FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FULLERTON , CA – August 9, 2004 - Yokohama Tire Corporation introduces its new top-tier Geolandar M/T+ to its Geolandar line of mud/terrain tires.

This breakthrough tire design goes far beyond ordinary mud/terrain tires by providing high performance on all types of terrain. The plus version of Yokohama 's M/T tire differs from the previous iteration due to engineering innovations in the tread, sidewalls and tire compound. The result is a tire that can plunge through mud, go all-out at high speeds on hard dirt, gravel roads, dunes, rocky terrain, across rivers and the most difficult of all, asphalt.

"We are so confident in our new Geolandar M/T+ that we are putting it to the ultimate test as the official tire of the grueling Protruck off-road race series," said Art Michalik, director, marketing communications for Yokohama Tire Corporation. "And while it can handle the demands of professional off-road racing, it also offers uncompromising on-road performance.”

Its off-road capabilities are enhanced by new larger shoulder buttresses with protectors that enhance performance, durability and visual impact. Additionally, new larger scoops from the shoulder blocks help the tread edges release mud and dirt. Every second shoulder lug is taper cut, with the protruding blocks that provide a stronger side "bite."

An additional groove has been added within the blocks perpendicular to the directional pattern to improve traction, enhancing edge effect and improving both grip and directional stability, especially on dirt and gravel. Achieving the same objective, a wide double-step center groove features self-cleaning capabilities while enhancing water drainage on wet road surfaces.

The updated M/T+ gets a new compound, fine-tuned to enhance wear resistance and lengthen tire life. The modifications make for improved stability and comfort on pavement and greater resistance to chipping when off the beaten path. Additionally, two new protection bars have been added to the sidewall and the rim area to make the tire more resistant to cuts.

Extensive tests and computer simulations helped determine the 32-degree angle for the block patterns. At 32-degrees the pattern displays excellent mud expulsion, top-grade drainage characteristics and superb block rigidity during cornering.

The Yokohama Geolandar M/T+ is now available across the U.S. in most 15-, 16- and 17-inch diameters sizes; the full line will be available September 2004.

Yokohama Tire Corporation manufactures, markets and distributes a complete line of products for high performance, light truck, passenger car, commercial truck and bus, as well as off-the-road mining and construction applications. Yokohama supports the tire care and safety guidelines established by the Rubber Manufacturer's Association (RMA) and the National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration (NHTSA). For more information on these guidelines check "Taking Care of Your Tires" information at www.yokohamatire.com.

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