Bridgestone Ecopia makes North American debut

Feb. 11, 2009

Bridgestone Corp. introduced its new, environmentally friendly Ecopia EP100 passenger tire to the North American market today, Feb. 11, at the Chicago Auto Show.

The Ecopia EP100, which has been available in Japan, incorporates Bridgestone's latest low rolling resistance technology and targets fuel-efficient vehicles like hybrids and electric cars.

Available in H and V speed ratings, the tire will be offered in six different sizes, ranging from 14 inches to 16 inches, next month, the first phase of its roll-out. (A second phase will be held later in the year.)

"With the Ecopia EP100, we have integrated proprietary Bridgestone technologies to provide low rolling resistance; a smooth, quiet ride; and reliable wet handling and braking," says John Baratta, president, Consumer Replacement Tire, Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations LLC.

"All of these performance characteristics are in response to what the customer has been telling us they want and need."

The tire comes with a "Buy & Try 30-day Guarantee, which allows a consumer to receive a full refund or exchange if he or she is not pleased with the tire for any reason within 30 days of purchase," say company officials.