inRoadsBridgestone Firestone North American Tire, LLC Spring 2006

page ................................5

Dealers page ..........................4,10

Education page ............................4,7

OE page ........................3,6,11

Consumer page ...................... 2,3,4,8

Where’sMario

page ..........................2,12

ExecutiveEdge

page ................................2

Motorsports

Spring Your Customers into Action by Offering These Driving Tips With warm weather

approaching, drivers are hitting the road fortrips, gatherings with familyand friends and countlesserrands. Here are a few tips toprovide customers carefreedriving and safe travel.

• Check tire pressuremonthly and before bigtrips - Properly inflate allfour tires, plus the spare, to the vehiclemanufacturer's recommended levels. Tirescan lose up to one pound per square inch(psi) each month under normal conditions.Use an accurate tire gauge to check tire airpressure monthly and always when thetires are cool—meaning the car has beendriven less than one mile or has notmoved in at least three hours.

• Check tire tread - Tires should have atleast 1/16 inch of tread depth. To performthe "penny test," insert a penny in thetread at several points on the tire, withPresident Lincoln's headpointed down. If you cansee the top of Lincoln'shead at any of the points,the tire is worn out andrequires replacement.

• Get a complete vehicleinspection - An annualvehicle inspection, includingthe air-conditioning system,may help drivers avoidcostly repairs and keep cool on hotsummer days. A technician can ensure avehicle's engine, battery, exhaust systemand cooling system are all in goodworking order.

• Check fluids - Fluid levels should bechecked and filled if necessary, includingengine oil and coolant, brake, transmission,windshield washer and power steeringfluids. Don't forget to check the gas!

• Do not overload the vehicle - Just aslighter loads increase fuel efficiency,overloading creates excessive heat inside

your tires, can rob fuel economy and cancause excessive or irregular wear or early

removal if tires are notproperly inflated or in goodcondition.

• Pack an emergency kit -Emergency kits will preparedrivers for any unexpectedbreakdowns. Suggested itemsfor a vehicle emergency kitinclude jumper cables,

flashlight and batteries, reflector, protectivegloves, basic toolkit, flares and matches,gallon of water, nonperishable food, 12-volt portable air compressor and blanket.An auto club membership and card mayalso be helpful. Also, make sure your cellphone is charged.

• Avoid potholes - In many areas of thecountry, the snow and ice of winter canleave roads in bad shape. Hitting a potholecan damage your tire and/or the wheel ofyour vehicle. Drivers should be remindedthat keeping their tires properly inflated

will help reduce damage frompotholes and other roadhazards. Drivers should try toavoid potholes entirely, but agood tip to give if drivers dohave to hit a pothole is not tobrake during impact. Instead,they should try to apply brakesbefore hitting and releasebrakes prior to impact. Brakingduring the impact sets up the

tire and wheel assembly for a "solid hit"against the edge of the hole. Less severedamage may occur when a tire is rolling,rather than skidding, over a hole.

• Select proper tires - Rainwater thatmixes with oil or grime on the streets cancause slippery conditions that may resultin unexpected skidding. Consumers shouldbe reminded that certain tires will deliverthe traction or handling that they seek.

Following these few easy tips, drivers willbe better prepared and more confident eachtime they pull out of the driveway.

Feature

page ..............................11Truck & Bus

page ..............................11Canada

2 inRoads Spring2006

Hello! Thanksto all of you,

Bridgestone Americascontinues to be an industryleader. From our presence atthe Chicago Auto Show,which gained us great

exposure, to your community outreach efforts,we are proud of our continued joint successesin the face of many business challenges.

In this newsletter, you will see examplesof how our organization and our teammatesexcel. The accolades we achieve, just likethose you earn, are a result of hard work,determination and diligence in every step ofour business operations. Despite thechallenges of escalating raw materials andfuel costs, and competition on a globalscale, it is obvious that we are all committedto, and passionate about, serving ournumber one customer—the consumer.

Our continued focus this year is onpremium products for a premiummarketplace. This trend is led by our OEstrategy to secure premium fitments onpremium vehicles and resulted in theproducts we recently launched at theChicago Auto Show. Responding to marketneeds and interests has also encouraged usto enter the drift market in the United Statesby offering our new Bridgestone PotenzaRE-01R tire to select drift teams. This effortnot only showcases our tire technology but

also reaches the enthusiasts who follow thisgrowing motorsport.

Consumer education, especially throughyour efforts, continues to be a major focus,which we trust will contribute to our mutuallong-term success. It is critical to help theconsumer know and understand theimportance of good tires, and how toproperly maintain them. Our customers alsoneed to learn about, and understand, tiretechnologies and how they impact vehicleperformance and overall vehicle safety. In2006, we will continue to focus on educationand use our inRoads publication as a tool foruse in your community outreach efforts. Ourgoal is to be "your resource" for superiorproducts and for information regardingautomotive and tire safety. We want to makeyou the number one consumer resource fortires and automotive safety education in yourlocal communities.

We welcome any ideas you may wish toshare with us, as well as examples of yoursuccesses to encourage other dealers.Together we will continue to grow strongerand become a better resource for ourcustomers.

