XOM Exxon Mobil Corp

Advanced Elastomer Systems, L.P. (AES), an affiliate of ExxonMobil Chemical (NYSE:XOM), has achieved certification to the globally accepted automotive industry quality standard ISO/TS 16949:2002. The manufacturer of Santoprene(TM) thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) is the world's leading supplier of TPVs to the automotive industry. "For 25 years, we have worked to provide our customers in the automotive industry with the best possible service and our certification to ISO/TS 16949:2002 demonstrates our ongoing commitment to them. This certification can enable our customers to get programs and parts approved quicker and give projects greater credibility," said Bob Liskiewicz, Global Sales Manager, Santoprene specialty products. Regarded as a completely new standard, not just an update to the currently held QS-9000:1998, ISO/TS 16949:2002 focuses on continual improvement and customer satisfaction. The standard aligns American, German, French and Italian automotive quality system standards within the global automotive industry, eliminating the need for multiple certifications to satisfy customer requirements. ISO/TS 16949:2002 requires customer satisfaction surveys, a continuous evaluation and analysis of technical, manufacturing and testing data, and evidence of compliance with customer requirements and efficiency of process. "The certification has helped us to improve our efficiency, streamline our operations especially in terms of new material development, align marketing and technology more closely and, importantly, better anticipate our customers' future needs. By applying a consistent quality system throughout the supply chain and establishing stronger links with our customers, we will all benefit as the industry continues to develop," added Liskiewicz. Note to Editors: 1. Santoprene is a trademark of Advanced Elastomer Systems, L.P., Akron, Ohio. 2. The term "ExxonMobil Chemical" refers collectively to some or all of the companies affiliated with Exxon Mobil Corporation which have chemical manufacturing and/or marketing operations around the world. 3. To receive immediate e-mail notification of new AES press releases, please go to www.santoprene.com, click the "News and Events" dropdown bar, select "Keep Me Informed," and "Register." Further information on engineered thermoplastic vulcanizates can be obtained from this Web site.