UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

 

FORM 8-K

 

 

 

CURRENT REPORT

 

PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF

THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

Date of report (Date of earliest event reported): February 20, 2018

 

 

 

TOWER INTERNATIONAL, INC.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

 

 

 

Delaware 001-34903 27-3679414
(State or Other (Commission (IRS Employer
Jurisdiction of File Number) Identification No.)
Incorporation)    

 

17672 Laurel Park Drive North, Suite 400E, Livonia, Michigan 48152
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

 

Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (248) 675-6000

 

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions (see General Instruction A.2. below):

 

¨ Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)
¨ Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)
¨ Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))
¨ Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§240.12b-2 of this chapter).

 

Emerging growth company

 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.

  

 

 

 

 

Item 1.01 Entry into a Material Agreement

 

Equipment Lease

 

On November 23, 2016 our subsidiaries, Tower Automotive Holdings USA, LLC and Tower Automotive Operations USA I, LLC (each such entity and its successors and permitted assigns are a Co-Lessee and collectively the "Lessee") entered into Master Lease Agreement No. 100521 (the “Master Lease Agreement”) by and among Lessee and MB Equipment Finance, LLC (each such entity and its successors and permitted assigns are a Co-Lessor and collectively the "Lessor") pursuant to which Lessor agreed to acquire and lease to Lessee, and Lessee has agreed to lease from Lessor, certain items of equipment from time to time.

 

On February 20, 2018, pursuant to the terms of the Master Lease Agreement and related documents, Lessee and Lessor (together with certain other participating equipment financers (the “Participants”)) agreed to enter into an equipment leasing transaction and entered into an interim funding agreement (the “Interim Funding Agreement”). Under the Interim Funding Agreement, it is anticipated that from February 20, 2018 until on or before September 30, 2019 (the “Ramp-Up Period”), Lessor and/or Participants shall purchase from time to time equipment having a value not to exceed $92.6 million in the aggregate (the “Purchased Equipment”). All Purchased Equipment shall be delivered to Lessee. During the Ramp-Up Period, Lessee shall be required to pay to Lessor and/or the Participants interest on the amount of each invoice paid for the Purchased Equipment from the date on which such invoice was paid by Lessor and/or Participants until the end of the Ramp-Up Period, at a rate equal to one month LIBOR plus 3%. If Lessee defaults under the Master Lease Agreement, the Interim Funding Agreement or certain of the related documents, Lessor may require that Lessee repurchase the Purchased Equipment. At the end of the Ramp-Up Period, Lessee, Lessor and the Participants shall enter into a six year lease at the then prevailing market terms pursuant to the terms of the Master Lease Agreement.

 

Previously, under the Master Lease Agreement, Lessee has entered into other equipment leasing transactions for equipment having a present value of approximately $57 million and bearing an aggregate weighted average fixed interest rate of 5.3% per annum.

 

The description of the Master Lease Agreement and Interim Funding Agreement are qualified in their entirety by reference to the full text of the Master Lease Agreement and Interim Funding Agreement, which are attached hereto as Exhibit 10.1 and Exhibit 10.2, respectively, to this Current Report on Form 8-K and incorporated by reference herein.

  

Item 2.03 Creation of a Direct Financial Obligation or an Obligation under an Off-Balance Sheet Arrangement of a Registrant

 

 

The information set forth in Item 1.01 of this Current Report on Form 8-K is incorporated herein by reference.

 

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Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits

 

(d)       Exhibits

 

Exhibit
No. 

 
   
10.1

Master Lease Agreement No. 100521 dated November 23, 2016 by and among Tower Automotive Holdings USA, LLC, Tower Automotive Operations USA I, LLC and MB Equipment Finance, LLC  

   
10.2 Interim Funding Agreement, dated as of February 20, 2018, by and among Tower Automotive Holdings USA, LLC, Tower Automotive Operations USA I, LLC, MB Equipment Finance, LLC and the parties referred to therein as Participants

   

 

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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 hereunto duly authorized.

 

  TOWER INTERNATIONAL, INC.
     
  By: /s/ Jeffrey L. Kersten
    Name: Jeffrey L. Kersten
    Title:  Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

 

 

Dated: February 23, 2018

 

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EXHIBIT INDEX

 

 

Exhibit
No. 

 
   
10.1

Master Lease Agreement No. 100521 dated November 23, 2016 by and among Tower Automotive Holdings USA, LLC and Tower Automotive Operations USA I, LLC and MB Equipment Finance, LLC 

   
10.2 Interim  Funding Agreement, dated as of February 20, 2018, by and among Tower Automotive Holdings USA, LLC, Tower Automotive Operations USA I, LLC, MB Equipment Finance, LLC and the parties referred to therein as Participants

 

 

 

  - 5 -  

Exhibit 10.1

 

MB EQUIPMENT FINANCE, LLC

 

  MASTER LEASE AGREEMENT NO. 100521

  

THIS MASTER LEASE AGREEMENT (this " Lease ") is made as of November 23, 2016, between MB EQUIPMENT FINANCE, LLC, its successors and permitted assigns (" Lessor "), and TOWER AUTOMOTIVE OPERATIONS USA I, LLC and TOWER AUTOMOTIVE HOLDINGS USA, LLC, (each such entity and its successors and permitted assigns are a Co-Lessee and collectively the " Lessee ").

 

Lessee desires to lease from Lessor the equipment and other property (the " Equipment ") described in each Equipment Schedule executed pursuant to this Lease (each, a " Schedule ") incorporating by reference the terms and conditions of this Lease (the term “ Lease ” shall also include any Riders to this Lease entered into with respect to such Schedule). Certain definitions and construction of certain of the terms used in this Lease are provided in Section 18 hereof.

 

For good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties to this Lease agree as follows:

 

1.      AGREEMENT TO LEASE; TERM . This Lease is effective as of the date specified above. By entering into a Schedule, Lessor leases the Equipment described therein to Lessee, and Lessee leases such Equipment from Lessor, in each case, subject to the terms and conditions in this Lease and such Schedule and all of the other documents and agreements executed in connection herewith (collectively, the “ Lease Documents ”). Each Schedule, incorporating the terms and conditions of this Lease, will constitute a separate instrument of lease. The term of lease with respect to each item of Equipment leased under a Schedule shall commence on the date of execution of such Schedule and continue for the term provided in that Schedule.

 

2.        RENT . Lessee shall pay Lessor (a) the rental installments (“ Basic Rent ”) as and when specified in each Schedule, without demand, and (b) all of the other amounts payable in accordance with this Lease, such Schedule and/or any of the other Lease Documents (“ Other Payments ”, and together with the Basic Rent, collectively, the " Rent "). Upon Lessee’s execution thereof, the related Schedule shall constitute a non-cancelable net lease, and Lessee's obligation to pay Rent, and otherwise to perform its obligations under or with respect to such Schedule and all of the other Lease Documents, are and shall be absolute and unconditional and shall not be affected by any circumstances whatsoever, including any right of setoff, counterclaim, recoupment, deduction, defense or other right which Lessee may have against Lessor, the manufacturer or vendor of the Equipment (the " Suppliers "), or anyone else, for any reason whatsoever (each, an “ Abatement ”). Lessee agrees that all Rent shall be paid in accordance with Lessor’s or Assignee’s written direction. Time is of the essence. If any Rent is not paid within five (5) days of the due date, Lessee shall pay a late charge equal to five (5) percent of the amount in arrears.

 

3.        REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES AND AGREEMENTS OF LESSEE . Lessee represents, warrants and agrees that, as of the effective date of this Lease and of each Schedule: (a) Lessee has the form of business organization indicated, and is and will remain duly organized and existing in good standing under the laws of the state specified, under Lessee’s signature and is duly qualified to do business wherever necessary to perform its obligations under the Lease Documents, including each jurisdiction in which the Equipment is or will be located. Lessee’s legal name is as shown in the preamble of this Lease; and Lessee’s Federal Employer Identification Number is set forth under Lessee’s signature. (b) The Lease Documents (1) have been duly authorized by all necessary action consistent with Lessee’s form of organization, (2) do not require the approval of, or giving notice to, any governmental authority, (3) do not contravene or constitute a default under any applicable law, Lessee’s organizational documents, or any agreement, indenture, or other instrument to which Lessee is a party or by which it may be bound, and (4) constitute legal, valid and binding obligations of Lessee enforceable against Lessee, in accordance with the terms thereof. (c) There are no pending actions or proceedings to which Lessee is a party, and there are no other pending or threatened actions or proceedings of which Lessee has knowledge, before any court, arbitrator or administrative agency, which, either individually or in the aggregate, would have a Material Adverse Effect. As used herein, " Material Adverse Effect " shall mean (i) a materially adverse effect on the business, condition (financial or otherwise), operations, performance or properties of Lessee, or on Lessor’s rights and remedies under this Lease, or (ii) a material impairment of the ability of Lessee to perform its obligations under or remain in compliance with such Schedule or any of the other Lease Documents. Further, Lessee is not in default under any financial or other material agreement that, either individually, or in the aggregate, would have a Material Adverse Effect. (d) All of the Equipment covered by such Schedule is located solely in the jurisdiction(s) specified in such Schedule. (e) Under the applicable laws of each such jurisdiction, such Equipment consists (and shall continue to consist) solely of personal property and not fixtures. Such Equipment is removable from and is not essential to the premises at which it is located. (f) The financial statements of Lessee (copies of which have been furnished to Lessor) have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles consistently applied (" GAAP "), and fairly present Lessee's financial condition and the results of its operations as of the date of and for the period covered by such statements, and since the date of such statements there has been no material adverse change in such conditions or operations. (g) With respect to any Collateral, Lessee has good title to, rights in, and/or power to transfer all of the same. (h) The Supplier is not an affiliate of Lessee. (i) The Supply Contract (as such term is hereinafter defined) represents an arms’ length transaction and the purchase price for the Equipment specified therein is the amount obtainable in an arms’ length transaction between a willing and informed buyer and a willing and informed seller under no compulsion to sell.

 

 

 

  

4.        FURTHER ASSURANCES AND OTHER COVENANTS . Lessee agrees as follows: (a) if Tower International, Inc. or its permitted successors and assigns (collectively, the “Parent” ) is no longer subject to the reporting requirements of, or no longer has a class of equity securities registered under, the Securities Act of 1933 or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Lessee will furnish Lessor with (1) Lessee's balance sheet, statement of income and statement of retained earnings, prepared in accordance with GAAP, certified by a recognized firm of certified public accountants, within ninety (90) days of the close of each fiscal year of Lessee, (2) Lessee’s quarterly financial report certified by the chief financial officer of Lessee, within sixty (60) days of the close of each fiscal quarter of Lessee, and (3) all of Lessee’s Forms 10-K and 10-Q, if any, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“ SEC ”) as and when filed (by furnishing these SEC forms, or making them publicly available in electronic form, in each case, within the time periods set forth in clauses (1) and (2), Lessee shall be deemed to have satisfied the requirements of clauses (1), (2) and (3)). (b) Lessee shall obtain and deliver to Lessor and/or promptly execute or otherwise authenticate any documents, filings, waivers (including any landlord and mortgagee waivers), releases and other records, and will take such further action as Lessor may reasonably request in furtherance of Lessor’s rights under any of the Lease Documents. Lessee will deliver to Lessor any additional information reasonably requested by Lessor relating to the Equipment and/or the general financial condition of Lessee. Lessee irrevocably authorizes Lessor to file UCC financing statements (“ UCCs “), and other filings with respect to the Equipment or any Collateral. Without Lessor’s prior written consent, Lessee agrees not to file any information statements or termination statements or partial releases with respect to any UCCs filed by Lessor pursuant to this Lease. (c) Lessee shall provide written notice to Lessor: (1) ten (10) business days prior to any change in Lessee’s name or jurisdiction or form of organization; (2) promptly upon the occurrence of any Event of Default or event which, with the lapse of time or the giving of notice, or both, would become an Event of Default (a " Default "); and (3) promptly upon Lessee becoming aware of any alleged violation of applicable law relating to the Equipment or this Lease. (d) Lessee has been advised by Lessor that the USA Patriot Act establishes minimum standards of account information to be collected and maintained by Lessor, and that to help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, Federal law requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify and record information that identifies each person who opens an account; and specifically, this means that when Lessee executes this Lease, Lessor may ask for Lessee’s name and address, the date of birth of the officers executing this Lease, and other information that will allow Lessor to identify Lessee; and that Lessor may also ask to see the driver’s license or other identifying documents of the officers of Lessee executing this Lease. (e) Lessee is and will remain in full compliance with all applicable laws including, without limitation, (i) ensuring that no person who owns a controlling interest in or otherwise controls Lessee is or shall be (A) listed on the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Person List maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (“ OFAC ”), Department of the Treasury, and/or any other similar lists maintained by OFAC pursuant to any authorizing statute, Executive Order or regulation, or (B) a person designated under Sections 1(b), (c) or (d) of Executive Order No. 13224 (September 23, 2001), any related enabling legislation or any other similar Executive Orders, and (ii) compliance with all applicable Bank Secrecy Act (“ BSA ”) laws, regulations and government guidance on BSA compliance and on the prevention and detection of money laundering violations.

 

5.        CONDITIONS PRECEDENT . Lessor's agreement to purchase and lease any Equipment under a Schedule, is conditioned upon Lessor's determination that all of the following have been satisfied: (a) Lessor having received the following, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Lessor: (1) evidence as to due compliance with the insurance provisions of Section 11; (2) UCCs, real property waivers and all other filings required by Lessor; (3) a certificate of an appropriate officer of Lessee certifying: (A) resolutions duly authorizing the transactions contemplated in the applicable Lease Documents, and (B) the incumbency and signature of the officers of Lessee authorized to execute such documents; (4) the only manually executed original of the Schedule, and counterpart originals of all other Lease Documents; (5) all purchase documents pertaining to the Equipment (collectively, the " Supply Contract "); (6) if applicable, the Master Lease Guaranty (the “ Guaranty ”), in form and substance satisfactory to Lessor, duly executed by the guarantor specified therein (if more than one, collectively, the “ Guarantor ”); (7) if applicable, a certificate of Guarantor’s secretary certifying: (A) resolutions duly authorizing the undertaking to guarantee the payment and performance of the obligations of Lessee under this Lease, and (B) the incumbency and signature of the officers of Guarantor authorized to execute the Guaranty; and (9) such other documents, agreements, instruments, certificates, opinions, and assurances, as Lessor reasonably may require. (b) All representations and warranties provided by Lessee in favor of Lessor in any of the Lease Documents shall be true and correct in all material respects on the effective date of the related Schedule (Lessee's execution and delivery of the Schedule shall constitute Lessee’s acknowledgment of the same). (c) There shall be no Default or Event of Default under the Schedule or any other Lease Documents. The Equipment shall have been delivered to and accepted by Lessee, as evidenced by the Schedule, and shall be in the condition and repair required hereby; and on the effective date of such Schedule Lessor shall have received good title to the Equipment described therein, free and clear of any claims, liens, attachments, rights of others and legal processes (" Liens ").

