a5809045.htm
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549


FORM 10-Q
Quarterly Report
Pursuant to Section 13 or 15 (d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2008

Commission File No.: 1-12933
 
_____AUTOLIV, INC.______
(Exact name of registrant as
specified in its charter)


_____Delaware_______
 
______51-0378542____
(State or other jurisdic-
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identi-
tion of incorporation or
 
 fication No.)
organization)
   
     
     
World Trade Center,
   
Klarabergsviadukten 70,
   
Box 70381,
   
SE-107 24 Stockholm, Sweden
 
____N/A__
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)


___+46 8 587 20 600____
(Registrant’s telephone number,
including area code)



Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports); and (2) has been subject to such filing requirement for the past 90 days.
Yes: [x]
No: [  ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.
Large accelerated filer: [x]
Accelerated filer: [  ]
Non-accelerated filer [ ]
Smaller reporting company [  ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).
Yes: [ ]
 No: [x]
 


Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date: As of October 20, 2008, there were 70,301,828 shares of common stock of Autoliv, Inc., par value $1.00 per share, outstanding.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Form 10-Q contains statements that are not historical facts but rather forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are those that address activities, events or developments that Autoliv, Inc. (“Autoliv”, the “Company” or “we”) or its management believes or anticipates may occur in the future, including statements relating to industry trends, business opportunities, sales contracts, sales backlog, ongoing commercial arrangements and discussions, as well as any statements about future operating performance or financial results.

In some cases, you can identify these statements by forward-looking words such as “estimates,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “plans,” “intends,” “believes,” “might,” “will,” “should,” or the negative of these terms and other comparable terminology, although not all forward-looking statements are so identified.

All such forward-looking statements are based upon our current expectations and various assumptions, and apply only as of the date of this report. Our expectations and beliefs are expressed in good faith and we believe there is a reasonable basis for them. However, there can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements will materialize or prove to be correct.

Because these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, the outcome could differ materially from those set out in the forward-looking statements for a variety or reasons, including without limitation, changes in and the successful execution of the action program discussed herein and the market reaction thereto, changes in general industry and market conditions, increased competition, higher raw material costs particularly commodity and energy costs, customer bankruptcies and industry consolidation, changes in consumer preferences for end products, customer losses and changes in regulatory conditions, availability and terms of financing necessary to fund our operations, as well the risks identified in Item 1A “Risk Factors” in this report. Except for the Company's ongoing obligation to disclose information under the U.S. federal securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicity any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information or future events.

For any forward-looking statements contained in this or any other document, we claim the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
 


INDEX

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1.1   Basis of Presentation
1.2   Receivables
1.3   Inventories
1.4   Restructuring
1.5   Product-Related Liabilities
1.6   Comprehensive Income
1.7   Business Acquisitions
1.8   New Accounting Pronouncements
1.9   Income Taxes
1.10 Retirement Plans
1.11 Fair Value of Financial Instruments
1.12 Contingent Liabilities
1.13 Subsequent events

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

ITEM 4T. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES


PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
 
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS
 


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)
(Dollars in millions, except per share data)



   
Quarter
July-September
   
First nine months
January - September
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
Net sales
                       
- Airbag products
    $979.1       $1,002.2       $3,345.9       $3,231.5  
- Seatbelt products
    565.6       555.0       1,934.2       1,753.2  
Total net sales
    1,544.7       1,557.2       5,280.1       4,984.7  
                                 
Cost of sales
    (1,283.7)       (1,254.9)       (4,297.8)       (4,001.3)  
Gross profit
    261.0       302.3       982.3       983.4  
                                 
Selling, general & administrative expenses
    (85.8)       (84.7)       (290.7)       (270.6)  
Research, development & engineering expenses
    (80.9)       (93.0)       (303.4)       (314.3)  
Amortization of intangibles
    (5.8)       (4.9)       (17.7)       (14.5)  
Other income (expense), net
    (30.2)       (9.7)       (36.7)       (46.1)  
Operating income
    58.3       110.0       333.8       337.9  
                                 
Equity in earnings of affiliates
    1.2       1.4       3.4       4.7  
Interest income
    3.1       2.1       6.5       5.9  
Interest expense
    (16.7)       (15.2)       (48.9)       (44.7)  
Other financial items, net
    1.3       (3.3)       0.5       (6.8)  
Income before income taxes
    47.2       95.0       295.3       297.0  
                                 
Income taxes
    (13.2)       (29.8)       (85.2)       (96.5)  
Minority interests in subsidiaries
    (2.8)       (2.0)       (7.0)       (6.6)  
Net income
    $31.2       $63.2       $203.1       $193.9  
                                 
Earnings per share – basic
    $0.44       $0.82       $2.81       $2.46  
Earnings per share – diluted
    $0.44       $0.81       $2.80       $2.45  
                                 
Weighted average number of shares outstanding, net of treasury shares (in millions)
        71.3           77.4           72.4           78.9  
                                 
Weighted average number of shares outstanding, assuming dilution and net of treasury shares (in millions)
        71.5           77.8           72.6           79.2  
                                 
Number of shares outstanding, excluding dilution and net of treasury shares (in millions)
      70.3         75.9         70.3         75.9  
                                 
Cash dividend per share – declared
    $0.41       $0.39       $1.21       $1.17  
Cash dividend per share – paid
    $0.41       $0.39       $1.19       $1.15  


See “Notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.”
 


CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Dollars in millions)


   
September 30,
2008
   
December 31,
2007
 
   
(unaudited)
       
Assets
           
Cash & cash equivalents
    $213.6       $153.8  
Receivables
    1,226.5       1,230.7  
Inventories
    653.8       561.3  
Other current assets
    155.7       149.4  
Total current assets
    2,249.6       2,095.2  
                 
Property, plant & equipment, net
    1,222.4       1,259.8  
Investments and other non-current assets
    192.0       190.9  
Goodwill
    1,623.0       1,613.4  
Intangible assets, net
    138.9       146.1  
Total assets
    $5,425.9       $5,305.4  
                 
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity
               
Short-term debt
    $377.3       $311.9  
Accounts payable
    777.2       834.0  
Accrued expenses
    417.6       315.4  
Other current liabilities
    222.0       202.0  
Total current liabilities
    1,794.1       1,663.3  
                 
Long-term debt
    1,121.7       1,040.3  
Pension liability
    52.3       63.3  
Other non-current liabilities
    136.1       137.2  
Minority interests in subsidiaries
    56.4       52.2  
Shareholders’ equity
    2,265,3       2,349.1  
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
    $5,425.9       $5,305.4  


See “Notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.”
 


CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
(Dollars in millions)

   
Quarter
July-September
   
First nine months
January - September
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
                         
Operating activities
                       
Net income
    $31.2       $63.2       $203.1       $193.9  
Depreciation and amortization
    86.1       77.4       256.5       236.3  
Other
    (8.1)       (6.4)       (11.2)       11.8  
Changes in operating assets and liabilities
    (7.0)       13.9       (22.7)       107.2  
Net cash provided by operating activities
    102.2       148.1       425.7       549.2  
                                 
Investing activities
                               
Capital expenditures
    (73.9)       (75.4)       (212.6)       (235.6)  
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
    2.8       3.2       10.2       7.8  
Acquisitions of businesses and other, net
    (42.5)       1.8       (47.6)       (76.3)  
Net cash used in investing activities
    (113.6)       (70.4)       (250.0)       (304.1)  
                                 
Financing activities
                               
Net increase (decrease) in short-term debt
    (187.8)       14.9       59.2       23.7  
Issuance of long-term debt
    392.1       174.7       411.1       248.4  
Repayments and other changes in long-term debt
    -       (56.0)       (322.5)       (193.7)  
Dividends paid
    (29.3)       (30.6)       (86.4)       (91.2)  
Shares repurchased
    (65.2)       (160.4)       (173.5)       (257.0)  
Stock options exercised
    1.1       0.9       4.7       8.5  
Other, net
    (3.2)       (2.8)       (3.6)       (1.3)  
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
    107.7       (59.3)       (111.0)       (262.6)  
                                 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
    (9.8)       5.6       (4.9)       9.5  
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
    86.5       24.0       59.8       (8.0)  
                                 
Cash and cash equivalents at period-start
    127.1       136.1       153.8       168.1  
Cash and cash equivalents at period-end
    $213.6       $160.1       $213.6       $160.1  

See “Notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.”
 


