HAYZ Hayes Lemmerz International (MM)

Hayes Lemmerz' International Wheel Group Names Managing Director of South America NORTHVILLE, Mich., Jan. 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Hayes Lemmerz International, Inc. (NASDAQ:HAYZ) announced today the appointment of Don Septer to the position of Managing Director of the Company's International Wheel Group's South American Operations, effective February 1, 2005. He was previously Director of Operations for Hayes Lemmerz' Brake and Powertrain Group. Mr. Septer will report directly to Fred Bentley, President of the Company's International Wheel Group. Mr. Septer will have responsibility for the Company's International Wheel businesses with operations in Guarulhos and Santo Andre, Brazil and Chihuahua, Mexico. Mr. Septer replaces Nini Degani, who is leaving the Company to pursue other opportunities. Mr. Degani's assistance has been greatly appreciated. Mr. Septer is an experienced manufacturing professional who began his career as a plant superintendent with the Kelsey-Hayes Company, in Romulus, Michigan. He also contributed to the successful manufacturing operations of Borg Warner, ITT Automotive, MascoTech Tubular and Newcor Powertrain. "Don's experience in manufacturing and operations and previous leadership roles make him a valuable asset to our strategy," said Mr. Bentley. "In his new role, he will drive our strategic initiative to reinforce our position as a world-leading supplier of wheels." Hayes Lemmerz International, Inc. is a leading global supplier of automotive and commercial highway wheels, brakes, powertrain, suspension, structural and other lightweight components. The Company has 43 facilities and 11,000 employees worldwide. DATASOURCE: Hayes Lemmerz International, Inc. CONTACT: Marika P. Diamond of Hayes Lemmerz International, Inc., +1-734-737-5162 Web site: http://www.hayes-lemmerz.com/

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