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Bridgestone/Firestone Clarification Statement Regarding Use of Firestone Tires on 2002 Ford Explorer

29 September 2000

Bridgestone/Firestone Clarification Statement Regarding Use of Firestone Tires on 2002 Ford Explorer

    NASHVILLE, Tenn., Sept. 28 The following is a
Bridgestone/Firestone clarification statement regarding use of Firestone tires
on 2002 Ford Explorers:

    When the 2002 Ford Explorer launches domestically it will be available in
three tire sizes.  As of today, Firestone will supply 100 percent of the
P245/70R16 and P255/70R16 sizes.  The third tire, the P235/70R16 will be
provided 50 percent by Michelin and 50 percent by Firestone.  Based on those
breakdowns, when the vehicle launches Michelin will supply 30 percent of the
total domestic line.  However, a few weeks ago, Ford announced plans to allow
its customers to choose between Firestone and other tire brands.  Based on
that, those numbers may not hold.