Charting Your Way Through General Motors’ New Terms …cs.foley.com/13.9816_Auto/13.9816_GM_New_Terms... · General Motors (GM) ... Charting Your Way Through General Motors’ New

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General Motors (GM) issued newgeneral terms and conditions (Terms)for direct material, customer care &aftersales, and tooling purchaseseffective for requests for quotationissued on or after July 15, 2013. GM’sexisting contracts with Suppliers will notbe amended to include the Terms. TheTerms include 40 provisions and reflectsignificant changes from prior iterations.This is the most extensive revision ofGM’s purchase Terms.

Identifying the changes and differences from priorversions of these Terms is only the first step. Suppliersto GM need to understand the implications of thevarious changes to their business. And, even moreimportant, Suppliers need to think strategically abouthow they will respond to the Terms GM now seeks toimpose.

Foley prepared the following chart to assist Suppliersnavigate the changes by not only identifying the mostsignificant provisions and changes, but explaining theimplications and recommending strategic responses tothese changes.

Foley has significant experience representing autosuppliers with myriad issues, such as contractnegotiations, supply chain management and pricingissues, and dispute resolution. Foley has extensive

expertise in drafting, negotiating, and enforcingfavorable terms on behalf of its Supplier clients.

Foley can review and update Suppliers’ own standardterms and conditions of purchase to protect theirinterests and align their procurement terms as neededto more effectively address the Terms from GM andother OEMs. Additionally, Foley can assist withconsultation and preparation of other supply chaindocumentation to reduce the exposure faced bySuppliers. Sales and procurement training regardingthese changes is essential.

Charting Your Way ThroughGeneral Motors’ New Terms andConditions

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Provision Difference Strategic Implication Strategic Consideration/ ResponseEntire Agreement;Applicability

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The new terms expressly reject any contraryor additional terms and conditionsproposed by seller, and the terms providethat by shipping, seller accepts GM’s termsand conditions.

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This provision imposes the termsunless otherwise established.

If an objection is made, it should be clear,consistent and in a written communication withGM and also included in the Response to theRFQ.

If Supplier is going to object to or reject certainT&Cs or certain provisions, it should not createacceptance through performance.

Supplier should consider supply agreements orother long-term agreements with negotiatedterms and conditions.

Supplier should take care to establish, whenfeasible, consistent terms with its suppliers.

Seller’s Assuranceof Performance


The 2013 Terms add a new provision that:

» Gives GM the right to seek adequateassurances if it has “reasonable groundsfor insecurity”

» Puts a time limit on when Suppliers mustprovide such assurances: within 20 days

» Allows GM to determine the adequacy ofprovided assurances “in its reasonablediscretion”

Under the Uniform Commercial Code(UCC), a party to a contract already hasthe right to demand adequateassurances of performance when it hasreasonable grounds for insecurity.

The keys to this provision, however, arethat GM has now put a date certain ontiming for responding to demands foradequate assurances and that GMreserves to its discretion the right to

Supplier should establish procedures to ensurecompliance with the deadline.

Supplier must carefully draft a response to anysuch request with the inclusion of objective andverifiable data.

Analysis of General Motors’ 2013 Termsand Conditions

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Provision Difference Strategic Implication Strategic Consideration/ ResponseSeller’s Assuranceof Performance(Cont.)

determine the adequacy of anyassurance. Failure to timely respondalone can place the Supplier in breach.

Changes


The 2013 Terms include:

» The new requirement that if changes aremade to the original scope of work, buyerand seller will promptly discuss,reasonably and in good faith, any pricingadjustments (up or down) to be made.The prior terms and conditions did notcontain the requirement that pricingadjustments would be made either up ordown or the requirement that the partieswould discuss adjustments in good faith.

» If parties cannot agree on the adjustedprice, GM reserves the right to ultimatelyset pricing based on a “fair costassessment.”

» The new Terms add the language thatthe seller may not relocate productionfrom the approved facility withoutobtaining advance written consent.


Absent a right to make changes, a partyordinarily would not be entitled torequire a change unless mutuallyagreed. This provision providesleverage to maintain any priceincreases to a fair cost assessment.GM could argue that a fair costassessment should be limited to theactual increase necessitated by thechange.

Detailed support for establishing “fair cost,”such as the use of industry standards or pastpractices, should be prepared in such cases.

Quality


This is a new provision under which:

1. Seller undertakes to comply, and to“cause” its subcontractors and suppliers tocomply, with GM’s quality requirements

This places a substantial burden onSuppliers to be responsible forcompliance with quality standards byits suppliers.

Supplier should consider how it will comply withthis provision and how it will monitor thesuppliers to ensure their compliance withapplicable requirements.

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Provision Difference Strategic Implication Strategic Consideration/ ResponseQuality (Cont.) 2. Seller is obligated to promote continuous

improvement in the quality of goods andseller’s manufacturing and logisticsprocesses

Supplier should proactively clarify the extent ofits product improvement obligations.

Directed source situations should be addressedwith potential exceptions.