Thank you for all you do!

Best regards,

Mark A. Emkes

A Note from Mark EmkesExecutive

Edge

Inform YourCustomersand Your Community

Jim Gruetzmacher, a dealer inMarshalltown, Ind., took serviceto the next level. Gruetzmachersent Mario Andretti's RealInformation On Safety(M.A.R.I.O.S.) booklets to thesuperintendents of the localschools in his area, providingcurrent and potential customerswith ways to stay safe on theroad.

Les Garrett, of Garrett Tireand Auto in Springdale, Ark.,also took the program to thenext level and will soon beoffering M.A.R.I.O.S. tips viacommunity access televisionand at the local communitycenter (at no cost toparticipants)! Watch for the nextedition of inRoads for moreabout Garrett Tire & Auto andits community outreach.

You can also reach out tomembers of your community bydistributing M.A.R.I.O.S.booklets. To request M.A.R.I.O.S.booklets, please contact SusanSizemore at (615) 937-1417 ordownload a PDF version fromhttp://www.tiresafety.com.

Where’sMario

Need New Tires?Tire tread low on acustomer's tire or has a driver

come in with a flat? Bridgestone FirestoneNorth American Tire, LLC (BFNT) has takenthe fear out of buying tires by offering a veryspecial type of guarantee.

"The ‘Buy & Try 30-Day Guarantee’ putsconsumers in the driver'sseat," said Phil Pacsi,executive director, NorthAmerican consumer tire marketing, BFNT. "Ifafter 30 days or less you are not satisfiedwith the performance of our tires, we willrefund your money."

Pacsi added, "The ‘Buy & Try 30-DayGuarantee’ is evidence that as a tire

company, BFNT is not just trying to hookconsumers with a typical promotion. We arecommitted to the integrity of our brandsand their performance in the real world.And, we back that commitment with our

guarantee."So as BFNT makes the

offer, tell drivers to seizethe moment and testnew tires their way—they are guaranteed!

The “Buy & Try 30-Day Guarantee” doesnot apply to tires supplied as originalequipment on new vehicles or a selectnumber of performance or Run-Flat specialtytires. Consumers should check with theirBridgestone Firestone retailer for details.

Consumer

3Spring2006 inRoads

The 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miatahas been redesigned with drivers gettingthe benefit of choosing a Bridgestone Run-Flat fitment. Bridgestone®-brand Potenza™RE050A™ RFT performance tires are availableas an option on the new 2006 Mazda MX-5Miata. Bridgestone Corporation supplys thestylish roadster with the BridgestonePotenza RE050A RFT Run-Flat tires in size205/45R17 84W. For winter travel,Bridgestone also offers its Blizzak™ winterRun-Flat tires as an aftermarket replacementfor this model.

Since the very first Miata was brought tothe U.S. market in 1990, BridgestoneCorporation has been supplying tires toMazda. This first-ever Mazda Run-Flatfitment is the result of the long-termrelationship between the two companies.

"The MX-5 Miata is one of the best-sellingtwo-seater sports cars in the world, and it'sexciting to secure this Run-Flat fitment onsuch a high-profile vehicle," said Michael

Martini, president, original equipmentconsumer tire division, Bridgestone FirestoneNorth American Tire, LLC. "Our Run-Flat tireproduct fitments continue to grow amongthe original equipment manufacturers, andthe Potenza RE050A RFT delivers the exactperformance requirements demanded byMazda for this redesigned classic."

Providing high performance handling forthe third generation MX-5 Miata, theBridgestone Potenza RE050A RFT tires comeloaded with race-proven technology: thecompany's exclusive UNI-T® technology foroutstanding wet and dry traction, a treadpattern that promotes rapid waterevacuation, variable dimensions in the treadblocks, and a smooth shape to reduce roadnoise. An asymmetrical tread pattern in theRE050A increases surface contact toenhance acceleration and cornering.

The Bridgestone Potenza RE050A RFTcarries a UTQG rating of 140 for treadwear,‘A’ for traction and ‘A’ for temperature.

Bridgestone's First Mazda Run-FFlat Fitment Found on 2006 Mazda MX-55 MiataOE

Members of the Bigfootmonster truck family will continue to gearup with Firestone®-brand tires through 2010thanks to a sponsorship agreement recentlyannounced by Bridgestone Firestone NorthAmerican Tire, LLC.

Since 1991, Team Bigfoot hasbeen using Firestone-brand tiresexclusively on its fleet ofmonster trucks. "The tires'construction and tread patternprovide unmatched traction anddurability," says Jim Kramer, vicepresident of operations forBigfoot 4X4, Inc. "We can'timagine running our trucks onanything else."

In addition to running onFirestone tires since 1991, Team Bigfoot hasused Firestone-themed monster truck bodiessince 1997, starting with the introduction ofthe Firestone Wilderness Bigfoot truck.

As part of Firestone's 100th anniversary in2000, Bigfoot unveiled the FirestoneCentennial paint scheme on Bigfoot 15. The

vehicle then went on to win the inauguralchampionship of the ISC/Truxpo-ProfessionalMonster Truck (ProMT) Racing Series.

