MAGNA GIVES DRIVERS A NEW PERSPECTIVE WITH LIGHTED BLINDZONEMIRROR

LAS VEGAS, January 07, 2008 – Magna Donnelly, an operating unit of automotive supplier Magna International Inc., delivered another vision innovation at the Consumer Electronics Show by introducing safety-enhancing lighting on the next generation of its BlindZoneMirror™ product. This Magna Donnelly exclusive is part of the Total BlindZoneManagment™ (TBZM™) product line, which makes driving safer and more convenient by reducing vehicle blind zones. 

BlindZoneMirror specifically addresses driver- and passenger-side blind zones with a convex optical lens specific for a vehicle’s side blind zones. This unique lens is integrated into the upper corner of the driver or passenger-side mirror and provides a full view of the side blind zones. Coupled with traditional side and rearview mirrors, drivers receive a complete view of their vehicle’s passing and merging zones. 

For added safety the Lighted BlindZoneMirror offers backlighting around its unique convex lens.  When a turn signal is activated, the perimeter of the convex lens flashes in the corresponding side mirror to alert nearby drivers of your intention to change lanes.  When used in combination with electronic detection systems, the Lighted BZM enhances driver safety by providing the visual information of what is in the side blind zone, as well as alerting the driver when a vehicle is detected. 

“Safety statistics show that blind zones around vehicles account for 500,000 accidents, injuries and deaths each year,” said David O’Connell, Vice President of Engineering, Magna Mirrors N.A. “Our BlindZoneMirror provides drivers with the around-vehicle vision they need to reduce these numbers, and we’ve now added lighting to an already superior design and exceptional functionality.” 

The mirrors are available in flat and auto-dimming glass (EC), heated glass, or Magna’s Signature glass, which allows vehicle owners to personalize the viewing surface of the mirror. 

Lighted BlindZoneMirror and other TBZM products can be combined for customized OEM solutions to fit every vehicle, from large SUVs to small sedans. Tailored solutions to fit the needs of all drivers can be provided through the automotive aftermarket and select auto dealerships. For more information, please visit www.magna.com.

About Magna International

Magna is the most diversified automotive supplier in the world. Magna designs, develops and manufactures automotive systems, assemblies, modules and components, and engineers and assembles complete vehicles, primarily for sale to original equipment manufacturers of cars and light trucks in North America, Europe, Asia, South America and Africa. Magna’s capabilities include the design, engineering, testing and manufacture of automotive interior systems; seating systems; closure systems; metal body and chassis systems; vision systems; electronic systems; exterior systems; powertrain systems; roof systems; as well as complete vehicle engineering and assembly.

Magna has approximately 83,000 employees in 240 manufacturing operations and 62 product development and engineering centers in 23 countries.