The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. has been sued by General Motors Corp., claiming the tiremaker is improperly withholding some shipments in a dispute over tire prices.
In a news advisory from the Houston Chronicle, it was reported that GM said in its filing, “Cessation of shipment of Goodyear products will result in catastrophic, irreparable losses to GM, potentially to almost every GM North American assembly plant.”
Goodyear responded to Modern Tire Dealer with this statement: “We have read the complaint although we have not yet been served.
“Goodyear believes that the complaint is unfounded and mischaracterizes the current relationship between Goodyear and General Motors. Goodyear is supplying tires to GM on valid contracts.
“This disagreement is limited in nature, and Goodyear is within its rights relating to all actions taken. We are disappointed that GM has chosen this response, and we are currently in discussions, remaining hopeful that the matter will be resolved amicably.”
Goodyear held 30% of GM's OE tire market share in 2005, according to Modern Tire Dealer's January Facts Issue.
GM sold 9.17 million vehicles globally in 2005 under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn and Vauxhall.
More details to follow.