"Firestone tires have played a huge role inhelping Bigfoot win more than 10championships in monster truck racing,"said Bob Trent, vice president ofsponsorships and events for Bigfoot 4X4,Inc. "Firestone tires help us win!"

With the launch of the FirestoneDestination-brand of light truck tires in 2003,Bigfoot unveiled a Firestone Destination paintschemed monster truck (pictured at left),which continues to tour the country today.

Aside from the Firestone Destination racevehicle, Bigfoot also maintains a dedicatedFirestone Destination display truck that visitsFirestone retail stores throughout the year topromote the Bigfoot/Firestone relationship.In 2004 alone, the Bigfoot fleet logged 517display days at Firestone dealerships, withanother 505 days in 2005. Do you wantBigfoot to help you promote your event?Call John Robinson at (615) 937-3545 fordetails.

Crunching the Competition: Bridgestone Firestone and Team BigfootConsumer

BridgestoneFirestone “Inthe News”

…More to Come! Check out what TEN

Magazine had to say about thenew Firestone Destination A/T:

"Bridgestone Firestone hastaken the all-terrain tire to newperformance levels with thecompany's Destination A/T.Available in 24 sizes, for 14- to17-inch rims, and in twodifferent speed ratings, theDestination A/T is just what thedoctor ordered for those folkswhose rigs see more pavementpounding than hard-core offroading." — Joe Daniels for TENMagazine

(TEN Magazine and TheEnthusiast Network — Corona,Calif.)

News

4 inRoads Spring2006

HappyAnniversaryIt was a festive

atmosphere in Blair, Neb., whenRoger Howland, owner ofCountry Tire in Blair, invited hiscommunity out to celebrateCountry Tire's grand re-opening—expanding from oneservice bay to five—andcommemorating his dealership's20th anniversary as a Firestonedealer.

Dealers

Four Bridgestone-BBrand Tires NamedCConnsummerrs Digest "Best Buys"Consumers Digest editors

added Bridgestone®-brand products to theirlist of tire "Best Buys" more times and inmore product segments than they did anyother tire brand.

The "Best Buys" list that appears in themagazine's February 2006 issue lists aBridgestone-brand tire in four tirecategories: touring, performance, lighttruck/SUV tires all-purpose and sport. The"Best Buy" designation indicates theseproducts offer the best value for theirprice—a designation awarded, on average,to fewer than 3 percent of competingmodels in any given product category.

"We're thrilled to have so many of ourtires in such a broad selection of categoriessingled out for special attention as 'BestBuys'," said Phil Pacsi, executive director,North American consumer tire marketing,Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire,LLC. "Having them recognized by anindependent source speaks volumes aboutthe superior quality of our products."

The editors collect information frommany sources to reach their conclusions,including independent testing and research

facilities, governmentagencies, consumersurveys, service outlets,independent technicalexperts, as well as their own hands-onexaminations.

The Bridgestone-brand tires that earnedspots on the list, and what Consumers Digesthad to say about them, included:

• Bridgestone Turanza™ LS-H (touringtire category)"packs every punch that Bridgestoneoffers"

• Bridgestone Potenza™ G009(performance tire category)"Bridgestone's venerable Potenza ismore than a brand; it's tire science fromthe racing world"

• Bridgestone Dueler™ H/L Alenza(light truck/SUV all-purpose tire category)"offers great value in a modern, provenand capable package"

• Bridgestone Dueler H/P (sport tirecategory)"offers great highway performance as itdelivers sports car-like handling"

Consumer

2006 Drive & Learn Program: A Great EducationThe 2006 Drive & Learnprogram is off to a great

start, and Bridgestone Firestone NorthAmerican Tire, LLC, hopes to see you soon!New tires from the Bridgestone®-brand tireline will be featured and put to the test onvarious courses, including wet handling.Dealers, media and Bridgestone Americasteammates will be guided through a seriesof performance evaluations by professionaldriving instructors, as participants learn howeach tire's attributes compare withcompetitive tires in the marketplace.

As part of its ongoing educational efforts,BFNT this year will have staff-trainedtechnical experts present at the Drive &Learn events to better serve the dealers. Participants will evaluate:

• Bridgestone Potenza™ RE960AS PolePosition with UNI-T® AQII ™ Technology.On 2006 BMW 325i sedans,Bridgestone's all-season ultra-high

performance/high performance tires willbe compared to a competitive tire on awet autocross course.

• Also on BMW 325i sedans, the ultra-high performance Bridgestone PotenzaRE050A Pole Position with UNI-TTechnology will be featured in a LeManscompetition.

• Bridgestone Turanza™ EL 400 with UNI-T Technology. Fitted on 2006 PontiacG6 models, these Bridgestone tires willbe evaluated against competitive tires ona wet autocross course.

