(Source: Business Wire)

NC2 Global LLC and Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Co., Ltd.
(600418: SHH) have signed a framework agreement to potentially establish
a joint venture in China which would develop, manufacture and sell
trucks and truck parts primarily in China and certain export markets.
NC2 is the recently announced global commercial truck joint
venture between Navistar International Corporation (NYSE: NAV) and
Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE: CAT). Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Co., Ltd. (JAC)
is a manufacturer of automobiles and trucks based in Anhui Province of
the People's Republic of China (PRC).
The proposed 50/50 joint venture would take advantage of the financial
strength, technology know-how and global distribution network provided
by NC2 and the existing medium duty and heavy-duty truck
business of JAC, including its existing manufacturing facilities in PRC.
"If we are able to reach a definitive agreement, this proposed joint
venture would directly support NC2's strategy to produce and
market a full line of commercial on-highway trucks for markets outside
of North America," said Al Saltiel, president of NC2. "The
opportunity to leverage existing JAC manufacturing facilities and
business relationships has the potential to accelerate NC2's
global business plans. We look forward to working with JAC to quickly
bring exciting new products to market."
There is also consideration that the joint venture would establish its
own research and development center in PRC, utilizing a portion of JAC's
existing R&D facilities.
"The proposed agreement offers JAC the opportunity to enhance its
productive technology and research and development capacity," said An
Jin, general manager of JAC. "JAC views this potential venture with NC2
as a significant opportunity to continue to develop our truck business."
The framework agreement contemplates that NC2 and JAC will
work to finalize the joint venture by mid-2010, with the exact date
depending on the progress of negotiations, due diligence, as well as
corporate and regulatory approvals.
About NC2 Global LLC
NC2 Global LLC is a 50/50 joint venture between Navistar
(NYSE: NAV) and Caterpillar (NYSE: CAT) which will develop, manufacture
and distribute commercial trucks globally, outside North America. NC2's
product line will feature both conventional and cab-over truck designs
and will be sold under both the International® and Cat® brands.
More information is available at www.nc2.com.
About Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Co., Ltd.
Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Co., Ltd. is principally engaged in the
development, manufacture and sale of automobiles and related parts.