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The Michelin Challenge Bibendum 2001 Announcement

         Environmental Event Makes North American Debut October 26-29

    DETROIT, Jan. 8 Michelin, the environmental leader of the
tire industry, today reinforced that position with the announcement of
ambitious plans for the Michelin Challenge Bibendum 2001. You can see the 
complete Press Conference and a special descriptive video, exclusivly here on
The Auto Channel, The only place for complete NAIAS Coverage in the world!

The Michelin Challenge Bibendum is a real-world demonstration of the original equipment
manufacturer's continuing progress in the development of new technologies.

    The international environmental event, which will be held in North America
for the first time October 26-29, 2001, will start in Los Angeles and conclude
in Las Vegas.

    First held in France in September 1998, and repeated in September 2000,
the first two editions of the Michelin Challenge Bibendum drew vehicles from
most of the world's leading vehicle manufacturers and designers and attracted
media from across Europe, Asia and the United States.

    Recognized as the world leader in tire technology and performance,
Michelin recently joined the World Business Council for Sustainable
Development.  "We believe sustainability and success will become synonymous,"
said Edouard Michelin, chief executive of the Michelin Group.  Nearly 30
percent of Michelin passenger vehicle tires worldwide feature a "green"
technology, which reduces rolling resistance and enhances vehicle fuel
mileage.

    Speaking at the opening of the North American International Auto Show in
Detroit, Michelin said, "We know that the vehicle manufacturers worldwide are
moving aggressively into the research and development of new technologies that
will reduce pollution and energy consumption.  We believe that the time is
right for the Michelin Challenge Bibendum to come to North America."

    "We are here to support our customers around the world and have undertaken
the responsibility for these events in order to provide the industry and the
media with an independent, objective showcase," said Michelin.

    Today's announcements included the following:

    -- The United Nations Environment Program has recognized Michelin
Challenge Bibendum as an environmental activity and supports it.
    -- Joining Michelin in support of the event will be the 4.5 million
members of the Automobile Club of Southern California, the largest affiliate
of AAA.  The Automobile Club will host the opening stages of Michelin
Challenge Bibendum on Friday, Oct. 26.  The Automobile Club also will conduct
technical measures for the event.
    -- Performance stages of the event, including noise level testing,
acceleration, handling and fuel economy will be held on Saturday, Oct. 27 at
the California Speedway in Fontana, venue to major NASCAR and CART events and
the site for the current world lap speed record of 241.2 miles per hour set
last fall.
    -- Michelin had earlier announced the support of the Specialty Equipment
Marketing Association (SEMA), which will tie the finish of the event in Las
Vegas on Oct. 28 into the opening of the world's premier aftermarket event
later that week.
    -- The creation of a companion conference in Las Vegas on Monday, Oct. 29
to address the development and progress in new technologies and challenges
ahead in the development of environmental vehicles.
    -- The appointment of Ronald C. Musgnug, former head of Michelin's global
aircraft business and VP of Manufacturing in North America to the position of
"project chief" for Michelin.