Michelin Brand Extended To Range of Automotive Accessories

Michelin Windshield Wiper Blades available at Target stores nationwide

GREENVILLE, S.C., June 24 -- Imagine if the same expertise that goes into creating the rubber compound that allows your tires to grip the road in all kinds of weather was used to create a high performance windshield wiper that keeps the rain off your windshield just as effectively. Well, Michelin has done just that. Michelin Lifestyle Limited (MLL) has launched its line of high performance wiper blades in another step to extend the Michelin brand to a full range of automotive accessories.

Michelin launched its new range of high performance wiper blades to provide outstanding performance and maximize safety for active consumers that must remain mobile during inclement weather. Much as the new Michelin(R) HydroEdge(TM) tire evacuates water and provides excellent wet weather performance, so has Michelin's technical know-how and expertise in rubber technology created a superior wiper blade that provides optimum visibility in all inclement conditions. Features include:

   - Quality construction to ensure maximum durability and pressure on the
     windshield for better cleaning and visibility
   - Innovative rubber compound that maximizes quality and performance
   - Unique fitting system for ease of maneuverability
   - Sleek and stylish look
   - Lifetime limited warranty

Michelin wiper blades can be found in 1,250 Target stores nationwide. Additional distribution includes leading retailers such as Blain's and Strauss Auto and the blades will be launching in more automotive retailers in both the United States and Mexico in the coming weeks.

The wiper blade line is part of an extensive collection of automotive accessories launched under the Michelin brand name and was developed with Pylon Manufacturing Corp. of Deerfield Beach, Fla., one of Michelin's licensing partners.

Michelin will continue to widen its automotive accessories range with a variety of high-quality products aimed at improving mobility. MLL has already unveiled its wheel and tire changing equipment (jacks and jack stands) and more products will be in stores by the end of 2004. Product launches over the coming months will include:

   - Wheel and tire care products
   - Car mats
   - Safety and protective footwear
   - Bicycling accessories

Michelin manufactures and sells tires for every type of vehicle, including airplanes, automobiles, bicycles, earthmovers, farm equipment, heavy-duty trucks and the space shuttle. The company also publishes travel guides, maps and atlases covering Europe, Asia, Africa and North America. Headquartered in Greenville, S.C., Michelin North America ( http://www.michelin.com/ ) employs 23,920 and operates 21 plants in 17 locations.