JAMES P. HOLDEN ELECTED CHAIRMAN OF MERIDIAN’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS

ALLEN PARK, Michigan – March 19, 2007.    Meridian Automotive Systems, Inc. (“Meridian”) announced today that James P. Holden has been elected Non Executive Chairman of the Company’s Board of Directors.  Mr. Holden retired in 2000 after completing 27 distinguished years in the automotive industry, including 19 years with DaimlerChrysler, and its predecessor, Chrysler Corporation culminating in being named President of DaimlerChrysler in 1999 and Chief Executive Officer in June 2000. Prior thereto Mr. Holden served in various positions during his career at Chrysler, including Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing responsible for directing all of the automaker’s sales, fleet and marketing organizations in the United States, Mexico and Canada, including Mopar parts operations. Mr. Holden currently serves as a director of Sirus Satellite Radio, Inc. and Speedway Motorsports, Inc. and recently completed a term as Chair of the Board of Trustees at Western Michigan University.

Richard E. Newsted, Meridian’s President and CEO, said, “We are extremely pleased to welcome Jim to our Board of Directors and as our Chairman.  Jim’s automotive experience, insight and leadership will help guide our Company’s pursuit of strategic initiatives and profitable growth.” 

About Meridian Automotive Systems, Inc.
Meridian Automotive Systems is a leading supplier of technologically advanced front and rear end modules, exterior thermoplastics and composites, lighting and interior systems to automobile and truck manufacturers. Meridian operates 21 primary facilities in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Brazil supplying Original Equipment Manufacturers and major Tier One parts suppliers.

This news release contains forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Meridian Automotive Systems management. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future consolidated results, financial situation, development or performance of the company, and the estimates given here. The company assumes no liability to update such forward-looking statements or to adapt to future events or development.