contributed to the growth.

Accessories from GM are designed and engineered into the vehicle architecture during the product development process. This unique process enables GM to offer accessory products that deliver what no one else can duplicate – the best fit, best function, and most tailored appearance for General Motors’ vehicles. It also allows GM to offer a full line of accessories for vehicles at launch.

“Integrating our accessories into the vehicle development process ensures they become a part of the architecture of each specific GM vehicle,” said Nancy Philippart, executive director, GM Accessories. “Our new 20-inch wheel collection for the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra are a prime example of design integration.” The highly styled wheels have been engineered to be integral components of the vehicle they are intended for, forming a “tire and wheel system,” and delivering unsurpassed performance, quality and safety.

Style and quality aren’t limited to the outside of the vehicle. For the 2004 calendar year, GM Accessories announces new interior trim kits for the Pontiac Grand Prix, Grand Am and Sunfire, Chevrolet Colorado, TrailBlazer, Equinox, and Cavalier, GMC Canyon, Saturn ION, HUMMER H2, and most full-size trucks and SUVs. With many color and pattern combinations to choose from, these kits allow customers the ability to customize the inside of their vehicles in many ways.

The interior trim components are produced from GM tooling, creating molded pieces with a perfect fit and a tailored appearance achieved though custom finishes created by an innovative and flexible waterborne film dip process.

“This advanced technology dips factory trim components onto a gel-like pattern that is suspended in a water tank,” said Larry Sully, manager, GM Accessories Product Strategy. “The result is a perfect fit to the interior with a look reflecting the character of the vehicle – something stick-on kits can’t do.”

Unlike other high-cost trim kits produced in low volume for show cars, GM Accessories trim kits will be produced in volumes that take advantage of GM’s manufacturing scale. “We’re in a position to provide a lower cost, high volume, customized trim kit package,” Philippart said. “We’ll ramp up production throughout the 2004 model year, and by 2005 we expect to produce 40,000 to 50,000 kits annually.”

Each vehicle will have a selection of trim kits with up to five custom finishes that offer customers a choice of a finish unique to each car or truck at the point of sale: carbon fiber, brushed aluminum, woodgrain, marble. “We’re excited to offer such an exclusive product for customers who want to personalize their vehicles,” Sully said. “Our quality will be unmatched in the marketplace for GM vehicles.”

GM collaborates with suppliers to develop its accessories products, applying their experience and expertise. “We’re pleased to be doing business with SEMA members and other suppliers who have a history of success in the accessories market,” Philippart said.

As GM Accessories’ product portfolio expands, the group is also improving its distribution process. This year GM introduced an Accessory Distributor/Installer (ADI) business model. The ADIs distribute, install, market and sell accessories for GM dealers, providing same day or next-day service.

“This approach responds to GM dealer feedback and uses the same business model that aftermarket sellers have been using for years,” Philippart said. “Initial results have been a real win-win for the dealer, the ADI and GM.”

GM Accessories are backed by the promise of a General Motors warranty. GM Accessories permanently installed on a new GM vehicle at the time of delivery will be covered under the GM New Vehicle Limited Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty. GM Accessories permanently installed by a GM dealer after vehicle purchase are covered for the balance of the new vehicle warranty, and no less than 12 months or 12,000 miles.

“We stand behind our accessories because they’re tested to meet GM’s rigorous standard for performance, durability and safety,” Philippart said.

For more information, visit www.gmaccessorieszone.com or call toll-free 866-901-9001 to speak to one of GM’s knowledgeable accessory agents.

GM Service and Parts Operations headquartered in Grand Blanc, Mich., markets automotive replacement parts and accessories worldwide under the GM Parts and ACDelco brand names. For more information, visit the GM Goodwrench web site at http://www.gmgoodwrench.com.