 

6.        ACCEPTANCE UNDER LEASE. Upon delivery, Lessee shall inspect and, if conforming to the condition required by the applicable Supply Contract, accept the Equipment and execute and deliver to Lessor a Schedule describing such Equipment. The Schedule will evidence Lessee's unconditional and irrevocable acceptance under the Schedule of the Equipment described therein. However, if Lessee fails to accept delivery of any item of the Equipment, or accepts such Equipment but fails to satisfy any or all of the other conditions set forth in Section 5, Lessor shall have no obligation to purchase or lease such Equipment. In such event, Lessor’s rights shall include, among other things, the right to demand that Lessee (a) fully assume all obligations as purchaser of the Equipment, with the effect of causing Lessor to be released from any liability relating thereto, (b) immediately remit to Lessor an amount sufficient to reimburse it for all advance payments, costs, taxes or other charges paid or incurred with respect to the Equipment (including any of such amounts paid by Lessor to Supplier under the Supply Contract or as a reimbursement to Lessee), together with interest at the Default Rate accruing from the date or dates such amounts were paid by Lessor until indefeasibly repaid by Lessee in full, and (c) take all other actions necessary to accomplish such assumption.

 

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7.        USE AND MAINTENANCE . (a) Lessee shall (1) use the Equipment solely in the continental United States and in the conduct of its business, for the purpose for which the Equipment was designed, in a careful and proper manner, and shall not permanently discontinue use of the Equipment; (2) operate, maintain, service and repair the Equipment, and maintain all records and other materials relating thereto, (A) in accordance and consistent with (i) the Supplier’s recommendations and all maintenance and operating manuals or service agreements, whenever furnished or entered into, including any subsequent amendments or replacements thereof, issued by the Supplier or service provider, (ii) the requirements of all applicable insurance policies, (iii) the Supply Contract, so as to preserve all of Lessee's and Lessor's rights thereunder, including all rights to any warranties, indemnities or other rights or remedies, (iv) all applicable laws, and (v) the prudent practice of other similar companies in the same business as Lessee, but in any event, to no lesser standard than that employed by Lessee for comparable equipment owned or leased by it; and (B) without limiting the foregoing, so as to cause the Equipment to be in good repair and operating condition and in at least the same condition as when delivered to Lessee hereunder, except for ordinary wear and tear resulting despite Lessee's full compliance with the terms hereof; (3) provide written notice to Lessor not less than thirty (30) days after any change of the location of any Equipment (or the location of the principal garage of any Equipment, to the extent that such Equipment is mobile equipment) as specified in the Schedule; and (4) not attach or incorporate the Equipment to or in any other property in such a manner that the Equipment may be deemed to have become an accession to or a part of such other property. (b) Within a reasonable time, Lessee will replace any parts of the Equipment which become worn out, lost, destroyed, damaged beyond repair or otherwise unfit for use, by new or reconditioned replacement parts which are free and clear of all Liens and have a value, utility and remaining useful life at least equal to the parts replaced (assuming that they were in the condition required by this Lease). Any modification or addition to the Equipment that is required by this Lease shall be made by Lessee. Title to all such parts, modifications and additions to the Equipment immediately shall vest in Lessor, without any further action by Lessor or any other person, and they shall be deemed incorporated in the Equipment for all purposes of the related Schedule. Unless replaced in accordance with this Section, Lessee shall not remove any parts originally or from time to time attached to the Equipment, if such parts are essential to the operation of the Equipment, are required by any other provision of this Lease or cannot be detached from the Equipment without materially interfering with the operation of the Equipment or adversely affecting the value, utility and remaining useful life which the Equipment would have had without the addition of such parts. Except as permitted in this Section, Lessee shall not make any material alterations to the Equipment that diminishes its use or value. (c) Upon forty-eight (48) hours' notice, Lessee shall afford Lessor and/or its designated representatives access to the premises where the Equipment is located for the purpose of inspecting such Equipment and all applicable maintenance or other records relating thereto at any reasonable time during normal business hours; provided, however, if a Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and then be continuing, no notice of any inspection by Lessor shall be required. If any discrepancies are found as they pertain to the general condition of the Equipment, Lessor will communicate these discrepancies to Lessee in writing. Lessee shall then have thirty (30) days to rectify these discrepancies at its sole expense. Lessee shall pay all expenses of a re-inspection by Lessor’s appointed representative, if corrective measures were required.

 

8.        DISCLAIMER; QUIET ENJOYMENT. (a) THE EQUIPMENT IS LEASED HEREUNDER “AS IS, WHERE IS”. LESSOR SHALL NOT BE DEEMED TO HAVE MADE, AND HEREBY DISCLAIMS, ANY REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AS TO THE EQUIPMENT, INCLUDING ANY PART, OR ANY MATTER WHATSOEVER, INCLUDING, AS TO EACH ITEM OF EQUIPMENT, ITS DESIGN, CONDITION, MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE, TITLE, ABSENCE OF ANY PATENT, TRADEMARK OR COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT OR LATENT DEFECT (WHETHER OR NOT DISCOVERABLE BY LESSEE), COMPLIANCE OF SUCH ITEM WITH ANY APPLICABLE LAW, CONFORMITY OF SUCH ITEM TO THE PROVISIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS OF ANY PURCHASE DOCUMENT OR TO THE DESCRIPTION SET FORTH IN THE RELATED SCHEDULE OR ANY OF THE OTHER LEASE DOCUMENTS, OR ANY INTERFERENCE OR INFRINGEMENT (EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY PROVIDED IN SECTION 8(b)), OR ARISING FROM ANY COURSE OF DEALING OR USAGE OF TRADE, NOR SHALL LESSOR BE LIABLE, FOR ANY INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR FOR STRICT OR ABSOLUTE LIABILITY IN TORT; AND LESSEE HEREBY WAIVES ANY CLAIMS ARISING OUT OF ANY OF THE FOREGOING. Without limiting the foregoing, Lessor will not be responsible to Lessee or any other person with respect to, and Lessee agrees to bear sole responsibility for, any risk or other matter that is the subject of Lessor’s disclaimer; and Lessor's agreement to enter into this Lease and any Schedule is in reliance upon the freedom from and complete negation of liability or responsibility for the matters so waived or disclaimed herein or covered by the indemnity in this Lease. So long as no Event of Default has occurred and is then continuing, Lessee may exercise Lessor’s rights, if any, under any warranty with respect to the Equipment. Lessee’s exercise of such rights shall be at its sole risk, shall not result in any prejudice to Lessor, and may be exercised only during the term of the related Schedule. Lessee shall not attempt to enforce any such warranty by legal proceeding without Lessor's prior written approval. (b) Lessor warrants that during the term of each Schedule, so long as no Event of Default has occurred and is then continuing, Lessee's possession and use of the Equipment leased thereunder shall not be interfered with by Lessor or anyone rightfully claiming an interest through Lessor. The preceding warranty is in lieu of all other warranties by Lessor, whether written, oral or implied, with respect to this Lease or the Equipment. Any actual or purported breach of this warranty shall not give rise to any Abatement, but Lessee may bring a direct cause of action against Lessor for any actual damages directly resulting from any such breach.

 

9. FEES AND TAXES . Lessee agrees to: (a) (1) if permitted by law, file in Lessee’s own name or on Lessor’s behalf, directly with all appropriate taxing authorities all declarations, returns, inventories and other documentation with respect to any personal property taxes (or any other taxes in the nature of or imposed in lieu of property taxes) due or to become due with respect to the Equipment, and if not so permitted by law, to promptly notify Lessor and provide it with all information required in order for Lessor to timely file all such declarations, returns, inventories, or other documentation, and (2) pay on or before the date when due all such taxes assessed, billed or otherwise payable with respect to the Equipment directly to the appropriate taxing authorities; (b) (1) pay when due as requested by Lessor, and (2) defend and indemnify Lessor on a net after-tax basis against liability for all license and/or registration fees, assessments, and sales, use, property, excise, privilege, value added and other taxes or other charges or fees now or hereafter imposed by any governmental body or agency upon the Equipment or with respect to the manufacture, shipment, purchase, ownership, delivery, installation, leasing, operation, possession, use, return, or other disposition thereof or the Rent hereunder (other than taxes on or measured solely by the net income of Lessor (except as and to the extent indemnification for such taxes is expressly addressed in a Schedule)); and (c) indemnify Lessor against any penalties, charges, interest or costs imposed with respect to any items referred to in clauses (a) and (b) above (the items referred to in clauses (a), (b), and (c) above being referred to herein as “ Impositions ”). Any Impositions which are not paid when due and which are paid by Lessor shall, at Lessor's option, become immediately due from Lessee to Lessor.

 

10. INSURANCE . Upon acceptance under a Schedule, until the Equipment is returned to Lessor in accordance with this Lease, Lessee shall maintain all-risk insurance coverage with respect to the Equipment and, if applicable, comprehensive and collision coverage, insuring against, among other things: (a) any casualty to the Equipment (or any portion thereof), including loss or damage due to fire and the risks normally included in extended coverage, malicious mischief and vandalism, for not less than the full replacement value of the Equipment; and (b) any commercial liability arising in connection with the Equipment, including both bodily injury and property damage with a combined single limit per occurrence of not less than the amount specified in the Schedule; having a deductible reasonably satisfactory to Lessor. Lessee shall cause to be provided to Lessor, prior to the scheduled expiration or lapse of such insurance coverage, evidence satisfactory to Lessor of renewal or replacement coverage. The required insurance policies (including endorsements) shall (i) be in form and amount reasonably satisfactory to Lessor, and written by insurers of recognized reputation and responsibility satisfactory to Lessor (but such insurer shall carry a current rating by A.M. Best Company of at least "A" for a general policyholder and a financial rating of at least "VIII"), (ii) be endorsed to name Lessor as an additional insured (but without responsibility for premiums) and lender’s loss payee, (iii) provide that any amount payable under the required casualty coverage shall be paid directly to Lessor as sole loss payee, and (iv) provide for thirty (30) days’ written notice by such insurer of cancellation, material change, or non-renewal.

 

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11. LOSS AND DAMAGE . (a) At all times until the Equipment is returned to Lessor in accordance with this Lease, Lessee shall bear the risk of loss, theft, confiscation, taking, unavailability, damage or partial destruction of the Equipment and shall not be released from its obligations under any Schedule or other Lease Document in any such event. (b) Lessee shall provide prompt written notice to Lessor of any Total Loss or any material damage to the Equipment. Any such notice must be provided together with any damage reports provided to any governmental authority, the insurer or Supplier, and any documents pertaining to the repair of such damage, including copies of work orders, and all invoices for related charges. (c) Without limiting any other provision hereof, Lessee shall repair all damage to any item of Equipment from any and all causes, other than a Total Loss, so as to cause it to be in the condition and repair required by this Lease. (d) A “ Total Loss ” shall be deemed to have occurred to an item of Equipment upon: (1) the actual or constructive total loss of any item of the Equipment, (2) the loss, disappearance, theft or destruction of any item of the Equipment, or damage to any item of the Equipment that is uneconomical to repair or renders it unfit for normal use, or (3) the condemnation, confiscation, requisition, seizure, forfeiture or other taking of title to or use of any item of the Equipment or the imposition of any Lien thereon by any governmental authority. On the next rent payment date following a Total Loss (a “ Loss Payment Date ”), Lessee shall pay to Lessor the Basic Rent due on that date plus the Stipulated Loss Value of the item or items of the Equipment with respect to which the Total Loss has occurred (the “ Lost Equipment ”), together with any Other Payments due hereunder with respect to the Lost Equipment. Upon making such payment, (i) Lessee’s obligation to pay future Basic Rent shall terminate solely with respect to the items of Lost Equipment so paid for, but Lessee shall remain liable for, and pay as and when due, all Other Payments, and (ii) Lessor shall convey to Lessee or release all of Lessor’s right, title and interest in the Lost Equipment, " AS IS WHERE IS ", but subject to the requirements of any third party insurance carrier in order to settle an insurance claim. As used in this Lease, " Stipulated Loss Value " shall mean the product of the Total Invoice Cost of the Lost Equipment, times the percentage factor applicable to the Loss Payment Date, as set forth in the Schedule of Stipulated Loss Values incorporated in such Schedule. After the final rent payment date of the original term or any renewal term of a Schedule, the Stipulated Loss Value shall be determined as of the last rent payment date during the applicable term of such Schedule, and the applicable percentage factor shall be the last percentage factor set forth in the Schedule of Stipulated Loss Values incorporated in such Schedule. (e) Lessor shall be under no duty to Lessee to pursue any claim against any person in connection with a Total Loss or other loss or damage. (f) If Lessor receives a payment under an insurance policy required under this Lease in connection with any Total Loss or other loss of or damage to an item of Equipment, and such payment is both unconditional and indefeasible, then provided Lessee shall have complied with the applicable provisions of this Section, Lessor shall either (1) if received pursuant to a Total Loss, remit such proceeds to Lessee up to an amount equal to the amount paid by Lessee to Lessor as the Stipulated Loss Value, or credit such proceeds against any amounts owed by Lessee pursuant to Section 11(d), or (2) if received with respect to repairs made pursuant to Section 11(c), remit such proceeds to Lessee up to an amount equal to the amount of the costs of repair actually incurred by Lessee, as established to Lessor’s satisfaction.

