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Bridgestone/Firestone and Dell Offer E-Commerce Enhancement

27 January 2000

Bridgestone/Firestone and Dell Offer E-Commerce Enhancement for Tire Dealers and Fleets

    NASHVILLE, Tenn.--Jan. 26, 2000-- Bridgestone/Firestone Truck Tires Sales Company (BFTT), a division of Bridgestone/Firestone, Inc., in cooperation with Dell Computer Corporation has created the Bridgestone Firestone Truck Tires Technology Purchase program. This strategic relationship provides Bridgestone/Firestone business customers easy access to the tools and technology necessary to enhance their business operations.
    "This is a tremendous opportunity for Bridgestone/Firestone to work with one of the leaders in the technology industry," says Mike Fujimura, president of BFTT. "This relationship gives Bridgestone/Firestone business customers an opportunity to own or lease a Dell system simply by applying and being approved. This will be a win-win for us and for our customers," adds Fujimura. "Our customers can purchase the latest in technology through Dell, while providing the ease of communications with Bridgestone/Firestone."
    "As a world leader in Internet commerce, Dell is focused on making it easier for our customers to take their business online," said Brian Wood, vice president and general manager of Dell's Enterprise segment. "We're delighted to be working with Bridgestone/Firestone to provide this opportunity for its customers."
    The program allows a Bridgestone/Firestone business customer to order prepackaged personal computer systems, or the customer can customize a system specific to their needs. The business plan includes an option to order printers, monitors and a variety of software. Since computer software changes rapidly, the programs will be enhanced and upgraded to keep up with technological advancements.
    Bridgestone/Firestone customers who prefer to lease rather than buy a Dell(R) computer system may enter into a business lease with Dell Financial Services L.P. Additional program offerings include a variety of shipping options and Dell's industry leading, free technical support through its customer service line which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
    Bridgestone/Firestone customers wishing to get connected to the system may fill out an application at Bridgestone/Firestone's Truck Tire web site at www.trucktires.com. When an order is placed, the customer will be able to select a variety of shipping and delivery options to meet their cost and delivery needs.
    Dell Financial Services L.P. is a joint venture owned by Dell Computer Corporation and The CIT Group. With over two billion dollars in lease originations, Dell Financial Services is one of the fastest growing technology financing and asset recovery providers in the industry.
    Ranked No. 78 among the Fortune 500 companies and No. 210 in the Fortune Global 500, Dell Computer Corporation is the world's leading direct computer systems company, based on revenues of $23.6 billion for the past four quarters. Dell designs, manufactures and customizes products and services to customer requirements and offers an extensive selection of software and peripherals. Information on Dell and its products can be obtained through its toll-free number 1-800-388-8542 or by accessing the Dell World Wide Web site at www.dell.com.
    Nashville-based Bridgestone/Firestone Inc., is the largest subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation of Japan, the world's largest tire and rubber company. Bridgestone/Firestone develops, manufactures and markets Bridgestone, Firestone, Dayton and private brand tires. The company also produces Firestone air springs, roofing materials, synthetic rubber, and industrial fibers and textiles.
    Dell is a registered trademark of Dell Computer Corporation. Fortune and Fortune 500 are registered trademarks of Time Inc.
    Business leasing arranged by Dell Financial Services L.P., an independent entity, to qualified customers. Above lease payments based on 36-month lease, and do not include taxes, fees, shipping charges; subject to credit approval and availability. Above lease terms subject to change without notice.