National Coverage Widens for First Stop Network
Michelin to Partner with Apollo Tyres in India
New European HQ for Kayaba
Goodyear to Delay 10-K/A Filing
Next Generation Golf Utilises Formula 1 Technology
Call Centre Changes at AA Tyre Fit
ETB launches New Centre in Worcester
Blackpool Cabbie Scoops £30,000 Fare in Michelin and Shell Promotion
Number 1 Formula for Vehicle Safety
Technic, Autopart and Zhong Nan Confirm for The Aftermarket Show
Goodyear Wins Global Supply Contracts with Volvo Group
STS Warrington Open Day
Charlie's Angels go Full Throttle on Firestone 'Tractor' Tyres
Ski Tyres Expands into Worcester

National Coverage Widens for First Stop Network

Two independent tyre dealerships have become the latest to join Bridgestone's First Stop network in the UK. Silverline Wheels and Tyres in Warwick and Harris Brothers in Swansea have joined forces with the Formula One tyre manufacturer and will now be looking to make the most of their association with the company that helped Michael Schumacher win his sixth world championship in 2003.

Silverline, on Nelson Lane, Warwick, specialises in supplying high performance wheels and tyres. Managing director Antony Barnsley said joining the First Stop network would mean a wider choice for customers. "Joining the First Stop scheme will strengthen the good relationship we've always had with Bridgestone and will assist us in continuing to offer competitive rates without compromising on the quality of our service," said Antony.

Harris Brothers, on Ystrad Road, Fforestfach, Swansea, was established more than 65 years ago and specialises in tyres, wheel alignment, batteries, and exhausts. Director Leighton Walker said; "We are proud of the variety of tyres we keep in stock and joining the First Stop scheme will further increase the choice we offer our customers. It will also help us continue to give customers a same-day service at value-for-money rates." Harris Brothers is well-known in the Swansea area with three depots in the region. It supplies tyres for a variety of vehicles from standard road, high performance, and four-wheeled drive cars, to commercial vehicles.

Michelin to Partner with Apollo Tyres in India

Michelin and the Indian tyre manufacturer Apollo Tyres Ltd have announced the signing of an agreement for the Indian market, whereby the two companies will set up a new joint venture company called Michelin Apollo Tyre Ltd for the manufacturing, marketing and sales of truck and bus radial tyres, as well as for the marketing and sales of other tyre ranges.

The agreement will also involve Michelin providing Apollo Tyres Ltd with technical assistance for the manufacture of Apollo passenger car radial tyres as well as Apollo marketing Michelin tyres in India. Michelin will have a 51% shareholding in the new company and Apollo 49%. The new venture will combine Michelin's technology and marketing know-how and Apollo's local market expertise, as well as one of the strongest distribution networks in the Indian tyre industry. The partners also plan to invest USD 70 million (approx. Rupees 3.22 billion) over the next four years to build a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.

The two companies said it would take 18-24 months to set up the plant, the location for which has not yet been decided. The new firm will begin importing tyres from April from one of Michelin's southeast Asian plants to seed the Indian market. As part of a broader agreement between Michelin and Apollo Tyres Ltd, the Apollo Board of Directors also approved Michelin's purchase of 14.9% of equity share capital by means of a preferential allotment from Apollo Tyres Ltd for USD 28 million (approx. Rs.1.29 billion)

Apollo, which has almost a quarter of India's tyre market, also said it had ended its existing technology supply agreement with Germany's Continental AG.

New European HQ for Kayaba

Japanese shock absorber manufacturer Kayaba has announced the opening of a new European headquarters in Krefeld, Germany. The new head office covers an area of 10,000 square metres and has a stockholding capacity of 350,000 components - twice what was available previously. The new facility replaces Kayaba's former headquarters at nearby Meerbusch, which was spread over five different sites and eases logistics by consolidating everything in one place.

Goodyear to Delay 10-K/A Filing

Goodyear has announced said that the filing of its amended 2002 Form 10-K/A with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission would be delayed until next year. An ongoing internal investigation has identified possible improper accounting issues in Europe, and the company is delaying the filing until it completes the review into those issues.

To date, there has been no determination whether this would have a material impact on the financial statements. In addition, the delay could impact the company's ability to satisfy an obligation to the United Steelworkers of America to raise $250 million in debt and $75 million in equity-linked financing by year-end.

Goodyear said its recently completed contract gives the USWA the right, but not the obligation, to strike after going through a grievance process if Goodyear does not complete these financings by the end of the year. The company has initiated discussions with the Steelworkers to explore mutually beneficial options that would include aggressively pursuing financing options, including capital market access, once the amended 2002 Form 10-K/A is filed.