 

12. REDELIVERY . (a) Unless Lessee has purchased the Equipment in accordance with a purchase option pursuant to the applicable Schedule, upon the expiration or earlier cancellation or termination of any Schedule, Lessee shall return the Equipment described on such Schedule to Lessor free and clear of all Liens whatsoever, to such place(s) within the continental United States as Lessor shall specify. Lessee shall provide, at its expense, transit insurance for the redelivery period in an amount equal to the replacement value of such Equipment and Lessor shall be named as the loss payee on all such policies of insurance. Lessee shall cause: (1) the Supplier’s representative or other qualified person acceptable to Lessor (the “ Designated Person ”) to de-install such Equipment in accordance with the Supplier’s specifications (as applicable) and pack such Equipment properly and in accordance with the Supplier’s recommendations (as applicable); and (2) such Equipment to be transported in a manner consistent with the Supplier’s recommendations and practices (as applicable). (b) Upon return, such Equipment shall be: (i) in the same condition as when delivered to Lessee under the related Schedule, ordinary wear and tear excepted; (ii) mechanically and structurally sound, capable of performing the functions for which such Equipment was originally designed, in accordance with the Supplier’s published and recommended specifications (as applicable); (iii) redelivered with all component parts in good operating condition (and all components must meet or exceed the Supplier’s minimum recommended specifications, unless otherwise agreed by Lessor in writing); (iv) redelivered with all software and documentation necessary for the operation of such Equipment for the performance of the functions for which such Equipment was originally designed (whether or not such software is embedded in or otherwise is a part of such Equipment); (v) cleaned and cosmetically acceptable, with all Lessee-installed markings removed and all rust, corrosion or other contamination having been removed or properly treated, and in such condition so that it may be installed and placed in service by a third party; and (vi) in compliance with additional return conditions (if any) included in the applicable Schedule. Upon delivery, such Equipment shall be in compliance with all applicable Federal, state and local laws, and health and safety guidelines. Lessee shall be responsible for the cost of all repairs, alterations, inspections, appraisals, storage charges, insurance costs, demonstration costs and other related costs necessary to cause such Equipment to be in full compliance with the terms of this Lease. (c) If requested by Lessor, Lessee shall also deliver all related records and other data to Lessor, including all records of maintenance, modifications, additions and major repairs, computerized maintenance history, and any maintenance and repair manuals (collectively, the “ Records ”). All manuals or other documents delivered to Lessor that are subject to periodic revision will be fully up-to-date and current to the latest revision standard of any particular manual or document. In the event any such Records are missing or incomplete, Lessor shall have the right to cause the same to be reconstructed at Lessee’s expense. (d) In addition to Lessor's other rights and remedies hereunder, if such Equipment and the related Records are not returned in a timely fashion, or if repairs are necessary to place any item of Equipment in the condition required in this Section, Lessee shall (i) continue to pay to Lessor per diem rent at the last prevailing lease rate under the applicable Schedule with respect to such item of Equipment, for the period of delay in redelivery, and/or for the period of time reasonably necessary to accomplish such repairs, and (ii) pay to Lessor an amount equal to the aggregate cost of any such repairs. Lessor's acceptance of such rent on account of such delay and/or repair does not constitute an extension or renewal of the term of the related Schedule or a waiver of Lessor's right to prompt return of such Equipment in proper condition. Such amount shall be payable upon the earlier of Lessor’s demand or the return of such Equipment in accordance with this Lease. (e) Without limiting any other terms or conditions of this Lease, the provisions of this Section are of the essence of each Schedule, and upon application to any court of equity having jurisdiction, Lessor shall be entitled to a decree against Lessee requiring Lessee’s specific performance of its agreements in this Section.

 

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13.        INDEMNITY . Lessee shall indemnify, defend and keep harmless Lessor and any Assignee, and their respective agents and employees (each, an " Indemnitee "), from and against any and all Claims (other than such as may directly and proximately result from the actual, but not imputed, gross negligence or willful misconduct of such Indemnitee), by paying, on a net after-tax basis, or otherwise discharging same, when and as such Claims shall become due. Lessee agrees that the indemnity provided for in this Section includes the agreement by Lessee to indemnify each Indemnitee from the consequences of its own simple negligence, whether that negligence is the sole or concurring cause of the Claims, and to further indemnify each such Indemnitee with respect to Claims for which such Indemnitee is strictly liable. Lessor shall give Lessee prompt notice of any Claim hereby indemnified against and Lessee shall be entitled to control the defense of and/or to settle any Claim, in each case, so long as (1) no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is then continuing, (2) Lessee confirms, in writing, its unconditional and irrevocable commitment to indemnify each Indemnitee with respect to such Claim, (3) Lessee is financially capable of satisfying its obligations under this Section, (4) Lessor approves the defense counsel selected by Lessee, and (5) there is no reasonable risk of criminal liability being imposed on Lessor or any of its directors, officers or employees as a result of such Claim. The term " Claims " shall mean all claims, allegations, harms, judgments, settlements, suits, actions, debts, obligations, damages (whether incidental, consequential or direct), demands (for compensation, indemnification, reimbursement or otherwise), losses, penalties, fines, liabilities (including strict liability), charges that Lessor has incurred or for which it is responsible, in the nature of interest, Liens, and costs (including attorneys' fees and disbursements and any other legal or non-legal expenses of investigation or defense of any Claim, whether or not such Claim is ultimately defeated or enforcing the rights, remedies or indemnities provided for hereunder, or otherwise available at law or equity to Lessor), of whatever kind or nature, contingent or otherwise, matured or unmatured, foreseeable or unforeseeable, by or against any person, arising on account of (A) any Lease Document, including the performance, breach (including any Default or Event of Default) or enforcement of any of the terms thereof, or (B) the Equipment, or any part or other contents thereof, any substance at any time contained therein or emitted therefrom, including any hazardous substances, or the premises at which the Equipment may be located from time to time, or (C) the ordering, acquisition, delivery, installation or rejection of the Equipment, the possession of any property to which it may be attached from time to time, maintenance, use, condition, ownership or operation of any item of Equipment, and by whomsoever owned, used, possessed or operated, during the term of any Schedule with respect to that item of Equipment, the existence of latent and other defects (whether or not discoverable by Lessor or Lessee) any claim in tort for negligence or strict liability, and any claim for patent, trademark or copyright infringement, or the loss, damage, destruction, theft, removal, return, surrender, sale or other disposition of the Equipment, or any item thereof, including, Claims involving or alleging environmental damage, or any criminal or terrorist act, or for whatever other reason whatsoever (excluding Claims resulting solely and directly from the gross negligence or willful misconduct of any Indemnitee). If any Claim is made against Lessee or an Indemnitee, the party receiving notice of such Claim shall promptly notify the other, but the failure of the party receiving notice to so notify the other shall not relieve Lessee of any obligation hereunder.

 

14. DEFAULT . A default shall be deemed to have occurred hereunder and under a Schedule upon the occurrence of any of the following (each, an " Event of Default "): (a) non-payment of Basic Rent on the applicable rent payment date; (b) non-payment of any Other Payment within five (5) days after it is due; (c) failure to maintain, use or operate the Equipment in compliance with applicable law and in accordance with Section 7 hereof; (d) breach by Lessee of its covenants pursuant to Section 4(e) hereof; (e) failure to obtain, maintain and comply with all of the insurance coverages required under this Lease; (f) any transfer or encumbrance, or the existence of any Lien, that is prohibited by this Lease; (g) a payment or other default by Lessee under any loan, lease, guaranty or other financial obligation to Lessor or its affiliates which results in a Material Adverse Effect; (h) a payment or other default by Lessee under any material loan, lease, guaranty or other material financial obligation to any third party which results in a Material Adverse Effect (such that any reference to Lessor shall refer to such third party and any reference to Lease, Schedule or the other Lease Documents shall refer to any documentation of such material loan, lease, guaranty or other material financial obligation, as applicable); (i) an inaccuracy in any representation or breach of warranty by Lessee (including any false or misleading representation or warranty) in any financial statement or Lease Document, including any omission of any substantial contingent or unliquidated liability or claim against Lessee; (j) the commencement of any bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership or similar proceeding by or against Lessee or any of its properties or business (unless, if involuntary, the proceeding is dismissed within ninety (90) days of the filing thereof) or the rejection of this Lease or any other Lease Document in any such proceeding; (k) the failure by Lessee generally to pay its debts as they become due or its admission in writing of its inability to pay the same; (l) Lessee shall (1) enter into any transaction of merger or consolidation, unless Lessee shall be the surviving entity (such actions being referred to as an " Event "), unless the surviving entity is organized and existing under the laws of the United States or any state, and prior to such Event: (A) such person executes and delivers to Lessor (x) an agreement satisfactory to Lessor, in its sole discretion, containing such person's effective assumption, and its agreement to pay, perform, comply with and otherwise be liable for, in a due and punctual manner, all of Lessee's obligations having previously arisen, or then or thereafter arising, under any and all of the Lease Documents, and (y) any and all other documents, agreements, instruments, certificates, opinions and filings requested by Lessor; and (B) Lessor is satisfied as to the creditworthiness of such person, and as to such person's conformance to the other standard criteria then used by Lessor when approving transactions similar to the transactions contemplated in this Lease; (2) cease to do business as a going concern, liquidate, or dissolve; or (3) sell, transfer, or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its assets or property; (m) if Lessee is privately held and effective control of Lessee's voting capital stock/membership interests/partnership interests, issued and outstanding from time to time, is not retained by the present holders or their affiliates (unless Lessee shall have provided thirty (30) days' prior written notice to Lessor of the proposed disposition and Lessor shall have consented thereto in writing); (n) if Lessee is a publicly held corporation and is no longer subject to the reporting requirements of, or no longer has a class of equity securities registered under, the Securities Act of 1933 or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, is delisted from the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) or there is a change in the ownership of Lessee’s capital stock such that any “person” or “group” (within the meaning of Rule 13d-5 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended), other than a current owner of Guarantor’s capital stock (including, without limitation, Guarantor) and common stock of Lessee purchased or owned by Guarantor, shall own 30% of either the aggregate ordinary voting power or the aggregate equity value represented by the issued and outstanding common stock of Lessee, unless Lessor is satisfied as to the creditworthiness of Lessee and as to Lessee's conformance to the other standard criteria then used by Lessor for such purpose immediately thereafter; (o) there occurs a default or repudiation under any guaranty executed in connection with this Lease; (p) failure to satisfy the requirements of any financial covenants set forth herein, or in any Schedule or in any rider hereto or thereto; or (q) breach by Lessee of any other covenant, condition or agreement (other than those in items (a)-(p)) under this Lease or any of the other Lease Documents that continues for thirty (30) days after Lessor’s written notice to Lessee (but such notice and cure period will not be applicable unless such breach is curable by practical means within such notice period); or (r) to the extent any of the Equipment is located at 43955 Plymouth Oaks Boulevard, Plymouth, MI 48170 or any other premises subject to the Lessee’s lease with Lexington Lion Plymouth L.P., its successors and assigns (the “Landlord” ), the cancellation, termination or expiration of Lessee’s lease with the Landlord; or (s) if Guarantor is a publicly held corporation and is no longer subject to the reporting requirements of, or no longer has a class of equity securities registered under, the Securities Act of 1933 or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, is delisted from the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), or there is a change in the ownership of Guarantor’s capital stock such that any “person” or “group” (within the meaning of Rule 13d-5 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) other than a current owner of Guarantor’s capital stock (including, without limitation, Guarantor) shall own thirty percent (30%) of either the aggregate ordinary voting power or the aggregate equity value represented by the issued and outstanding common stock of Guarantor, unless Lessor is satisfied as to the creditworthiness of Guarantor and as to Guarantor 's conformance to the other standard criteria then used by Lessor for such purpose immediately thereafter.

 

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The occurrence of an Event of Default with respect to any Schedule shall, at the sole discretion of Lessor, constitute an Event of Default with respect to any or all Schedules to which it is then a party. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth herein, Lessor may exercise all rights and remedies hereunder independently with respect to each Schedule.

 

15. REMEDIES . (a) If an Event of Default occurs and is continuing with respect to any Schedule, the Lessor thereunder may (in its sole discretion) exercise any one or more of the remedies specified in such Schedule with respect to such Schedule and any or all other Schedules to which such Lessor is then a party.

 

(b) A cancellation or termination of any Schedule shall occur only upon written notice by Lessor to Lessee. If an Event of Default occurs and is continuing with respect to any Schedule, Lessee shall be liable for all of the following (“ Enforcement Costs ”): (1) all unpaid Rent due before, during or after exercise of any of the foregoing remedies, and (2) all reasonable legal fees (including consultation, drafting notices or other documents, expert witness fees, sending notices or instituting, prosecuting or defending litigation or arbitration) and other enforcement costs and expenses incurred by reason of any Default or Event of Default or the exercise of Lessor's rights or remedies, including all expenses incurred in connection with the return or other recovery of any Equipment in accordance with the terms of this Lease or in placing such Equipment in the condition required hereby, or the sale, re-lease or other disposition (including but not limited to costs of transportation, possession, storage, insurance, taxes, lien removal, repair, refurbishing, advertising and brokers’ fees), and sales or use taxes incurred by Lessor in connection with any disposition of the Equipment after the occurrence of an Event of Default, and all other pre-judgment and post-judgment enforcement related actions taken by Lessor or any actions taken by Lessor in any bankruptcy case involving Lessee, the Equipment, or any other person. From and after the date on which an Event of Default occurs and is continuing, Lessee shall pay interest to Lessor with respect to all amounts due hereunder until such amounts are received by Lessor in good funds at a per annum interest rate that is the lesser of twelve (12%) percent or the maximum rate permitted by applicable law (the “ Default Rate ”). No right or remedy is exclusive and each may be used successively and cumulatively. Any failure to exercise the rights granted hereunder or under a Schedule upon any Default or Event of Default shall not constitute a waiver of any such right. No extension of time for payment or performance of any of Lessee’s obligations shall operate to release, discharge, modify, change or affect the original liability of Lessee for such obligations, either in whole or in part. In any action to repossess any Equipment or other Collateral, Lessee waives any bonds and any surety or security required by any applicable laws as an incident to such repossession. Notices of Lessor’s intention to accelerate, acceleration, nonpayment, presentment, protest, dishonor or any other notice whatsoever (other than as expressly set forth herein) are waived by Lessee. Any notice given by Lessor of any disposition of the Equipment or any Collateral or other intended action of Lessor which is given in accordance with this Lease at least ten (10) days prior to such action, shall constitute fair and reasonable notice of such action. The execution of a Schedule shall not constitute a waiver by Lessor of any pre-existing Default or Event of Default. With respect to any disposition of any Equipment or Collateral pursuant to this Lease, (i) Lessor shall have no obligation, subject to the requirements of commercial reasonableness, to clean-up or otherwise prepare the same for disposition, (ii) Lessor may comply with any applicable law in connection with any such disposition, and any actions taken in connection therewith shall not be deemed to have adversely affected the commercial reasonableness of any disposition thereof, (iii) Lessor may disclaim any title or other warranties in connection with any such disposition, and (iv) Lessee shall remain responsible for any deficiency remaining after Lessor’s exercise of its remedies and application of any funds or credits against Lessee’s obligations under any Schedule.