KEY RATIOS (UNAUDITED)
(Dollars in millions, except per share data)


   
Quarter
July-September
or as of Sept. 30
   
Nine months
January – September
or as of Sept. 30
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
                         
Earnings per share – basic 1)
    $0.44       $0.82       $2.81       $2.46  
Earnings per share – diluted 1)
    $0.44       $0.81       $2.80       $2.45  
Equity per share
    $32.22       $30.88       $32.22       $30.88  
Cash dividend per share - declared
    $0.41       $0.39       $1.21       $1.17  
Cash dividend per share – paid
    $0.41       $0.39       $1.19       $1.15  
Operating working capital 3)
    $647       $666       $647       $666  
Capital employed 10)
    $3,544       $3,482       $3,544       $3,482  
Net debt 3)
    $1,279       $1,138       $1,279       $1,138  
Net debt to capitalization, %3)4)
    36       32       36       32  
                                 
Gross margin, % 5)
    16.9       19.4       18.6       19.7  
Operating margin, % 6)
    3.8       7.1       6.3       6.8  
                                 
Return on  shareholders’ equity, %
    5.3       10.6       11.5       10.8  
Return on capital employed, %
    6.7       12.9       12.6       13.2  
                                 
Weighted average no. of shares in millions 1)2)
    71.5       77.8       72.6       79.2  
No. of shares at period-end in millions 7)
    70.3       75.9       70.3       75.9  
No. of employees at period-end 11)
    35,800       35,000       35,800       35,000  
Headcount at period-end 12)
    41,300       41,500       41,300       41,500  
Days receivables outstanding 8)
    74       75       66       69  
Days inventory outstanding 9)
    44       36       39       33  

1)    Net of treasury shares
2)    Assuming dilution
3)    See tabular presentation reconciling this non-GAAP measure to GAAP in the Management’s Discussion & Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
4)    Net debt in relation to net debt, minority and equity
5)    Gross profit relative to sales
6)    Operating income relative to sales
7)    Net of treasury shares and excluding dilution
8)    Outstanding receivables relative to average daily sales
9)    Outstanding inventory relative to average daily sales
10)  Total shareholders’ equity and net debt
11)  Employees with a continuous employment agreement, recalculated to full time equivalent heads
12)  Employees plus temporary, hourly workers


See “Notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements”.



NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unless otherwise noted, all amounts are presented in millions of dollars, except for per share amounts)
September 30, 2008

1.1 Basis of Presentation
The accompanying interim unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included in the financial statements. All such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature.

The condensed consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2007 has been derived from the audited financial statements at that date, but does not include all the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements.

Statements in this report that are not of historical fact are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties that could affect the actual results of the Company. A description of the important factors that could cause Autoliv's actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained in this report may be found in Autoliv's reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements, footnotes and definitions thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2007, filed on February 25, 2008.

The Company’s filings with the SEC, including annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, proxy statements, management certifi­cations, current reports on Form 8-K and other documents, can be obtained free of charge from Autoliv at the Com­pany’s address. These docu­ments are also available at the SEC’s web site at www.sec.gov and at the Company's corporate website at www.autoliv.com.


1.2 Receivables
During the third quarter of 2008, the Company sold receivables related to selected customers with high credit worthiness as a means of saving interest cost, net of discounts. The receivables were sold to various external financial institutions without recourse. Since the Company uses the cash received to repay debt, these factoring agreements have the effect of reducing debt and accounts receivable. At September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007 receivables would have been higher by $83 million and $124 million, respectively, if these agreements had not been entered into. The discount cost is recognized in “Other financial items, net” in the Income Statement.


1.3 Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (principally FIFO) or market. The components of inventories were as follows, net of reserve:


   
September 30, 2008
   
December 31, 2007
 
Raw materials
    $245.1       $214.9  
Work in progress
    262.6       227.6  
Finished products
    146.1       118.8  
Total
    $653.8       $561.3  


1.4
Restructuring
The Company defines restructuring expense to include costs directly associated with exit or disposal activities accounted for in accordance with FAS-146, Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities and employee severance costs incurred as a result of an exit or disposal activity accounted for in accordance with FAS-88 and FAS-112. Impairment charges directly associated with exit or disposal activities are accounted for in accordance with FAS-144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets.

Estimates of restructuring charges are based on information available at the time such charges are recorded. In general, management anticipates that restructuring activities will be completed within a timeframe such that significant changes to the exit plan are not likely. Due to inherent uncertainty involved in estimating restructuring expenses, actual amounts paid for such activities may differ from amounts initially estimated.

The Company expects to finance these restructuring programs over the next several years through cash generated from its ongoing operations or through cash available under existing credit facilities. The Company does not expect that the execution of these programs will have a material adverse impact on its liquidity position.

The tables below summarize the change in the balance sheet position of the restructuring reserves from December 31, 2006 to September 30, 2008.

2007
 
In 2007, the employee-related restructuring provisions mainly related to headcount reductions in high-cost countries throughout North America and Europe, and in Australia. The cash payments mainly related to North America, Europe and Australia plant consolidation initiated in 2007, 2006 and 2005. The provision has been charged against “Other income (expense), net” in the income statement. The table below summarizes the change in the balance sheet position of the restructuring reserves from December 31, 2006 to December 31, 2007.

   
Dec. 31,
2006
   
 
Provisions
   
Cash
payments
   
Non-
Cash
   
Translation
difference
   
December 31,
2007
 
Restructuring -
employee related
    $6.4       $23.7       $(14.4)       $-       $1.1       $16.8  
                                                 
Fixed asset impairments
    -       -       -       -       -       -  
                                                 
Total
    $6.4       $23.7       $(14.4)       $-       $1.1       $16.8  
 
During 2007, 647 employees covered by the restructuring reserves left the Company. As of December 31, 2007, 584 employees remained who were covered by the restructuring reserves.

2008
Q1
 
The decrease in the employee-related restructuring liability in the quarter mainly relates to cash payments in Europe and North America for restructuring activities initiated in 2007. The provision has been charged against “Other income (expense), net” in the income statement. The table below summarizes the change in the balance sheet position of the restructuring reserves from December 31, 2007 to March 31, 2008.

   
Dec. 31,
2007
   
 
Provisions
   
Cash
payments
   
Non-
Cash
   
Translation
difference
   
March 31,
2008
 
Restructuring -
employee related
    $16.8       $0.3       $(3.0)       $-       $0.9       $15.0  
                                                 
Fixed asset impairments
    -       -       -       -       -       -  
                                                 
Total
    $16.8       $0.3       $(3.0)       $-       $0.9       $15.0  
 
During the quarter, 122 employees covered by the reserves left the Company. As of March 31, 2008, 473 employees remained who were covered by the restructuring reserves.

Q2
 
The increase in the employee-related restructuring provisions in the second quarter mainly relate to headcount reductions in high cost countries in Europe. Cash payments mainly relate to restructuring activities in Europe and North America initiated in 2007. The provision has been charged against “Other income (expense), net” in the income statement. The table below summarizes the change in the balance sheet position of the restructuring reserves from March 31, 2008 to June 30, 2008.

   
March 31, 2008
   
Provisions
   
Cash
payments
   
Non-
Cash
   
Translation
difference
   
June 30,
2008
 
Restructuring -
employee related
    $15.0       $6.0       $(1.6)       $-       $-       $19.4  
                                                 
Fixed asset impairments
    -       -       -       -       -       -  
                                                 
Total
    $15.0       $6.0       $(1.6)       $-       $-       $19.4  
 
During the quarter, 50 employees covered by the reserves left the Company. As of June 30, 2008, 506 employees remained who were covered by the restructuring reserves.

Q3
 
The increase in the employee-related restructuring provisions in the third quarter mainly relate to headcount reductions in North America, Europe and Australia. The employee-related restructuring provisions have been charged against “Other income (expense), net” in the income statement. The fixed asset impairment charges recorded relate to restructuring activities in North America and Europe to write down certain machinery and equipment, buildings, and building improvements to fair value based on estimated future cash flows. The fixed asset impairments have been charged against “Cost of sales” in the income statement. Cash payments mainly relate to restructuring activities in North America, Europe and Australia. The table below summarizes the change in the balance sheet position of the restructuring reserves from June 30, 2008 to September 30, 2008.

   
June 30,
2008
   
Provisions
   
Cash
payments
   
Non-
Cash
   
Translation
difference
   
September 30,
2008
 
Restructuring -
employee related
    $19.4       $27.6       $(8.4)       $-       $(1.6)       $37.0  
                                                 
Fixed asset impairments
    -       4.2       -       (4.2 )     -       -  
                                                 
Total
    $19.4       $31.8       $(8.4)       $(4.2)       $(1.6)       $37.0  
 
During the third quarter, 199 employees covered by the reserves left the Company. As of September 30, 2008, 1,257 employees remained who were covered by the restructuring reserves.


Action Program 2008
In July 2008 the Company announced that it was developing an action program to mitigate the effects of both accelerating production cuts by customers and accelerating costs for raw materials. The program is estimated to generate annual pre-tax savings of approximately $120 million. The savings is expected to be realized gradually, with full effect in 2010. The main items in the program are:
1.  
Adjustment of manufacturing capacity, including plant closures, due to lower expected vehicle production.
2.  
Accelerated move of sourcing to low-cost countries, consolidation of supplier base and standardization of products.
3.  
Reductions in overhead costs, including consolidation of tech centers.
The program is expected to affect 3,000 employees, both temporaries and permanent. The pre-tax cost for this program is estimated to be $75 million. The Company continues to evaluate individual components of this program, and will accrue these components as plans are finalized.

Included in the table above, the changes in the reserves associated with activities executed under “Action Program 2008” are as follows:

   
June 30,
2008
   
Provisions
   
Cash
payments
   
Non-
Cash
   
Translation
difference
   
September 30,
2008
 
Restructuring -
employee related
    $-       $25.1       $(3.4)       $-       $-       $21.7  
                                                 
Fixed asset impairment
    -       4.2       -       (4.2 )     -       -  
                                                 
Total
    $-       $29.3       $(3.4)       $(4.2)       $-       $21.7  

The employee-related restructuring provision and fixed asset impairment charges in the third quarter for “Action Program 2008” mainly relate to activities in North America and Europe. Cash payments mainly relate to restructuring activities in Europe initiated in third quarter 2008. The major part of the $21.7 million in the employee-related restructuring reserve, related to the “Action Program 2008”, accrued as of September 30, 2008, is expected to be paid before the end of 2009.

