Dana Corporation Announces Production of European G-Series Axles to Meet Growing OEM Demand

Hannover, Germany -- Sep 21, 2004 -- Dana Corporation’s (NYSE: DCN) Commercial Vehicle Systems group announced today that its highly anticipated new line of European drive axles is in full production. The Dana Spicer® G-Series of drive axles meets the diverse needs of the European commercial vehicle market. The G110/G130 series is designed for the light- and medium-duty markets, and ranges from 10- to 18- tons GCW. The G170/G190 series drive axle family is designed for medium- and heavy-duty applications, and ranges from 44- to 60-tons GCW. 

European Commercial Vehicle Market Trends

The development of the new Spicer European axle line is consistent with the demand for innovative products – as well as with Dana Corporation’s global vision – according to Mike Burns, chairman and CEO, Dana Corporation. “The Spicer G-Series is a direct response to the forward-looking technology needs of our European customers,” said Burns. “Our global presence, coupled with our technologically-advanced product design capability, allow us to fulfill our commitment to anticipating and serving the needs of customers all around the world.”

“Together, the G110/G130 series and the G170/G190 series cover the light to heavy European commercial vehicle markets, all of which are poised for substantial growth,” said Josetxo Zugaldia, managing director – Commercial Vehicle Systems, Europe. “The G-Series is the latest example of our customer-focused commitment to balance innovation, quality, reliability, flexibility, and management of costs and logistics, while integrating seamlessly with the OEM.”

Spicer G170/G190 series

The Dana Spicer G170/G190 series of drive axle range provides the strength and durability needed by many of today’s demanding applications. High Power Density (HPDTM) 450-mm hypoid gearing, extra-wide wheel differential bearing systems, and steel differential cases provide greater axle strength for longer life at higher loads. The premium pinion bearing support system was specifically designed for retarder use and to reduce deflection for increased gear and bearing system life. The lightweight fabricated housing results in a lower-cost suspension bracket and greater track-width flexibility. Unitized hub bearing systems significantly improve wheel-end performance while eliminating maintenance. Features such as the hot-formed, square-edge, high-strength axle housing and the precision-forged wheel differential gears provide the strength needed for a wide

variety of demanding applications. In addition, the broad ratio coverage of 2.87-to-1 through 7.83-to-1 allows for flexible vehicle configurations in various applications.

Optional features of the Spicer G170/G190 series enhance the axles’ performance. The wheel differential lock with large integral clutch teeth provides for maximum traction and durability in adverse driving conditions. The axle-mounted driveline retarder reduces vehicle cost and complexity.

DANA CORPORATION EUROPEAN G-SERIES AXLES

Spicer G110/G130 series

The Dana Spicer G110/G130 series of drive axles feature premium components in a lightweight package. High Power Density (HPDTM) design methods are utilized in these new axles to provide the benefits of maximized component life and improved impact resistance at greater loads, with minimized weight and cost. The 305-mm hypoid gearing was specifically designed to maximize strength, and the oval carrier and housing increases ground clearance. The integral precision pinion bearing system lessens deflection – increasing pinion gear and bearing system life. A newly-designed, one-piece steel-forged crownwheel/case increases stiffness for greater reliability. Unitized hub bearing systems significantly improve wheel-end performance while eliminating maintenance.

Several “best-in-class” features contribute to this premium light/medium truck axle series. The 157-kg lightweight axle assembly increases payload. The reduced pinion standout distance increases vehicle installation flexibility and improves driveline angles. The broad ratio coverage of 3.07-to-1 through 6.50-to-1 allows for flexible vehicle configurations and various applications.

Dana Commercial Vehicle Systems, part of the Heavy Vehicle Technologies and Systems Group, designs, manufactures, and markets front-steer, rear-drive, trailer, and auxiliary axles; driveshafts; steering shafts; brakes; suspensions; and related systems, modules, and services for the commercial vehicle market.  Major components and modules are marketed under the Spicer® brand name.

Dana Corporation is a global leader in the design, engineering, and manufacture of value-added products and systems for automotive, commercial, and off-highway vehicle manufacturers and their related aftermarkets. The company’s continuing operations employ approximately 45,000 people worldwide and reported sales of $7.9 billion in 2003. Founded in 1904 and based in Toledo, Ohio, Dana operates hundreds of technology, manufacturing, and customer service facilities in 30 countries.  Dana’s Internet address is www.dana.com.