Product Warranty;Warranty ofPerformance


Compared to previous versions, the 2013provision contains three significantchanges:

1. GM added the potential new warrantythat the goods “will not, at any time(including after expiration or termination ofthis Contract), pose an unreasonable risk toconsumer or vehicle safety”

2. GM also added a new warranty ofcompliance with “quality standards,”including the seller’s own standards, ifapproved by GM in writing

3. GM also made it clear that the warrantyruns to the later of: (a) any period providedby law; (b) the duration of the consumerwarranty; or (c) the expiration of anyspecific warranty period or performancestandard provided in any documentincorporated by reference into the Contract,including the Buyer’s specifications orquality standards


Suppliers should be concerned that thisprovision expands warrantiesindefinitely and creates a perpetual “norecall” warranty.

Supplier should take caution with respect toproducts manufactured to customerspecifications in defining the warranty scope, aswell as safety testing and compliance, includingwith respect to later changes in regulations orapplicable standards.

The precise standards to which the Supplier iswarranting should be clear and express.

Because “quality standards” are not defined,Supplier should review its existing internalquality standards and consider whether it shouldrevise same.

If Supplier is manufacturing to the customer’sspecifications, it should review for modificationthe warranty of fitness for a particular purpose.

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Provision Difference Strategic Implication Strategic Consideration/ ResponseIngredientsDisclosure;Special WarningsAnd Instructions


The new Terms expand Suppliers’obligations in the following ways:

1. Seller is now required to identify not onlythe ingredients included in the goods, butalso materials incorporated in the goods

2. Seller agrees to identify not onlymaterials that are hazardous, but also“dangerous”

3. The provision adds the obligation forseller to assist GM in complying withreporting requirements under applicablelaw with respect to consumer protection,“conflict minerals” or similar materials oringredients


Supplier is required to ascertain theorigin of materials in component parts.Requiring Suppliers to certify in writingthe origin of these materials placesadditional risks on Supplier.

Supplier is required to have a foundedbasis for any such certification.

Supplier should require its suppliers to representthe origin of their materials, providecertifications of same, and maintain theappropriate records.

Duty to Informand Notify


This entirely new provision in the T&Csrequires Supplier to self-report the followingproblems, even if simply reasonably likelyto occur:

(a) any failure by Seller to perform any of itsobligations under this Contract

(b) any delay in delivery of goods orservices under this Contract

(c) any defects or quality problems relatingto the goods or services covered by thisContract

This is a new, broad duty to inform,which includes the duty to notify GM ofits own defective design or deficienciesin specifications.

Supplier when appropriate should clarify that ithas not reviewed/analyzed the specifications orconducted any other component/end use testingfor adequacy or fitness. Supplier may also clarifywhen appropriate that it is without ability todetermine its suppliers’ compliance withapplicable laws.

Supplier needs to carefully review thespecifications at time of contract and notify GMin writing of any specification that appears to beeven potentially problematic.

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Provision Difference Strategic Implication Strategic Consideration/ ResponseDuty to Informand Notify (Cont.)

(d) any changes in Seller’s corporatestructure or organization (including anydirect or indirect change in control orownership of Seller)

(e) any deficiency in Buyer specifications,samples, prototypes or test results relatingto this Contract

(f) any failure by Seller, or itssubcontractors or common carriers, tocomply with applicable laws andregulations, including with respect totransportation of goods under this Contract;or

(g) any change in Seller’s authorizedrepresentatives, insurance coverage orprofessional certifications (e.g., ISO 9001)

Audit Rights;Inspection ofSeller’s Premises


This revised provision substantially expandsGM’s right to audit Supplier, including:

1. It grants GM access to Supplier’s booksand records, including payroll records,“most current income statements, balancesheets, cash-flow statements andsupporting data and schedules”

2. It obligates Supplier to produce suchrecords as Buyer may “reasonably request”

3. It creates an obligation on the part ofSupplier to preserve “all records pertinent”to the contract for at least “one year afterBuyer’s final payment to Seller under thisContract”

The expanded audit rights raise, amongother things, confidentiality andproprietary concerns.

At a minimum, Supplier should request an NDArequiring confidentiality and limiting the scope ofsuch information provided.

The NDA should also limit the use of the data,e.g., the information will only be used to confirmthe Supplier is not insolvent.

The NDA should also limit the review to theinspection, and not retention, of suchdocumentation.

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Provision Difference Strategic Implication Strategic Consideration/ ResponseAudit Rights;Inspection ofSeller’s Premises(Cont.)

4. It clarifies that audit under this provisiondoes not relieve Suppliers of their liabilityunder the contract


Transactional Tax


This is an entirely new provision thatobligates Suppliers to:

» Identify in the quote and contract alltransactional taxes, including “any sales,use, excise, services, value added tax,goods and services tax, or similar tax,”even if zero

» Separately state all transactional taxeson invoices and other such documents

» Separately provide GM with pertinentdocumentation “to enable the Buyer toreclaim the transactional taxes”

» Remit transactional tax to applicabletaxing authority and use reasonableefforts to apply for exemptions from suchtax where applicable

» Not charge GM for transactional taxcharged by a subcontracting Supplier ifsuch tax is recoverable or would havebeen recoverable by seller if transactionhad been “structured through otherentities (either the Seller’s or the Buyer’saffiliated companies)”

The term now requires treatment oftransactional tax as a material cost andrequires all prices to include thetransactional tax. Under the term, thetax must, among other things, besatisfied and included in the price.

Supplier should evaluate and address whetherany tax obligations will be shifted to it under itsparticular circumstances in light of this newclause.

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Provision Difference Strategic Implication Strategic Consideration/ ResponseTransactional Tax(Cont.)