Restructuring charges and asset impairments related to the “Action Program 2008” are:

   
Total
expected
costs
   
Costs
incurred
July-Sept
2008
   
Estimated additional charges
 
                   
Total restructuring charges and
asset impairments (in millions)
    $75       $29       $46  

The major part of the estimated additional charges of $46 million is expected to be incurred before the end of 2009.


1.5 Product-Related Liabilities
The Company maintains reserves for product risks. Such reserves relate to product performance issues, including recall, product liability and warranty issues. The Company records liabilities for product-related risks when probable claims are identified and it is possible to reasonably estimate costs. Provisions for warranty claims are estimated based on prior experience, likely changes in performance of newer products and the mix and volume of the products sold. Cash payments have been made, in the past, for recall and warranty-related issues in connection with a variety of different products and customers. For further explanation, see Note 1.12 Contingent Liabilities below.
 
The table below summarizes the change in the balance sheet position of the product-related liabilities for the quarter. The provision recorded for the nine month period ended September 30, 2008 mainly relates to recalls.
 
   
Quarter
July-September
   
First nine months
January - September
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
Reserve at  beginning of the period
    $22.1       $21.7       $18.8       $22.8  
Provision
    (0.4)       (0.2)       6.2       4.3  
Cash payments
    (3.7)       (2.8)       (8.1)       (8.7)  
Translation difference
    (1.2)       0.8       (0.1)       1.1  
Reserve at end of the period
    $16.8       $19.5       $16.8       $19.5  


 
1.6 Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive income includes net income for the year and items charged directly to equity.

   
Quarter
July-September
   
First nine months
January – September
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
Net income
    $31.2       $63.2       $203.1       $193.9  
                                 
Pension liability
    0.5       0.2       -       0.3  
Fair value of derivatives
    (0.1)       (0.1)       0.1       -  
Translation of foreign operations
    (90.4)       41.3       (34.9)       72.1  
Other comprehensive income
    (90.0)       41.4       (34.8)       72.4  
                                 
Comprehensive income
    $(58.8)       $104.6       $168.3       $266.3  


1.7 Business Acquisitions
As of September 29, 2008, Autoliv acquired the automotive radar sensors business of Tyco Electronics Ltd. This radar sensor business was a "carve-out" of the Radio Frequency and Subsystems business unit within Tyco Electronics. The transaction included a preliminary amount of $10 million for technology and intellectual property for short-, medium- and long-range radar products. The purchase price and the preliminary goodwill in connection with this acquisition were $42 million and $25 million, respectively. The results of the operations of the acquired business will be included in the consolidated financial statements from October 1, 2008.


1.8 New Accounting Pronouncements
The following accounting pronouncements have been issued and will be effective for the Company in or after fiscal year 2008:

Statement No. 157, Fair Value Measurements (“FAS-157”), establishes a framework for measuring fair value under generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, clarifies the definition of fair value within that framework, and expands disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. FAS-157 was issued in September 2006 and is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. For non-financial assets and liabilities which are not periodically recognized or disclosed at fair value, FAS-157 has been deferred one year. The Company adopted FAS-157 for all financial assets and liabilities required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis, prospectively from January 1, 2008. The application of FAS-157 for financial instruments which are periodically measured at fair value did not have a significant impact on earnings nor the financial position.

Statement No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (“FAS-159”), provides companies with an option to report selected financial assets and liabilities at fair value. The objective of FAS-159 is to reduce both complexity in accounting for financial instruments and the volatility in earnings caused by measuring related assets and liabilities differently. FAS-159 was issued in February 2007 and is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The application of FAS-159 did not have any impact on earnings nor the financial position, because the Company did not elect to use the fair value option.

Statement No. 141 (Revised), Business Combinations (“FAS-141(R)”), replaces FASB Statement No. 141. FAS-141(R) applies the acquisition method to all transactions and other events in which an entity obtains control over one or more other businesses, requires the acquirer to recognize the fair value of all assets and liabilities acquired, even if less than one hundred percent ownership is acquired, and establishes the acquisition date fair value as measurement date for all assets and liabilities assumed. The Statement was issued in December 2007 and is effective prospectively for any acquisitions made after fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008.

Statement No. 160, Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements (“FAS-160”), amends ARB 51 to establish accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. It clarifies that a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary is an ownership interest in the consolidated financial statements. The Statement was issued in December 2007, and is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. The application of FAS-160 is not expected to have a significant impact on earnings nor the financial position.

Statement No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133 (“FAS-161”), requires enhanced disclosures about an entity’s derivative and hedging activities and thereby improves the transparency of financial reporting. The Statement was issued in March 2008 and is effective prospectively for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. The application of FAS-161 will expand the disclosures in regards to the Company’s derivative and hedging activities.

FASB Staff Position (FSP), Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets (“FAS 142-3”), amends the factors that should be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under FASB Statement No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. The Statement was issued in April 2008, and is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The guidance in this FSP for determining the useful life of a recognized intangible shall be applied prospectively to intangible assets acquired after the effective date.


1.9 Income Taxes
The effective tax rate for the first nine months of 2008 was 28.9%, compared with 32.5% in the first nine months of 2007. The net impact of discrete tax items in both the first nine months of 2008 and also the first nine months of 2007 was not material. The tax rate for the full year 2007 was 33.7%, which included discrete tax costs of 1.8%. During the first quarter of 2008, several subsidiaries recorded adjustments to their estimates of prior year income tax provisions. These catch up effects in the first quarter caused a 2% reduction to the effective tax rate in the first quarter of 2008. During the second quarter of 2008, the Company accrued additional adjustments to unrecognized tax benefits related to on-going tax audits of various non-US subsidiaries. In addition, in the second quarter, several subsidiaries recorded adjustments to their estimates of prior year income tax provisions. The adjustments recorded in the second quarter caused a 3% increase to the effective tax rate in the second quarter 2008. In the third quarter, the company recorded adjustments to unrecognized tax benefits due to the resolution of a tax audit. In addition, in the third quarter, several subsidiaries recorded adjustments to their estimates of prior year income tax provisions. The adjustments recorded in the third quarter caused a 3.6% decrease to the effective tax rate for the third quarter 2008. Excluding discrete items, the projected 2008 effective tax rate compared to 2007 has been positively impacted by higher R&D tax credits in France and a lower German tax rate due to new tax laws, as well as a lower level of losses in start-up companies.

The Company files income tax returns in the United States federal jurisdiction, and various states and foreign jurisdictions. The Company is no longer subject to income tax examination by the U.S. federal tax authorities for years prior to 2003. With few exceptions, the Company is also no longer subject to income tax examination by U.S. state or local tax authorities for tax years prior to 2003. In addition, with few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to income tax examinations by non-U.S. tax authorities for years before 2001. The Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) began an examination of the Company’s 2003-2005 U.S. income tax returns in the second quarter of 2006 that is anticipated to be completed in 2008. In addition, the Company is undergoing tax audits in several non-U.S. jurisdictions covering multiple years. As of September 30, 2008, as a result of those tax examinations, the Company currently is not aware of any material proposed income tax adjustments. The Company expects the completion of certain tax audits in the near term. It is reasonably possible that the amount of unrecognized benefits with respect to certain of our unrecognized tax positions could significantly increase or decrease in some future period or periods. However, at this time, an estimate of the range of the reasonably possible outcomes is not possible.

During the third quarter 2008, the Company recorded an increase of $0.9 million to income tax reserves for unrecognized tax benefits based on tax positions related to the current and prior years, including accruing additional interest in 2008 related to unrecognized tax benefits of prior years. In addition, during the third quarter 2008, the Company recorded a decrease of $1.8 million to income tax reserves for unrecognized tax benefits for prior years related to agreed upon settlements with tax authorities in various jurisdictions.  During the second quarter 2008, the Company recorded an increase of $4.8 million to income tax reserves for unrecognized tax benefits based on tax positions related to the current and prior years, including accruing additional interest in 2008 related to unrecognized tax benefits of prior years. During the first quarter 2008, the Company recorded an increase of $1.2 million to income tax reserves for unrecognized tax benefits based on tax positions related to the current and prior years, including accruing additional interest in 2008 related to unrecognized tax benefits of prior years. In addition, during the first quarter 2008, the Company recorded a decrease of $1.2 million to income tax reserves for unrecognized tax benefits based on settlements with taxing authorities. Of the total unrecognized tax benefits of $52.1 million recorded at September 30, 2008, $27.3 million is classified as current tax payable and $24.8 million is classified as non-current tax payable on the balance sheet.


1.10 Retirement Plans
The Company has non-contributory defined benefit pension plans covering employees at most operations in the United States. Benefits are based on an average of the employee’s earnings in the years preceding retirement and on credited service. Certain supplemental unfunded plan arrangements also provide retirement benefits to specified groups of participants.

The Company has frozen participation in the U.S. pension plans to include only those employees hired as of December 31, 2003. The U.K. defined benefit plan is the most significant non-U.S pension plan and participation was frozen for all employees hired after April 30, 2003.

The Net Periodic Benefit Costs related to Other Post-retirement Benefits were not significant to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company for the nine month periods ended September 30, 2008 or 2007.