Next Generation Golf Utilises Formula 1 Technology

The next generation Volkswagen Golf, the Mk V, looks set to follow in the traditions of previous models by becoming a popular sight on UK roads. And in keeping with the car's more dynamic image it will incorporate Formula 1 technology by fitting Bridgestone Potenza tyres as original equipment when it is launched in the UK in 2004.

Like other high-performance tyres in the Bridgestone Potenza family the RE050 utilises a racing car nose-shaped tread pattern, not only giving the Golf a sporty look, but also reducing the possibility of the car hydroplaning. Since its launch in 1974 the Golf has been a phenomenal success, out-selling all other models in Volkswagen history, with more than 22 million sold to date. The strong, safe chassis that has been present in all models since the Mk I will be backed up by other safety features such as ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme), six airbags, ABS, and five head restraints, all fitted as standard throughout the new range.

The Mk V Golf will, like its predecessors, come with a variety of different engine options, from sophisticated direct injection FSI petrol and TDI diesels at launch through to a 3.2 litre petrol V6, and a GTI version due out towards the end of the 2004.

Andy Lane, consumer marketing manager at Bridgestone UK, said: "It is encouraging to have Potenza tyres associated with such a timeless classic as the Golf. The RE050 tyres fitted on the Mk V will offer excellent grip and handling which compliments the style of the car perfectly."

Call Centre Changes at AA Tyre Fit

A higher level of service for fleets using AA Tyre Fit is being achieved following changes at its Coventry call centre. A reorganisation has seen the company's telephone operation divided into fleet and retail sections staffed by specialists in each area, recognising the particular needs of each customer group.

David Goodyear, General Manager of AA Tyre Fit, says: "Fleet customers have specific needs and concerns that are completely different from the retail sector, and it therefore makes sense for us to develop a team of fleet specialists within our call centre who are trained to excel in this particular area." An additional move will see ring-fenced teams created within the fleet call centre to handle key fleet customers such as major leasing companies and major manufacturers.

ETB launches New Centre in Worcester

Specialist motoring centre Exhausts Tyres and Batteries (ETB) is expanding by moving to new premises in Worcester. The company is moving its operation from Lowesmoor Trading Estate to a more central location in Farrier Street, Worcester. Farrier Street joins ETB's other successful Worcester operation in Hylton Road.

Managing director Chas Ivill said: "This is great news for Worcester motorists. The new site is centrally located and we will of course continue to offer customers the same high levels of service we are renowned for". The Farrier Street centre will offer motorists tyres, exhausts, brakes, batteries and shocks.

Blackpool Cabbie Scoops £30,000 Fare in Michelin and Shell Promotion

The first of a possible ten winners of the Michelin and Shell 'Win Dream Cars' promotion, matched his game cards to reveal Chrysler's brand new sports car and will take delivery of the very first Chrysler Crossfire to enter the UK. Blackpool taxi driver Frank Hall has already chosen the colour and specification of the dream car and in October will pick up his £30,000 3.2 V6 6-speed sapphire silver blue metallic Chrysler Crossfire, fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport high-performance tyres. Mr Hall has visited the same Shell Service Station for over 30 years and received a Shell Optimax 'Win Dream Cars' game card. He then matched a Michelin Pilot Sport tyre card to win his dream car.

There are still another nine dream cars to be won in the promotion. Customers who already have the Shell Optimax game card can pick up 'Win Dream Cars' cards at participating Michelin stockists, including Kwik-Fit, ATS Euromaster and independent tyre dealers who are part of the Michelin Business Advantage programme (MBA). If customers then match a Michelin tyre card to the correct dream car card, they win the car! Participating tyre stockists can be found on the Michelin web site, www.michelin.co.uk

"We are delighted that Mr Hall is our first winner and that his 30 years of customer loyalty has been rewarded. As a driver by profession he requires high performance from every aspect of his car which is why he selected Shell Optimax fuel and Michelin Pilot Sport tyres." explained Guillaume Lefèvre, Senior Brand Manager at Michelin UK.

Noel Kubala, Communications Manager, Shell UK said: "This promotion has been a fantastic success and it is always nice to see a happy winner. We are particularly pleased for Mr Hall because he has been a loyal customer for many years and he richly deserves his win".

Number 1 Formula for Vehicle Safety

Formula 1 Autocentres has launched a brand new website at 'www.f1autocentres.com', with a dynamic feature that is designed to keep the whole family extra safe in the future. The 'Free Reminder Service' enables visitors to the internet site to input their vehicle details which are then used to keep track of important periodic motoring dates such as road tax, insurance, MOT test and servicing. An alert email is then sent out to the registered user, prior to these key dates.

Paul Glencross, Managing Director, Formula 1 is confident this service is going to be extremely popular with UK motorists. He explained; "This feature to our new website is a brilliant way to ensure that your vehicle is both safe and legal for use on the roads and with up to five vehicles registered under one name, the whole family can be covered."