» If transactional tax is not recoverable bySupplier, Supplier must document thetransactional taxes paid or payable totaxing authority

IntellectualProperty Rights


This is a substantially new provision thatgoverns the parties’ IP rights in the absenceof a written agreement. Some of thehighlights include:

» The new provision distinguishes betweenBackground Intellectual Property Rights(essentially, rights relating to goods orservices that existed prior to the contractor were developed outside of thecontract) and Foreground IntellectualProperty Rights (rights developed byeither or both parties in connection withthe contract or relating to goods orservices contracted)

» Foreground IP rights are owned bydeveloping party or, if co-developed,owned jointly, with each party having theright to sublicense the technologywithout authorization or consultation oraccounting

» Each party retains ownership ofBackground Intellectual Rights. However,Supplier grants GM the Limited Licenseto the Background IP Rights for directpurposes of the Contract

This is a significant provision to manySuppliers. This provision provides broadlicenses to Background IP, which arenot necessarily limited to the goodscovered by the contract. The provisionalso fails to provide for confidentialityrights corresponding to the IP accessGM is obtaining by its terms. Thatwould require Suppliers to obtain aseparate NDA.

Each party is also provided a unilateralright to use or license Foreground IP,without exception.

Supplier should require a correspondingnondisclosure or joint development agreement.Supplier should make clear that the IP rightsbeing given are, at most, a license tied only tothe specific contract. Background IP andForeground IP should be carefully defined andlimited in scope and use under the particularcircumstances. Supplier should also specify thatsuch licenses are non-transferable and arelimited in duration to the life of the contract.

Supplier could negotiate royalty fees for theserights and negotiate revocation rights (e.g., rightsterminate at the termination of thecontract/program).

Emphasis should be placed on utilizing a Masteror Program Based Development and TechnologyAgreement to particularize use of Backgroundand Foreground IP.

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Provision Difference Strategic Implication Strategic Consideration/ ResponseIntellectualProperty Rights(Cont.)

» Supplier also grants GM Limited Licenseto its Background IP Rights in the eventof termination for cause or forcemajeure, in which cases the LimitedLicense would be fully-paid for lifetime ofthe applicable product or program

» Supplier also grants GM Limited Licenseto its Background IP Rights if Buyerdeems the use of the Limited Licensereasonably necessary to prevent theinterruption or delay of Buyer’sproduction operations, in which case theLimited License will be utilized for aslong as reasonably necessary and Buyerpays to Seller reasonable royalty

IntellectualPropertyIndemnification


In addition to the duty to defend and holdharmless against any actual IP rightsviolations, seller now has the duty toinvestigate any claims, and is liable toindemnify for merely alleged claims ofinfringement and other assertions ofproprietary rights violations.


This provision expands GM’sindemnification rights.

Supplier should take care to ensure that it hascomparable indemnification obligations from itsown relevant supply chain.

Supplier should also review and evaluate liabilityinsurance to ascertain whether it is covered, orshould be covered, for this expanded potentialliability.

This issue should also be addressed in aDevelopment and Technology Agreementdetailing the IP use and indemnification.

SpecificPerformance


Seller acknowledges and agrees thatmoney damages will not be sufficient forany threatened or actual breach ofcontract, and buyer is entitled to temporary,preliminary and permanent injunctive relief

This is a significant change becausethe mere threat of a supply disruptionmay subject the Supplier to liability anddamages. This clause also is concedingthat injunctive relief is appropriate,

Supplier should consider limiting the applicationof this language by explicitly excluding situationswhen GM is able to avoid or mitigate itsdamages by accepting shipment on modifiedterms.

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Provision Difference Strategic Implication Strategic Consideration/ ResponseSpecificPerformance(Cont.)

in connection with any action to enforce thecontract without any requirement of a bondby buyer.

when the facts of the dispute otherwisemay not bear same.

Even to the extent this provision is enforced, itwill not automatically entitle GM to injunctiverelief as GM will still have to meet the othernecessary requirements including, primarily,likelihood of success on the merits.

It is also not clear whether courts will accept thecontractual agreement that injunctive relief isappropriate in situations when GM would beadequately compensated through monetaryrelief.

In the event of a dispute concerningperformance, care should be given to analyzethe equitable bases for injunctive relief anddetermine the application of such recoursenotwithstanding the term.

Insurance


Supplier is now required to name GM as anadditional insured or beneficiary on allliability policies.


This change adds costs andadministrative burdens on Suppliers.

Supplier should review applicable insurancepolicies and compliance procedures.

Termination forCause


Buyer has added a trigger for termination ifseller states its intention not to perform orotherwise rejects its obligations under theContract.


Under the UCC, a party may generallytreat an opposing party’s statementthat it will not perform as ananticipatory repudiation. When a partymakes an anticipatory repudiation, theUCC allows the first party to treat suchrepudiation as a breach.

Issues involving disputes concerningperformance should be carefully analyzed andaddressed in light of relevant law governinganticipatory repudiation and like scenarios.

