2015 EXECUTIVE TRENDS: MID-YEAR REVIEW

Tuesday, 30 June 2015

WIX® Filters, a global manufacturer of filtration products, has launched the first in a series of trend statements focused on the automotive aftermarket industry. Each report will include observations and trends from WIX’s quality, product and service experts.

“We’re excited to be launching this series of trends and insights,” said Donald Chilton, vice president of product management for WIX Filters. “For 75 years, we’ve prided ourselves on being industry experts and we look forward to sharing our insights and learnings on the automotive aftermarket.”

Chilton and Edward Covington, vice president of global quality, are available to discuss:

• Longer oil and filter change intervals: WIX engineers are constantly researching advanced materials to provide protection in an ever-increasing demand environment. Several factors contribute to this trend including larger oil pans, advances in additive packages, recycled oil and engine design improvements. The downsides include lower levels of ZDDP, a zinc compound, hurts older push rod engines, engines are failing due to low oil levels and the use of “spec” oil.

• Improved fuel economy and power: Variable valve timing, lower viscosity levels, new oil specifications and synthetic factory fill play into this trend. New oil specs for 2015 include Dexos 1 and 2, while GF-6 and PC-11 will come into play in 2016.

• Advances in engine oil life calculators: Early versions were mileage based, but newer indicators monitor engine conditions, including temperature, fuel consumption, engine speed or load and trip length. New calculations are based on how you drive, not set mileage recommendations, which is why WIX provides filters based on how you drive.

• Innovations in training: When it comes to the automotive aftermarket, sales training is emphasize quality and service. It’s not just paper brochures anymore, but responsive websites, interactive webinars or group conference calls. Given our mobile society, it’s important to deliver your message in the most efficient and succinct way possible.

For more information or to schedule an interview with Chilton or Covington, please contact Meara Lyons at 704-926-1357 or mlyons@wrayward.com.

About WIX Filters

Since 1939, Wix® Filters has been an innovator in filtration products. WIX designs, manufactures and distributes products for automotive, diesel, agricultural, industrial and specialty filter markets. Its product line includes oil, air, cabin interior, fuel, coolant, transmission and hydraulic filters for automobiles, trucks, off-road equipment and manufacturing applications. For more information, visit www.wixfilters.com. Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/wixfilters, follow us on Twitter@WIXFilters and visit our YouTube page at youtube.com/TheWIXFilters

About Affinia Group Inc.

Affinia Group Inc. is an innovative global leader in the design, manufacture, distribution and marketing of industrial grade products and services, including extensive offerings of aftermarket products for automotive and heavy-duty vehicles. With approximately $1 billion in annual revenue, Affinia has operations in North and South America, Europe and Asia. For more information, visitwww.affiniagroup.com

Wray Ward