Education2006 Upcoming Drive & Learn Regional Events*City DateAtlanta April 27, 28Charlotte, N.C. May 16, 17Rochester/Syracuse, N.Y June 1, 2Boston June 7, 8Philadelphia July 27, 28Columbus, Ohio August 3, 4Chicago August 24, 25St. Louis August 30, 31Denver September

21, 22San Francisco October 4, 5Dallas October 26, 27

*Subject to change

5Spring2006 inRoads

BFNT Supports American Honda’s Launch of New Street Bike More than 20 journalists got

a chance to see and learn about the newestultra-high performance street bike fitted with

a Bridgestone®-brand tire.American Honda'smotorcycle divisionasked BridgestoneFirestone NorthAmerican Tire, LLCto attend the eventand help showcasethe 2006 HondaCBR1000RR bike.

During theevent at a racetrack nearBakersfield, Calif.,

BFNT teammates Bob Graham and SteveTurner, representatives from Bridgestone

Corporation and a BFNT service crewprepped 136 tires for use on the HondaCBR1000RR. The bike generatesapproximately 160 horsepower and weighsa mere 400 pounds.

At the event, Honda made a presentationto showcase the technical aspects of thenew model. Shortly thereafter, Graham gavea presentation about Bridgestone, its racingsuccess and the new tires that come asoriginal equipment on the new model. Themorning session was run on the BridgestoneBattlax™ BT015 original equipment tire, andthe afternoon session was run on anoptional Bridgestone Battlax BT002 tire.

Journalists from a variety of national andregional publications attended the event.The Speed Channel also attended, filmingfor their motorcycle show "Two WheelTuesday."

Motorsports

2006 Honda CBR1000RR withBridgestone Battlax BT015 tires

Aiken County Facility Celebrates 50 Millionth TireIn a celebration attended bySouth Carolina Gov. Mark

Sanford and Mark Emkes, BridgestoneAmericas Holding, Inc. (BSAH) andBridgestone Firestone North American Tire,LLC chairman and CEO, the team at BFNT'sAiken County plant celebrated themanufacture of its 50 millionth tire. Theteam also announced a multimillion dollarcapital investment in the facility, located inGraniteville, S.C.

"We are committed to improving the soilconditions for businesses in South Carolinaso companies like Bridgestone Firestone canthrive and grow," said Gov. Sanford. "This isall a part of continuing to build on ourefforts to make the state more attractive tobusinesses as well as focusing on raisingincome levels for all South Carolinians."

With this capital investment of nearly $17million, the plant will add a fourth rubbermixer to the facility and modify five tireassembly systems to increase the plant'sability to meet the market demand forworld-class tires with larger rim sizes.

"This multimillion dollar investment is anexciting step for our company. It is alsoevidence of our strong commitment to theAiken County community and our promiseto continue to improve quality, processes

and systems in order to meet the needs ofour consumers," Emkes said.

In November 2005, the Aiken Countyfacility celebrated two million hours workedwithout a "lost time" injury and has beenrecognized as an Occupational Safety andHealth Administration (OSHA) VoluntaryProtection Program (VPP) STAR (SafetyThrough Accountability and Recognition)facility for its outstanding safety and healthmanagement. Since it opened in 1998, thefacility has earned the South CarolinaGovernor's Quality Award, the SouthCarolina Large Manufacturer of the YearAward and was honored as one of IndustryWeek's Top Ten Plants in North America.

News

Pictured (l-r) are Mike Rose, BFNT AikenCounty plant manager; Duke Nishiyama,BSAH and BFNT vice chairman andpresident; Mark Emkes, BSAH and BFNTchairman and CEO; South Carolina Gov.Mark Sanford; and John Stewart, AikenCounty plant operations manager.

South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford signs AikenCounty's 50 millionth tire.

6 inRoads Spring2006

When looking for a newsport utility vehicle, Bridgestone®-brand tireaficionados will have one more option asthe 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser now hasBridgestone-brand Dueler™ H/T 840™ tiresas its original equipment fitment.Bridgestone Corporation will supply DuelerH/T 840 tires in size P265/70R17 113S forthe Toyota vehicle.

The all-new FJ Cruiser is a modern, youth-aimed sport utility vehicle based on nearly ahalf-century tradition of rugged Toyotaperformance provided by the legendary FJ40, the original 4Runner and 4x4 compactpickups.

"We're honored to be part of this excitingreincarnation of the FJ line of Toyotavehicles," said Michael Martini, president,original equipment consumer tire division,Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire,LLC. “Bridgestone Corporation worked hardto develop a tire specifically engineered forthe needs of this new generation SUV. Thisfitment is a result of our global company's

long-standing relationship with Toyota, andwe look forward to continuing our role as aprimary original equipment supplier to theautomaker's line of vehicles."

The Bridgestone Dueler H/T 840 tire, partof the extensive Dueler light truck tire line,is designed for SUV and light truck ownerswho want the best of bothworlds—a powerful grip onthe most rugged routes anda civilized ride on thehighway. The tire features acomputer designed all-season tread for outstandingwet weather traction andquiet ride, an extra deeptread for extended tire life,and a rounded casing profileto deliver a smooth ride.

The Bridgestone DuelerH/T 840 tire in size P265/70R17 113S carriesan ‘S’ speed rating and a UTQG rating of300 for treadwear, ‘B’ for traction and ‘B’ fortemperature.