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2. Entire Agreement; ApplicabilityThis Contract sets forth the exclusive terms and conditions under which Seller will sell and Buyer will purchase thegoods or services described herein for the period(s) specified in this Contract. Terms and conditions proposed by Sellerthat are different from or in addition to the provisions of this Contract are expressly rejected by Buyer and are not a partof this Contract, and Seller’s acceptance is expressly limited to the terms of this Contract. This Contract constitutes theentire agreement between Seller and Buyer with respect to the matters contained herein and supersedes all prior orcontemporaneous oral or written agreements, representations and/or communications. This Contract may be modifiedonly by an amendment issued by Buyer.

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9. Seller’s Assurance of PerformanceIn the event that Buyer has reasonable grounds for insecurity with respect to Seller’s continued performance under thisContract, Buyer may, in writing, demand adequate assurance of such performance from Seller. After receipt of suchdemand, Seller’s failure, within a reasonable period of time under the circumstances (not to exceed 20 days), toprovide assurances adequate under the circumstances (as determined by Buyer in its reasonable discretion) will bedeemed a breach of this Contract by Seller.


10. ChangesBy written notice to Seller, Buyer may, from time to time, direct changes, or direct Seller to make changes, to drawingsand specifications of the goods or to otherwise change the scope of the work covered by this Contract, including,without limitation, work with respect to such matters as inspection, testing or quality control, and Buyer and Seller willpromptly discuss, reasonably and in good faith, any pricing adjustments (up or down) to be made in connection withsuch changes. Notwithstanding any such discussions, Seller will promptly implement such changes as directed byBuyer without delay. In the event that Buyer and Seller are unable to reach agreement on any pricing adjustments to bemade in connection with such changes, any difference in price or time for performance resulting from such changes willbe equitably adjusted by Buyer based on a fair cost assessment after receipt of documentation in such form and detailas Buyer may direct. Seller will accept any amendments issued by Buyer implementing such changes. Seller may, fromtime to time, propose changes to drawings and specifications of the goods or to the scope of the work covered by thisContract. If Buyer agrees, in its discretion, to implement such changes, the agreement between the parties with respectto such changes will be made in accordance with Section 2 (Entire Agreement, Applicability) above.

Select Provisions in GeneralMotors’ 2013 Terms andConditions

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Seller will not relocate the production, manufacture or assembly of the goods from the facilities approved by Buyer, orchange the location from which the goods are shipped, without first following Buyer’s relocation requirements andobtaining Buyer’s advanced written consent.


12. QualitySeller will comply, in all respects, and will cause its subcontractors and suppliers to comply, in all respects, with Buyer’squality requirements and procedures as amended or updated from time to time and as incorporated by reference inthis Contract. Seller will promote continuous improvement in the quality of the goods and Seller’s manufacturing andlogistics processes.


13. Product Warranty; Warranty of PerformanceSeller warrants and guarantees that the goods covered by this Contract will conform to all specifications, drawings,samples, descriptions and quality standards (i) furnished by Buyer, or (ii) furnished by Seller and approved by Buyer inwriting, and will be merchantable, of good material and workmanship and free from defect. In addition, Selleracknowledges that Seller knows of Buyer’s intended use of the goods covered by this Contract and warrants andguarantees that such goods have been selected, designed, manufactured or assembled by Seller based upon Buyer’sstated use and will be fit and sufficient for the particular purposes intended by Buyer. Unless otherwise set forth in thisContract, the duration of the warranty provided by Seller to Buyer for the goods will begin on the date of receipt of thegoods by Buyer and end on the later of (a) the date of expiration of any warranty period provided under applicable lawfor the goods, (b) expiration of any warranty applicable to the goods provided by Buyer to Buyer’s end customer for thevehicle into which the goods are incorporated, or (c) the expiration of any specific warranty period or performancestandard provided in any document incorporated by reference into the Contract, including in Buyer’s specifications orquality standards. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Seller warrants and guarantees that the goods covered by thisContract will not, at any time (including after expiration or termination of this Contract), pose an unreasonable risk toconsumer or vehicle safety.


14. Ingredients Disclosure; Special Warnings And InstructionsSeller will promptly furnish to Buyer in such form and detail as Buyer may direct: (a) a list of all ingredients andmaterials incorporated in the goods; (b) the amount of such ingredients and materials; and (c) information concerningany changes in or additions to such ingredients and materials. Prior to and with the shipment of the goods, Selleragrees to furnish to Buyer sufficient advance warning and notice, in writing (including, without limitation, appropriatelabels on the goods, containers and packing), of any dangerous goods or hazardous material that is an ingredient or apart of any shipment of goods, together with such special handling instructions as may be necessary to advise carriers,Buyer and their respective employees of how to exercise that measure of care and precaution that will comply with anyapplicable laws or regulations and best prevent bodily injury or property damage in the handling, transportation,processing, use or disposal of the goods, containers and packing shipped to Buyer. Upon Buyer’s request, Seller willcertify to Buyer in writing the origin of any ingredients or materials in the goods. Seller will promptly provide, in writing,any information regarding the goods requested by Buyer so that Buyer may comply in a timely manner with reporting

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requirements under applicable law with respect to consumer protection, “conflict minerals” or similar materials oringredients, if any.


