Reduced Life Cycle Costs Driving Disc Brake Specifications with Dana Trailer Suspensions

Louisville, Ky -- Mar 31, 2005 -- Dana Corporation’s (NYSE: DCN) Commercial Vehicle Systems group described today how fleets focused on reducing operating costs are beginning to specify air disc brakes with new trailer suspension orders.

As an example of this increased interest, Dana cited a recent order for more than 500 Dana® Spicer® SmartRideTM trailer suspension modules equipped with Bendix® air disc brakes, a product of Bendix Spicer Foundation Brake LLC. Placing this trailer order is TransX, a Winnipeg-based carrier operating one of the largest over-the-road and intermodal service networks in North America with more than 1,000 trucks and 2,300 trailers.

“TransX is a leader in the transportation industry, working with suppliers to help test the development of new components that will make our drivers and roads safer,” said Brian Hiebert, equipment manager for TransX. “We have tested and now changed our spec to include Bendix disc brakes in all of our new trailer purchases. Disc brakes have given our drivers a reduced stopping distance, helped to eliminate brake fade, and will lower our maintenance costs by extending the brake life three to one.”

“Customers are recognizing the broader, long-term benefits that air disc brakes offer,” said Jon Intagliata, product manager for brake and systems integration, for Dana’s Commercial Vehicle Systems. “Along with reduced stopping distances, air disc brakes provide ease of maintenance, increased service intervals, reduced air demand, and improved fade resistance. It all adds up to improved performance and helps lower the overall cost of vehicle ownership.”

Dana’s new family of SmartRide suspensions may be specified with a wide assortment of integrated options from Dana, including Dana® Spicer® LMSTM low maintenance wheel end components and TIMSTM (Tire Inflation and Monitor System). Through Bendix Spicer Foundation Brake LLC, a joint venture between Dana and Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC, a number of high-value Bendix® components are also available. Along with air disc brakes, SmartRide trailer suspensions and axles can be specified with Bendix® products such as double or single anchor-pin air drum brakes, extended service and 8.625-inch wide brake options, Bendix® TABS-6, a scalable ABS technology for trailers, brake chambers, air dryers, and valves.

”The TransX order is an excellent example of the kind of integrated delivery – the right combination of products and expertise – that we can offer our customers thanks to the full range of products available from Bendix Spicer Foundation Brake and our two parent companies,” said Intagliata.

For more information on Dana Spicer SmartRide suspensions and other Roadranger products and services, visit the Internet at www.roadranger.com, or write to Roadranger Marketing, P.O. Box 4013, Kalamazoo, MI  49003.  To reach a Roadranger right now, dial 1-800-826-HELP (4357) in the U.S. and Canada.  In Mexico, dial 01-800-826-4357.

The Roadranger® Solution is an unbeatable combination of the best drivetrain, chassis, and safety components from Dana Corporation and Eaton Corporation, all backed by the Roadrangers – the most experienced, most expert, and most accessible drivetrain consultants in the business.

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

Dana people design and manufacture products for every major vehicle producer in the world.  Dana is focused on being an essential partner to automotive, commercial, and off-highway vehicle customers, which collectively produce more than 60 million vehicles every year. A leading supplier of axle, driveshaft, engine, frame, chassis, and transmission technologies, Dana employs 46,000 people in 28 countries. The company is based in Toledo, Ohio, and reported sales of $9.1 billion in 2004. Dana’s Internet address is www.dana.com.