The Net Periodic Benefit Cost increased by $2.1 million (excluding payroll tax) during the first quarter 2007 due to pension benefits that became fully accrued when Mr. Lars Westerberg retired as President and Chief Executive Officer of Autoliv Inc. on April 1, 2007, instead of June 2008 as originally planned. These pension costs are reported as Special Termination Benefit Cost for the nine month period 2007 presented in the table below.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Company has contributed $14.5 million to the U.S. pension plans.

For further information on Pension Plans and Other Post-retirement Benefits, see Note 18 to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2007, filed with the SEC on February 25, 2008.

The components of the total Net Periodic Benefit Cost associated with the Company’s defined benefit retirement plans are as follows:

   
Quarter
July - September
   
First nine months
January - September
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
Service cost
    $3.7       $3.8       $11.3       $11.6  
Interest cost
    3.6       3.5       11.0       10.4  
Expected return on plan assets
    (3.3)       (2.9)       (9.9)       (8.7)  
Amortization prior service cost (credit)
    (0.2)       -       (0.6)       0.1  
Amortization of net loss
    0.1       0.4       0.1       1.3  
Special termination benefit
    -       0.1       -       2.2  
                                 
Net Periodic Benefit Cost
    $3.9       $4.9       $11.9       $16.9  


1.11 Fair Value Financial Instruments
The Company records derivatives at fair value. Any gains and losses on derivatives recorded at fair value are reflected in the consolidated statement of income with the exception of cash flow hedges where an immaterial portion of the fair value is reflected in other comprehensive income in the balance sheet The degree of judgment utilized in measuring the fair value of the instruments generally correlates to the level of pricing observability. Pricing observability is impacted by a number of factors, including the type of asset or liability, whether the asset or liability has an established market and the characteristics specific to the transaction. Derivatives with readily active quoted prices or for which fair value can be measured from actively quoted prices generally will have a higher degree of pricing observability and a lesser degree of judgment utilized in measuring fair value. Conversely, assets rarely traded or not quoted will generally have less, or no, pricing observability and a higher degree of judgment utilized in measuring fair value.

Under FAS-157, there is a hierarchal disclosure framework associated with the level of pricing observability utilized in measuring assets and liabilities at fair value. The three broad levels defined by the FAS-157 hierarchy are as follows:

Level 1 - Quoted prices are available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities as of the reported date.

Level 2 - Pricing inputs are other than quoted prices in active markets, which are either directly or indirectly observable as of the reported date. The nature of these asset and liabilities include items for which quoted prices are available but traded less frequently, and items that are fair valued using other financial instruments, the parameters of which can be directly observed.

Level 3 - Assets and liabilities that have little to no pricing observability as of reported date. These items do not have two-way markets and are measured using management’s best estimate of fair value, where the inputs into the determination of fair value require significant management judgment or estimation.

There were no changes in the Company’s valuation techniques during the nine months ended September 30, 2008.

The following table summarizes the valuation of the Company’s derivatives by the above FAS-157 pricing observability levels:

         
Fair Value Measurements at September 30, 2008
 
         
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Description
 
Total Carrying Amount in Statement of Financial Position
September 30, 2008
   
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
 
(Level 1)
   
Using
Significant Other Observable Inputs
 
(Level 2)
   
Significant Unobservable Inputs
 
(Level 3)
 
                         
Assets
                       
Derivatives
    $10.7       -       $10.7       -  
Total Assets
    $10.7       -       $10.7       -  
                                 
Liabilities
                               
Derivatives
    $4.1       -       $4.1       -  
Total Liabilities
    $4.1       -       $4.1       -  


1.12 Contingent Liabilities

Product Warranty and Recalls
Autoliv is exposed to various claims for damages and compensation if products fail to perform as expected. Such claims can be made, and result in costs and other losses to the Company, even where the product is eventually found to have functioned properly. Where a product (actually or allegedly) fails to perform as expected we face warranty and recall claims. Where such (actual or alleged) failure results, or is alleged to result, in bodily injury and/or property damage, we may also face product-liability claims. There can be no assurance that the Company will not experience material warranty, recall or product (or other) liability claims or losses in the future, or that the Company will not incur significant costs to defend against such claims. The Company may be required to participate in a recall involving its products. Each vehicle manufacturer has its own practices regarding product recalls and other product liability actions relating to its suppliers. As suppliers become more integrally involved in the vehicle design process and assume more of the vehicle assembly functions, vehicle manufacturers are increasingly looking to their suppliers for contribution when faced with recalls and product liability claims. A warranty, recall or product-liability claim brought against the Company in excess of its insurance may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business. Vehicle manufacturers are also increasingly requiring their outside suppliers to guarantee or warrant their products and bear the costs of repair and replacement of such products under new vehicle warranties. A vehicle manufacturer may attempt to hold the Company responsible for some, or all, of the repair or replacement costs of defective products under new vehicle warranties, when the product supplied did not perform as represented. Accordingly, the future costs of warranty claims by the customers may be material. However, we believe our established reserves are adequate to cover potential warranty settlements. Autoliv’s warranty reserves are based upon the Company’s best estimates of amounts necessary to settle future and existing claims. The Company regularly evaluates the appropriateness of these reserves, and adjusts them when appropriate. However, the final amounts determined to be due related to these matters could differ materially from the Company’s recorded estimates.

The Company believes that it is currently reasonably insured against significant warranty, recall and product liability risks, at levels sufficient to cover potential claims that are reasonably likely to arise in our businesses. Autoliv cannot be assured that the level of coverage will be sufficient to cover every possible claim that can arise in our businesses, now or in the future, or that such coverage always will be available on our current market should we, now or in the future, wish to extend or increase insurance.

In its products, the Company utilizes technologies which may be subject to intellectual property rights of third parties.  While the Company does seek to identify the intellectual property rights of relevance to its products, and to procure the necessary rights to utilize such intellectual property rights, we may fail to do so.  Where we so fail, we may be exposed to material claims from the owners of such rights.  Where the Company has sold products which infringe upon such rights, our customers may be entitled to be indemnified by us for the claims they suffer as a result thereof. Also such claims could be material.


The table in Note 1.5 Product-Related Liabilities above summarizes the change in the balance sheet position of the product related liabilities for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2008 and September 30, 2007.


Legal Proceedings
Various claims, lawsuits and proceedings are pending or threatened against the Company or its subsidiaries, covering a range of matters that arise in the ordinary course of its business activities with respect to commercial, product liability and other matters.

Litigation is subject to many uncertainties, and the outcome of any litigation cannot be assured. After discussions with counsel, it is the opinion of management that the various lawsuits to which the Company currently is a party will not have a material adverse impact on the consolidated financial position of Autoliv, but the Company cannot provide assurance that Autoliv will not experience material litigation, product liability or other losses in the future.

Litigation in France (Autoliv Holding Limited)
In 1997, Autoliv AB (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Autoliv, Inc.) acquired Marling Industries plc (“Marling”). At that time, Marling was involved in a lawsuit relating to the sale in 1992 of a French subsidiary. In May 2006, a French court ruled that Marling (now named Autoliv Holding Limited) and another entity, then part of the Marling group, had failed to disclose certain facts in connection with the 1992 sale, and appointed an expert to assess the losses suffered by the plaintiff. The acquirer of the French subsidiary has made claims for damages of approximately €40 million (approximately $58 million) but has not yet provided the court appointed expert with the materials needed to evaluate the claims. Autoliv has appealed against the May 2006 court decision and believes it has meritorious grounds for such appeal. In the opinion of the Company’s management, it is not possible to give any meaningful estimate of any financial impact that may arise from the claim. While management does not believe it is probable, the final outcome of this litigation may result in a loss that will have to be recorded by Autoliv, Inc. No reserves have been accrued for this dispute.

Litigation in United States (Autoliv ASP, Inc.)
In December 2003, a U.S. Federal District Court awarded a former supplier of Autoliv ASP Inc. (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Autoliv Inc.), approximately $27 million plus pre-judgment interest of approximately $7 million in connection with a commercial dispute that relates to purchase commitments made in 1995. As a result of a final court ruling in 2007, after multiple appeals, Autoliv ASP was held liable to the former supplier and deposited a total of $36.4 million with the District Court in fulfillment of the award. The incremental cost of the legal settlement in 2007 of $30.4 million was charged to “Other income (expense), net” in the income statement. On November 14, 2007, the District Court issued an order to the effect that Autoliv ASP had fully and completely satisfied the judgment.

There remains an open issue as to the calculation of the pre-judgment interest. The former supplier has sought an additional $4.9 million that it attributes to pre-judgment interest and on November 15, 2007, filed a notice of appeal from the District Court’s decision. On July 10, 2008, the Court of Appeals affirmed the District Court’s decision. On October 8, 2008, the former supplier filed a petition for writ of certiorari (i.e. an appeal) with the United States Supreme Court. Management believes that the risk that the former supplier will be successful with its appeal is remote.

1.13 Subsequent Events
On October 17, Autoliv, Inc. secured close to the equivalent of $200 million in additional long-term financing. This financing is without financial covenants and consists of three parts:
·  
A 2-year SEK 1 billion ($135 million equivalent) loan commitment from a bank on terms very similar to the revolving credit facility (“RCF”).
·  
Two new notes on terms very similar to the Swedish medium term note program. Both notes have been swapped to U.S dollars and carry floating interest rates.
o  
A SEK 150 million ($20 million equivalent) 2-year note.
o  
A SEK 300 million ($40 million equivalent) 3-year note.
The facility agreement and the terms and conditions of the notes are attached as exhibits below.


