LAFAYETTE, Ind., (Mar. 2, 2005) — Wabash National Corp. says that its board of directors approved two major capital investment programs, including an initial $10 million first phase of what is expected to be a $40 million multi-year program to replace four trailer assembly lines.

Additionally, the board approved $20 million for engineering and business process systems improvements, Wabash announced in a press release.

Commenting on the projects, Wabash National Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer Dick Giromini said, “This investment in our production capabilities will help to revolutionize trailer manufacturing, incorporating the use of technology proven in the automotive industry. When completed, the new assembly process will result in lower production costs and improved safety and product quality.

“We expect that when completed, each new line will produce annual cost savings of approximately $7 million. This expenditure marks our commitment to the greater Lafayette community.”

Wabash National designs, manufactures, and markets standard and customized truck trailers under the Wabash brand name throughout the U.S. and Canada.