The French group SCHNEIDER will create with the Japanese TOSHIBA a joint venture in speed variators (machines that automatically command the stopping or starting of engines and production lines in factories). Named, STI-SCHNEIRDER TOSHIBA INVERTER, this company will be operational at the start of 2001 and will be in majority held by the French group with 60% of the shares. It should have a turnover of around EUR 400 million during the first year with a starting staff of 470 people.