Italian STIMA SYSTEM acquired by TÜV SÜD / TÜV SÜD builds up mobility business in Italy

Munich/Milan/Genoa (ots) - TÜV SÜD's acquisition of the Italian
automotive service provider STIMA SYSTEM will enable the company to
continue the expansion of its automotive business in Europe.
Genoa-based STIMA SYSTEM has carved out a strong presence on the
service market for car dealerships, manufacturers, car hire
companies, vehicle fleets and insurance.

For TÜV SÜD, Italy is among Europe's most important mobility
markets. "The acquisition of STIMA SYSTEM is a key stepping-stone in
TÜV SÜD's European strategy and further consolidates our position as
an international provider of services for car dealerships,
manufacturers and fleets", says Wolfgang Eichler, Member of the
Management Board of TÜV SÜD Auto Service. STIMA SYSTEM holds a strong
market position among these target groups with its STIMA brand; its
operations in Italy include a close-knit national network of expert
appraisers. By acquiring the company, annual sales revenue of which
most recently totalled around EUR 2.5 million, TÜV SÜD is
persistently driving ahead its strategy of internationalization in
the mobility sector. After acquisition by TÜV SÜD the STIMA brand
will continue to operate on the market. STIMA SYSTEM's previous
managing director, Roberto Marino, who will retain connections with
the company in the capacity of consultant, will focus on further
expanding its market position within Italy.

For further information on commercial services for the automotive
sector, visit www.tuev-sued.de

TÜV SÜD Auto Service GmbH, a TÜV SÜD company, offers services from
roadworthiness and exhaust emission testing to driving licence tests.
Services also include expert damage and value assessment as well as
used car certificates and vehicle management. With approx. 300
service centres throughout southern Germany, TÜV SÜD Auto Service
GmbH supports about 10,000 private and business customers every day.

TÜV SÜD is a leading international service organization catering
to the strategic business segments INDUSTRY, MOBILITY and
CERTIFICATION. Over 16,000 employees are represented at more than 600
locations throughout the world. Optimizing technology, systems and
know-how, the interdisciplinary specialist teams act as process
partners to strengthen their customers' competitiveness..

Contact:
Frank Volk
TÜV SÜD AG
Corporate Communications
Westendstraße 199, 80686 Munich
Tel. +49 (0) 89 / 57 91 - 16 67
Fax +49 (0) 89 / 57 91 - 22 69
E-mail: frank.volk@tuev-sued.de
Internet www.tuev-sued.de