 

16. ASSIGNMENT . (a) LESSEE SHALL NOT ASSIGN, DELEGATE, TRANSFER OR ENCUMBER ANY OF ITS RIGHTS OR OBLIGATIONS HEREUNDER OR UNDER ANY SCHEDULE, OR ITS LEASEHOLD INTEREST OR ANY COLLATERAL, SUBLET THE EQUIPMENT OR OTHERWISE PERMIT THE EQUIPMENT TO BE OPERATED OR USED BY, OR TO COME INTO OR REMAIN IN THE POSSESSION OF, ANYONE BUT LESSEE. Without limiting the foregoing, (1) Lessee may not attempt to dispose of any of the Equipment, and (2) Lessee shall (A) maintain the Equipment free from all Liens, other than Permitted Liens, (B) notify Lessor immediately upon receipt of notice of any Lien affecting the Equipment, and (C) defend Lessor's title to the Equipment. A “ Permitted Lien ” shall mean any Lien for Impositions, Liens of mechanics, materialmen, or suppliers and similar Liens arising by operation of law, provided that any such Lien is incurred by Lessee in the ordinary course of business, for sums that are not yet delinquent or are being contested in good faith and with due diligence, by negotiations or by appropriate proceedings which suspend the collection thereof and, in Lessor's sole discretion, (i) do not involve any substantial danger of the sale, forfeiture or loss of the Equipment or any interest therein, and (ii) for the payment of which adequate assurances or security have been provided to Lessor. No disposition referred to in this Section shall relieve Lessee of its obligations, and Lessee shall remain primarily liable under each Schedule and all of the other Lease Documents. (b) Lessor may at any time with or without notice to Lessee grant a security interest in, sell, assign, delegate or otherwise transfer (an “ Assignment ”) all or any part of its interest in the Equipment, this Lease or any Schedule and any related Lease Documents or any Rent thereunder, or the right to enter into any Schedule, and Lessee shall perform all of its obligations thereunder, to the extent so transferred, for the benefit of the beneficiary of such Assignment which beneficiary shall be an Eligible Assignee (as defined below) (such beneficiary, including any successors and assigns, an “ Assignee ”). “ Eligible Assignee ” shall mean any affiliate or subsidiary of Lessor, as applicable, or any other regulated financial institution (or a subsidiary or affiliate of such a regulated financial institution) that is not a competitor of Lessee. Lessee agrees not to assert against any Assignee any Abatement (without limiting the provisions of Section 2) or Claim that Lessee may have against Lessor, and Assignee shall not be bound by, or otherwise required to perform any of Lessor’s obligations, unless expressly assumed by such Assignee. Lessor shall be relieved of any such assumed obligations (excluding such obligations of Lessor to purchase the Equipment from the respective vendor). If so directed in writing, Lessee shall pay all Rent and all other sums that become due under the assigned Schedule and other Lease Documents directly to the Assignee or any other party designated in writing by Lessor or such Assignee. Lessee acknowledges that Lessor’s right to enter into an Assignment is essential to Lessor and, accordingly, waives any restrictions under applicable law with respect to an Assignment and any related remedies. Upon the request of Lessor or any Assignee, Lessee also agrees (i) to promptly execute and deliver to Lessor or to such Assignee an acknowledgment of the Assignment in form and substance satisfactory to the requesting party, an insurance certificate and such other documents and assurances reasonably requested by Lessor or Assignee, and (ii) to comply with all other reasonable requirements of any such Assignee in connection with any such Assignment. Upon such Assignment and except as may otherwise be provided herein, all references in this Lease to “Lessor” shall include such Assignee. (c) Subject always to the foregoing, this Lease and each Schedule shall inure to the benefit of, and are binding upon, Lessee’s and Lessor’s respective successors and assigns.

 

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17.         MISCELLANEOUS . (a) This Lease, each Schedule, any Riders hereto or thereto and any commitment letter between the parties, constitute the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and thereof and shall not be amended or modified in any manner except by a document in writing executed by both parties. (b) Any provision of this Lease that is prohibited or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to such jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such prohibition or unenforceability without invalidating the remaining provisions hereof, and any such prohibition or unenforceability in any jurisdiction shall not invalidate or render unenforceable such provision in any other jurisdiction. (c) The representations, warranties and agreements of Lessee herein shall be deemed to be continuing and to survive the execution and delivery of this Lease, each Schedule and any other Lease Documents. With respect to each Schedule, the obligations of Lessee under Sections 8, 9, 11, 12 and 13 hereof, together with any of Lessee's obligations under the other provisions of this Lease (as incorporated therein) which have accrued but not been fully satisfied, performed or complied with prior to the expiration or earlier cancellation or termination of such Schedule, shall survive the expiration or earlier cancellation or termination thereof. (d) All of Lessee’s obligations hereunder and under any Schedule shall be performed at Lessee’s sole expense. Lessee shall reimburse Lessor promptly upon demand for all expenses incurred by Lessor in connection with (1) any action taken by Lessor at Lessee’s request, or in connection with any option, (2) the filing or recording of real property waivers and UCCs, (3) any Enforcement Costs not recovered pursuant to Section 16, (4) all inspections, and (5) all lien search reports (and copies of filings) requested by Lessor. If Lessee fails to perform any of its obligations with respect to a Schedule, Lessor shall have the right, but shall not be obligated, to effect such performance, and Lessee shall reimburse Lessor, upon demand, for all expenses incurred by Lessor in connection with such performance. Lessor's effecting such compliance shall not be a waiver of Lessee's default. (e) Lessee irrevocably appoints Lessor as Lessee's attorney-in-fact (which power shall be deemed coupled with an interest) to: (1) make minor corrections to manifest errors in factual data in any Schedule and/or any addenda, attachments, exhibits and/or riders to this Lease or any Schedule; and (2) execute, endorse and deliver any documents and checks or drafts relating to or received in payment for any loss or damage under the policies of insurance required by this Lease, but only to the extent that the same relates to the Equipment, or are required by titling agencies in order to reflect Lessor as the owner and/or lienholder with respect to certificates of title pertaining to motor vehicles (if any) comprising the Equipment. (f) LESSOR AND LESSEE HEREBY WAIVE TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY ACTION OR PROCEEDING TO WHICH LESSEE AND/OR LESSOR MAY BE PARTIES ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY WAY PERTAINING TO THIS LEASE. (g) All notices (excluding billings and communications in the ordinary course of business) hereunder shall be in writing, personally delivered, delivered by overnight courier service, sent by facsimile transmission (with confirmation of receipt), or sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, addressed to the other party at its respective address stated below the signature of such party or at such other address as such party shall from time to time designate in writing to the other party; and shall be effective from the date of receipt. (h) This Lease shall not be effective unless and until accepted by execution by an officer of Lessor at the address, in the State of Maryland, as set forth below the signature of Lessor. THIS LEASE AND ALL OF THE OTHER LEASE DOCUMENTS, AND THE RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF THE PARTIES HEREUNDER AND THEREUNDER, SHALL IN ALL RESPECTS BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE INTERNAL LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK (the " State ") (WITHOUT REGARD TO THE CONFLICT OF LAWS PRINCIPLES OF THE STATE), INCLUDING ALL MATTERS OF CONSTRUCTION, VALIDITY AND PERFORMANCE, REGARDLESS OF THE LOCATION OF THE EQUIPMENT. The parties agree that any action or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Lease may be commenced in any state or Federal court in the State, and agree that a summons and complaint commencing an action or proceeding in any such court shall be properly served and shall confer personal jurisdiction if served personally or by certified mail to it at the mailing address below Lessee’s signature, or as it may provide in writing from time to time, or as otherwise provided under the laws of the State. (i) This Lease and all of the other Lease Documents may be executed in counterparts. Photocopies, electronic or facsimile transmissions of signatures shall be deemed original signatures and shall be fully binding on the parties to the same extent as original signatures. The transfer or possession of the “Original” of this Lease shall be irrelevant to the full or collateral assignment of, or grant of security interest in, any Schedule; provided, however, no security interest in any Schedule may be created through the transfer, possession or control, as applicable, of any counterpart of such Schedule other than the original thereof, which shall be identified as the document or record (as applicable) marked "Original" and all other counterparts shall be marked "Duplicate". (j) If Lessor is required by the terms hereof to pay to or for the benefit of Lessee any amount received as a refund of an Imposition or as insurance proceeds, Lessor shall not be required to pay such amount, if any Default has occurred and is then continuing and not been cured or any Event of Default shall have occurred and is then continuing and not been waived by Lessor. In addition, if Lessor is required by the terms hereof to cooperate with Lessee in connection with certain matters, such cooperation shall not be required if a Default or Event of Default has then occurred and is continuing. (k) To the extent Lessor is required to give its consent or approval with respect to any matter, the reasonableness of Lessor's withholding of such consent shall be determined based on the then existing circumstances; provided, that Lessor's withholding of its consent shall be deemed reasonable for all purposes if (i) the taking of the action that is the subject of such request, might result (in Lessor's discretion), in (A) an impairment of Lessor's rights, title or interests hereunder or under any Schedule or other Lease Document, or to the Equipment, or (B) expose Lessor to any Claims or Impositions, or (ii) Lessee fails to provide promptly to Lessor any filings, certificates, opinions or indemnities required by Lessor as a condition to such consent.

 

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18. JOINT AND SEVERAL OBLIGATIONS . The obligations of Tower Automotive Operations USA I, LLC and Tower Automotive Holdings USA, LLC are joint and several. Each reference to the term "Lessee" shall be deemed to refer to each of Tower Automotive Operations USA I, LLC and Tower Automotive Holdings USA, LLC ; each representation and warranty made by Lessee shall be deemed to have been made by each such party; each covenant and undertaking on the part of Lessee shall be deemed individually applicable with respect to each such party; and each event constituting an Event of Default under this Lease shall be determined with respect to each such party. A separate action or actions may be brought and prosecuted against any such party whether an action is brought against any other party or whether any other party is joined in any such action or actions. Each such party waives any right to require Lessor to: (a) proceed against any other party; (b) proceed against or exhaust any security held from any other party; or (c) pursue any other remedy in Lessor's power whatsoever. Notices hereunder required to be provided to Lessee shall be effective if provided to any such party. Any consent on the part of Lessee hereunder shall be effective when provided by any such party and Lessor shall be entitled to rely upon any notice or consent given by any such party as being notice or consent given by Lessee hereunder.

 

In the event any obligation of Lessee under this Lease is deemed to be an agreement by any individual Lessee to answer for the debt or default of another individual Lessee (including each other) or as a hypothecation of property as security therefor, each Lessee represents and warrants that: (x) no representation has been made to it as to the creditworthiness of any other obligor, and (y) it has established adequate means of obtaining from each other obligor on a continuing basis, financial or other information pertaining to each other obligor's financial condition. Each Lessee expressly waives diligence, demand, presentment, protest and notice of every kind and nature whatsoever, consents to the taking by Lessor of any additional security for the obligations secured hereby, or the alteration or release in any manner of any security now or hereafter held in connection with any obligations now or hereafter secured by this Lease, and consents that Lessor and any obligor may deal with each other in connection with said obligations or otherwise, or alter any contracts now or hereafter existing between them, in any manner whatsoever, including without limitation the renewal, extension, acceleration, changes in time for payment, and increases or decreases in any rent, rate of interest or other amounts owing, all without in any way altering the liability of each Lessee, or affecting any security for such obligations. Should any default be made in the payment of any such obligations or in the terms or conditions of any security held, Lessor is hereby expressly given the right, at its option, to proceed in the enforcement of this Lease independently of any other remedy or security it may at any time hold in connection with such obligations secured and it shall not be necessary for Lessor to proceed upon or against and/or exhaust any other security or remedy before proceeding to enforce its rights against any Lessee. Each Lessee further waives any right of subrogation, reimbursement, exoneration, contribution, indemnification, setoff or other recourse in respect of sums paid to Lessor by any Lessee.

 

19.       DEFINITIONS AND RULES OF CONSTRUCTION . (a) The following terms when used in this Lease or in any of the Schedules have the following meanings: (1) “ affiliate ”: with respect to any given person, shall mean (i) each person that directly or indirectly owns or controls, whether beneficially or as a trustee, guardian or other fiduciary, five (5) percent or more of the voting stock, membership interest or similar equity interest having ordinary voting power in the election of directors or managers of such person, (ii) each person that controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with, such person, or (iii) each of such person’s officers, directors, members, joint venturers and partners. For the purposes of this definition, “control” of a person means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of its management or policies, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise; (2) " applicable law " or " law ": any law, rule, regulation, ordinance, order, code, common law, interpretation, judgment, directive, decree, treaty, injunction, writ, determination, award, permit or similar norm or decision of any governmental authority; (3) “AS IS, WHERE IS” : AS IS, WHERE IS , without warranty, express or implied, with respect to any matter whatsoever; (4) " business day ": any day, other than a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday for commercial banks under the laws of the state of the Lessor’s notice address; (5) “ Collateral ”: shall have the meaning given such term in the Schedule; (6) " governmental authority ": any federal, state, county, municipal, regional or other governmental authority, agency, board, body, instrumentality or court, in each case, whether domestic or foreign; (7) " person ": any individual, corporation, limited liability entity, partnership, joint venture, or other legal entity or a governmental authority, whether employed, hired, affiliated, owned, contracted with, or otherwise related or unrelated to Lessee or Lessor; and (8) " UCC " or " Uniform Commercial Code ": the Uniform Commercial Code as in effect in the State or in any other applicable jurisdiction; and any reference to an article (including Article 2A) or section thereof shall mean the corresponding article or section (however termed) of any such applicable version of the Uniform Commercial Code. (b) The following terms when used herein or in any of the Schedules shall be construed as follows: (1) " herein ," " hereof ," " hereunder ," etc.: in, of, under, etc. this Lease or such other Lease Document in which such term appears (and not merely in, of, under, etc. the section or provision where the reference occurs); (2) " including ": means including without limitation unless such term is followed by the words "and limited to," or similar words; and (3) " or ": at least one, but not necessarily only one, of the alternatives enumerated. Any defined term used in the singular preceded by "any" indicates any number of the members of the relevant class. Any Lease Document or other agreement or instrument referred to herein means such agreement or instrument as supplemented and amended from time to time. Any reference to Lessor or Lessee shall include their permitted successors and assigns. Any reference to an applicable law shall also mean such law as amended, superseded or replaced from time to time. (c) Any accounting term used in this Lease or the other Lease Documents shall have, unless otherwise specifically provided therein, the meaning customarily given such term in accordance with GAAP, and all financial computations thereunder shall be computed, unless otherwise specifically provided therein, in accordance with GAAP consistently applied; provided, that all financial covenants and calculations in the Lease Documents shall be made in accordance with GAAP as in effect on the date hereof unless Lessee and Lessor shall otherwise specifically agree in writing. That certain items or computations are explicitly modified by the phrase “in accordance with GAAP” shall in no way be construed to limit the foregoing.

