AxleTech International Acquires ArvinMeritor's Independent Suspension Axle System (ISAS) Product Line; Deal Sets Stage for Accelerated Growth in Target Markets

Troy, MI – AxleTech International has completed the acquisition of ArvinMeritor’s Independent Suspension Axle System (ISAS) business. Through this transaction, AxleTech becomes the Tier One supplier of the suspension and drivetrain systems for two military tactical wheeled vehicle programs: Textron Land and Marine Systems’s Armored Security Vehicle (ASV), primarily serving the U.S. Army, and Australian Defense Industries’ (Thales) Bushmaster Infantry Mobility Vehicle (IMV), primarily serving the Australian Army.

AxleTech International, based in Troy, Michigan, is a global supplier of axles, brakes and other drive train systems and components for off-highway and specialty vehicles for the military and commercial markets. AxleTech’s engineers largely developed the ISAS prior to the company’s spin-off from ArvinMeritor. Prior to this transaction, AxleTech served as the manufacturer and integrator of the ISAS, which was sold through ArvinMeritor. The ISAS offers advanced all-wheel dual wishbone independent suspension with various wheel ends tailored to flexibly meet specific high performance requirements.

Mary Petrovich, Chief Executive Officer of AxleTech International, said, "This acquisition is an important plank in our strategy to grow in targeted markets, including high-performance military tactical and combat wheeled vehicles. We plan to improve upon existing designs and enhance the customer experience through focused capabilities in sales, engineering and aftermarket service."

Gerry Giudici, AxleTech’s Vice President of Original Equipment Business Development added, "Our review of both the military and commercial markets indicates a growing demand for high performance in cross-country mobility, sustainability, reliability, and survivability in combat zones. Our new line of independent suspension systems meets heightened customer requirements not achievable by conventional axle systems. AxleTech is eager to address the most demanding needs of our customers with the addition of this critical new system to our product portfolio."

In October 2005, AxleTech International was purchased by The Carlyle Group, a global private equity firm with expertise in the automotive, transportation and defense sectors.

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About AxleTech International

AxleTech International is a global manufacturer and supplier of axles, axle components, planetary axles, brakes and aftermarket parts for commercial specialty trucks, military vehicles and off-highway machines used in the construction, material handling, forestry, mining and agricultural markets. The company was created to enable a singular focus on the needs of off-highway and specialty vehicle customers by providing high quality products and unparalleled customer service. The privately owned company has its origins as the off-highway division of Rockwell (now ArvinMeritor). Visit www.axletech.com/ for additional information.

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