The Goodyear Tire & Rubber
Company (NYSE: GT) announced today it will add a third product offering in
its popular, award-winning Assurance(R) line of tires. The announcement was
made during the Goodyear Dealer Conference, an annual gathering of the
company's North American retail network.
The new tire, named Assurance, is a mid-tier product in Goodyear's
passenger tire family, joining the brand's two premium offerings in that
segment: Assurance ComforTred(TM) and Assurance TripleTred(TM). The new
tire will initially be offered in 27 sizes at Goodyear retail outlets and
independent tire dealerships by the end of March.
The Assurance is available in tire sizes ranging from 15- to 17-inch
rim diameters. The initial size offering covers 80 percent of the targeted
vehicle group, and includes popular vehicles, such as the Chevrolet Malibu,
Ford Taurus, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry and many more.
Goodyear's market-back research has shown that the targeted consumers
are looking for a high quality tire at a good value, with wet traction
listed as one of their top needs.
"Our target consumer is the middle-class 'everyday driver' who values a
dependable tire, at an affordable price," said Joey Viselli, Goodyear brand
director. "These consumers do not want to have to worry about their tires.
They want to rely on their tires to get them where they need to go, in rain
or shine."
A Wet Tread Zone in the center portion of the tire features Dual
Aquachannel(TM) grooves, and a Dry Tread Zone in the outer tread has strong
shoulder blocks. These elements combine to help deliver enhanced traction
and responsive handling in both wet and dry weather conditions.
Circumferential shoulder grooves help promote even treadwear and biting
edges for traction in wet weather.
The new Assurance features a Uniform Tire Quality Grade rating of
620/A/B (in T speed-rated sizes) and 580/A/A in H speed-rated sizes).
Assurance will carry a 65,000-mile tread life limited warranty.
Assurance ComforTred carries an 80,000-mile tread life limited
warranty, and offers a luxurious ride for premium autos. A super-absorbent
layer between the tread and belt helps cushion vibrations, and a system of
densely packed tread blocks help provide a smooth and comfortable ride.
Assurance TripleTred, the winner of numerous design and performance
awards, has deeply carved Aquachutes(TM) to help propel water off the tread
and away from the tire. The tread features three zones, including a center
Ice Zone with a rubber compound that includes volcanic sand and glass
fibers to assist gripping performance.
Goodyear is one of the world's largest tire companies. The company
employs about 70,000 people and manufactures its products in more than 60
facilities in 26 countries around the world.
SOURCE The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
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