Ford Selects Michelin as Second Tire Supplier For 2002 Explorer
1 August 2000
Ford Selects Michelin as Second Tire Supplier For 2002 Explorer, Automotive News ReportsDETROIT, Aug. 31 Firestone will no longer be the sole supplier of tires for the redesigned 2002 Ford Explorer. Ford Motor Co. has chosen Michelin as another supplier of tires, according to a well-placed Ford source. Ford confirmed that it will dual source but would not specify the second tire maker. The company did not disclose what percentage of tires Michelin will provide. Firestone will manufacture a revised 16-inch tire designed to accommodate the new independent rear suspension on the 2002 Explorer, said Mike Vaughn, Ford spokesman. Firestone is recalling 6.5 million 15-inch tires. The Ford Explorer uses the recalled tire.