CHICAGO (February 8, 2006) - You now have the ability to transform your vehicle’s entire look with the turn of a tire. The Fuzion™ brand, from Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire, LLC (BFNT) expands to welcome the third member of the product line, with the announcement of the Fuzion XTi, created specifically for the off-road and all-terrain enthusiast.

Sporting a blend of overall performance and aggressive styling, the Fuzion XTi offers tuner enthusiasts the ability to modify their vehicles’ look with the switch of a tire. The Fuzion XTi offers dual sidewall options giving enthusiasts the ability to reflect their personal style by simply flipping sides to expose an alternative image. One side of the Fuzion XTi features a tribal rendering which closely resembles tattoos popular with members of Generation X and Y. While the flip side reveals a blazing ring of flames. Much like the Fuzion ZRi, the first tire launched within the Fuzion family, the Fuzion XTi allows the freedom to reflect your personality through your tires.  

“We anticipate tremendous excitement and demand from auto enthusiasts and retailers with the introduction of the Fuzion XTi tire. Expanding this popular tire line to focus on the light truck market underscores our commitment to deliver additional options for consumers in the aftermarket,” said Phil Pacsi, executive director, consumer tire marketing, BFNT.

To meet the anticipated demand for this unique tire, the Fuzion XTi will be available in 9 sizes ranging from 16- to 18-inch with aspect rations of 75- to 60-series. The Fuzion XTi will be available to retail customers in August of 2006.

 “Collaborating with the new product introduction, our marketing strategy has also evolved. We’re reaching the youth market now with three Fuzion tires, reinforcing our mission to grow customers brand loyalty in a unique fashion while continuing to provide quality products,” said Pacsi. “To support the launch of the Fuzion ZRi, first in the Fuzion line, we used neon green in our ad campaigns and marketing materials to capture the attention of the enthusiast tuner. In 2005, the Fuzion HRi was showcased with bright neon-orange publicity material, and now, a vibrant purple will be featured in all advertising for the new Fuzion XTi.”

This new S- and T-speed rated Fuzion XTi tire is designed for the consumer who demands a unique style in the aftermarket without compromising comfort and affordability. Because this ‘look’ is so important to enthusiasts, BFNT enhanced the appearance of this distinctive tire to include a unique half-pipe tread design.

In 2004, BFNT created a Web site to promote the Fuzion tire line. Visitors to www.TheFuzionZone.com  can find product and size information on the new Fuzion XTi and Fuzion ZRi and HRi tires, a store locator, downloadable logos, warranty information and project vehicle photos including the newest member to the Fuzion family, the 2006 Jeep “Con-Fuzion” Rubicon, which will be on display at the 2006 Chicago Auto Show. “Con-Fuzion”is anything but tranquil, with its 285/60R18 XL Fuzion XTi tires, laser cut logos, custom brushed steel, candy coated headlights and bezels, custom built audio system, and 100hp nitrous port, and that’s naming a few customized accessories on the 2006 Jeep Rubicon. “Con-Fuzion” will join the Fuzion line-up at 2006 NOPI Nationals and Hot Import Nights venues. Visit www.TheFuzionZone.com for further details.