---

Goodyear Run-Flat Tires Run Flat-Out on BMW 540i 'Protection'

26 January 1999

Goodyear Run-Flat Tires Run Flat-Out on BMW 540i 'Protection'

    AKRON, Ohio, Jan. 26 -- Prestige German automaker BMW has
become the third auto manufacturer worldwide to approve Goodyear EMT run-flat
tires as original equipment on the BMW 540i "Protection" to be introduced
later this year.
    The new Goodyear Eagle NCT5 EMT run-flat tire, designed specifically for
the BMW 540i Protection, operates effectively without air up to 185 miles at
50 mph.  The 17-inch tire achieves run-flat capability without noticeable
tradeoffs in performance, handling or comfort, a prerequisite for BMW.
    The BMW fitment aligns with Goodyear's strategy to introduce run-flat
technology simultaneously in the original equipment and replacement tire
markets.
    "Goodyear continues to respond to automaker and consumer concerns about
tire performance capabilities, convenience and safety," said Sylvain Valensi,
vice president for Goodyear's Europe region.  "Our commitment to run-flat
capability on affordable, conventional wheels is paramount to the technology's
future."
    The tiremaker's run-flat tires, which fit conventional wheels, also come
as standard equipment on General Motors' Chevrolet Corvette and
DaimlerChrysler's Plymouth Prowler sports cars.  Replacement tire versions for
a large variety of passenger cars also are available in North America and
Europe.
    Valensi said Goodyear's run-flat tires on the BMW 540i Protection are a
natural.  "Owners of these vehicles seek increased security.  Roadside tire
changes and handling problems caused by rapid air loss are also eliminated,"
Valensi said.
    Goodyear run-flat technology features reinforced sidewalls that bear the
weight of the vehicle even when totally deflated.  The BMW 540i Protection
uses a low-pressure sensor system to alert drivers when a run-flat tire is
losing air, because the tire performs so similar without inflation, compared
to fully inflated, drivers might be unaware of the inflation loss.
    In 1992, Goodyear introduced the first original-equipment run-flat
application for conventional wheels as an option on the 1994 Corvette.  The
system worked so effectively that run-flat tires were specified as standard
equipment on the 1997 Corvette and 1997 Prowler.
    Thanks in part to tire reliability, Chevrolet and Plymouth eliminated the
spare tires, wheels and tire-changing equipment from these two vehicles.
Automotive News magazine even has named Goodyear and its run-flat tires as
finalists for its prestigious PACE Awards, recognizing automotive supplier
innovation and technology.