15. Duty to Inform and NotifySeller will promptly notify Buyer in writing of any of the following events or occurrences, or any facts or circumstancesreasonably likely to give rise to any of the following events or occurrences: (a) any failure by Seller to perform any of itsobligations under this Contract; (b) any delay in delivery of goods or services under this Contract; (c) any defects orquality problems relating to the goods or services covered by this Contract; (d) any changes in Seller’s corporatestructure or organization (including any direct or indirect change in control or ownership of Seller); (e) any deficiency inBuyer specifications, samples, prototypes or test results relating to this Contract; (f) any failure by Seller, or itssubcontractors or common carriers, to comply with applicable laws and regulations, including, without limitation, withrespect to transportation of goods under this Contract; or (g) any change in Seller’s authorized representatives,insurance coverage or professional certifications (e.g., ISO 9001).


16. Audit Rights; Inspection of Seller’s PremisesSeller grants Buyer access to Seller’s premises and all pertinent information (including, without limitation, books,records, payroll and other data, receipts, correspondence and other documents) for the purpose of auditing Seller’scompliance with the terms of this Contract (including, without limitation, charges under this Contract) or inspecting orconducting an inventory of finished goods, work-in-process, raw materials, any of Buyer’s Property and all work or otheritems to be provided pursuant to this Contract located at Seller’s premises. Seller will cooperate with Buyer so as tofacilitate Buyer’s audit, including, without limitation, by segregating and promptly producing such records as Buyer mayreasonably request, and otherwise making records and other materials accessible to Buyer. If requested by Buyer,Seller will promptly provide to Buyer its most current income statements, balance sheets, cash-flow statements andsupporting data and schedules. Seller will preserve all records pertinent to this Contract, and Seller’s performanceunder this Contract, for a period of not less than one year after Buyer’s final payment to Seller under this Contract. Anysuch audit or inspection conducted by Buyer or its representatives will not constitute acceptance of any goods (whetherin progress or finished), relieve Seller of any liability under this Contract or prejudice any rights or remedies available toBuyer.


20. Transactional TaxUnless otherwise provided in this Contract, the prices set forth in this Contract will be exclusive of all transactionaltaxes, including any sales, use, excise, services, value added tax, goods and services tax, or similar tax, and these taxesshould be separately identified by Seller in both Seller’s quote and in this Contract even if the tax rate is zero. Buyer willnot be responsible for any transactional taxes charged by the Seller that are not identified in this manner. Seller shallseparately state all charges for transactional taxes on its invoices (or other such documents). Additionally, Seller shallprovide Buyer with invoices in line with the applicable tax laws in its country to enable the Buyer to reclaim the

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transactional taxes and Seller will provide such documentation no later than when the payment to which the invoicerelates is due from Buyer. Seller will be responsible for remitting the transactional tax to the applicable taxing authorityexcept for those states or jurisdictions where Buyer has provided Seller with an appropriate exemption certificate. Sellerwill use reasonable efforts to apply for such exemptions where applicable. Seller will not charge Buyer for anytransactional taxes charged by a subcontracting supplier if such tax is recoverable by Seller, or if not recoverable, itwould have been, had the transaction been structured through other entities (either the Seller’s or the Buyer’s affiliatedcompanies). If transactional taxes are not recoverable by Seller, Seller agrees to provide detailed billing, customs orother documents as requested, which set out the transactional taxes paid or payable to any of the Buyer’ssubcontracting supplier or to a taxing authority.


24. Intellectual Property Rights

(A) APPLICABILITYThis Section will apply where the Parties have not entered into a separate written agreement signed by their respectiveauthorized representatives prior to or contemporaneous with the effective date of this Contract with respect to theParties’ Intellectual Property Rights (defined below) that expressly prevails over this Contract.

(B) DEFINITIONS“Intellectual Property Rights” means any patent, patented articles, patent applications, designs, industrial designs,copyrights, software, source code, database rights, moral rights, inventions whether or not capable of protection bypatent or registration, techniques, technical data, trade secrets, know-how, and any other proprietary right, whetherregistered or unregistered, including applications and registrations thereof, all related and continuing rights, and allsimilar or equivalent forms of protection anywhere in the world. Intellectual Property Rights excludes all brands,trademarks, trade names, slogans and logos of Seller and Buyer unless specifically identified as a deliverable or workproduct of Seller pursuant to this Contract.

“Background Intellectual Property Rights” means any Intellectual Property Rights of either Buyer or Seller relating to thegoods or services contracted (i) existing prior to the effective date of this Contract or prior to the date Buyer and Sellerbegan any technical cooperation relating to the goods or services contracted, whichever is earlier, or (ii) that each partyacquires or develops after these dates but in a strictly independent manner and entirely outside of any work conductedunder this Contract.

“Foreground Intellectual Property Rights” means any Intellectual Property Rights, except Background IntellectualProperty Rights, (i) that are developed in whole or in part by Buyer alone, by Buyer and Seller jointly or by Seller alone, inconnection with this Contract or (ii) relating to the goods or services contracted.

(C) FOREGROUND INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTSBuyer and Seller will each retain ownership of any Foreground Intellectual Property Rights that are solely created ormade by their respective employees, agents or subcontractors (Personnel). Buyer and Seller will jointly own anyForeground Intellectual Property Rights that are jointly created or made by Personnel of both Buyer and Seller with theability to grant licenses without consultation and no duty of accounting to each other for any use or purpose. For clarity,unless an express written period of exclusivity has been promised to Buyer, Foreground Intellectual Property Rightsowned or controlled by Seller may be immediately exploited by Seller in connection with its business with its other

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customers and will not be exclusive to Seller’s performance of this Contract. Seller hereby grants to Buyer and causesits affiliates and Personnel to grant to Buyer, an irrevocable, worldwide, nonexclusive, perpetual to the maximum extentpermitted by law, royalty free, fully paid-up license, with right to sublicense, to all Foreground Intellectual PropertyRights to make, have made, use, reproduce, modify, improve, prepare derivative works of, distribute, display, perform,offer to sell, sell and import, without limitation.

