Dubai, United Arab Emirates - 3 October 2004 - The Dammam-based Middle East Battery Company (MEBCO) today announced a 50% growth in sales of its locally produced, maintenance-free car batteries, as compared to the same period last year (Q2 2003).

Actual sales had exceeded forecasts by 14%, testament to the huge success that this increasingly popular product, which is designed specifically to perform in the extreme climate of the Middle East region, has achieved.

"We have been confident of the success of this battery model right from day one," said Glenn Heller, Regional Sales and Marketing Manager for Aftersales, GM. "These results prove not only the wisdom of our original decision to produce custom-made products locally, but are testament to the dedication and commitment of our staff."

The company has produced more than five and a half million ACDelco maintenance-free batteries since it was set up as the Middle East's first Maintenance-Free battery production facility. ACDelco batteries are specifically engineered to suit the harsh conditions of the region's climate, produced in the region for the region, using state-of-the art quality processes and the best materials to ensure a long life.

"Our aim was to produce a 'hassle-free' battery," said Heller. "All you need to do is install and go, no need to worry about adding water or acid, as these products are permanently sealed and cannot be tampered with.

"The ACDelco maintenance-free battery offers a much longer life than the average car battery sold in the Middle East market because it has the lowest self-discharge, water loss and failure rates."

ACDelco is the only battery in the market that offers a comprehensive portfolio with products available for most Asian, European and American models. The company stands behind its products with a 12-month international warranty honoured throughout the Middle East.

ACDelco offers a wide portfolio of automotive spare parts and accessories for almost all makes and models of cars throughout the region, ranging from spark plugs, filters (air, oil & transmission) and oil to break components and air conditioning.

-Ends-

About ACDelco
A division of General Motors Corporation, ACDelco strives to maintain the highest standards in the industry, delivering quality automotive parts for almost all makes and models of automotive vehicles.  Consistently bringing new advances in parts technology, smart inventions and innovative ideas to the marketplace ahead of its competitors, ACDelco supplies more than 70,000 parts, including spark plugs, batteries, brakes and filters.  

Every month, ACDelco ships 36,000 tons of automotive replacement parts to retail outlets and repair shops throughout the globe. Whether you fix your own vehicle or have a technician do it, ACDelco supplies the parts you need.

ACDelco's Service Centre network spans the Middle East region, taking the stress out of vehicle maintenance and servicing for all makes and models of automotive vehicles.  ACDelco service centres cater to all of your service needs, from regular vehicle maintenance to specialised automotive repair.

For more information:
Saada Hammad                                                             Paul Venn                    
Communications and Public Relations Manager                    Account Director
General Motors Middle East                                             Hill & Knowlton
Tel Dubai (009714) 3143350                                           Tel (009714) 3344930
e-mail saada.hammad@gm.com                                       paul.venn@hillandknowlton.com

© Press Release 2004