Yokohama Named 'Official Tire of the LA Auto Show' - Global Tire Manufacturer Signs Multi-year Sponsorship Agreement

FULLERTON, Calif., Nov. 18 -- Yokohama Tire Corporation has signed a multi-year agreement designating the global tire producer as the "Official Tire of the Los Angeles Auto Show." The sponsorship deal begins with the 2006 LA Auto Show held Jan. 6, 2006-15 at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

Yokohama views the LA Auto Show as "an ideal opportunity to communicate strategic corporate messages to several audiences," according to Jim MacMaster, Yokohama executive vice president, Business Division. "The show has been growing steadily in stature worldwide, attracting key influencers within the automotive industry, prominent media and it draws a million consumers. That's why it's a perfect venue to tell the Yokohama story and highlight ADVAN, our newly launched ultra-high-performance tires, as well as all our other lines."

According to the sponsorship agreement, Yokohama will have a "significant presence" at the show. The tire company will have an eye-catching display spanning more than 85 feet near the entrance of West Hall, featuring vehicles and products. Yokohama is also the title sponsor of the media center, which has been renamed "Yokohama Media Center."

"As a global supplier of quality tires, Yokohama adds international prestige to the show," said Andy Fuzesi, general manager of the LA Auto Show. "Their participation greatly enhances the show's appeal to the industry and consumers."

Yokohama Tire Corporation is the North American manufacturing and marketing arm of Tokyo, Japan-based Yokohama Rubber Company, a global producer and distributor of premium tires for more than 88 years. Servicing a network of more than 4,500 points of sale in the U.S., Yokohama Tire Corporation offers a complete line of tires including high-performance, light truck, passenger car, commercial truck and bus, as well as off-the-road mining and construction applications. For more information on Yokohama's extensive product line, visit www.yokohamatire.com.

Yokohama is a strong supporter of the tire care and safety guidelines established by the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) and the National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration (NHTSA). Details can be found at the "Taking Care of Your Tires" section at www.yokohamatire.com.