Dana Corporation Begins Production for Global Toyota Truck Platform

Jan 12, 2005

Toledo, Ohio -- Jan 12, 2005 -- Dana Corporation (NYSE: DCN) announced today that it is has begun supplying a variety of components for a new version of the 2005 Toyota Tacoma pick-up truck, as well as the HiLux pick-up truck, which is based on the same platform.

Dana supplies full-perimeter frames and propshafts for the Tacoma.  In addition, Dana produces a full-perimeter frame and a rear final-drive unit for Toyota’s South American version of the HiLux, as well as the rear final-drive unit and propshafts for the South African version of the vehicle.

This is the first time Dana has undertaken complete frame assembly through its facility in Buenos Aires, Argentina.  In addition, Dana will be solely responsible for the manufacture, assembly, and supply of the complete full-perimeter frame in North America.  Dana will also supply front and rear propshafts on all models for both vehicles.

“We’re excited about the opportunity to supply these two vehicles and strengthen our relationship with Toyota,” said Dana chairman and CEO Michael J. Burns.  “Dana’s global capabilities allow us to support Toyota’s needs – on a local basis – around the world.”

Production will take place at several facilities of Dana and its subsidiaries, including Stockton, Calif.; Gordonsville, Tenn.; Buenos Aires, Argentina; Gravatai, Brazil; Valencia, Venezuela; and Uitenhage, South Africa. 

“For more than a decade, Dana has valued its supplier partnership with Toyota,” said Mike Laisure, president of Dana’s Automotive Systems Group.  “Our ability to provide flexible, advanced vehicle assemblies that meet Toyota’s needs globally made us a natural partner for this program.”

Dana is also providing oil coolers, manufactured in Cambridge, Ontario, for the Tacoma and HiLux radiator assembly.

Dana Corporation is a global leader in the design, engineering, and manufacture of value-added products and systems for automotive, commercial, and off-highway vehicles.  Delivering on a century of innovation, the company’s continuing operations employ approximately 45,000 people worldwide dedicated to advancing the science of mobility.  Founded in 1904 and based in Toledo, Ohio, Dana operates technology, manufacturing, and customer-service facilities in 30 countries.  Sales from continuing operations totaled $7.9 billion in 2003.  Dana’s Internet address is www.dana.com.