High Profile Fitment is Original Equipment for the Young and the Young at HeartOE

Ben Labaree is a man on amission. A pursuit that began

with his wife Sandy's love for Corvettes andher battle with cancer has continued as atour across America. After traveling close to200,000 miles, the need for continuedcancer awareness keeps Labaree on the road.

Sandy Labaree was betweenchemotherapy treatments for a recurringfight with breast cancer when, in 1997, sheformulated a plan to take her battle with thedisease and the work of the AmericanCancer Society on the road. So began theCorvettes Conquer Cancer Tour in theLabarees' 1997 torch red C5 Corvette.

Sandy and Ben's adventures took them to43 states and across 50,000 miles ofAmerica as they visited Corvette shows tospeak about the importance of early cancerdetection, awareness and prevention. All thewhile they raised funds for the AmericanCancer Society.

Sadly, in March of 2000, Sandy lost herfight with breast cancer. In memory of hercourage and charity, the Tour has continuedunder the guidance of her loving husband,

Ben, and the American Cancer Society.Ben's journey continues today with the

help of many supporters, includingBridgestone Firestone North American Tire,LLC. In all of his travels, Ben has come toappreciate the importance of durable, reliableequipment needed to hold up on the longtrips. Which is whyhe turned to BFNT.

In 2001, heapproached BFNTabout exchanginghis then currenttires for theFirestone®Firehawk™ SZ50™Run-Flat tires. ForBen, the change intire was"immediate andamazing," and ever since, he has been anardent supporter of BFNT's products.

BFNT is proud to be a sponsor of such anextraordinary cause and looks forward tomany more years of service to Sandy and BenLabaree's Corvettes Conquer Cancer Tour.

Corvettes Conquering CancerNews

Ben Labaree works at a stop on theCorvettes Conquer Cancer Tour.

7Spring2006 inRoads

Bridgestone Potenza Concept Tires Featured at Detroit Auto ShowTwo concept vehicles that

were displayed in January at the 2006 NorthAmerican International Auto Show in Detroitwere equipped with custom-madeBridgestone® Potenza™tires.

The unique Bridgestone-brand tires were built incooperation with Mazdaand Infiniti, respectively,each of which designed thefeatured vehicles.

"We're honored to showcase our designcapabilities in tandem with the originalequipment manufacturers' best andbrightest vehicle ideas at this premiereautomotive show," said Michael Martini,president, original equipment consumer tiredivision, BridgestoneFirestone North AmericanTire, LLC. "Concept tires aresimilar to an artist's blankcanvas, allowing us aplatform to feature ideasthat go beyond currentthinking."

The two concept vehicles were: • Mazda KABURA Compact Sports

Coupe Concept. This dynamicallystyled coupe has the practicality and

affordability that youthcan yearn for and afford.The rear-wheel drivevehicle was fitted with19" front and 20" rearBridgestone Potenzahigh-performance tiresthat feature Run-Flattechnology. Workingclosely with Mazda's

design team in California, theasymmetrical concept tires weredesigned at the company's AkronTechnical Center in Akron, Ohio, andwere made in Japan.

• Infiniti Coupe Concept. This conceptvehicle was fitted withBridgestone Potenzatires in size 255/35R20front and 275/35R20rear. These sophisticatedtires with anasymmetrical treadpattern were designedand made in Japan.

IndependentTire DealersContinue to

Dominate Tire Salesin United States

Independent tire dealers inthe United States account for59.5 percent of domesticpassenger tire retail sales,according to Modern Tire Dealer's2006 Facts Issue. In 2004,independent dealers represented59 percent of the market. Autodealerships also increased theirmarket share from 3 percent in2004 to 3.5 percent in 2005.Retail sales of large tire dealers,defined as independent tiredealers with 30 or more retailoutlets, make up 36.7 percent ofthe 59.5 percent, or 21.9 percentof the $16-billion replacementpassenger tire market in the U.S.That compares to 34.9 percentand 20.6 percent, respectively, in2004.

(Modern Tire Dealer—Akron,Ohio - Jan. 20, 2006)

News News

2006 Driver’s Edge ProgramDriver's Edge may be comingto a city near you. In 2006,

Driver's Edge will travel to 16 U.S. cities toteach classroom and behind-the-wheelaccident avoidance instruction to teendrivers. To date, nearly 20,000 young driversand their parents have attended the free,half-day Driver's Edge program sponsoredby Bridgestone Americas. The program is

taught by professional racecar drivers andperformance driving instructors and offers afun, interactive and educational day foryoung drivers and parents as well.

Drivers, aged 15 to 21 possessing a validlearner's permit or license, must register inadvance for the program either by phone at1-877-633-EDGE (3343), or online atwww.driversedge.org.

Education2006 UpcomingDriver’s Edge Events*City DateAtlanta April 29Charlotte, N.C. May 13, 14Syracuse, N.Y. June 3Richmond, Va. June 17Nashville, Tenn. July 8, 9Philadelphia July 29Columbus, Ohio August 5Chicago August 26Denver September 23Sacramento, Calif. October 7Dallas October 28

*Subject to change

Talking Tires to StudentsT.J. Tennent, engineering

product manager for motorcycle, ATV, Kartand Fuzion for Bridgestone Firestone NorthAmerican Tire, LLC, talks to students at thePowersports Institute inCleveland, Ohio, during a recentpresentation. Tennent spoke to anenthusiastic group of 60 students aboutmotorsports tire safety, maintenance andtire construction.

