Michelin Tyres Lose Out to Bridgestone for New Citroens
Sacre-bleu! What’s this - for the first time in over 70 years, French car maker Citroen has selected Bridgestone tyres as original equipment fitments!
That’s right and the new move marks the end of more than seven decades of exclusive supply by French tyres manufacturer Michelin, according to Tyres and Accessories magazine.
Bridgestone tyres will be fitted as standard to the 2010 C3 compact and the DS3, the first model in Citroën’s new premium DS line.
The Japanese manufacturer’s Turanza ER300 tyres in size 185/65 R15 88H were fitted as standard on the new C3 5-door hatchback when it debuted in European showrooms last November.
Citroën has also selected Bridgestone’s top sport tyre, the Potenza RE050A in size 205/45 R17 88V XL for the new DS3 3-door hatchback. The tyre has an asymmetric tread designed to provide high-level wet safety, and Bridgestone comments that it meets Citroën’s specification for outstanding dry braking performance.
Didier Schneider, vice president Original Equipment, Bridgestone Europe, said: “Bridgestone is extremely pleased to work with Citroën and supply flagship Potenza and Turanza tyres for the launch of these two exciting new models.
“Both our companies share the same commitment to creativity and technology. Expanding our business with French car manufacturers and a top European player like Citroën strengthens our position as a global player.”
Denna Bowman, Head Office
Number: Z8037079
Reg: NKF419
