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Bridgestone Firestone Announces Sponsorship Of Hybrid Celebration

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (July 20, 2006) - Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire, LLC (BFNT) is proud to be a premier sponsor and the sole tire supplier of the inaugural Hybridfest, the nation’s largest event dedicated to hybrid-electric vehicles.

Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire, LLC (BFNT) is proud to be a premier sponsor and the sole tire supplier of the inaugural Hybridfest, the nation’s largest event dedicated to hybrid-electric vehicles.

More than 100 hybrids – many fitted with Bridgestone® brand Ecopia™ tires – will be on display, including all 11 hybrid models currently on the market, and one-of-a-kind vehicles like the General Motors EV1.

“Bridgestone Firestone’s sponsorship of Hybridfest 2006 reflects the company’s commitment to bettering the environment. Hybrid technology will play an important role in reducing America’s dependence of oil and lowering global warming emissions,” said Phil Pacsi, vice president, North American Consumer Tire Marketing, BFNT. "We are proud that Bridgestone brand products have been selected as original equipment on several hybrid vehicles which are designed to minimize fuel use and environmental impact."

The Bridgestone Ecopia is specially designed for lower rolling resistance, with light-weight, high-strength construction. This maximizes fuel efficiency, which contributes to cleaner running vehicles. Many other Bridgestone brand tires are also designed with low rolling resistances as a key attribute.

In addition to viewing a variety of hybrids, those in attendance at Hybridfest 2006 will be able to test drive models, talk with hybrid owners and learn about the importance of hybrid technology from industry and environmental experts.

For more information on the event, visit www.hybridfest.com.

About Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire, LLC:
Nashville-based Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire, LLC is a subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas Holding, Inc., whose parent company, Bridgestone Corporation, is the world’s largest tire and rubber company. BFNT develops, manufactures and markets Bridgestone, Firestone, and associate brand tires. The company is focused on wholesale and original equipment markets, supplying passenger, light truck, commercial vehicle, off-road, motorcycle, agricultural and other tires to its customers in North America.

About Hybridfest, Inc:
Hybridfest, Inc. is a non-profit organization run entirely by volunteers. Hybridfest promotes awareness and understanding of hybrid electric vehicles and their positive impact on the environment.