DaimlerChrysler announces top management changes

Today, the Supervisory Board of DaimlerChrysler announced top management changes. Prof. Jurgen E. Schrempp, chairman of the Board of Management of DaimlerChrysler AG, will leave the company after 44 years of service at the end of 2005. These years were distinguished by his leadership of major group interests in South Africa, the U.S., and Germany as well as 17 consecutive years in chairmanship positions at both Daimler-Benz Aerospace (DASA) from 1988 to 1995, and Daimler-Benz AG, which later became DaimlerChrysler AG, from 1995 to the present day.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche, head of the Chrysler group, will become chairman of the Board of Management of DaimlerChrysler AG, effective January 1, 2006, for a period of five years.

Thomas W. LaSorda, the present chief operating officer (COO) of Chrysler Group, will lead that division beginning January 1, 2006. He has also been appointed a full member of DaimlerChrysler's Board of Management with immediate effect.

Eric Ridenour has been promoted to the position of COO of the Chrysler Group, which will be vacated by LaSorda, effective January 1, 2006. His appointment, which also carries membership of the Board of Management, is for a period of three years.