NEW YORK (Standard&Poor's CreditWire) Jan. 8, 2001--Standard&Poor's today assigned its single-'A' rating to DaimlerChrysler North America Holding Corp.'s proposed $4 billion (equivalent) of multi-currency debt issues, to be guaranteed by DaimlerChrysler North America Holding Corp.'s parent, DaimlerChrysler AG. All outstanding ratings on DaimlerChrysler AG (A/Negative/A-1) and all its related entities are affirmed. The ratings on DaimlerChrysler AG reflect the company's position as a leading producer of passenger cars and commercial vehicles, and its moderate financial policy. DaimlerChrysler has a strong globally competitive position in luxury passenger cars (through its Mercedes-Benz unit). Demand for luxury vehicles is relatively recession-resistant, and pricing is highly favorable. Reflecting solid volume growth, Mercedes-Benz's earnings have increased significantly over the past several