 

 

  8  

 

  

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Master Lease Agreement to be duly executed, under seal, as of the day and year first above set forth.

 

MB EQUIPMENT FINANCE, LLC   TOWER AUTOMOTIVE OPERATIONS USA I, LLC
Lessor     Co-Lessee
         
         
By: /s/ Jeannie McManus   By: /s/ Dennis C. Pike
Name: Jeannie McManus   Name: Dennis C. Pike
Title: SVP   Title: Treasurer
         
  230 Schilling Circle
Suite 340
  Address: 17672 Laurel Park Drive N. Suite 400E
Livonia, MI 48152
  Hunt Valley, Maryland  21031     Attention: Treasurer
  Facsimile: 443-798-6599     Facsimile:  248-673-6801
         
      Form of Organization: Limited Liability Company
      Jurisdiction of Organization: Delaware
      Federal Employer Identification No.: 26-0440499
         
         
        TOWER AUTOMOTIVE HOLDINGS USA, LLC
       Co-Lessee
         
         
      By: /s/ Dennis C. Pike
      Name: Dennis C. Pike
      Title: Treasurer
         

 

      Address: 17672 Laurel Park Drive N. Suite 400E
          Livonia, MI 48152
        Attention: Treasurer
        Facsimile: 248-675-6801
         
      Form of Organization: Limited Liability Company
      Jurisdiction of Organization: Delaware
      Federal Employer Identification No.: 26-0459108

 

 

  9  

Exhibit 10.2

 

MB EQUIPMENT FINANCE, LLC

 

  

INTERIM FUNDING AGREEMENT

  

THIS INTERIM FUNDING AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”) is made as of the 20 th day of February, 2018, by and among SunTrust Equipment Finance & Leasing Corp. , its successors and permitted assigns (“ First Participant ”), Santander Bank, N.A. , its successors and permitted assigns (“ Second Participant ”), Signature Financial LLC , its successors and permitted assigns (“ Third Participant ”), Peapack Capital Corporation , its successors and permitted assigns (“ Fourth Participant ”), BMO HARRIS EQUIPMENT FINANCE COMPANY, its successors and permitted assigns (“ Fifth Participant ”, together with First Participant, Second Participant, Third Participant, and Fourth Participant, each a “ Participant ” and, collectively, the “ Participants ”), MB EQUIPMENT FINANCE, LLC, its successors and permitted assigns, for itself (“ Lessor ”) and as fiscal agent for itself and the Participants, and TOWER AUTOMOTIVE OPERATIONS USA I, LLC and TOWER AUTOMOTIVE HOLDINGS USA, LLC, its successors and permitted assigns (" Lessee "). " Vendor " shall mean Bosch, Fanuc and Kuka. “Bosch” shall mean Bosch Rexroth Corporation, its successors and permitted assigns. “Fanuc” shall mean Fanuc Robotics America Inc., its successors and permitted assigns. “Kuka” shall mean Kuka Systems Corporation, its successors and permitted assigns.

 

Lessor and Lessee have heretofore entered into Master Lease Agreement No. 100521 dated as of November 23, 2016 (the " Lease "), pursuant to which Lessor has agreed to acquire and lease to Lessee, and Lessee has agreed to lease from Lessor, certain items of equipment.

 

Lessor and Participants have entered into that Participation Agreement dated as of February 20 th , 2018 (the “ Participation Agreement ”) pursuant to which Lessor has sold to each Participant a certain percentage, as is specified for such Participant on Schedule A attached hereto, of Lessor’s interest in the Advances (as hereinafter defined), the Operative Documents (as defined in the Participation Agreement) and the Equipment (as hereinafter defined) (collectively, the “ Participation Interest ”), and Lessor has retained such interest as specified for Lessor on Schedule A attached hereto (the “ Retained Interest ”).

 

Lessee has heretofore entered into those certain purchase orders with Vendor (the " Purchase Orders "), related to the purchase of certain equipment (the “ Equipment ”) to be used in Lessee’s Ford assembly line located at 12350 South Avenue O, Chicago, IL 60633 (the “ Assembly Location ”).

 

The parties are desirous of effecting an assignment of the right, title and interest of Lessee to acquire the Equipment pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Orders, and of each Participant assuming a percentage of the responsibilities of Lessee equal to such Participant’s Participation Interest pursuant to the Purchase Orders, and Lessor assuming such percentage of the responsibilities of the Lessee equal to Lessor’s Retained Interest, to make all required payments of the purchase price with respect to such Equipment pursuant to the terms of such Purchase Orders. All other obligations of Lessee pursuant to the Purchase Orders shall be retained by Lessee. Any and all Advances made or paid by Lessor hereunder shall be made as fiscal agent for itself and the Participants.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the sum of Ten Dollars ($10.00) in hand paid, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties do hereby agree as follows:

 

1.       On the terms and conditions herein set forth, Lessee does hereby assign to each Participant a percentage equal to its respective Participation Interest of all right, title and interest of Lessee to acquire the Equipment pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Orders and further assigns a percentage of the responsibility of Lessee equal to such Participant’s respective Participation Interest pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Orders solely with respect to paying the purchase price set forth therein with respect to such Equipment; and each Participant does hereby accept such assignment and assumes such responsibilities. On the terms and conditions herein set forth, Lessee does hereby assign to Lessor a percentage equal to Lessor’s Retained Interest of all right, title and interest of Lessee to acquire the Equipment pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Orders and further assigns such percentage of the responsibility of Lessee equal to Lessor’s Retained Interest pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Orders solely with respect to paying the purchase price set forth therein with respect to such Equipment; and Lessor does hereby accept such assignment and assumes such responsibilities. In order to secure the prompt payment and performance of Lessee’s obligations under this Agreement, Lessee does hereby assign and grant to Lessor, as fiscal agent for itself and the Participants, a security interest in and lien on all of Lessee’s right, title and interest, if any, in the Equipment and the Purchase Orders, together with any and all proceeds thereof. Lessee irrevocably authorizes Lessor, as fiscal agent for itself and the Participants, to file UCC financing statements (“ UCCs ”), and other filings with respect to the Equipment or any other collateral granted to Lessor herein. Without Lessor’s prior written consent, Lessee agrees not to file any corrective or termination statements or partial releases with respect to any UCCs filed by Lessor pursuant to this Agreement.

 

 

 

  

Notwithstanding the foregoing, in accordance with the Participation Agreement, to the extent the foregoing assignment may not be divided among the Participants and Lessor pursuant to each Participant’s respective Participation Interest and Lessor’s Retained Interest as contemplated above, the Participants and Lessor agree to modify in writing the percentages specified on Schedule A attached hereto. If the Participants and Lessor fail to agree upon any such modification within ten (10) Business Days of receipt of Vendor’s invoice in accordance with Section 2(a) of this Agreement, Lessor shall make such modification of such percentages, in its reasonable discretion, and such modification by Lessor shall be binding on the Participants (provided, however, that in no event shall the Participant become obligated to fund Advances in the aggregate in excess of the amount of such Participant’s credit approval).

 

2.    (a) Pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Orders, Vendor shall periodically render to Lessor, as fiscal agent for itself and the Participants, its invoice in the name of Lessor, as fiscal agent for itself and the Participants, for the installments of the purchase price for the Equipment. Upon receipt thereof together with an Interim Funding Authorization (substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit No. 1; an “ Interim Funding Authorization ”) on or before September 30, 2019 (the “ Expiration Date ”), and provided that: (a) the aggregate amount of all advances then having been made by Lessor and the Participants hereunder, together with the additional requested advance, does not exceed Ninety-Two Million Six Hundred Thousand Dollars ($92,600,000.00); and (b) no Default or Event of Default (as such terms are defined in the Lease) has then occurred and is then continuing; then subject to Section 4 hereof, Lessor, as fiscal agent for itself and the Participants, shall pay Vendor the amount of said invoice. Each advance made by Lessor and the Participants hereunder to pay Vendor is referred to as an “ Advance ". Lessor’s records with respect to the Advances shall be conclusive and binding on the parties hereto (absent manifest error). The anticipated funding date and amount of each Advance are set forth on Exhibit No. 2.

 

(b) During the Interim Funding Period (as hereinafter defined), Lessee shall pay to Lessor, as fiscal agent for itself and the Participants, interest on each Advance from the date on which such Advance was made by Lessor and the Participants hereunder, at the Interest Rate (as hereinafter defined). Interest shall be paid on the last day of each month during the Interim Funding Period and on the last day of the Interim Funding Period, and shall be paid in arrears. Interest is calculated using actual number of days outstanding based on a 360 day year. As used herein, “ Interest Rate ” shall mean an amount computed as a percentage per annum equal to the sum of (1) Three Hundred (300) basis points, plus (2) the LIBOR Rate. As used herein, “ LIBOR Rate ” shall mean, with respect to each calendar month during the Interim Funding Period, an interest rate per annum, equal at all times during such calendar month to the rate per annum as determined on the basis of the average of the rates offered by a majority of the banks in the London interbank market for deposits in U.S. Dollars for one (1) month, to the extent the rates offered by these banks appear in the “Money Rates” column of The Wall Street Journal on the date on which the initial Advance is made by Lessor and the Participants hereunder with respect to the initial month during the Interim Funding Period, and on the Business Day next preceding the first day of the calendar month for each subsequent month during the Interim Funding Period. If the LIBOR Rate becomes unavailable during the term of this Agreement, Lessor, as fiscal agent for itself and the Participants, may designate a substitute index and margin from another recognized source or interbank quotation after notice to Lessee. Furthermore, if at any time LIBOR is less than zero, such rate shall be deemed to be zero for the purposes hereof. As used herein, “ Business Day ” shall mean any day other than a Saturday, a Sunday, and any day on which banking institutions located in the State of New York is authorized by law or other governmental action to close.

 

3.    The period from the date on which an Advance is made by Lessor and the Participants hereunder through the date of execution of one or more lease Schedules with respect to the Equipment (collectively, the “ Equipment Schedule ”) (in accordance with Section 3 hereof) is referred to as the “ Interim Funding Period ”. Lessee shall cause Vendor to complete delivery of the Equipment on or before the Expiration Date. Upon completion of delivery by Vendor of the Equipment on or before the Expiration Date, Lessee shall notify Lessor, as fiscal agent for itself and the Participants, in writing of such completion and Lessee shall promptly thereafter execute and deliver to each of Lessor and each Participant a separate validly executed Equipment Schedules with respect to the applicable Equipment (determined by reference to the Lessor’s or the Participant’s, as applicable, percentage of the Total Invoice Cost of the Equipment), each of which shall be substantially in accordance with the financing proposal and the form attached hereto as Exhibit No. 3. Until the Equipment is subject to Equipment Schedules in accordance with the preceding sentence, Lessee shall cause the Equipment to be insured for an amount not less than the amount of any and all Advances for such Equipment. Each such Schedule shall name MBEF or one of the Participants as the lessor thereunder and indicate as the Total Invoice Cost for the Equipment specified on such Equipment Schedule an amount not less than the aggregate amount funded by MBEF or the applicable Participant under this Agreement. Execution and delivery of an Equipment Schedule by Lessee shall evidence the following: 1) the Equipment subject to such Equipment Schedule is commercially operable; and 2) Lessee accepts the Equipment subject to all the terms and conditions of such Equipment Schedule. With respect to each Equipment Schedule, Section 14(r) of the Lease shall be amended and restated as follows:

 

  2  

 

  

“(r) to the extent any of the Equipment is located at 43955 Plymouth Oaks Boulevard, Plymouth, MI 48170 or any other premises subject to the Lessee’s lease with Lexington Lion Plymouth L.P., its successors and assigns (the “MI Landlord” ), any of the Equipment is located at 141 Southchase Boulevard, Fountain Inn, SC 29644 or any other premises subject to the Lessee’s lease with Stone Mountain Industrial Park, Inc., its successors and assigns (the “SC Landlord” ), or any of the Equipment is located at 12350 South Avenue O, Chicago, IL 60633, or any other premises subject to the Lessee’s lease with GIJV IL 4, LLC, c/o Greenfield Partners, LLC, its successors and assigns (the “ IL Landlord ”), the cancellation, termination or expiration of Lessee’s lease with the MI Landlord, SC Landlord, or IL Landlord; or”

 

4.       Notwithstanding the foregoing, if Lessee fails to comply with any of the terms hereof, or an Event of Default occurs and is continuing under the Lease, or an Event of Default (as such term is defined in the Guaranty (as defined in the Lease)) occurs and is continuing under the Guaranty, or Lessee fails to comply with Section 3 hereof on or before the Expiration Date, or Lessor, as fiscal agent for itself and the Participants, revokes its commitment to Lessee with respect to the Lease, Lessor, as fiscal agent for itself and the Participants, may reassign the interest of Lessee assigned hereunder and the parties shall take all actions reasonably required to return the parties to the position in which they would have been had this assignment never occurred; including, but not limited to, payment by Lessee to Lessor, as fiscal agent for itself and the Participants, on demand of all sums then advanced by Lessor, as fiscal agent for itself and the Participants, pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Orders or as otherwise required pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, together with any then unpaid portion of the interest on the amount of such Advances from the date made by Lessor and the Participants through and including the date of demand by Lessor, as fiscal agent for itself and the Participants, at the Interest Rate.

 

5.       PARTICIPANTS, LESSOR AND LESSEE HEREBY WAIVE TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY ACTION OR PROCEEDING TO WHICH PARTICIPANTS, LESSOR AND LESSEE MAY BE PARTIES ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY WAY PERTAINING TO THIS AGREEMENT. IT IS HEREBY AGREED AND UNDERSTOOD THAT THIS WAIVER CONSTITUTES A WAIVER OF TRIAL BY JURY OF ALL CLAIMS AGAINST PARTIES TO SUCH ACTIONS OR PROCEEDINGS, INCLUDING CLAIMS AGAINST PARTIES WHO ARE NOT PARTIES TO THIS AGREEMENT. THIS WAIVER IS KNOWINGLY, WILLINGLY AND VOLUNTARILY MADE BY THE PARTIES AND THE PARTIES HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGE THAT NO REPRESENTATIONS OF FACT OR OPINION HAVE BEEN MADE BY ANY INDIVIDUAL TO INDUCE THIS WAIVER OF TRIAL BY JURY OR IN ANY WAY TO MODIFY OR NULLIFY ITS EFFECT. LESSEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES THAT THEY HAVE BEEN REPRESENTED IN THE SIGNING OF THIS AGREEMENT AND IN THE MAKING OF THIS WAIVER BY INDEPENDENT LEGAL COUNSEL, SELECTED OF THEIR OWN FREE WILL, AND THAT THEY HAVE HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO DISCUSS THIS WAIVER WITH COUNSEL.

