May 15, 2006 -- Wescast Industries Inc. reports that the Chrysler Group has awarded the company with a supply contract for cast-iron exhaust manifolds, for a new Jeep engine program. Chrysler also plans to source additional materials through Wescast for its minivan program.

Based in Brantford, ON, Wescast Industries Inc. calls itself "the world's largest supplier of exhaust manifolds for passenger cars and light trucks." It designs, casts, machines, and assembles engineered cast-iron products for automotive OEMs and their Tier 1 suppliers in North America and Europe.

Starting this quarter (2Q 2006), Wescast will supply cast-iron manifolds to Chrysler for the 3.8-litre V-6 Jeep Wrangler engines, and it will increase its content on the 3.3/3.8-litre Dodge Caravan, Grand Caravan, and Chrysler Town and Country program.

Ed Frackowiak, Wescast chairman and CEO, stated: "We are delighted to have entered into this new business with the Chrysler Group. This solidifies our long-term relationship with the Chrysler Group and strengthens our leadership position in the supply of exhaust manifolds to the North American automotive market."