Education

8 inRoads Spring2006

Bridgestone Americas Showcases Six New Tires at the Chicago Auto ShowProving that a great tire

company can roll with the world's premierautomobile makers, Bridgestone Americascreated one of the must-see attractions atthe 2006 Chicago Auto Show. The exclusivetire company of the Chicago Auto Show forthe third consecutive year, BSA’s exhibitreflected the company’s core values of trust,innovation and safety.

In addition to appearances by racinglegend Mario Andretti and current Indy500® Champion Dan Wheldon, thecompany's exhibit featured technologicallyadvanced products, interactive tire displaysand one of the most important pieces ofmotorsports history—the 1911 MarmonWasp which Ray Harroun drove to victoryon Firestone®-brand tires in the very firstIndianapolis 500® Mile Race. Also making anappearance were former University of IllinoisAll American Brad Hopkins, a two-time Pro-Bowler for the Tennessee Titans, and SusanRobertson, the fastest woman on amotorcycle.

The company's successes in racing, aswell as its commitment to driver safety andeducation, have led to a steady stream ofnew products that incorporate the latesttechnology for superior performance, looksand safety. The Bridgestone Americas boothserved as a stage for launching thefollowing new products during the show:

For drivers who want the thrill andhandling of a sports car and the comfortand presence of their SUV or light truck, thisis what you've been looking for. Featuresand benefits of the all new Bridgestone®Dueler™ H/P Sport include:

• Wet performance. UNI-T® AQII™Technology provides superior wetperformance when the tire is new andas it wears.

• Improved premium tire appearance.Pairing non-vent and Ever-Black™technologies, the Bridgestone DuelerH/P Sport complements the premiumSUV or light truck.

The Bridgestone Dueler H/P Sport has aUTQG rating of 300 for treadwear, ‘A’ fortraction and ‘A’ for temperature.

If you have a need for speed, thisextreme, max ultra-high performancesummer tire is the tire that truly brings thetechnology from the racetrack to yourvehicle.

• Handling Response. A semi-slickshoulder block provides lateral stiffnessfor advanced cornering force and gripon dry surfaces as well as a wide centerrib for outstanding initial handlingresponse.

• Tread pattern. Cooling slits engineeredin the tread help dissipate heat andmake the tire more durable under high-speed, high-temperature conditions.

• Cornering. Racing slits allocated to theshoulder block for flexibility enable thetire to distribute uniform pressure tothe contact patch when cornering.

• Wet performance. Hydro EvacuationSurface™ technology with wide lateralgrooves on either side of the center riband F1 Nose™ slots enhance waterevacuation. UNI-T AQII Technology anda high silica content also enhance wetperformance.

The Bridgestone Potenza™ RE-01R carriesa UTQG rating of 140 for treadwear, ‘A’ fortraction and ‘A’ for temperature. The V- andW-speed rated tires will be availablebeginning April 2006.

This is the perfect tire for the ultra-highperformance enthusiast on a summerdrive…across town or across the finish line.Features and benefits of the BridgestonePotenza RE050A Pole Position include:

• Wet performance. In addition to thesuperior dry performance, UNI-T AQII

Technology and a high silica contentenhance wet performance.

• Tread pattern. The asymmetrical treadpattern increases surface contact toenhance acceleration and cornering.

Consumer

During First Look for Charity, 2005 Indy500 winner Dan Wheldon (l), herejoined by BFNT’s Mike Sigillito, was onhand to showcase Wheldon’s Indy 500-winning race car as well as his new2006 vehicle.

Fans get a rare glimpse of the 1911Marmon Wasp—the first car to win theIndianapolis 500 Mile Race and the firstof many to do so on Firestone tires.

Bridgestone Dueler H/P SportBridgestone Potenza RE050A Pole Position

Bridgestone Americas creates a buzz atthe Chicago Auto Show with an exhibitfull of history, technology andbreakthroughs.

Bridgestone Potenza RE-01R

With the advantages of all-seasoncapability in an ultra-high performance tire,this tire provides the features you need withthe style you crave. Features and benefits ofthe Bridgestone Potenza RE960AS PolePosition include:

• Premium appearance. Non-venttechnology improves tire's appearance.

• Wet performance. UNI-T AQII

Technology provides superior wetperformance when the tire is new andas it wears.

• Snow and dry performance. Advancedsiping and arc shape leading edgeprovides superior handling in summerand winter weather.

• Handling response. 3D shapeimproves handling response.

The Bridgestone Potenza RE960AS PolePosition has a UTQG rating of 400 fortreadwear, ‘AA’ for traction and ‘A’ fortemperature and provides coverage for awide range of traditional performancevehicles as well as including 19" and 20"sizes for the latest sports cars andperformance sedans.

Larger sizes and wider footprints are inhigh demand for today's tire market, andthe newest extension of the Firestone familyof tires ensures that consumers can be onthe cutting edge of that trend. Features andbenefits of the Firestone FR710 include:

• Wider footprint. Improvesperformance.