 

6.       This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and shall be binding upon the successors and assigns of the parties hereto. This Agreement may not be assigned by any party without the prior written consent of the other parties hereto, which shall not unreasonably be withheld; provided, however, each Participant shall not be required to obtain such prior consent in connection with any assignment by such Participant to an Eligible Assignee (as defined in the Lease) of all of such Participant's rights (but not such Participant’s obligations) hereunder with respect to those certain items of Equipment to be leased under a particular Equipment Schedule between such assignee, as lessor, and Lessee, as lessee, nor shall Lessor be required to obtain such prior consent in connection with any assignment by Lessor, for itself and not as fiscal agent for itself and the Participants, to an Eligible Assignee of all of Lessor’s rights (but not Lessor’s obligations) hereunder with respect to those certain items of Equipment to be leased under a particular Equipment Schedule between such assignee, as lessor, and Lessee, as lessee.

 

7. All notices and other communications hereunder shall be in writing, personally delivered, delivered by overnight courier service, or sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, addressed to the parties at the respective addresses set forth beneath the signature of such party, or to such other address as such party shall from time to time designate in writing to the other parties; and shall be effective from the date of receipt.

 

  3  

 

 

8. This Agreement and the Purchase Orders constitute the entire agreement among the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and shall not be amended or altered in any manner except by a document in writing executed by all of the parties. This Agreement shall not be effective unless and until accepted by execution by an officer of each Participant at the address as set forth below the signature of such Participant. THIS AGREEMENT AND THE RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF THE PARTIES HEREUNDER SHALL IN ALL RESPECTS BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE INTERNAL LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK (WITHOUT REGARD TO THE CONFLICT OF LAWS PRINCIPLES OF SUCH STATE), INCLUDING ALL MATTERS OF CONSTRUCTION, VALIDITY AND PERFORMANCE. The parties agree that any action or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement may be commenced in any state or Federal court in the State of New York, and agree that a summons and complaint commencing an action or proceeding in any such court shall be properly served and shall confer personal jurisdiction if served personally or by certified mail to it at its address herein below set forth, or as it may provide in writing from time to time, or as otherwise provided under the laws of the State of New York. This Agreement shall constitute a Lease Document (as defined in the Lease).

 

9. The obligations of Lessor and each Participant shall be several, and not joint; Lessor shall not be liable for the payment or performance of the obligations of any Participant hereunder, and no Participant shall be responsible for the payment or performance of the obligations of Lessor or any other Participant hereunder.

 

(REMAINDER OF THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK)

 

  4  

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Interim Funding Agreement to be duly executed, under seal, as of the day and year first above set forth.

 

TOWER AUTOMOTIVE HOLDINGS USA, LLC

Lessee

 

TOWER AUTOMOTIVE OPERATIONS USA I, LLC

Lessee

 
By: /s/ Jeffrey L. Kersten   By: /s/ Jeffrey L. Kersten
Name: Jeffrey L. Kersten   Name: Jeffrey L. Kersten
Title: Vice President   Title: VP & CFO
Address:

17672 Laurel Park Drive N Suite 400E

Livonia, MI 48152

  Address:

17672 Laurel Park Drive N Suite 400E

Livonia, MI 48152

 

SANTANDER BANK, N.A.

Participant

 

MB EQUIPMENT FINANCE, LLC

For Itself and as Fiscal Agent for Itself and the Participants

 
By: /s/ Robert L. Thomas   By: /s/ Jeannie McManus
Name: Robert L. Thomas   Name: Jeannie McManus
Title: Assistant Vice President   Title: Senior Vice President
Address:

200 Park Avenue, Suite 100

Florham Park, NJ 07932

  Address:

230 Schilling Circle, Suite 340

Hunt Valley, MD 21031

 

SIGNATURE FINANCIAL LLC

Participant

 

SUNTRUST EQUIPMENT FINANCE & LEASING CORP.

Participant

 
By: /s/ Joseph Fantauzzi   By: /s/ Steffanie Ragland
Name: Joseph Fantauzzi   Name: Steffanie Ragland
Title: EVP   Title: Vice President
Address:

225 Broadhollow Rod

Melville, NY 11747

  Address:

3333 Peachtree Road NE, 4 th Floor, E. Tower

Atlanta, GA 30326

 

 

BMO HARRIS EQUIPMENT FINANCE COMPANY

Participant

 

PEAPACK CAPITAL CORPORATION

Participant

 
By: /s/ Trish DiBennardi   By: /s/ Rich Johnston
Name: Trish DiBennardi   Name: Rich Johnston
Title: Vice President   Title: SVP
Address:

770 N. Water Street, 8 th Floor

Milwaukee, WI 53202

  Address:

500 Hills Drive

Bedminster, NJ 07921

 

  5  

 

  

Acknowledged and Agreed to Solely with Respect to the Last Sentence of Section 8 of this Interim Funding Agreement:

 

TOWER INTERNATIONAL, INC.

Guarantor

 

By: /s/ Jeffrey L. Kersten    
Name: Jeffrey L. Kersten    
Title EVP & CFO    

 

Form of Organization: Corporation
Jurisdiction of Organization: Delaware
Federal Employer Identification No.: 27-3679414

Headquarters Address:

17672 Laurel Park Drive N Suite 400E

Livonia, MI 48152

 

 

  6  

 

 

 

MB EQUIPMENT FINANCE, LLC

 

 

SCHEDULE A

PARTICIPATION AND RETAINED INTERESTS  

 

The Participant’s Participation Interest percentage:

 

 

 

Participant

Participation Interest

Percentage

SunTrust Equipment Finance & Leasing Corp. 17%
Santander Bank, N.A. 17%
Signature Financial LLC 16%
Peapack Capital Corporation 16%
BMO Harris Equipment Finance Company 17%

 

Lessor’s Retained Interest percentage: 17%

 

 

 

 

 

MB EQUIPMENT FINANCE, LLC

 

  

EXHIBIT NO. 1

INTERIM FUNDING AUTHORIZATION

 

Re: Interim Funding Agreement dated as of February ___, 2018 (the “ Agreement ”) executed pursuant to that certain Master Lease Agreement dated as of November 23, 2016, between TOWER AUTOMOTIVE OPERATIONS USA I, LLC and TOWER AUTOMOTIVE HOLDINGS USA, LLC (“ Lessee ”) and MB EQUIPMENT FINANCE, LLC (“ Lessor ”). 

 

Lessor is hereby irrevocably authorized and directed to remit the amount specified below, which constitutes an Advance under the Agreement, as follows:

 

 

 

Company Name Address or Wire Transfer Instructions Amount
    $

 

 

 

Dated:  February __, 2018 TOWER AUTOMOTIVE OPERATIONS USA I, LLC
  Lessee
     
  By:  
  Name:    
  Title:  
     
     
  TOWER AUTOMOTIVE HOLDINGS USA, LLC
  Lessee
     
  By:  
  Name:    
  Title:  

 

 

 

 

 

MB EQUIPMENT FINANCE, LLC

 

 

 

EXHIBIT NO. 2

Anticipated Funding Date and Amount of Each Advance

 

Bosch Rexroth Corporation

Purchase Order No. NA24527 in the amount of $465,564.00

Purchase Order No. NA24562 in the amount of $952,290.00

 

  Anticipated Funding Date of each Advance Amount of Advance
1. April 2018 $952,290.00
2. May 2018 $465,564.00

 

 

Fanuc Robotics America Inc.

Purchase Order No. NA24608 in the amount of $12,409,022.00

 

  Anticipated Funding Date of each Advance Amount of Advance
1. March 31, 2018 $2,477,991.00
2. April 15, 2018 $4,240,473.00
3. May 2018 $5,690,558.00

 

Kuka Systems Corporation

Purchase Order No. NA24745 Rev. 3 in the amount of $20,000,000.00

Purchase Order No. NA24746 Rev. 1in the amount of $36,365,916.00

 

  Anticipated Funding Date of each Advance Amount of Advance
1. February 21, 2018 $35,000,000.00
2. April 2018 $10,000,000.00
3. August 2018 $14,000,000.00
4. June 2019 $11,000,000.00

 

 

 

 

MB EQUIPMENT FINANCE, LLC

 

 

 

EXHIBIT NO. 3

FINANCING PROPOSAL

AND

FORM OF EQUIPMENT SCHEDULE

 

[Attached]

 

 

 

 

 

 

Financing Proposal

 

 

 

Transaction: The transaction is structured as a true lease (the “Lease”) in which the Lessor will be entitled to claim and retain all of the tax benefits associated with ownership of the Equipment.  The Lease will be a net lease in which the Lessee will be responsible for all expenses directly or indirectly relating to the Equipment and the transaction, including, but not limited to, equipment maintenance, insurance coverage, payment of personal property, sales and use  taxes, recording fees and other expenses.
   
Lessor: MB Equipment Finance, LLC (“MBEF”) and/or its assignee or nominee.
   

Co-Lessees:

 

Tower Automotive Operations USA I, LLC and Tower Automotive Holding USA, LLC

 

Guarantor:

 

Tower International, Inc.
Equipment: Robotic Automated Welding and Assembly Lines all assumed to be new and acceptable to Lessor.
   
Capitalized Equipment Cost: $92,600,000 approximately for Chicago Facility adjusted up or down based on final equipment vendor quotes.
   
Base Lease Term: Seventy-two (72) months from the Base Lease Term Commencement Date.
   
Base Lease Term Commencement Date: On the first or fifteenth day of the calendar month following the Delivery Date.
   
Delivery Date/Lease Schedules: All Equipment expected to be delivered, accepted and scheduled on or before September 30 , 2019.  Lessor shall group equipment into multiple lease schedules at closing.
   
Base Lease Rental Payment:

The Lessee will be required to make seventy-two ( 72) monthly rental payments, each payable in arrears , equal to 1.4408% of the Capitalized Equipment Cost (the “Payment Factor”).

 

The Payment Factor is based on the 35-month Interest Rate Swap (the “Index”) having a yield of 2.05% as set forth in Intercontinental Exchange’s  ICE swap rate USD Rates 1100 ( https://www.theice.com/marketdata/reports/180 ) as of November 30, 2017 (the “Index Rate”).

   
Rental Adjustment:

The Payment Factor shall be decreased or increased on or prior to the Base Lease Term Commencement Date for any change in the Index as follows: the Payment Factor, converted to an implicit rate shall be adjusted to reflect the difference between the Index Rate and the yield of the Index set forth in the ICE swap rate issued on or closest to the Base Lease Term Commencement Date as determined by Lessor, in its sole discretion. 

 

 

 

 

 

Progress Payment Funding: Lessor shall fund progress payments directly to the vendors for this project.   Direct vendor payments shall be confirmed in writing with Tower prior to funding.  Interest shall be calculated and collected monthly by Lessor.  Interest shall be calculated as 30-Day Libor plus 300 basis points.  The 30-Day Libor rate shall be as set forth in The Wall Street Journal.
   

Lessee Options at Lease Expiration: At the expiration of the Base Lease Term, Lessee will have the following options:

 

  1. Purchase not less than all the Equipment for its then fair market value;
  2. Renew the Lease for not less than all of the Equipment under lease at a term and rate to be negotiated by the parties based upon the then remaining useful life and fair market rental value of the Equipment at the time of renewal; or
  3. Return not less than all the Equipment to Lessor in accordance with the return conditions set forth in the lease documents.

 

Early Buyout Option:

 

With not less than 120 days prior written notice to Lessor, Lessee may exercise its option to purchase not less than all of the Equipment, on an ‘as is, where is’ basis, on the last day of the sixtieth (60 th ) month of the Base Lease Term for a purchase price equivalent to 29.18 % of the original Capitalized Equipment Cost (the ‘EBO Amount’) which Lessee shall agree represents a reasonable prediction of the Fair Market Value of the Equipment at the time the option is exercised.

 

Tax Benefits: Depreciation deductions arising out of the ownership of the Equipment will be for the account of Lessor and will qualify for the 30% Special Depreciation Allowance (“Bonus Depreciation”) in 2019, with the remainder recognized over a seven (7) year period using a 200% declining balance switching to straight-line (db/sl) formula and a half-year convention.  A Federal Corporate tax rate of 35% for 2019 and thereafter was assumed in calculating the Payment Factor.  In the event of a change of tax law or in the interpretation of tax law from the assumptions herein prior to funding, the Payment Factor will be adjusted to preserve the Lessor’s economics.  In accordance with the lease documents, the Lessee shall indemnify the Lessor against the loss of the Tax Benefits assumed to be available to the Lessor.

 

 

 

 

FORM OF EQUIPMENT SCHEDULE

 

 

LESSOR

 

 

EQUIPMENT SCHEDULE SERIES NO. _____

 

 

Executed pursuant to that certain Master Lease Agreement No. 100521 dated as of November 23, 2016 (the " Lease "; which is incorporated herein by reference). This Schedule, incorporating by reference the terms and conditions of the Lease, constitutes a separate instrument of lease. To the extent of any conflict or inconsistency between the terms of this Schedule and the Lease, the terms of this Schedule shall prevail.

 

TOTAL INVOICE COST: $__________________

 

 

 

Base Term: _____________ (____) months after _______, 2019 (the “ Base Lease Commencement Date ”)

 

Interim Term Rent: $________________ per day Base Term Rent: $________________ per month

paid in (advance/arrears), with the first payment

due on ___________________, ___________.

 

 

  

1.       EQUIPMENT. The Equipment leased hereunder shall be as set forth on the attached Schedule of Equipment.

 

2.       TERM. Upon and after the date of execution hereof, the Equipment shall be subject to the terms and conditions provided herein and in the Lease. A full term of lease with respect to said Equipment shall commence on the date hereof and shall extend for the number of months specified above after the Base Lease Commencement Date specified above (the “ Base Term ”).

 

3.       RENT.

 

(a)       During the period from the date hereof to the Base Lease Commencement Date (the " Interim Term "), the pro-rated daily rent for said Equipment shall be as specified above. This pro-rated payment shall be made on the last day of the month for each month during the Interim Term.

 

(b)       From and after the Base Lease Commencement Date, the monthly rent for said Equipment during the Base Term of this Lease shall be as specified above. Rent payments shall be made as specified above for each month during the Base Term of this Lease.

 

4.       LESSEE'S CONFIRMATION. Lessee hereby confirms and warrants to Lessor that the Equipment: (a) was duly delivered to Lessee at the location as specified on the attached Schedule of Equipment; (b) has been received, inspected and determined to be in compliance with all applicable specifications and that the Equipment is hereby accepted for all purposes of the Lease; and (c) is a part of the "Equipment" referred to in the Lease and is taken subject to all terms and conditions therein and herein provided. Lessee hereby represents and warrants to Lessor that, as of the date hereof, there is no Default or Event of Default under any Schedule or any other Lease Document (as such terms are defined in the Lease).

