Goodyear RunOnFlat tire is hitting the road

Bringing drivers peace of mind

Research shows that the one thing people fear most when driving, is suffering a puncture. Taking into account that more than half of all motorists do not feel comfortable changing a flat tire 1 , it creates not only an inconvenience but a real dilemma for people from all walks of life: For women who have to decide between getting out and walking along a busy road with small children in tow, or leaving them alone in the vehicle to risk the hazards of passing traffic;  For business people torn between abandoning their vehicle and hailing a cab or wrestling to change the wheel and missing their appointment;  For seniors, who while they may have more time on their hands, no longer have the strength to change a wheel themselves;  For emergency services for whom every minute on the road can mean the difference between life   and death.  And for people who have to drive through an unsafe area or the countryside and don't want to end up stranded in their car due to a tire puncture.

New generation RunOnFlat offers improved driving comfort

RunOnFlat is the latest introduction in a long line of firsts from Goodyear. It uses a breakthrough technology that has been refined over the years. The tires have reinforced sidewall inserts made from an innovative compound technology that enables them to bear the weight of the whole vehicle, even when the tires are totally deflated. In addition, rim guards and tensioning devices on the outside of the sidewall help to maintain rigidity in the event of a flat. The greatest advantage over other sytems is that RunOnFlat tires can be fitted straight onto normal rims, foregoing the need for specialised tools and any extra costs linked to their use. This makes it an increasingly popular option on new cars. An additional benefit is that it makes it unnecessary to carry a spare tire. Compared to earlier standards such as Goodyear EMT (Extended Mobility Technology), the new generation RunOnFlat today offers improved levels of ride comfort. It is now ready to be launched into the main consumer market.

Growing consumer demand

Consumer demand is assured. Research carried out by J.D. Power, a leading international marketing information firm in the automotive field 2 , revealed that 84% of motorists would be more interested in fitting their cars with RunOnFlat type tires than with any other available options – such as ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Satelite Navigation Systems or Rear Parking Assist – in providing reassurance and safety for them and their families. Moreover 82% prefer the concept of RunOnFlat over having a spare tire, which is rendered obsolete and will free up more space in the boot of the car. Furthermore, Goodyear's own consumer research 3   shows that not only owners of premium cars are interested in this safety technology, but drivers of city and family cars as well.

RunOnFlat hitting the consumer market

Beyond just being embraced by drivers, Goodyear RunOnFlat is sought by car manufacturers in models ranging from Minis to Ferraris. Today RunOnFlat is already available as optional or even standard equipment for a range of premium car brands such as BMW, Chevrolet, Ferrari, Land Rover, Maserati, Mercedes, Mini, and Rolls Royce. Although not all existing cars can be fitted with RunOnFlat tires yet, Goodyear expects many more manufacturers to follow suit in the coming months and years. The tires are to be fitted as standard on the new BMW 3 series which is being launched in the spring 2005.

More than 1100 Certified Goodyear RunOnFlat dealers

Having suffered a puncture, cars fitted with Goodyear RunOnFlat tires can drive for a minimum of 80 km at up to 80 km per hour, enabling motorists to find a secure place to seek assistance from the extensive Goodyear service network. Currently there are already more than 1100 Certified Goodyear RunOnFlat tire points of sale across Europe where drivers can get their tires repaired or replaced. And this number will keep on climbing. Moreover Goodyear is developing new concepts to enhance its service provision over the coming year. For further information please contact the Goodyear European press office by telephone on +32 2 240 97 74 or by e-mail at press@runonflat.com. Should you wish to contact your local Goodyear office, please refer to the list of contact details included in your press pack CD-ROM.