News Release: BRIDGESTONE/FIRESTONE TO SUPPLY POTENZA RT BRAND TIRES FOR PT COUPE CONCEPT VEHICLE

 

            NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Nov. 6, 2003) -- Bridgestone/Firestone
North American Tire, LLC (BFNT), is providing the tires on the all-new
Chrysler PT Coupe Concept, which debuted yesterday at the SEMA
(Specialty Equipment Market Association) Show. The PT Coupe Concept, the
product of a design partnership between DaimlerChrysler and Decoma
International, is on display in the Decoma International booth (#23259),
and is shod with Bridgestone-brand Potenza(r) S-03 Pole Position(tm)
performance tires in size 245/45R19. 

The Bridgestone Potenza S-03 is available in many of the popular
large-rim diameter performance sizes now in great demand in the
aftermarket. The tires also feature Bridgestone/Firestone's exclusive
UNI-T AQII(r) technology, which includes a dual-layer tread compound
that maintains wet and dry traction, even as the tire wears.

"We are very pleased to have been chosen to supply tires for this
exciting new concept vehicle," said Michael Martini, president, OE
Consumer Tire, BFNT. "This continues the close relationship between
Bridgestone/Firestone and the original equipment manufacturers. Our goal
is to be the first tire choice when the OEMs are creating these show and
concept vehicles."

The PT Coupe Concept builds on the popularity of Chrysler's PT Cruiser,
but adds to the sporty nature of the original with a coupe model. The
vehicle features a monochromatic color scheme, and is lowered as much as
possible while still fitting a large plus-sized tire and wheel package
into the wheel wells. It features custom wheels from Colorado Custom of
Ft. Collins, Colo.

Decoma International, headquartered in Troy, Mich., is the world's
largest exterior parts manufacturer, and a leader in specialty vehicle
design, engineering, build and assembly.  

Nashville-based Bridgestone/Firestone North American Tire, LLC is a
subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas Holding, Inc., whose parent company,
Bridgestone Corporation, is the world's largest tire and rubber company.
BFNT develops, manufactures, and markets Bridgestone, Firestone, Dayton
and associate and private brand tires. The company is focused on
wholesale and original equipment markets, supplying passenger, light
truck, commercial vehicle, off-road, agricultural and other tires to its
customers in North America.