On October 3, the Company also withdrew an additional $500 million from its RCF. This withdrawal is for six months. After this withdrawal, Autoliv has $450 million dollars in availability remaining under its RCF.


ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with our Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying Notes thereto included elsewhere herein and with our 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-K/A filed with the SEC on February 25, 2008. Unless otherwise noted, all dollar amounts are in millions.

Autoliv is the world's largest automotive safety system supplier with sales to all the leading vehicle manufacturers in the world. Autoliv develops, markets and manufactures airbags, seatbelts, safety electronics, steering wheels, anti-whiplash systems, child safety as well as night vision systems and other active safety systems. Autoliv accounts for more than one third of its market. Autoliv has manufacturing facilities in 29 vehicle-producing countries.

Autoliv is a Delaware holding corporation with principal executive offices in Stockholm, Sweden, which owns two principal subsidiaries, Autoliv AB ("AAB") and Autoliv ASP, Inc. ("ASP").  AAB, a Swedish corporation, is a leading developer, manufacturer and supplier to the automotive industry of car occupant restraint systems. Starting with seat belts in 1956, AAB expanded its product lines to include seat belt pretensioners (1989), frontal airbags (1991), side-impact airbags (1994), steering wheels (1995) and seat sub-systems (1996). ASP, an Indiana corporation, pioneered airbag technology in 1968 and has since grown into one of the world's leading producers of airbag modules and inflators. ASP designs, develops and manufactures airbag inflators, modules and airbag cushions, seat belts and steering wheels. It sells inflators and modules for use in driver, passenger, side-impact and knee bolster airbag systems for worldwide automotive markets.

Shares of Autoliv common stock are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "ALV" and Swedish Depositary Receipts representing shares of Autoliv common stock trade on the OMX Nordic Exchange in Stockholm under the symbol "ALIV". Options in Autoliv shares are traded in Philadelphia and AMSE under the symbol "ALV".


Non-GAAP financial measures
Some of the following discussions refer to non-GAAP financial measures: see "Organic sales", "Operating working capital", "Net debt", "Leverage ratio" and "Interest coverage ratio". Management believes that these non-GAAP financial measures assist investors in analyzing trends in the Company's business. Investors should consider these non-GAAP financial measures in addition to, rather than as a substitute for, financial reporting measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. These non-GAAP financial measures have been identified as applicable in each section of this report with a tabular presentation reconciling them to GAAP. It should be noted that these measures, as defined, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies.


RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 COMPARED WITH THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2007

Market overview
During the third quarter 2008, global light vehicle production is esti­mated by CSM and J.D. Power to have decreased by slightly more than 1% compared to the same quarter 2007. However, light vehicle production in the Triad, where Autoliv generates close to 90% of its sales, is estimated to have declined by more than 4%.
 
In Europe (including Eastern Europe), where Autoliv derives more than half of its revenues, light vehicle pro­duction is estimated to have reached almost the same level as in the third quarter 2007. Light vehicle production in the dominant West European market declined by nearly 7%. Most of this decline was offset by a 16% increase in East­ern Europe.  Average European light vehicle production was more than 2 percentage points weaker than expected.
 
In North America, which accounts for approximately one fifth of consolidated revenues, light vehicle production dropped by more than 16% which was 4 percentage points worse than expected. Production of light trucks decreased by 32%. GM cut their production by 12%, Chrysler their production by 31% and Ford their production by 33%. The Asian and European vehicle manufacturers reduced their North American production by 6%.
 
In Japan, which accounts for about one tenth of Autoliv’s consolidated sales, light vehicle production grew by 5%.
 
In the Rest of the World (RoW), which accounts for slightly more than one tenth of sales, light vehicle production grew by 6%, which was 9 percentage points less than expected. This was mainly due to a swing in Korean production from an expected increase of 10% to a decline of 11%. This swing particularly affected export vehicles with higher safety content for North America and Western Europe.
 
Autoliv’s market is driven not only by vehicle production but also by the fact that vehicles are being equipped with more safety systems in response to new crash test programs and regulations. For instance, both NHTSA in the U.S. and the EuroNCAP are in the process of changing their crash-test rating programs which could help drive increased safety content in new vehicle models.

Consolidated Sales
The Company has substantial operations outside the United States and currently more than 80% of its sales are denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. This makes the Company and its performance in regions outside the United States sensitive to changes in U.S dollar exchange rates. The measure “Organic sales” presents the increase or decrease in the Company’s overall U.S. dollar net sales on a comparative basis, allowing separate discussion of the impacts of acquisitions/divestments and exchange rate fluctuations. The tabular reconciliation below presents the change in “Organic sales” reconciled to the change in the total net sales as can be derived from our unaudited financial statements.

   
Reconciliation of the change in “Organic sales” to GAAP financial measure
 
   
Components of net sales increase (decrease)
Quarter July-September, 2008
(Dollars in millions)
 
   
Europe
   
North America
   
Japan
   
RoW
   
Total
 
   
%
   
$
     
%
   
$
     
%
   
$
     
%
   
$
     
%
     
$
 
Organic sales
change
    (9.8)       (79.7)       (11.2)       (45.8)       10.1       15.5       (2.4)       (4.3)       (7.3)       (114.3)  
Effect of
exchange rates
    8.1       66.2       1.1       4.4       9.6       14.6       2.0       3.6       5.7       88.8  
Impact of
acquisitions/
divestments
    -       -       -       -       -       -       7.1       13.0       0.8       13.0  
                                                                               
Reported net
sales change
    (1.7)       (13.5)       (10.1)       (41.4)       19.7       30.1       6.7       12.3       (0.8)       (12.5)  

Consolidated net sales of $1,545 million for the quarter was approximately 1% lower than during the same quarter 2007. Currency translation effects boosted sales by nearly 6%, while the AIN-acquisition in November 2007 in India (“AIN-acquisi­tion”) added nearly 1% to consolidated sales. Excluding these effects, organic sales (i.e. sales ex­cluding translation currency effects, and acquisitions/ divestitures) declined by 7%. At the beginning of the quarter, organic sales were expected to decrease by 3%. However, global vehicle production has dropped 5% percentage points more than anticipated at the beginning of the quarter.
 
Autoliv’s lower organic sales reflect primarily the 7% decline in Western Europe and the 16% drop in North American light vehicle production. Since these vehicles have high safety content, changes in vehicle production levels in these regions have significant impact on Autoliv’s sales and virtually all of our product lines were affected. As a result, only sales of side curtain airbags grew organically in the third quarter due to growing penetration rates.

 
Sales by Product
Sales of airbag products (including steering wheels and electronics) decreased by 2% to $979 million. Excluding currency translation effects of 5%, organic sales declined by 7%, mainly due to lower light vehicle production in Autoliv’s most important markets.

Sales of seatbelt products (including seat sub-systems) increased by 2% to $566 million. Excluding currency translation effects of 7% and the AIN-acquisition of 2%, organic sales declined by 7%, primarily due to lower light vehicle production in Autoliv’s most important markets and a 43% sales decline of Seat Sub-Systems.

 
Sales by Region
Sales from Autoliv’s European companies declined by 2% to $797 million due to a 10% lower organic sales, partially offset by favorable currency translation effects of 8%. The organic sales change reflects mainly the 7% drop in Western vehicle production and an unfavorable model mix in Europe’s light vehicle production, exacerbated by upcoming model change-overs for platforms such as the Renault Mégane. Organic sales were also affected by the sudden drop in sales of the non-core Seat Sub-System business. These effects were partially offset by strong demand for certain small cars, such as BMW’s 1-series and Mini, and Ford’s Kuga.

Sales from Autoliv’s North American companies declined by 10% to $368 million despite a 1% positive effect from the stronger Mexican peso. Organic sales decline of 11% was less than the 16% drop in the re­gion’s light vehicle production due to Autoliv’s relatively low exposure to SUVs and other light trucks. Instead, Autoliv benefited from healthy demand for smaller and mid-size vehicles such as Chevrolet’s Malibu, Impala and Traverse; Buick’s Enclave; GMC’s Acadia and Saturn’s Aura.

Sales from Autoliv’s companies in Japan rose by 20% to $183 million which includes favorable currency translation effects of 10%. Organic growth of 10% was twice as strong as the 5% increase in Japanese light vehicle production. Autoliv’s strong performance is due to continued growth in the installation rates for side curtain airbags in addition to a favorable vehicle model mix with strong demand for such vehicles as Honda’s Accord and Freed; Mitsubishi’s Outlander, Mazda’s Axela and Demio and Toyota’s Alphard, Land Cruiser Prado and Vitz.
 
Sales from Autoliv’s companies in the Rest of the World (RoW) rose by nearly 7% to $197 million. Excluding the AIN-acquisition and currency translation effects of slightly more than 7% and 2%, respectively, organic sales declined by 2%, primarily due to the sudden drop in production in Korea which had a 4 percentage point negative effect on sales in the region. However, production of low-end vehicles for the local markets in Asia continued to be strong. This resulted in continued strong performance for Autoliv’s seatbelt sales with a 22% organic sales increase to $118 million. Sales were driven by new business for Chrysler’s Sebring; Ford’s Mondeo; Honda’s CRV;  Hyundai’s i10; Nissan’s Qashqai and Teana; Renault’s Koleos/QM5; and Volkswagen’s Lavida.


