[The Motorola Timeport handset is to be offered with all 2001 model Mercedes-Benz autos. Integrated features include voice recognition, hands-free operation, central control of audio functions. ]

As part of an ongoing effort to improve driver performance and convenience, Motorola (NYSE: MOT) and Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) have teamed up to offer drivers a special, integrated version of Motorola's Timeport digital phone, the industry's first fully integrated dual band, multi-network phone system. The Timeport phone is the latest in wireless in-vehicle communications technologies. With a sleek silver finish, the Timeport phone is now available on all model- year 2001 Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

The Motorola Timeport phone is compatible with the nation's most competitive no roaming, no long distance calling plans. Adding to its functionality, the Timeport Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) phone is equipped with an Internet mini-browser feature and is Motorola's first wireless phone with an electro-luminescent Organic ELT multi-color graphic display.

"The Timeport phone system is a result of significant time and financial investment in design, engineering and testing by Mercedes-Benz and Motorola to provide a state-of-the-art communications system," said Ken Enders, vice president of sales and marketing of MBUSA. "As a result, the Timeport phone offers one of the highest levels of performance and convenience in the industry today."

In order to maximize driver attention on the road, the Motorola Timeport phone is deeply integrated into the Mercedes-Benz vehicle. The integration features and benefits include:

- Voice Recognition: On most Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the voice recognition feature is available and allows drivers to use simple verbal commands, such as "dial name" then "call Bob" to dial numbers or to simply speak the number i.e. 1- 800-555-1212.

- Hands-free capability: Integration of the phone into the vehicle allows for hands-free sending/receiving of calls through the steering wheel controls or through the audio system and the integrated microphone allows for clear and easy conversation.

- Audio Unit Automatic Control: With in-coming or out-going calls, the audio system automatically mutes the AM/FM radio or pauses the cassette or CD player.

- Memory synchronicity -- Allows phone book to automatically download from the phone into the vehicle's audio system display.

Additionally, the Timeport handset itself, when used outside the vehicle, offers users many conveniences:

-- VibraCall(r) alert -- Discreetly notifies users of incoming calls.

-- Caller ID2 -- When available from the service provider, shows the name and/or phone number of caller.

-- Portable handset -- Lifts out to go anywhere with its owner.

-- Electronic phonebook -- Stores at least 99 contact names and phone numbers.

-- Smart Button feature -- Allows one-hand dialing and easy access to menus and functions at the touch of a button.

The Timeport phone is another example of Motorola's DigitalDNAT technology, which allows its products to be smart, efficient and reliable.

"Motorola joins Mercedes-Benz in an ongoing commitment to bring U.S. drivers the best in world-class technology, quality and owner satisfaction," said Marios Zenios, corporate vice president and general manager, Motorola Telematics Communications Group. "By making Timeport and other Telematics products available in Mercedes-Benz vehicles, Motorola will continue to drive the future of in-vehicle communications technologies."

The Timeport phone is available now for CDMA or TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access) service on all model year 2001 Mercedes- Benz vehicles.

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