NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Jan. 26, 2005) – Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire, LLC (BFNT) has expanded its Firestone Transforce™ line of light truck and SUV tires to include the new Firestone Transforce™ AT with UNI-T® technology.

The Firestone Transforce AT is engineered to give commercial service vehicles all-terrain wet and dry performance with the advantage of the company’s exclusive UNI-T technology. The result – a chip and tear resistant tire with an aggressive tread design and rugged, all-terrain appearance. Constructed with a two-ply polyester body, steel belts and a full, spiral-wrap nylon cap ply, the M & S rated Firestone Transforce AT also features continuous shoulder ribs with deep shoulder slots.

“The Firestone Transforce AT was designed to satisfy the rugged, off-road demands that hard working service vehicles require while still providing on road performance,” said Phil Pacsi, executive director, North American Consumer Tire Brand Marketing, BFNT. "Our latest entry in the Transforce line also utilizes UNI-T technologies for long life as well as a comfortable ride.”

The introduction of the Firestone Transforce AT follows the SEMA 2004 introduction of the Firestone Transforce HT. The Firestone Transforce AT is now available in the seven popular 15- and 16-inch Load Range C, D and E sizes listed below. Additional sizes will be added to broaden the Transforce AT lineup throughout 2005.

LT215/85R16 115/112R E LT235/85R16 120/116R E LT235/75R15 104/101R C LT225/75R16 110/107R D

LT225/75R16 115/112R E LT245/75R16 120/116R E LT265/75R16 123/120R E

UNI-T is an acronym for Ultimate Network of Intelligent Tire Technology. It features three core elements: CO·CS®, a Computer Optimized Component System which allows design and manufacturing processes to work more cooperatively, leading to a more efficient tire that doesn't sacrifice one area of performance for improvements in another; O-Bead®, a more round structure that minimizes overlapped joints in the bead area for improved ride; and L.L. Carbon® (Long Link Carbon) which helps the rubber compound resist microscopic tread tearing related to wear.