The new internet site also currently offers the lure of two tickets to the British Grand Prix 2004. Just answer the F1 trivia quiz to be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize. In addition to this competition, visitors to the site are able to access money saving vouchers, which can be printed out and used at any F1 autocentre.

Technic, Autopart and Zhong Nan Confirm for The Aftermarket Show

Retreader Technic will be making its first appearance at a UK show for a number of years, following its decision to sign up for The Aftermarket Show at the NEC, Birmingham next January. Martin Gledhill, managing director of the Burton-on-Trent based manufacturer said: "We haven't exhibited in the UK for some time, but with more than 80,000 visitors anticipated at next year's show we are excited by the prospect of reaching a new market for our products. It provides us with an excellent opportunity to promote the Technic brand to both trade buyers and motorsport enthusiasts. We'll be featuring our new Pulsar Evo tread pattern for high performance tyres, as well as products from the full range of 4x4 and passenger car tyres on the stand at The Aftermarket Show."

Joining Technic at the NEC will be wheel specialist Autopart Wheel & Tyre, the exclusive UK distributor for the Lenso, Ace and High Octane brands of alloys. The company will be using its appearance to launch 14 new products for the 2004 season, including alloys for wheel sizes up to 26". "We've had previous experience of the pulling power of the exhibition, which tells us that it's the ideal venue to promote our new ranges to wholesale customers," explained company director Darren Stevens.

Another new exhibitor will be Chinese wheel manufacturer Zhong Nan, which will be displaying its range of ZNA chrome and polished wheels in 12" to 22" size options.

Goodyear Wins Global Supply Contracts with Volvo Group

Goodyear has announced that it has reached global supply agreements to become a major tyre supplier to the Volvo Group in Europe and Brazil. Last month, Goodyear was named standard equipment tyre supplier for the Volvo Group's Volvo and Mack truck operations in North America. Goodyear, with the three-year contracts, will now be a key supplier to the Volvo Group's three major truck brands -- Mack, Renault and Volvo - on three continents.

Volvo, headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, is the world's second largest truck manufacturer. Goodyear tyres for the Volvo vehicles are produced at Goodyear plants in Danville, Va.; Topeka, Kan.; Colmar Berg, Luxembourg; Wittlich, Germany; Kranj, Slovenia; and Sao Paulo, Brazil. Goodyear will supply Volvo with products such as the Marathon LHS, the G397 and the new generation G395 LHS.

STS Warrington Open Day

A new STS Tyre & Exhaust depot in Warrington held its official open day recently, and the Mayor and Consort of Warrington, Councillor Pauline Nelson and Mr. David Spencer were joined by local rugby player, Gary Hulse, to officially open it to the public. Ed Davis, manager of the centre, which is based on Manchester Road, hopes that local people will pop into the centre with any car concerns. He says: "I'm very proud to be managing this centre in Warrington, and I'm confident people will love it.

STS Tyres & Exhausts carries out a wide variety of fast-fit services, including tyres, exhausts, batteries, brakes, shock absorbers and vehicle servicing. The Warrington centre becomes the company's 51st centre in the country.

Charlie's Angels go Full Throttle on Firestone 'Tractor' Tyres

The same tyre technology that is providing benefits in the field is also being used to provide Tinsel Town with jaw-dropping stunts. The Bigfoot Monster Truck team grab a moment of glory in the recent 'Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle' movie. In one opening scene, Drew Barrymore's character Dylan is seen leaping a number of vehicles in the Bigfoot truck.

Dan Runte of the Bigfoot team is featured on one of the DVD's documentaries talking about the special Firestone tyres - based on agricultural tyres. Dan explains that the 66-inch 23° Firestone flotation tyres that they now use, originated from Firestone agricultural tyres. They are slightly modified now, to reduce the lug depth, but they also feature six tread plies for greater stability.

Firestone has been supporting the Bigfoot team for over 10 years and was involved in Dan's 1999 world record-breaking long jump at 202 feet - over an airliner. Barry Coleman, Firestone's UK Product Manager commented, "The developments we have made in tyre manufacture means that our latest agricultural tyres, like the Radial 9000 Evolution range offer a number of benefits to farmers. Low soil compaction is one of the main reasons why farmers use 65 series tyres. A flat tread contour and the larger footprint of the R9000 Evolution bring even further improvements in this area. At the same time, a revised lug shape minimises soil disturbance. These tyres also provide a much greater ride quality for the driver, but we don't propose that you try leaping other trucks in them - that's best left to the Bigfoot team."

Ski Tyres Expands into Worcester

Ski Tyres, which operates tyre outlets in Cheltenham, Gloucester, Tewkesbury and Hereford, has now expanded into Worcester, by launching a mobile tyre fitting and repair service around the city. Pictured is Ski Tyres Managing Director Edward Kusznierski with one of the company's mobile vans.