Bridgestone/Firestone clarifies status on 2002 Ford Explorer

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Sept. 29)—Faced with further media scrutiny on its status as an original equipment tire supplier for the 2002 Ford Explorer, Bridgestone/Firestone Inc. issued a second statement in as many days to clarify where it stands with Ford. The 2002 Explorer will be available in three tire sizes, and as of now Firestone will supply 100 percent of the P245/70R16 and P255/70R16 sizes, the company said. The P235/70R16 size will be split 50-50 between Firestone and Michelin North America Inc. "Based on those breakdowns, when the vehicle launches Michelin will supply 30 percent of the total domestic line," Bridgestone/Firestone said. "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."