• Expanded rim diameters. For the sleeklook consumers demand.

• UNI-T Technology. Provides improvedwet handling and a quiet, comfortableride.

The Firestone FR710 has a UTQG rating of560 for treadwear, ‘A’ for traction and ‘B’ fortemperature.

Drivers who love to personalize theirvehicles with the hippest after-marketproducts nowhave the abilityto transform avehicle's entirelook with theturn of a“tattooed” tire.

The Fuzion™XTi offers dualsidewall optionsgivingenthusiasts the ability to reflect theirpersonal style by simply flipping sides toexpose an alternative image. One side of theFuzion XTifeatures a tribalrendering whichclosely resemblestattoos popularwith members ofGeneration X andY. While the flipside of theFuzion XTireveals a blazingring of flames.

Visitors to www.TheFuzionZone.com canfind product and size information on thenew Fuzion XTi, Fuzion ZRi and Fuzion HRitires, a store locator, downloadable logos,warranty information and project vehiclephotos including the newest member of theFuzion family, the 2006 Jeep "Con-Fuzion"Rubicon.

Indy 500® and Indianapolis 500® Mile Race are registered

trademarks of Brickyard Trademarks, Inc.

9Spring2006 inRoads

Susan Robertson, the fastest woman ona motorcycle and one of only twowomen to exceed the 200-mph landspeed mark, was at the BridgestoneAmericas’ booth to sign autographs. TheBridgestone tire-equipped motorcycleshe revved into the history books wasdisplayed throughout the Chicago AutoShow at the Bridgestone Americas’booth.

While working at Bridgestone Americas’Chicago Auto Show booth this year, MarioAndretti takes a moment to do atelevision interview. Andretti was at thisyear’s booth providing his personal insightabout Firestone tires—both on and offthe racetrack.

Potenza RE960AS Pole Position

Firestone FR710

Fuzion XTi

10 inRoads Spring2006

Party at the Pagoda with Firestone at the 2007 Indianapolis 500 Mile RaceIs racing in your customers'

blood? Does experiencing the spirit of theIndianapolis 500® Mile Race and attending"The Greatest Spectacle in Racing," top theirlist of dreams? Do they want to party in theshadow of theworld-famousBombardierPagoda, whichstands alongsidethe legendary 2.5mile oval at theIndianapolisMotor Speedway®? Your customers mightget a chance to do just that.

Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire,LLC is launching a promotion this spring insupport of the Firestone® Firehawk™, the tirethat was "Born at Indy® and PerformsEverywhere™." Consumers can register to winthe grand prize, a trip for 10 to attend the2007 Indy 500® Mile Race, simply by visitingany participating Firestone retailer from May1 to June 25, 2006. On July 15, 2006, at theFirestone Indy 200 in Nashville, Tenn.,winners will be randomly selected fromentries submitted at participating retailers.

"The Firestone Indy 500 Pagoda PartySweepstakes is a chance of a lifetime toattend 'The Greatest Spectacle in Racing',"said Phil Pacsi, executive director, NorthAmerican consumer tire marketing, BFNT."This year marks the 90th running of theIndianapolis 500, so we wanted to dosomething special to help commemoratethis milestone, as well as salute theFirestone brand's rich history, which spansmore than a century. This sweepstakes

highlights the brand's strong connection tothe Brickyard, as well as its role in thehistory of the famed track."

In fact, Firestone has won more races atIndy than all of the other tire manufacturers

combined."Firestone has

been a longtimepartner of theSpeedway, andour relationshipcontinues tobe very

successful on and off the track," saidTerry Angstadt, vice president, marketing,Indianapolis Motor Speedway. "We thankFirestone for creating the Firestone Indy500 Pagoda Party Sweepstakes as asalute to both the 90th running of theIndianapolis 500 and to the fans whohave watched Firestone tires carrydriving legends to victory at Indianapolisfor nearly a century."

Additional sweepstakes prizesinclude a first place prize of acollectible Tag Heuer Indy 500 watch,five second place prizes of a set of fourFirestone Firehawk Indy 500 tires and 10third place prizes of a framed, limitededition Indy 500 90th Anniversarycommemorative art piece which includesimages from the legendary venue as well asa piece of the historic Brickyard.

Consumers should see their participatingBridgestone Firestone retailer for officialrules and entry.Indy®, Indy 500®, Indianapolis 500® Mile Race and IndianapolisMotor Speedway® are registered trademarks of BrickyardTrademarks, Inc.

News

30 Years of Dedication!Jason Cone of Washington RoadTire & Auto proudly displays hisplaque in

celebration of his 30 years as aBridgestone Firestone dealer. Inthe front row, Ken East (l) andAlan Hutto (r), retailBridgestone Firestone area salesmanagers, presented Cone witha plaque and a Bridgestonewrist watch in honor of thisspecial anniversary. Cone’scareer in the tire business beganat a Bridgestone Firestonecompany-owned store.