 

5.       COMMERCIAL LIABILITY INSURANCE. The amount of commercial liability insurance referenced in Section 10 of the Lease is $5,000,000.00.

 

 

 

 

 

6.        PERSONAL PROPERTY TAXES.

 

Please choose one of the options below by initialing where indicated.  Initial ONLY ONE choice of option:

 

OPTION 1        Lessee's Initials: _________

 

(Applicable in Jurisdictions Requiring Lessor to List Equipment):  Lessee agrees that it will not list any of such Equipment for property tax purposes or report any property tax assessed against such Equipment until otherwise directed in writing by Lessor.  Upon receipt of any property tax bill pertaining to such Equipment from the appropriate taxing authority, Lessor will pay such tax and will invoice Lessee for the expense.  Upon receipt of such invoice, Lessee will promptly reimburse Lessor for such expense;

 

OPTION 2        Lessee's Initials: ________

 

(Applicable in Jurisdictions Permitting Lessee to List Equipment):  Lessee agrees that it will (a) list all such Equipment, (b) report all property taxes assessed against such Equipment, and (c) pay all such taxes when due directly to the appropriate taxing authority until Lessor shall otherwise direct in writing.

 

7.       SALES / USE TAX.

 

MB Equipment Finance, LLC is required to collect and remit sales/use tax in the taxing jurisdiction(s) where your equipment will be located. In the event we don t receive a valid sales tax exemption certificate prior to the Base Lease Commencement Date, you will be charged sales/use tax. Our records show that the equipment being leased under this Equipment Schedule is located as shown on the attached Schedule of Equipment and your signature below will serve as a confirmation that our records are correct.

PLEASE INDICATE BELOW IF YOU FEEL THAT YOUR LEASE IS SUBJECT TO TAX OR WHETHER A VALID EXEMPTION EXISTS.

 

Lessee’s Initials: _______ I agree that my lease is subject to sales/use tax. The tax is due UPFRONT or ON THE RENTAL STREAM.

 

Lessee’s Initials: _______ I am exempt from sales/use tax and I have provided a completed exemption certificate(s), which is/are valid for this transaction.

 

8.       SCHEDULE OF STIPULATED LOSS VALUES. This Schedule of Stipulated Loss Values shall be applicable solely to the Equipment described in this Schedule.

 

Rent

Payment No.

Percent of Total

Invoice Cost

   
   
   
   

 

Stipulated Loss Values are due in addition to any advance or arrears rental due on the same date.

 

9.        Title; GRANTING CLAUSE . (a) Lessee and Lessor intend that: (1) this Schedule, incorporating by reference the terms of the Lease, constitutes a true "lease" and a "finance lease" as such terms are defined in Article 2A of the UCC (“ Article 2A ”) and not a sale or retention of a security interest; and (2) Lessor is and shall remain the owner of each item of Equipment (unless sold by Lessor pursuant to any Lease Document), and Lessee shall not acquire any right, title or interest in or to such Equipment except the right to use it in accordance with the terms of this Schedule. Pursuant to Article 2A, Lessor and Lessee acknowledge and agree that: (x) Lessee has selected the Supplier and directed Lessor to acquire the Equipment from the Supplier; and (y) Lessor has informed Lessee that: (i) Lessee is entitled under Article 2A to the promises and warranties, including those of the Supplier, provided to Lessor by the Supplier in connection with or as part of the contract by which Lessor acquired the Equipment, and (ii) Lessee may communicate with the Supplier and receive an accurate and complete statement of those promises and warranties, including any disclaimers and limitations of them or of remedies.

 

 

 

 

(b) In order to secure the prompt payment of the Rent and all of the other amounts from time to time outstanding with respect to the Lease and this Schedule, and the performance and observance by Lessee of all of the provisions hereof and thereof and of all of the other Lease Documents, and the payment and performance of all other indebtedness, obligations or liabilities of Lessee to Lessor or to any affiliate of Lessor, now existing or hereafter arising, Lessee hereby collaterally assigns, grants, and conveys to Lessor, a security interest in and lien on all of Lessee’s right, title and interest in and to all of the following (whether now existing or hereafter created, and including any other collateral described on any rider hereto; the “ Collateral ”): (1) (if contrary to the parties’ intentions a court determines that this Schedule is not a true “lease” under the UCC) the Equipment described in this Schedule or otherwise covered thereby (including all inventory, fixtures or other property comprising the Equipment), together with all related software (embedded therein or otherwise) and general intangibles, all additions, attachments, accessories and accessions thereto whether or not furnished by the Supplier; (2) all subleases, chattel paper, accounts, security deposits, and general intangibles relating thereto, and any and all substitutions, replacements or exchanges for any such item of Equipment, in each such case in which Lessee shall from time to time acquire an interest; and (3) any and all insurance and/or other proceeds of the Equipment and other collateral in and against which a security interest is granted hereunder. The collateral assignment, security interest and lien granted herein shall survive the termination, cancellation or expiration of this Schedule until such time as Lessee’s obligations under the Lease, this Schedule and the other Lease Documents are fully and indefeasibly discharged. (c) If contrary to the parties’ intentions a court determines that this Schedule is not a true “lease”, the parties agree that in such event Lessee agrees that: (1) with respect to the Equipment, in addition to all of the other rights and remedies available to Lessor under the Lease or hereunder upon the occurrence and during the continuance of an Event of Default, Lessor shall have all of the rights and remedies of a first priority secured party under the UCC; and (2) any obligation to pay Basic Rent or any Other Payment, to the extent constituting the payment of interest, shall be at an interest rate that is equal to the lesser of the maximum lawful rate permitted by applicable law or the effective interest rate used by Lessor in calculating such amounts.

 

10. TAX INDEMNITY. (a) Lessee represents and warrants that: (1) it believes that it is reasonable to estimate that the useful life of the Equipment exceeds the lease term (including any interim and fixed rental renewal periods) by the greater of one (1) year or twenty (20) percent of such estimated useful life, and that said Equipment will have a value at the end of the lease term, including any fixed rate renewal period, of at least twenty (20) percent of the Total Invoice Cost of the Equipment, without including in such value any increase or decrease for inflation or deflation during the original lease term; and (2) the Equipment is, and will be used by Lessee so as to remain, property eligible for the MACRS Deductions (as defined below). Lessee represents and warrants that: (A) each item of Equipment constitutes “qualified property” pursuant to Section 168(k) of the Code and is eligible for the additional first-year depreciation deduction equal to the applicable percentage of the Total Invoice Cost of the Equipment contemplated by the Code; (B) the Equipment shall be treated as originally placed in service not earlier than the date of the execution and delivery of the Schedule; (C) Lessee has not arranged to purchase, and Lessor is not purchasing, the Equipment pursuant to a binding written contract entered into before September 28, 2017; and (D) each item of Equipment shall be placed in service during the period specified in Section 168(k) of the Code for eligibility for such additional first-year depreciation deduction.

 

(b) If (1) Lessor in computing its taxable income or liability for tax, shall lose, or shall not have, or shall lose the right to claim or there shall be disallowed or recaptured for Federal and/or state income tax purposes, in whole or in part, the benefit of MACRS Deductions; or (2) Lessor shall become liable for additional tax as a result of Lessee having added an attachment or made an alteration to the Equipment, including (without limitation) any such attachment or alteration which would increase the productivity or capability of the Equipment so as to violate the provisions of Rev. Proc. 2001-28, 2001-1 C.B. 1156 (as it may hereafter be modified or superseded); or (3) the statutory full-year marginal Federal tax rate (including any surcharge) for corporations is other than twenty one (21) percent; hereinafter referred to as a " Loss "; then Lessee shall pay Lessor the Tax Indemnification Payment as additional rent and Lessor shall revise the Schedule of Stipulated Loss Values incorporated in this Schedule to reflect the Loss. As used herein, " MACRS Deductions " shall mean the deductions under Section 167 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as now or hereafter amended (the " Code "), determined in accordance with the modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System with respect to the Total Invoice Cost of any item of the Equipment using the accelerated method set forth in Section 168(b)(1) or 168(b)(2) of the Code as in effect on the date of this Schedule for property assigned to the 7-year class of property and taking into account the special depreciation allowance and basis adjustment under Section 168(k)(1) of the Code; " Lessor " shall be deemed to include the consolidated Federal taxpayer group of which Lessor is a member; and " Tax Indemnification Payment " shall mean such amount as, after consideration of (i) all taxes required to be paid by Lessor in respect of the receipt thereof under the laws of any governmental or taxing authority in the United States, and (ii) the amount of any interest or penalty which may be payable by Lessor in connection with the Loss, shall be required to cause Lessor's after-tax net return (the " Net Return ") to be equal to, but no greater than, the Net Return computed consistently with current tax laws (and with the assumption that Lessor is taxed at the highest marginal Federal and state tax rates) as of the date of this Schedule that would have been available to Lessor had the Loss not occurred.

 

 

 

 

(c) Lessor shall be responsible for, and shall not be entitled to a Tax Indemnification Payment by Lessee on account of, any Loss arising solely as a direct result of the occurrence of any one or more of the following events: (1) the failure of Lessor to timely and properly claim MACRS Deductions in the tax return of Lessor other than as a result of changes in the Code or applicable regulations unless in the reasonable opinion of Lessor's tax counsel there is no basis for such claim; or (2) the failure of Lessor to have sufficient taxable income before application of the MACRS Deductions to offset the full amount of such MACRS Deductions other than as a result of changes in the Code or applicable regulations; or (3) any event which by the terms of the Lease requires payment by Lessee of the Stipulated Loss Value if such payment is thereafter actually made to Lessor, to the extent that such payment reimburses Lessor for amounts otherwise payable by Lessee pursuant hereto; or (D) a disqualifying disposition due to sale of any item of the Equipment or the Lease by Lessor prior to an Event of Default.

 

(d) Lessor promptly shall notify Lessee in writing of such Loss and Lessee shall pay to Lessor the Tax Indemnification Payment within thirty (30) days of such notice. For these purposes, a Loss shall occur upon the earliest of: (1) the happening of any event (such as disposition or change in use of any item of the Equipment) which will cause such Loss, (2) the payment by Lessor to the Internal Revenue Service or state taxing authority of the tax increase (including an increase in estimated taxes) resulting from such Loss; (3) the date on which the Loss is realized by Lessor; or (4) the adjustment of the tax return of Lessor to reflect such Loss. The obligations of Lessee under this Section shall survive the expiration or termination of the term of the Lease with respect to this Schedule.

 

11.       ADDITIONAL REMEDIES. (a) Upon the occurrence and continuance of an Event of Default, in addition to the remedies specified in the Lease, Lessor may: (1) proceed at law or in equity, to enforce specifically Lessee’s performance or to recover damages; (2) declare this Schedule in default, and cancel this Schedule or otherwise terminate Lessee’s right to use the Equipment and Lessee’s other rights, but not its obligations, hereunder and Lessee shall immediately assemble, make available and, if Lessor requests, return the Equipment to Lessor in accordance with the terms of the Lease and this Schedule; (3) enter any premises where any item of Equipment is located and take immediate possession of and remove (or disable in place) such item (and/or any unattached parts) by self-help, summary proceedings or otherwise without liability; (4) use Lessee’s premises for storage without liability; (5) sell, re-lease or otherwise dispose of any or all of the Equipment, whether or not in Lessor's possession, at public or private sale, with or without notice to Lessee, and apply or retain the net proceeds of such disposition, with Lessee remaining liable for any deficiency and with any excess being retained by Lessor; (6) enforce any or all of the preceding remedies with respect to any related Collateral, and apply any deposit or other cash collateral, or any proceeds of any such Collateral, at any time to reduce any amounts due to Lessor; (7) demand and recover from Lessee all Liquidated Damages and all Other Payments whenever the same shall be due; and (8) exercise any and all other remedies allowed by applicable law, including the UCC. As used herein, “ Liquidated Damages ” shall mean the liquidated damages (all of which, Lessee hereby acknowledges, are damages to be paid in lieu of future Basic Rent and are reasonable in light of the anticipated harm arising by reason of an Event of Default, and are not a penalty) described in the first sentence of parts (1) or (2) of Section 11(b) hereof, depending upon the recovery and disposition of the Equipment leased under this Schedule. Upon the occurrence and continuance of the Event of Default described in Section 14(j) of the Lease, the remedy provided in Clause (7) above shall be automatically exercised without the requirement of prior written notice to Lessee or of any other act or declaration by Lessor, and the Liquidated Damages described therein shall be immediately due and payable.

 

(b) (1) If an Event of Default occurs and is continuing with respect to this Schedule, if Lessor recovers the Equipment and disposes of it by a lease or elects not to dispose of the Equipment after recovery, upon demand, Lessee shall pay to Lessor an amount equal to the sum of (A) any accrued and unpaid Rent as of the date Lessor recovers possession of the Equipment, plus (B) the present value as of such date of the total Basic Rent for the then remaining term of such Schedule, minus (C) either, as applicable, (i) the present value, as of the commencement date of any substantially similar re-lease of the Equipment, of the re-lease rent payable for that period, commencing on such date, which is comparable to the then remaining term of such Schedule or (ii) the present value, as of that certain date which may be determined by taking into account Lessor's having a reasonable opportunity to remarket the Equipment, of the “market rent” for such Equipment (as computed pursuant to Article 2A) in the continental United States on that date, computed for that period, commencing on such date, which is comparable to the then remaining term of such Schedule; provided, however, Lessee acknowledges that if Lessor is unable after reasonable effort to dispose of the Equipment at a reasonable price and pursuant to other reasonable terms, or the circumstances reasonably indicate that such an effort will be unavailing, the “market rent” in such event will be deemed to be $0.00, but in the event that Lessor does eventually re-lease or otherwise dispose of the Equipment, it will apply the net proceeds of such disposition, to the extent received in good and indefeasible funds, as a credit or reimbursement, as applicable, in a manner consistent with the applicable provisions of Article 2A. Any amounts discounted to present value, shall be discounted at the rate of three percent (3%) per annum, compounded annually.