(D) BACKGROUND INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTSBuyer and Seller will each retain ownership of their respective Background Intellectual Property Rights.

Seller hereby grants to Buyer and causes its affiliates and Personnel to grant to Buyer, an irrevocable, worldwide,nonexclusive license, with right to sublicense to Buyer’s affiliates, to all Background Intellectual Property Rights tomake, have made, use, reproduce, modify, improve, prepare derivative works of, distribute, display, perform, offer tosell, sell and import (Limited License), provided that Buyer or its affiliates will only use this Limited License in thefollowing circumstances: (i) to the extent deemed reasonably necessary for the direct purposes of this Contract, withoutany additional cost to Buyer, (ii) termination of this Contract by Buyer under Section 34 (Termination for Cause), or incase of a force majeure event alleged by Seller under Section 28 (Force majeure), in which cases the Limited Licensegranted hereunder is fully-paid for the lifetime of the applicable product or program, or (iii) if after good-faithconsultation with Seller, Buyer deems the use of the Limited License reasonably necessary to prevent the interruptionor delay of Buyer’s production operations, in which case the Limited License will only be utilized for period(s) deemedreasonably necessary by Buyer for such purpose provided that Buyer pays to Seller a reasonable royalty to benegotiated by Seller and Buyer in good faith.

(E) COPYRIGHTSTo the extent that this Contract is issued for the creation of copyrightable works, the works will be considered “worksmade for hire” for Buyer except to the extent that the works do not qualify as “works made for hire” for Buyer in whichcase Seller hereby assigns to Buyer all right, title and interest in all copyrights and if lawfully permitted waives all moralrights therein.

(F) RIGHT TO REPAIRFor the avoidance of doubt, Buyer Group, its dealers, its customers, and its subcontractors have the right to repair,reconstruct, remanufacture, reflash, or rebuild the specific goods delivered under this Contract without payment of anyroyalty to Seller.

(G) MISCELLANEOUSGoods manufactured based on Buyer’s drawings, designs, and/or specifications as well as any software code ormodels provided by Buyer may not be used for Seller’s own use or sold to third parties without Buyer’s express writtenauthorization.

Nothing in this Contract is an admission by Buyer of the validity of any Intellectual Property Rights claimed by Seller,including an admission that any license is required by Buyer to manufacture the goods or continue the servicescontracted. Seller will claim and acquire all rights and waivers of Seller’s personnel required to enable Seller to grantBuyer the rights and licenses in this Contract. Seller assumes full and sole responsibility for compensating Seller’spersonnel for such rights and waivers, including the remuneration of employees.

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Seller, on behalf of itself and Buyer Group and its dealers and customers will comply with all obligations with respect tosoftware that forms any part of the goods or services contracted, including obligations under any licenses.


25. Intellectual Property IndemnificationSeller will investigate, defend, hold harmless and indemnify Buyer, its successors, its affiliates (collectively, BuyerGroup) and its dealers and customers against any actual or alleged claims of infringement or other assertions ofproprietary rights violations (including patent, trademark, copyright, industrial design right, or other proprietary right,misuse, or misappropriation of trade secret) and resulting damages and expenses (including attorney’s and otherprofessional fees) arising in any way in relation to the goods or services contracted, including such claims where Sellerhas provided only part of the goods or services (collectively, IP claims). Seller expressly waives any claim against BuyerGroup that any such IP Claims arose out of compliance with Buyer Group’s or its dealers’ or customers’ specification ordirection.


27. Specific PerformanceSeller acknowledges and agrees that money damages will not be a sufficient remedy for any actual or threatenedbreach of this Contract by Seller and that, in addition to all other rights and remedies that Buyer may have, Buyer will beentitled to specific performance and temporary, preliminary and permanent injunctive relief in connection with anyaction to enforce this Contract, without any requirement of a bond or other security to be provided by Buyer.


29. InsuranceSeller will maintain insurance coverage with insurance carriers acceptable to Buyer and in the amounts set forthelsewhere in this Contract. Seller will name Buyer as an additional insured or a beneficiary on all liability policies. Sellerwill furnish to Buyer either a certificate showing compliance with these insurance requirements or certified copies of allinsurance policies within 10 days of Buyer’s written request. The certificate will provide that Buyer will receive 30 days’prior written notice of any termination or reduction in the amount or scope of coverage. Seller’s furnishing ofcertificates of insurance or purchase of insurance will not release Seller of any of its obligations or liabilities under thisContract.


34. Termination for CauseBuyer may terminate all or any part of this Contract, without liability to Seller, if Seller (a) breaches any term of thisContract (including, without limitation, Seller’s warranties); (b) states its intention not to perform or otherwise rejects itsobligations under this Contract; or (c) fails to make progress in performance so as to endanger timely and propercompletion of services or delivery of goods under this Contract; provided, however, that if any failure or breach underthe foregoing (a) through (c) is curable, Buyer will provide Seller an opportunity to cure within a commerciallyreasonable period of time under the circumstances, in no case exceeding 10 days after Buyer provides notice of thefailure or breach to Seller. In addition, Buyer may terminate this Contract upon giving at least 60 days’ notice to Seller,

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without liability to Seller, if a direct or indirect change in control or ownership of Seller occurs without Buyer’s priorwritten consent.