Also present for the celebration, (back row, l-r) areRay Cloud of Washington Road Tire & Auto, David

McBride ofAmerican TireDistributorsand RobertThompson ofAmerican TireDistributors.Thank you,Jason, for 30years of loyaltyand hardwork!

Dealers

11Spring2006 inRoads

Bridgestone Firestone Canadarepresentative Michele Amirault, left,presents Andrew Marshall his grand prizein the fourth annual BridgestoneFirestone Canada Photo Contest for hisentry, "Emergency Vehicles" at right.

The 2007DodgeCaliber

Finds the Perfect Fitwith Firestone

The 2007 Dodge Caliberenhances its strength and stancewith Firestone®-brand Affinity™T4™ and Firestone-brandFirehawk™ GTA03™ tires. Thefive-door vehicle combines asporty coupe-like profile with thefunctionality of a sport utilityvehicle.

Bridgestone Firestone NorthAmerican Tire, LLC will supplyDaimlerChrysler's Dodge Caliberwith the Firestone Affinity T4 insize P215/60R17 95T and theFirestone Firehawk GTA03 in sizeP215/55R18 94T.

The Firestone Affinity is a T-speed rated, all-season touringoriginal equipment tire and theFirestone Firehawk is a T-speedrated, all-season performanceoriginal equipment tire.

OE

Ryerson University Student Wins BridgestoneFirestone Canada Photo ContestAndrew Marshall,

student at Ryerson University inToronto, is the winner of thefourth Bridgestone FirestoneCanada Photo Contest. Theannual contest chargesparticipants to photograph aBridgestone®-brand tire in anartistic manner, resulting in aninnovative way to view the blackrubber circles in new context.

Marshall's "Emergency Vehicles"entry earned him the top prize of$2,000 for submitting the bestphoto of all entries and $1,500 asthe Ryerson winner. Marshall is apart-time student enrolled in the

G. Raymond Chang School ofContinuing Education's Certificatein Photography Studies atRyerson University.

"I am grateful to BridgestoneFirestone Canada for making thispossible and for providing thenext wave of professionalphotographers the opportunity todisplay our abilities," said Marshallin accepting his prize at theSystem 4 Gallery, a Toronto fine

arts and photography gallery, where thisyear's 12 winning photos were on displaythrough February.

The competition was impressive, with 12schools across Canada enrolled in this year's

contest. The Bridgestone Photo Contestreceived 255 creative photo submissionsfrom 137 photography students.

Three judges, representing the disciplinesof automotive journalism, automotivephotography and professional photography,were enlisted this year to evaluate thephotos. They were Norris McDonald, theOntario editor for the Toronto Star; AndrewRoss, editor and publisher of the automotivemagazine Jobber News; and Irv Kochman, aprofessional photographer and co-owner ofSystem 4 Gallery.

All winning photos, including theprevious years' winners, can be viewed onthe Bridgestone Firestone Canada PhotoContest Web site atwww.bridgestonephoto.com.

Canada

A Volunteer EffortWith the help of ArtSchneider, senior field

engineer of Bridgestone Firestone NorthAmerican Tire's North-Central Region, BFNT'sdistribution center in Allentown, Penn.,stretched the dollars of the FogelsvilleVolunteer Fire Company by donating a setof six tires for Engine 811. Pictured (l-r) infront of the engine are Mark Reardon,Allentown distribution center manager; BillWolford, Fogelsville Volunteer Fire Companyfire chief; and Grant Grim, Upper MacungieTownship fire marshal. “After only a few runson the new tires, my operators were pleasedwith the improved handling,” commentedWolford.

Truck & Bus

12 inRoads Spring2006

Bridgestone Firestone535 Marriott DriveNashville, TN 37214

Spring 2006

inRoads is a publication producedby the North American ConsumerTire and North American Truck & BusTire Groups of Bridgestone FirestoneNorth American Tire, LLC for thebenefit of our customers.

We welcome and encourage comments about inRoadsor Bridgestone Firestone and the industry in general. Comments,suggestions and requests forinformation should be sent to:

Susan SizemorePublic AffairsBridgestone Americas Holding, Inc.535 Marriott Dr.Nashville, TN 37214sizemoresusa@bfusa.com615/937-1417

© 2006 Bridgestone Firestone

Where’s Mario...?

It seems likeMario Andretti iseverywhere rightnow! From yourTV screens wherehe is featured ina series ofFirestonetelevisioncommercialsurging everyoneto "Check YourTires" to

promoting the new Safety Scholars programat the Chicago Auto Show.

Safety Scholars is an important newcomponent of Firestone's comprehensivesafety education project. Students across thecountry are invited to visit

www.safetyscholars.com,which will debut inconjunction with National TireSafety Week, April 23-29,2006. The site will allowstudents to download safetyinformation—and just asimportantly—submit theirideas about the best way toeducate young drivers on tireand driving safety. Studentssubmitting the top ideas willwin $2,500 collegescholarships and laptop computers.

In addition to appearing on television andat the Chicago Auto Show, Andretti made avisit to Hutchinson Community College inKansas to present at the Dillon LectureSeries to technical students.

Where’sMario

...in Hutchinson, Kan.

...at the Chicago Auto Show.