5th March 2009 - TRW Introduces Integrated Electric Park Brake System

TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. has unveiled its integrated Electric Park Brake (EPBi) system, a further development of its first to market Electric Park Brake technology (EPB). EPBi removes the requirement for a separate Electronic Control Unit (ECU) due to its integration with the electronic stability control system.

Dr. Dirk Kesselgruber, TRW's senior chief engineer for EPB systems, commented: "This new technology creates the opportunity for systems integration at a higher level. While EPB requires a separate control unit, EPBi integrates the necessary electronic components and software into an existing control unit in the vehicle, thereby eliminating the need for an extra control unit in the system network."

The EPBi system, as with TRW's production EPB system, helps to enhance driving safety and comfort and provides greater freedom in interior design and packaging. The system is a fully integrated part of the braking system, which makes four wheel anti-lock braking functionality possible during emergency braking. EPB and EPBi include additional functions such as 'Drive Away Assist', automatic hill hold and electronically controlled deceleration - features which are not available with conventional mechanical park brake systems.

Kesselgruber concluded: "The real benefits of EPBi compared to EPB are the reduction of system complexity, weight and installation effort, in addition to offering vehicle manufacturers a potential cost reduction resulting from the elimination of the ECU. It's a further example of how TRW is making advanced safety technologies more affordable for a wider range of vehicle segments."

TRW launched its EPB system in 2002 and now produces over 1.5 million units annually. TRW's EPBi system anticipates start of production in 2011.

About TRW

With 2008 sales of $15.0 billion, TRW Automotive ranks among the world's leading automotive suppliers. Headquartered in Livonia, Michigan, USA, the Company, through its subsidiaries, operates in 26 countries and employs approximately 65,000 people worldwide. TRW Automotive products include integrated vehicle control and driver assist systems, braking systems, steering systems, suspension systems, occupant safety systems (seat belts and airbags), electronics, engine components, fastening systems and aftermarket replacement parts and services. All references to "TRW Automotive", "TRW" or the "Company" in this press release refer to TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. and its subsidiaries, unless otherwise indicated.