| Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), a global manufacturer of transportation and aerospace-related products and the maker of Subaru automobiles, today announced that it would supply the Forester sport utility vehicle to General Motors India Pvt. Ltd. (GM India), a General Motors subsidiary. The customized vehicle will be sold at GM retailers beginning in March. |
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| The new distribution agreement is a win-win situation for both automakers. FHI will be able to capitalize on GM's distribution network in India, which is one of the world's fastest growing markets. At the same time, GM India will be able to expand its product lineup and increase sales of domestically built and imported products. Both companies have set a sales target for the Forester of 500 units in 2003 and about 1,000 units per year after 2004. |
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| The Forester combines active driving and active safety through FHI's innovative all-wheel drive system and horizontally opposed engine. It allows people and cargo to be carried safely, quickly and comfortably under any road and climate conditions. |
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| A 2.0-liter, four-cylinder horizontally opposed engine, in conjunction with the Forester's all-wheel drive system, provides enhanced mechanical efficiency, guaranteed reliability, good fuel economy and outstanding vehicle dynamics. The Forester is equally suitable for use as a formal family car or as a casual off-road vehicle. |
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| The Forester's introduction into India is one of many collaborative efforts under way between FHI and GM. The two companies entered into an alliance partnership in April 2000, when GM purchased a 20 percent equity stake in the Japanese automaker. The partners have been exploring cooperation in all facets of their business, including product development, purchasing and sales. Since 2001, FHI products have been sold in the Philippines and Indonesia through the GM AutoWorld retailer network. |
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