Earnings for the Three-Month Period Ended September 30, 2008
Gross profit amounted to $261 million compared to $302 million in the third quarter 2007 and gross margin to 16.9% compared to 19.4%. This year’s quarter has been charged with $4 million for an asset impairment recognized as part of the action program as announced in July. In addition to the impact from lower sales, gross profit was negatively impacted by $31 million in higher costs for raw materials, freight and utility costs. Currency transaction effects had a positive effect of $9 million.
 
Operating income amounted to $58 million compared to $110 million in the same quarter 2007 and operating margin to 3.8% compared to 7.1%. Operating income and margins were affected by the lower gross profit as well as by higher severance and restructuring costs of $26 million. Currency effects caused reported selling, general and administrative expense (S,G&A) to increase. However, adjusted for currency effects, the underlying S,G&A expense has started to decline. In addition, net expense for R,D&E declined by $12 million primarily as a result of higher engineering in­come.
 
Income before taxes amounted to $47 million compared to $95 million in the third quarter 2007. This $48 million decline was due to lower operating income of $52 million, partially offset by a $4 million favorable effect in Other financial items resulting from currency transaction effects.
 
Net income amounted to $31 million compared to $63 million in the third quarter 2007. The effective tax rate declined to 28% from 31%.
 
Earnings per share was $0.44 compared to $0.81 for the same quarter 2007. Lower pre-tax income had 34 cents negative impact and higher severance and restructuring costs were negative by 26 cents, while currency effects had a positive effect of 18 cents, the stock repurchase program of 3 cents and lower effective tax rate of 2 cent. The average number of shares outstanding decreased by 8% to 71.5 million.
 
Return on capital employed was 7% and return on equity 5%. Severance and restructuring costs reduced return on capital employed by 3.6 percentage units and return on equity by 3.9 percentage units.
 

NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 COMPARED WITH NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2007


Market overview
During the nine-month period January - September 2008, global light vehicle production grew by 2%, whereas production in the Triad declined by slightly more than one percent.
 
In Europe, light vehicle production increased by 4%, due to a 19% increase in Eastern Europe. In Western Europe light vehicle production declined by 2%.
 
In North America, light vehicle production decreased by 13%. GM, Ford and Chrysler cut back their production by 19%, and Asian and European vehicle manufacturers reduced their production in North America by 3%.
 
In Japan, light vehicle production increased by 5% in the nine-month period.
 
In the Rest of the World (RoW) light vehicle production rose by 10%.

Consolidated Sales
The Company has substantial operations outside the United States and currently, approximately 80% of the sales are denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. This makes the Company and its performance in regions outside the United States sensitive to changes in the U.S dollar exchange rates. The measure “Organic sales” presents the increase or decrease in our overall U.S. dollar net sales on a comparative basis, allowing separate discussion of the impacts of acquisitions/divestments and exchange rate fluctuations. The tabular reconciliation below presents the change in “Organic sales” reconciled to the change in the total net sales as can be derived from our unaudited financial statements.

   
Reconciliation of the change in “Organic sales” to GAAP financial measure
 
   
Components of net sales increase (decrease)
First nine months, 2008
(Dollars in millions)
 
   
Europe
   
North America
   
Japan
   
RoW
   
Total
 
   
%
    $        %     $        %     $        %     $        %       $  
Organic sales
change
    (4.4)       (117.3)       (11.5)       (150.2)       14.3       63.6       5.5       30.2       (3.5)       (173.7)  
Effect of
exchange rates
    12.8       342.4       0.6       8.7       12.7       56.7       3.6       19.9       8.6       427.7  
Impact of
acquisitions/
divestments
    -       -       -       -       -       -       7.5       41.4       0.8       41.4  
                                                                               
Reported net
sales change
    8.4       225.1       (10.9)       (141.5)       27.0       120.3       16.6       91.5       5.9       295.4  

 

For the year’s first nine months, sales increased by 6% to $5,280 million due to currency translation effects of 9% and the AIN-acquisition that added nearly 1%. An organic sales decrease of less than 4% was due to lower light vehicle production in North America and Western Europe. The sales outcome also reflects upcoming model change-overs for the Renault Mégane, the Volkswagen Golf and other important vehicle models for Autoliv.

 
Sales by Product
Sales of airbag products increased by 4% to $3,346 million. Excluding currency effects of 8%, organic sales declined by 4% mainly due to the North American market.
 
Sales of seatbelt products increased by 10% to $1,934 million including 10% from currency effects and 2% from the AIN-acquisition. The 2% organic sales decline is  primarily due to lower light vehicle production in Autoliv’s most important markets.


Sales by Region
Sales from Autoliv’s European companies increased by 8% to $2,910 million due to currency effects of less than 13%. The organic sales decline of 4% was due to weak West European light vehicle production and an overall negative vehicle model mix in European light vehicle production.
 
Sales from Autoliv’s North American companies decreased by 11% to $1,162 million. Organic sales declined by 12% virtually in line with light vehicle production, while the stronger Mexican peso had a slightly positive impact. Organic growth in seatbelt sales continued even in the current tough market environment.
 
Sales from Autoliv companies in Japan jumped by 27% to $566 million due to organic growth and currency effects of slightly more than 14% and 13%, respectively. Organic growth was nearly three times stronger than Japanese light vehicle production. This was mainly due to increased sales of Inflatable Curtains to such vehicles as Toyota’s Alphard, Land Cruiser Prado and Vitz.
 
Sales from Autoliv companies in the RoW rose by 17% to $641 million including 4% from currency effects and nearly 8% from the AIN-acquisition. Organic growth of slightly more than 5% was driven by strong seatbelt sales, primarily in China and Brazil and especially with Chery, FAW, Ford, Haima, Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, Peugeot, Suzuki, and Volkswagen.


Earnings for the Nine-Month Period Ended September 30, 2008
Gross profit was virtually unchanged at $982 million compared to the same period in 2007, but gross margin decreased to 18.6% from 19.7% primarily due to higher raw material prices and other direct cost.
 
Operating income amounted to $334 million compared to $338 million for the same period 2007 and operating margin to 6.3% compared to 6.8%. Last year’s period was affected by a $30 million increase in legal reserves. So far this year, total severance and restructuring cost of $40 million has been $27 million higher than for the same period 2007.
 
Income before taxes was $295 million compared to $297 million during the same period 2007. The cost for Other financial items was reduced by $7 million thanks to lower negative effects from loans in foreign currencies. This favorable impact was partially offset by a $4 million higher interest expense, resulting from a higher average net debt.
 
Net income amounted to $203 million compared to $194 million for the same period 2007. The effective tax rate was 29% compared to 33% for the nine-month period 2007.
 
Earnings per share amounted to $2.80 compared to $2.45 for the same period 2007. Earnings per share was favorably impacted by 27 cents from currencies, last years accrual for a legal reserve by 26 cents, 17 cents from the stock repurchase program and 16 cents from a lower effective tax rate. The increased severance and restructuring was negative by 28 cents and the lower pre-tax income had a 23 cent negative effect. The average number of shares outstanding decreased by 8% to 72.6 million.


LIQUIDITY AND SOURCES OF CAPITAL

Cash flow for the third quarter continued to be strong despite the market headwinds. Operating cash flow during the quarter amounted to $102 million and to $657 million during the last twelve months. During the quarter, cash flow was favorably impacted by a $116 million reduction in accounts receivables from customers.

Operations generated $426 million in cash and $176 million before financing compared to $549 million and $245 mil­lion during the first nine months 2007.

Due to acquisitions for $43 million, cash flow before financing was negative by $11 million for the third quarter. Capital expenditures, net of $71 million were $15 million less than depreciation and amortization during the third quarter. During the first nine months Capital expendi­tures, net amounted to $202 million and depreciation and amortization to $257 million compared to $228 million and $236 million, respectively, last year.

The Company uses the non-GAAP measure “Operating working capital” as defined in the table below in its communication with investors and for management review of the development of the working capital cash generation from operations. The reconciling items used to derive this measure are by contrast managed as part of the Company’s overall debt management.

Reconciliation of “Operating working capital” to GAAP financial measure
(Dollars in millions)
 
                         
   
Sept 30,
2008
   
June 30,
2008
   
December 31, 2007
   
Sept 30,
2007
 
                         
Total current assets
    $2,249.6       $2,350.6       $2,095.2       $2,183.4  
Total current liabilities
    (1,794.1)       (2,165.9)       (1,663.3)       (1,716.5)  
Working capital
    455.5       184.7       431.9       466.9  
Cash and cash equivalents
    (213.6)       (127.1)       (153.8)       (160.1)  
Short-term debt
    377.3       583.6       311.9       330.4  
Derivative asset and liability, current
    (1.0)       (4.2)       (4.4)       (1.5)  
Dividends payable
    29.0       32.8       28.8       29.8  
Operating working capital
    $647.2       $669.8       $614.4       $665.5  

 
Autoliv has a target that working capital should not exceed 10% of annual sales. During the quarter, this ratio declined to 9.2% from 9.5% and from 10.1% a year ago.
 
In relation to days sales outstanding, receivables decreased to 74 days from 75 days a year ago but increased seasonally during the quarter from 68. Days inventory on-hand increased to 44 from 36 days a year ago and from 34 days during the quarter.
 