 

 

 

 

(2) If an Event of Default occurs and is continuing with respect to any Schedule, if Lessee fails to return the Equipment in the manner and condition required by the Lease and this Schedule (if applicable), or Lessor recovers and sells the Equipment, upon demand, Lessee shall pay to Lessor an amount calculated as the Stipulated Loss Value of the Equipment (determined as of the next rent payment date after the date of the occurrence of the subject Event of Default), together with all other Rent due with respect to this Schedule as of such determination date, and all Enforcement Costs, less a credit for any disposition proceeds, if applicable pursuant to the application provisions in the next sentence. If Lessor demands the Liquidated Damages under this part (2), and recovers and sells the Equipment, any proceeds received in good and indefeasible funds shall be applied by Lessor, with respect to this Schedule: first , to pay all Enforcement Costs, to the extent not previously paid; second , to pay to Lessor an amount equal to any unpaid Rent due and payable, together with the Liquidated Damage amounts specified in this part (2), to the extent not previously paid; third , to pay to Lessor any interest accruing on the amounts covered by the preceding clauses, at the Default Rate, from and after the date the same becomes due, through the date of payment; and fourth , (A) if the Lessor under this Schedule is also the Lessor under any other Schedules (whether by retaining the same, or as Assignee), to satisfy any remaining obligations under any or all such other Schedules, or (B) if such Lessor is not the Lessor under any other Schedule, or if Lessee’s obligations to such Lessor under such other Schedules have been fully and indefeasibly satisfied, to reimburse Lessee for such amounts to the extent paid by Lessee as Liquidated Damages pursuant to this part (2). Lessor shall retain any excess after such application.

 

12. OPTION TO RENEW. Provided that no Default or Event of Default has then occurred and is continuing, Lessee shall have the option to renew the Lease, at the expiration of the initial term of this Schedule, with respect to all but not less than all of the Equipment, on the terms and conditions of the Lease, for a negotiated renewal term at a periodic rent equal to the Fair Market Rental Value of the Equipment determined at the time of renewal. If Lessee desires to exercise this option it shall give Lessor written notice of its intention to exercise this option to renew at least two hundred forty (240) days before expiration of the term of the Lease with respect to this Schedule. Thereafter, Lessor and Lessee shall determine the periodic rent to be paid during the renewal term. Not less than one hundred eighty (180) days before expiration of the term of the Lease with respect to this Schedule, Lessee shall give Lessor irrevocable written notice of its election to renew on the terms mutually agreed upon during negotiations. Such election shall be effective with respect to all Equipment leased under this Schedule.

 

If Lessee exercises the option set forth in this Section 12, Lessee shall simultaneously exercise the corresponding option under each of Schedules ___, ____ and ___ with respect to all but not less than all of the Equipment subject to each such Schedule.

 

For purposes of this Section, " Fair Market Rental Value " shall be deemed to be an amount equal to the rental, as installed and in use, obtainable in an arms' length transaction between a willing and informed lessor and a willing and informed lessee under no compulsion to lease (and assuming that, as of the date of determination, the Equipment is in at least the condition required by Section 12 of the Lease and Section 17 of this Schedule). If the parties are unable to agree on the Fair Market Rental Value of the Equipment, then Lessor and Lessee shall at Lessee's expense obtain appraisal values from three independent appraisers (one to be selected by Lessor, one by Lessee, and the other by the two selected by Lessor and Lessee; each of whom must be associated with a professional organization of equipment or personal property appraisers, such as the American Society of Appraisers) and the average Fair Market Rental Value as determined by such appraisers shall be binding on the parties hereto. If the appraisers selected by Lessor and Lessee are unable to agree on the third appraiser, then Lessor will select the appraiser to provide the third appraisal value.

 

13. EARLY PURCHASE OPTION. Provided that no Default or Event of Default has then occurred and is continuing, Lessee shall have the option to purchase, on ________ ___, 2023 (the “ Early Termination Date ”), all but not less than all of the Equipment upon the following terms and conditions: If Lessee desires to exercise this option it shall give Lessor irrevocable written notice of its election to purchase at least thirty (30) days and not more than ninety (90) days before the Early Termination Date. Such election shall be effective with respect to all Equipment leased under this Schedule. On the Early Termination Date, Lessee shall pay to Lessor in cash any Rent due on that date plus the purchase price for the Equipment so purchased, determined as hereinafter provided. The purchase price of the Equipment shall be an amount equal to ___% of the original Total Invoice Cost of the Equipment, together with all taxes and charges upon sale. Lessor and Lessee agree that the purchase price represents a reasonable prediction of the Fair Market Value of the Equipment at the time the option is exercisable.

 

If Lessee exercises the option set forth in this Section 13, Lessee shall simultaneously exercise the corresponding option under each of Schedules ___, ____ and ___ with respect to all but not less than all of the Equipment subject to each such Schedule.

 

 

 

 

14. OPTION TO PURCHASE. Provided that no Default or Event of Default has then occurred and is continuing, Lessee shall have the option to purchase, upon the expiration of the term of the Lease with respect to this Schedule, or of any subsequent renewal term, if applicable, all but not less than all of the Equipment upon the following terms and conditions: If Lessee desires to exercise this option it shall give Lessor written notice of its intention to exercise this option to purchase at least two hundred forty (240) days before expiration of the term of the Lease with respect to this Schedule. Thereafter, Lessor and Lessee shall determine the purchase price for the Equipment. Not less than one hundred eighty (180) days before expiration of the term of the Lease with respect to this Schedule, Lessee shall give Lessor irrevocable written notice of its election to purchase on the terms mutually agreed upon during negotiations. Such election shall be effective with respect to all Equipment leased under this Schedule. Thereupon, at the expiration of the term of the Lease with respect to this Schedule, Lessee shall pay to Lessor in cash any Rent due on that date plus the purchase price for the Equipment so purchased, determined as hereinafter provided. The purchase price of the Equipment shall be an amount equal to its then Fair Market Value, together with all taxes and charges upon sale.

 

If Lessee exercises the option set forth in this Section 14, Lessee shall simultaneously exercise the corresponding option under each of Schedules ___, ____ and ___ with respect to all but not less than all of the Equipment subject to each such Schedule.

 

For purposes of this Section, " Fair Market Value " shall be deemed to be an amount equal to the sale price of the Equipment, as installed and in use, obtainable in an arms' length transaction between a willing and informed buyer and a willing and informed seller under no compulsion to sell (and assuming that, as of the date of determination, the Equipment is in at least the condition required by Section 12 of the Lease and Section 17 of this Schedule). If the parties are unable to agree on the Fair Market Value of the Equipment, then the appraisal procedure set forth in Section 12 hereof shall be followed. Notwithstanding any election of Lessee to purchase, the provisions of the Lease shall continue in full force and effect until the passage of ownership of the Equipment upon the date of purchase. On the date of purchase, Lessor shall deliver to Lessee a bill of sale transferring and assigning to Lessee without recourse or warranty, except (with respect to the status of title conveyed) in respect of Lessor's acts, all of Lessor's right, title and interest in and to the Equipment. Lessor shall not be required to make and may specifically disclaim any representation or warranty as to the condition of the Equipment or any other matters.

 

15. PAYMENT AUTHORIZATION. Lessor is hereby irrevocably authorized and directed to pay the Total Invoice Cost specified above as follows:

 

Company Name Wire Information Amount
     

  

Lessor is hereby authorized to insert such factually correct information as is necessary to complete this Schedule, including (without limitation) the date of execution, and the rental payment amount(s) and factor(s).

 

16. DISCLAIMER. There is no restriction (either express or implied) on any disclosure or dissemination of the tax treatment or tax structure of the transactions contemplated by this Schedule or any documents executed in connection herewith. Further, each party hereto acknowledges that it has no proprietary rights to any tax matter or tax idea or to any element of the transaction structure contemplated by this Schedule; and each party hereto (and any employee, representative or agent of any party hereto) may disclose to any and all persons (without limitation of any kind), the Federal tax treatment and Federal tax structure of the transaction contemplated by this Schedule. This Section 16 is intended to cause the transaction contemplated by this Schedule to be treated as not having been offered under conditions of confidentiality for purposes of Section 1.6011-4(b)(3) (or any successor provision) of the Treasury Regulations promulgated under Section 6011 of the Code and Section 6111 of the Code and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder; and shall be construed in a manner consistent with such purpose.

 

17. RETURN AND MAINTENANCE CONDITIONS. Except as specifically set forth herein, all of the terms and conditions of the Lease and Schedule are unaffected and remain in full force and effect. To the extent that the provisions below conflict with any provisions contained in the Lease, the provisions below shall control.

 

As long as the equipment is subject to the Lease and until it is returned pursuant to the return provisions, the Lessee shall, at its own cost and expense, establish maintenance, refurbishment, rebuilding and repair programs for the Unit(s) and maintain and repair such equipment in a manner consistent with industry standards and in a professional and workmanlike manner, but in no way less than the manufacturer’s recommended standards or the standards to which Lessee maintains other similar assets in the prudent management of its assets and properties, so as to ensure that the equipment is fit for its intended use and is in good working order, condition and repair, ordinary wear and tear expected. Lessee shall ensure that all Equipment shall qualify for any applicable licenses or permits necessary for its operation, and for its intended purpose, and shall comply with all local, state, and federal laws, including, but not limited to, any and all rules, regulations and requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Transportation etc. Logs and records of maintenance and repair must be kept by the Lessee and submitted to the Lessor upon any return of the equipment to the Lessor under the terms and conditions of the lease.

 

 

 

 

Lessee shall give written notice of its intent to purchase, renew or return the Unit(s) (whichever is applicable) at least 180 days prior to the end of the term or the lease or any renewal period, Lessee will also provide Lessor within 10 days of their notice of return a detailed inventory of the equipment including, but not limited to, a listing of all items of the Equipment including model, size, capacity, and serial numbers by location and other industry recognized descriptive information for all of the Equipment covered by this Schedule. The Equipment shall include any and all accessories and components listed on the original invoice(s) as well as: (i) Software, including the operating system software, which shall be the then current version available from the manufacturer or supplier; (ii) cards; (iii) memory (CPU) upgrades and related documentation; (iv) holograms; (v) codes, including passwords and keys; (vi) licenses; (viii) hard and flash drives; (ix) connecting cables; (x) mice; (xi) keyboards; (xii) monitors (which may not exhibit “burn-in”). All items of Equipment must be re-certified eligible for manufacturer's maintenance program and extended warranty, if applicable, upon return. In the case of proprietary licenses, where allowed by manufacturer or other license owner, Lessee will assign any equipment license and associated software license at Lessor’s sole discretion and Lessee’s expense upon equipment return.

 

If Lessee exercises the return option set forth in this Section 17, Lessee shall simultaneously exercise the corresponding option under each of Schedules ___, ____ and ___ with respect to all but not less than all of the Equipment subject to each such Schedule.

 

Maintenance & Repair:

 

a. Lessee at all times will maintain and use the Equipment in a condition and manner suggested by Supplier’s as required to validate any warranty and service contract.

 

b. Lessee will use only original manufacturer’s approved replacement parts and components in the performance of any maintenance and repair of the Equipment.

 

c. Lessee shall use coolant and other fluids recommended by the manufacturer and in accordance with suggested manufacturer’s specifications.

 

d. Lessee will maintain current maintenance as directed by the robot’s “Mechanical Unit Maintenance Manual” and “Electrical Unit Maintenance Manual” and maintain repair records for the Equipment in a useable manner and give such records to Lessor upon return of the Equipment.

 

e. Lessee will at all times maintain the Equipment in good operational condition and appearance and will not maintain the Equipment differently than Lessee maintains equipment of a similar type that it owns.

 

Return Conditions:

 

a. The Equipment, including all tooling, attachments, and auxiliary equipment, will be returned and be in a condition whereby it can be placed into revenue producing service at its original designated function and capacity.

 

b. The Equipment will comply with manufacturer’s original specifications, will meet current standards and the Equipment will be upgraded with the latest software to meet these standards. Inspection of the units will test position deviation, repeatability issues, cable damage, operational software and any safety issues.

 

c. The Equipment will be completely clean and free of damage, rust/corrosion, dirt or any foreign material and exterior finish will be in good condition (normal wear and tear excepted). Dented or damaged sheet metal must be repaired or replaced.

 

d. If the Equipment or any of its components, covered in this Lease has a predictable, recommended or scheduled maintenance, recalibration, overhaul, rebuild or replacement, Lessee shall ensure that the Equipment or its components, including but not limited to Mechanical Unit cables and CPU lithium battery shall have no less than 50% of its useful life/hours remaining until the next scheduled maintenance, recalibration, overhaul, rebuild or replacement. If the Equipment or any of its components has less than 50% of useful life/hours remaining, Lessee will be charged the entire apportioned share of the estimated costs required to complete the required work.

 

 

 

 

e. Lessee logos or identification will be removed in a workmanlike manner so as to not detract from the overall exterior finish and appearance of the Equipment.

 

f. De-installation, packing, match marking, shipping and re-installation will be conducted per the manufacturer’s specifications and requirements by a license rigger/erector specializing in the type of equipment, with any transportation equipment, such a metal skids, brackets, lifting slings, which were included when the equipment was originally delivered and installed.

 

g. All original manuals and operational instructions will be returned to Lessor. Lessee will provide, at its expense and at Lessor’s sole discretion, a complete written mechanical inspection report by a party designated by Lessor. Inspection to include, but not limited to the following - Inspect robot connection cables, Mechanical unit (Physical damage, abnormal vibration, balancer wear, etc.), Robot controller (Fans, heat exchangers, physical damage, etc.), validation of robot safety circuit functionality and a comprehensive report including repair recommendations and robot performance. Inspect cables (TP cables, EE cables or Vision cables) for any severe kinks, pinch points, cuts or tears.

 

h. Return of the equipment will not occur until all return provisions have been met. Lessee will be responsible for all monthly rentals, taxes, storage cost and other obligations under the Lease until the return process has been completed.

 

i. Lessee shall not tamper with or otherwise adjust the clock, number of hours, or any part of the control connected with these systems. If the clock becomes inoperable, Lessee shall promptly repair such clock and shall notify Lessor immediately of such event and the hours of usage during the time such clock was not in operation. Excess rental shall be due and payable by Lessee upon receipt of an invoice from Lessor.

 

j. Lessee to provide upon notice from Lessor, free, secured, powered storage for up to 60 days and allow Lessor’s agent(s) and prospective buyer(s) to view the equipment under power during the notice and storage period.

 

k. Any and all related hardware and software shall be updated/ upgraded to the current version and Lessee shall arrange and pay for any licensing transfers and fees to Lessor or Lessor’s designee at Lessor’s discretion.

 

 

DATE OF EXECUTION: _____________ __, 2019.

 

    TOWER AUTOMOTIVE OPERATIONS USA I, LLC
Lessor   Lessee
         
         
By:     By:  
Name:     Name:  
Title:     Title:  
         
         
      TOWER AUTOMOTIVE HOLDINGS USA, LLC
      Lessee
         
      By:  
      Name:  
      Title: