TOKYO (Aug. 28)—Toyo Tire & Rubber Co. Ltd. is discussing alliances with Groupe Michelin and other leading tire makers covering development of run-flat tires. "Discussions are under way with several companies, and Michelin is one of them," a spokesman for the Japanese company said. "But we have not reached any final decision yet." The firm declined to comment beyond the spokesman's statement. Among the world's largest tire companies, only Toyo, Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. and Kumho Industrial Co. Ltd. are not linked into a run-flat development pact. Goodyear, Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd., Pirelli S.p.A. and Hankook Tire Co. Ltd. are working with Michelin to develop, produce and sell extended-mobility tires based on Michelin's Pax system, which involves a non-standard inverted bead tire and multipiece wheel.
Toyo discussing run-flat alliance with various tire makers
Letter
to the
Editor
Rubber & Plastics News wants to hear from its readers. If you want to express your opinion on a story or issue, email your letter to Editor Bruce Meyer at [email protected].