The Company uses the non-GAAP measure “Net debt” as defined in the table below in its communication with investors regarding its capital structure and as the relevant metric monitoring its overall debt management. The reconciling items used to derive this measure are managed as part of overall debt management. This non-GAAP measure is a supplemental measure to the GAAP measure of total debt.

Reconciliation of “Net debt” to GAAP financial measure
(Dollars in millions)
 
                         
   
Sept 30,
2008
   
June 30,
2008
   
December 31, 2007
   
Sept 30,
2007
 
                         
Short-term debt
    $377.3       $583.6       $311.9       $330.4  
Long-term debt
    1,121.7       752.4       1,040.3       975.7  
Total debt
    1,499.0       1,336.0       1,352.2       1,306.1  
Cash and cash equivalents
    (213.6)       (127.1)       (153.8)       (160.1)  
Debt-related derivatives
    (6.4)       (14.1)       (16.5)       (7.9)  
Net debt
    $1,279.0       $1,194.8       $1,181.9       $1,138.1  


 
Thanks to the strong cash flow, net debt increased by only $84 million to $1,279 million, during the third quarter, despite cash outlays of $137 million for stock buybacks, dividends and acquisitions. Gross interest-bearing debt increased by $163 million to $1,499 million. Cash and cash equivalents of $214 million was $87 million more than at the end of June due to a withdrawal of $150 million from the Company’s revolving credit facility.
 
Net debt increased by $97 million since the beginning of the year due to cash outlays of $308 million for stock buybacks, dividends and acquisitions. Gross interest-bearing debt increased by $147 million to $1,499 million. Net debt to capitalization increased to 36% from 33% at the beginning of the year.

The non-GAAP measure net debt is also used in the non-GAAP measure “Leverage ratio” which together with the “Interest coverage ratio” constitute the Company’s debt limitation policy. This policy provides guidance to credit and equity investors regarding the extent to which the Company would be prepared to leverage its operations. These measures corresponded, until December 2004, to the financial covenants in the Company’s Revolving Credit Facility. Although these covenants no longer exist, the Company believes investors remain interested in these measures. For details on leverage ratio and interest coverage ratio, refer to the tables below that reconcile these two non-GAAP measures to GAAP measures.

Autoliv’s policy is to maintain a leverage ratio significantly below 3.0 times and an interest-coverage ratio significantly above 2.75 times. On September 30, these ratios were 1.6 and 9.1, respectively. Leverage ratio is measured as net debt (including pension liabilities) in relation to EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization) and interest coverage as Operating income (excluding amortization of intangibles) in relation to interest expense, net. The net debt to capitalization ratio rose to 36% from 33% at the end of previous quarter.

Reconciliation of “Leverage ratio” to GAAP financial measure
 (Dollars in millions)
 
             
   
Sept 30, 2008
   
Sept 30, 2007
 
             
Net debt 2)
    $1,279.0       $1,138.1  
Pension liabilities
    52.3       96.6  
Net debt per the policy
    $1,331.3       $1,234.7  
                 
Income before income taxes 3)
    $444.5       $421.1  
Plus: Interest expense, net 1) 3)
    57.1       49.7  
Depreciation and amortization of
intangibles (incl. impairment write-
offs) 3)
      341.0         316.1  
                 
EBITDA per the Policy 3)
    $842.6       $786.9  
                 
Net debt to EBITDA ratio
    1.6       1.6  
 
 
1) Interest expense, net, is interest expense less interest income.
 
2) Net debt is short- and long-term debt and debt-related derivatives less cash and cash equivalents.
 
3) Latest 12-months.
 
 
 
Reconciliation of “Interest coverage ratio” to GAAP financial measure
 (Dollars in millions)
 
       
   
Sept 30, 2008
   
Sept 30, 2007
 
Operating income 2)
    $497.9       $474.1  
                 
Amortization of intangibles (incl.
impairment write-offs) 2)
    23.5       18.3  
Operating profit per the Policy2)
    $521.4       $492.4  
                 
Interest expense, net 1) 2)
    57.1       49.7  
                 
Interest coverage ratio
    9.1       9.9  
                 
 
 
1) Interest expense, net, is interest expense less interest income.
 
2) Latest 12-months.

 
During the third quarter, equity decreased by $151 million to $2,265 million or to $32.22 per share due to share repurchases for $65 million, dividends for $29 million and $90 million from currency effects. Equity was favorably impacted by $31 million from net income and by $2 million from the exercise of stock options.
 
Equity decreased by $84 million due to stock repurchases of $174 million, dividends of $86 million and currency effects of $35 million since the beginning of the year. Equity was favorably impacted by $203 mil­lion from net income and $8 million from the exercise of stock options. Return on equity amounted to 12% and return on capital employed to 13%.
 

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

The Company does not have any off-balance sheet arrangements that have, or are reasonably likely to have, a material current or future effect on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
 

Headcount
 
During the quarter, total headcount (permanent and temporary employees) was reduced by more than 1,700 to 41,300. In addition, the Company identified close to 900 positions that will become redundant as part of the action program. Of the reductions that took effect already during the third quarter, 1,100 were in high-cost countries and 600 were permanent employees. At the end of the quarter, 55% of total headcount were in low-cost countries compared to 49% a year ago and 13% of total headcount were temporary employees.

 
2008 Action Program
 
To mitigate the effects of both accelerating production cuts by customers and accelerating costs for raw materials, the Company in July announced an action program. Already during the third quarter, actions taken in response to the market development are estimated to have generated cost savings of approximately $5 million. The full improvement effect of the 2008 Action Program, which should be realized in 2010, is expected to total approximately $120 million. The cost for the program could total $75 million and potentially affect up to 3,000 jobs, but the ultimate number of jobs will be determined by the market conditions and the customers’ production plans.

Outlook
 
The latest forecasts from J D Powers and CSM indicate a decline of 7% in global light vehicle production for the fourth quarter. This includes production cuts in North America and Western Europe, where Autoliv derives 70% of revenues, of 19% and 13%, respectively. However, all these forecasts could have already become outdated given the current financial turmoil. Currency exchange rates have also become more volatile lately.
 
Based on these uncertain assumptions, the indication for the fourth quarter is an organic sales decline in the order of 12% which is better than the forecasted average change in vehicle production in North America and Western Europe. Acquisitions and currency effects are expected to have a favorable impact on consolidated sales of close to 1% each, based on exchange rates as of September 30, 2008.
 
For the full year, these assumptions imply that organic sales would decline by 6% while consolidated sales would increase by only 2% compared to previous guidance of an organic sales decline of 1% and a consolidated sales in­crease of 8%. As a consequence, the previous guidance of an operating margin in the range of 7.0% to 7.5% for the full year has to be revised. The current uncertain assump­tions indicate an operating margin before severance and restructuring costs of around 6.5% for the full year and of approximately 5% for the fourth quarter. Consequently, Autoliv expects to be able to continue to offset a significant portion of the negative effects caused by the latest round of production cuts by customers thanks to the Company’s action program and other internal measures.
 
The effective tax rate is projected to amount to 28%.



OTHER RECENT EVENTS

Launches in the 3rd quarter 2008
 
BMW’s new 7 series; Frontal airbags, knee driver airbag, seatbelts with pretensioners, steering wheel, safety electronics and night vision system
Chevrolet’s Traverse; Passenger airbag, inflatable curtains, seatbelts with pretensioners and safety electronics
Ford’s New F-Series; Side airbags, inflatable curtains and safety electronics
Great Wall’s Florid; Frontal airbags, steering wheel, seatbelts with pretensioners and safety electronics
Renault’s new Mégane; Frontal airbags, steering wheel, anti-sliding airbag, side airbags, inflatable curtains and seatbelts with pretensioners
Volvo’s new XC60; Passenger airbag, side airbags, inflatable curtains, anti-whiplash system, seatbelts with pretensioners and telematics
Volkswagen’s new Golf; Passenger airbag, Inflatable Curtains and seatbelts with pretensioners

Other Significant Events
· During the quarter, Autoliv repurchased 1,667,000 shares for $65 million at an average cost of $39.08 per share and during the first nine months 3,709,460 shares for $173 million at an average cost of $46.77 per share. Under the existing authorization, an additional 3.2 million shares can be repurchased.

· At the end of the quarter, Autoliv acquired the automotive radar sensor business of Tyco Electronics Ltd for $42 million. This small – but strategic – acquisition is not expected to materially impact Autoliv's earnings short-term.
 
· In October, Autoliv secured close to the equivalent of $200 million in additional long-term financing. The financing is with­out financial covenants. The credit is intended to be used primarily to repay commercial papers totaling $150 million that becomes due in November. In October, the Company also withdrew an additional $500 million from its revolving credit facility (RCF). This withdrawal is for six months. Even if Autoliv does not have any direct need for additional cash, we believe it is prudent to have cash on hand in the current financial turmoil. After this withdrawal, Autoliv has close to half a billion dollars in availability remaining under its RCF and expects to continue to generate a positive cash flow.
 

Dividend and Next Report
The Company has declared a dividend for the fourth quarter of 41 cents per share which will be paid on December 4 to shareholders of record as of November 6, 2008. The ex-date, when the stock trades without the right to the dividend is November 4, 2008.

Autoliv intends to publish the quarterly report for the fourth quarter on Thursday January 29, 2009.


CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS AND COMMITMENTS
As of September 30, 2008, the Company’s future contractual obligations, have not changed significantly from the amounts reported in the 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-K/A filed with the SEC on February 25, 2008.

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

As of September 30, 2008, there have been no material changes to the information related to quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk that was provided in the Company’s 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-K/A filed with the SEC on February 25, 2008.

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

(a)           Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

An evaluation has been carried out, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company's management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act")) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on such evaluation, the Company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of the end of such period, the Company's disclosure controls and procedures are effective in recording, processing, summarizing and reporting, on a timely basis, information required to be disclosed by the Company in reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act.

(b)           Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There have not been any changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the fiscal quarter to which this report relates that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.


ITEM 4T. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Not applicable.


PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Various claims, lawsuits and proceedings are pending or threatened against the Company or its subsidiaries, covering a range of matters that arise in the ordinary course of its business activities with respect to commercial, product liability and other matters.

Litigation is subject to many uncertainties, and the outcome of any litigation cannot be assured. After discussions with counsel, it is the opinion of management that the litigation to which the Company is currently a party will not have a material adverse impact on the consolidated financial position of Autoliv. The Company may, however, experience material product liability or other losses in the future.

The Company believes that it is currently adequately insured against product and other liability risks at levels sufficient to cover potential claims. The level of coverage may, however, be insufficient in the future or unavailable on the market.



ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS

As of September 30, 2008, there has been no material changes in the information that was provided in the Company’s 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-K/A filed with the SEC on February 25, 2008. However, the following should be noted.

Impact of Global Financial Crisis

Autoliv’s two commercial paper programs (one in Sweden and one in the United States) have been negatively affected in terms of price, available volume and available maturity as a result of the current credit market conditions. Through utilization of its revolving credit facility (“RCF”) and successful procurement of alternative funding (see Note 1.13 above), Autoliv has so far successfully procured the funding necessary for its operations.  However; further deterioration in the credit markets, such as large bank failures or significant strains on liquidity in the Swedish or US banking systems and especially in combination with significant customer bankruptcies (should any such occur) would increase the risk that Autoliv could not raise the capital necessary to fund its operations.  Where Autoliv continues to be successful in raising such capital, the costs thereof may increase significantly.

As a result of this precautionary utilization of its RCF, Autoliv is currently in an investment position. So far, excess funds resulting from primarily the precautionary utilization of its RCF have to a large extent been invested in primarily United States and Swedish government paper to mitigate the risks of depositing significant sums of cash with banking institutions. The availability of such government paper can not be assured in the future and Autoliv may therefore, or for other reasons, be exposed to a greater counterparty risk than historically. Should any entity to which Autoliv is exposed to fail to honor its obligations, Autoliv could incur material losses as a result thereof.


Changes in Global Auto Industry

The auto industry is experiencing deteriorating sales and margins in many markets.  As a result, there is an increased risk for bankruptcies, or similar, among our customer base.  Should such occur, we may incur losses on our receivables.  Should this happen to several manufacturers, the losses could be material.


ITEM 2.  UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Stock repurchase program

During the third quarter of 2008, Autoliv repurchased 1,667,000 of its shares for $65 million at an average price of $39.02. Since the repurchasing program was adopted in 2000, Autoliv has bought back 34 million shares at an average price of $42.86 per share. Under the existing authorizations, another 3 million shares may be repurchased. Below is a summary of Autoliv's common stock repurchases by month for the quarter ended September 30, 2008:
 
   
Stockholm Stock Exchange
("SSE")
   
New York Stock Exchange
("NYSE")
   
SSE + NYSE
Total Number of Shares
             
Date
 
Total
Number of Shares
Purchased
   
Average
Price in
USD
Paid per
Share
   
Total
Number of Shares
Purchased
   
Average
Price in
USD
Paid per
Share
   
Purchased as Part of Publicly
Announced
Plans or Programs
   
Average
Price in
USD
Paid per
hare
   
Maximum
Number of
Shares
That May Yet Be Purchased
Under the
Plans or Programs
 
                                           
July
1- 31
                                         
                                           
Total
    7,700       38.0284       15,200       37.6934       22,900       37.8060       4,832,145  
                                                         
August
1-31
                                                       
                                                         
Total
    249,000       39.7248       784,900       39.4991       1,033,900       39.5535       3,798,245  
                                                         
September
1-30
                                                       
                                                         
Total
    171,600       38.0536       438,600       38.2207       610,200       38.1737       3,188,045  
                                                         
Total
    428,300       39.0248       1,238,700       39.0243       1,667,000       39.0244       3,188,045  
                                                         

1)
Announcement of share buyback program with authorization to buy back 10 million shares made on May 9, 2000.
2)
Announcement of expansion of existing share buyback program from 10 million shares to 20 million shares made on April 30, 2003.
3)
Announcement of expansion of existing share buyback program from 20 million shares to 30 million shares made on December 15, 2005.
4)
Announcement of expansion of existing share buyback program from 30 million shares to 37.5 million shares made on November 8, 2007.
5)
The share buyback program does not have an expiration date.

 


ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

Not applicable.


ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

Not applicable.


ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION

Not applicable.

ITEM 6.  EXHIBITS

Exhibit No.
Description
   
3.1
Autoliv's Restated Certificate of Incorporation incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-23813, filing date June 13, 1997) (the "Registration Statement")
   
3.2
Autoliv's Restated By-Laws incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Registration Statement.
   
4.1
Rights Agreement, dated as of December 4, 1997, between Autoliv and First Chicago Trust Company of New York incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3 to Autoliv's Registration Statement on Form 8-A (File No. 1-12933, filing date December 4, 1997)
   
10.1
Facilities Agreement, dated November 13, 2000, among Autoliv, Inc. and the lenders named therein, as amended by amendment dated November 5, 2001, as further amended by amendment dated December 12, 2001, and as further amended by amendment dated June 6, 2002, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 on Form 10-K/A (File No. 1-12933, filing date July 2, 2002)
   
10.2
Autoliv, Inc. 1997 Stock Incentive Plan, incorporated herein by reference to Autoliv's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-26299, filing date May 1, 1997)
   
10.3
Amendment No. 1 to Autoliv, Inc. Stock Incentive Plan, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 on Form 10-K/A (File No. 1-12933, filing date July 2, 2002)
   
10.4
Form of Employment Agreement between Autoliv, Inc. and its executive officers, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 on Form 10-K/A (File No. 1-12933, filing date July 2, 2002)
   
10.5
Form of Supplementary Agreement to the Employment Agreement between Autoliv and certain of its executive officers, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.5 on Form 10-K/A (File No. 1-12933, filing date July 2, 2002)
   
10.6
Employment Agreement, dated November 11, 1998, between Autoliv, Inc. and Lars Westerberg, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.6 on Form 10-K/A (File No. 1-12933, filing date July 2, 2002)
   
10.7
Form of Severance Agreement between Autoliv and its executive officers, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.7 on Form 10-K/A (File No. 1-12933, filing date July 2, 2002)
   
10.8
Pension Agreement, dated November 26, 1999, between Autoliv AB and Lars Westerberg, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.8 on Form 10-K/A (File No. 1-12933, filing date July 2, 2002)
   
10.9
Form of Amendment to Employment Agreement – notice, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.9 on Form 10-K (File No. 1-12933, filing date March 14, 2003)
   
10.10
Form of Amendment to Employment Agreement – pension, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.10 on Form 10-K (File No. 1-12933, filing date March 14, 2003)
   
10.11
Form of Agreement - additional pension, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.11 on Form 10-K (File No. 1-12933, filing date March 14, 2003)
   
10.12
Amendment No.2 to the Autoliv, Inc. 1997 Stock Incentive Plan, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.12 on Form 10-K (File No. 1-12933, filing date March 11, 2004)
   
10.13
Employment Agreement, dated March 31, 2007, between Autoliv, Inc. and Jan Carlson, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.13 on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-12933, filing date October 25, 2007)

10.14
Retirement Benefits Agreement, dated August 14, 2007, between Autoliv AB and Jan Carlson, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.14 on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-12933, filing date October 25, 2007)
   
10.15* 
Settlement Agreement, dated August 26, 2008, between Autoliv France, SNC and Autoliv, Inc. and Mr. Benoît Marsaud. 
   
10.16* 
Terms and conditions for Autoliv, Inc.’s issue of SEK 150 million Floating Rate Bonds due 2010, dated October 17, 2008. 
   
10.17* 
Terms and conditions for Autoliv, Inc.’s issue of SEK 300 million Floating Rate Bonds due 2011, dated October 17, 2008. 
   
10.18* 
Facility Agreement, dated October 16, 2008, between Autoliv, Inc. and Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken for SEK 1 billion facility. 
   
11
Information concerning the calculation of Autoliv’s earnings per share is included in Note 1 of the Consolidated Notes to Financial Statements contained in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K/A (File No. 1-12933, filing date February 25, 2008) and is incorporated herein by reference.

31.1 *
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer of Autoliv, Inc. pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
   
31.2 *
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer of Autoliv, Inc. pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
   
32.1*
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer of Autoliv, Inc. pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
32.2*
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer of Autoliv, Inc. pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

* Filed herewith.




SIGNATURE

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

Date: October 22, 2008

AUTOLIV, INC.
(Registrant)



By:
/s/ Marika Fredriksson
   
 
Marika Fredriksson
 
Chief Financial Officer
   
   
 
(Duly Authorized Officer and Principal Financial Officer)