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31. ENTIRE AGREEMENT:2. Entire Agreement; Applicability

This Contract, together with the attachments, exhibits, supplements or other terms of Buyer specifically referenced inthis Contract, sets forth the exclusive terms and conditions under which Seller will sell and Buyer will purchase thegoods or services described herein for the period(s) specified in this Contract. Terms and conditions proposed by Sellerthat are different from or in addition to the provisions of this Contract are expressly rejected by Buyer and are not a partof this Contract, and Seller’s acceptance is expressly limited to the terms of this Contract. This Contract constitutes theentire agreement between Seller and Buyer with respect to the matters contained in this Contractherein andsupersedes all prior or contemporaneous oral or written agreements, representations and agreements/orcommunications. This Contract may only be modified only by a contractan amendment issued by Buyer.


5. CHANGES:10. Changes

Buyer reserves the right at anyBy written notice to Seller, Buyer may, from time to time, direct changes, or causedirectSeller to make changes, to drawings and specifications of the goods or to otherwise change the scope of the workcovered by this Contract, including, without limitation, work with respect to such matters as inspection, testing or qualitycontrol, and Seller agrees to (a) promptly make such changes, and (b) accept any subsequently issued contractsimplementing such changes. AnyBuyer and Seller will promptly discuss, reasonably and in good faith, any pricingadjustments (up or down) to be made in connection with such changes. Notwithstanding any such discussions, Sellerwill promptly implement such changes as directed by Buyer without delay. In the event that Buyer and Seller are unableto reach agreement on any pricing adjustments to be made in connection with such changes, any difference in price ortime for performance resulting from such changes shallwill be equitably adjusted by Buyer based on a fair costassessment after receipt of documentation in such form and detail as Buyer may direct. Any changes to this ContractshallSeller will accept any amendments issued by Buyer implementing such changes. Seller may, from time to time,propose changes to drawings and specifications of the goods or to the scope of the work covered by this Contract. IfBuyer agrees, in its discretion, to implement such changes, the agreement between the parties with respect to suchchanges will be made in accordance with Paragraph 31.Section 2 (Entire Agreement, Applicability) above.Seller will not relocate the production, manufacture or assembly of the goods from the facilities approved by Buyer, orchange the location from which the goods are shipped, without first following Buyer’s relocation requirements andobtaining Buyer’s advanced written consent.


Redline of Selected Sections

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9. WARRANTY:13. Product Warranty; Warranty of Performance

Seller warrants/ and guarantees that the goods covered by this Contract will conform to theall specifications, drawings,samples, or descriptions and quality standards (i) furnished to orby Buyer, or (ii) furnished by Seller and approved byBuyer in writing, and will be merchantable, of good material and workmanship and free from defect. In addition, Selleracknowledges that Seller knows of Buyer’s intended use and warrants/guarantees that allof the goods covered by thisContract thatand warrants and guarantees that such goods have been selected, designed, manufactured or assembledby Seller based upon Buyer’s stated use and will be fit and sufficient for the particular purposes intended by Buyer.TheUnless otherwise set forth in this Contract, the duration of the warranty period shall be that provided by applicablelaw, except that if Buyer offers a longer warranty to its customers for goods installed on vehicles, such longer periodshall applyprovided by Seller to Buyer for the goods will begin on the date of receipt of the goods by Buyer and end onthe later of (a) the date of expiration of any warranty period provided under applicable law for the goods, (b) expirationof any warranty applicable to the goods provided by Buyer to Buyer’s end customer for the vehicle into which the goodsare incorporated, or (c) the expiration of any specific warranty period or performance standard provided in anydocument incorporated by reference into the Contract, including in Buyer’s specifications or quality standards.Notwithstanding the foregoing, Seller warrants and guarantees that the goods covered by this Contract will not, at anytime (including after expiration or termination of this Contract), pose an unreasonable risk to consumer or vehiclesafety.


10. INGREDIENTS DISCLOSURE; SPECIAL WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS:14. Ingredients Disclosure; Special Warnings and Instructions

If requested by Buyer, Seller shallwill promptly furnish to Buyer in such form and detail as Buyer may direct: (a) a list ofall ingredients and materials incorporated in the goods; (b) the amount of allsuch ingredients and materials; and (c)information concerning any changes in or additions to such ingredients and materials. Prior to and with the shipment ofthe goods, Seller agrees to furnish to Buyer sufficient advance warning and notice, in writing (including, withoutlimitation, appropriate labels on the goods, containers and packing), of any dangerous goods or hazardous materialthat is an ingredient or a part of any shipment of the goods, together with such special handling instructions as may benecessary to advise carriers, Buyer, and their respective employees of how to exercise that measure of care andprecaution that will comply with any applicable laws or regulations and best prevent bodily injury or property damage inthe handling, transportation, processing, use or disposal of the goods, containers and packing shipped to Buyer. UponBuyer’s request, Seller will certify to Buyer in writing the origin of any ingredients or materials in the goods. Seller willpromptly provide, in writing, any information regarding the goods requested by Buyer so that Buyer may comply in atimely manner with reporting requirements under applicable law with respect to consumer protection, “conflictminerals” or similar materials or ingredients, if any.


