AIAM Announces Election of Jim Press as Chairman

The Association of International Automobile Manufacturers, Inc. (AIAM) on Thursday announced the election of Jim Press as its next chairman of the board. Jim Press is president of Toyota Motor North America, Inc. and served as vice chairman of AIAM in 2006. Press will replace outgoing Chairman James Morton, vice chairman of Nissan North America, Inc., and will serve a two-year term.

“Jim Press is one of the most respected individuals in today’s automotive industry, and his leadership will help deliver the message that AIAM member companies are driving the growth of the U.S. automotive industry,” said Michael Stanton, president and chief executive officer of AIAM.

“International automakers have made an important contribution to the U.S. economy, providing jobs and investment in all fifty states,” said Press. “It is important for us to participate fully in solving the key policy challenges facing our industry. AIAM allows us to showcase the substantial contributions of the international companies to the overall health of the U.S. economy.”

In addition to serving as president of Toyota Motor North America, Inc., Press is also a managing officer and serves in a global advisory capacity for the Japan-based parent company Toyota Motor Corporation. In January 2007, Press received the 2007 Automotive Industry Executive of the Year award. Prior to joining Toyota Motor North America, Press served as president and chief operating officer of Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. in Torrance, CA.

AIAM member companies have become the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. motor vehicle industry, investing over $33 billion in new factories and creating more than 95,000 new, high-paying jobs over the past two decades. AIAM members continue to fuel the growth in the industry with innovative, fuel-efficient vehicles that are in high demand.

About AIAM — The Association of International Automobile Manufacturers, Inc. (AIAM) is a trade association representing 14 international motor vehicle manufacturers who account for 40 percent of all passenger cars and light trucks sold annually in the United States. AIAM provides members with information, analysis and advocacy on a wide variety of legislative and regulatory issues impacting the auto sector. AIAM is dedicated to the promotion of free trade and to policies that enhance motor vehicle safety and the protection of the environment. For more information, visit our website at http://www.aiam.org/.