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6. SUPPLIER QUALITY AND DEVELOPMENT; INSPECTION:Seiler agrees to participate in Buyer’s supplier quality and development program(s) and to comply with all qualityrequirements and procedures specified by Buyer, as revised from time to time. In addition, Buyer shall have the right toenter Seller’s facility at reasonable times to inspect the facility, goods, materials and any property of Buyer covered bythis Contract. Buyer’s inspection of the goods, whether during manufacture, prior to delivery or within a reasonable timeafter delivery, shall not constitute acceptance of any work-in-process or finished goods.16. Audit Rights; Inspection of Seller’s Premises

Seller grants Buyer access to Seller’s premises and all pertinent information (including, without limitation, books,records, payroll and other data, receipts, correspondence and other documents) for the purpose of auditing Seller’scompliance with the terms of this Contract (including, without limitation, charges under this Contract) or inspecting orconducting an inventory of finished goods, work-in-process, raw materials, any of Buyer’s Property and all work or otheritems to be provided pursuant to this Contract located at Seller’s premises. Seller will cooperate with Buyer so as tofacilitate Buyer’s audit, including, without limitation, by segregating and promptly producing such records as Buyer mayreasonably request, and otherwise making records and other materials accessible to Buyer. If requested by Buyer,Seller will promptly provide to Buyer its most current income statements, balance sheets, cash-flow statements andsupporting data and schedules. Seller will preserve all records pertinent to this Contract, and Seller’s performanceunder this Contract, for a period of not less than one year after Buyer’s final payment to Seller under this Contract. Anysuch audit or inspection conducted by Buyer or its representatives will not constitute acceptance of any goods (whetherin progress or finished), relieve Seller of any liability under this Contract or prejudice any rights or remedies available toBuyer.


14. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY:25. Intellectual Property Indemnification

Seller agrees: (a) towill investigate, defend, hold harmless and indemnify Buyer, its successors, its affiliates (collectively“Buyer Group”) and its dealers and customers against any actual or alleged claims of infringement or other assertionsof proprietary rights violations (including patent, trademark, copyright, industrial design right, or other proprietary right,or misuse, or misappropriation of trade secret) and resulting damages and expenses (including attorney’s and otherprofessional fees) arising in any way in relation to the goods or services contracted, including such claims where Sellerhas provided only part of the goods or services; (collectively “IP claims”). Seller expressly waives any claim againstBuyer Group that any such infringementIP Claims arose out of compliance with Buyer’s specification; (b) that Buyer orBuyer’s subcontractor has the right to repair, reconstruct, or rebuild the specific goods delivered under this Contractwithout payment of any royalty to Seller; (c) that parts manufactured based on Buyer’s drawings and/or specificationsmay not be used for its own use or sold to third parties without Buyer’s express written authorization; and (d) to theextent that this Contract is issued for the creation of copyrightabie works, the works shall be considered “works madefor hire;” to the extent that the works do not qualify as “works made for hire,” Seller hereby assigns to Buyer all right,title and interest in all copyrights and moral rights therein Group’s or its dealers’ or customers’ specification ordirection.


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17. INSURANCE:29. Insurance

Seller shallwill maintain insurance coverage with insurance carriers acceptable to Buyer and in the amounts set forth inthe Special Terms. Seller shallelsewhere in this Contract. Seller will name Buyer as an additional insured or abeneficiary on all liability policies. Seller will furnish to Buyer either a certificate showing compliance with theseinsurance requirements or certified copies of all insurance policies within 10 days of Buyer’s written request. Thecertificate will provide that Buyer will receive 30 days’ prior written notice from the insurer of any termination orreduction in the amount or scope of coverage. Seller’s furnishing of certificates of insurance or purchase of insuranceshallwill not release Seller of any of its obligations or liabilities under this Contract.


12. TERMINATION FOR BREACH OR NONPERFORMANCE; SALE OF ASSETS OR CHANGE IN CONTROL:34. Termination for Cause

Buyer reserves the right tomay terminate all or any part of this Contract, without liability to Seller, if Seller: (a)repudiates or breaches any of the termsterm of this Contract, (including, without limitation, Seller’s warranties); (b)failsstates its intention not to perform services or deliver goods as specified by Buyer;or otherwise rejects its obligationsunder this Contract; or (c) fails to make progress in performance so as to endanger timely and proper completion ofservices or delivery of goods; and does not correct such failure or breach within 10 days (or such shorter period of timeif under this Contract; provided, however, that if any failure or breach under the foregoing (a) through (c) is curable,Buyer will provide Seller an opportunity to cure within a commercially reasonable period of time under thecircumstances), in no case exceeding 10 days after receipt of writtenBuyer provides notice from Buyer specifyingsuchof the failure or breach to Seller. In addition, Buyer may terminate this Contract upon giving at least 60 days’notice to Seller, without liability to Seller, if Seller (i) sells, or offers to sell, a material portion of its assets, or (ii) sells orexchanges, or offers to sell or exchange, or causes to be sold or exchanged, a sufficient amount of its stock that effectsa change in thea direct or indirect change in control or ownership of Seller occurs without Buyer’s prior written consent.


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