Bridgestone Summer Tire Launch Event: Professor Haruka Ayase Demonstrates Business Negotiations

At the outset, Toru Higaki, Executive Officer of Bridgestone Tire Japan, explained that tires have enhanced their performance alongside the evolution of automobiles. He stated that tires, with a contact area roughly the size of a postcard, are the "unsung heroes" of the road. He then emphasized the importance of tire selection, noting, "Even if they look the same, their performance varies." He stressed that the key is to base selection on the tires originally equipped on new vehicles, a practice the company promotes with the phrase "Proper Purchase." He then introduced the new "ECOPIA NH100 Series," launching in February. NH stands for "New Harmony," signifying a high-level balance of wet performance, fuel efficiency, and other characteristics. He noted that in the replacement tire market, over half of tires installed likely fall below the performance of original equipment tires, expressing the desire to continue promoting "proper purchasing."

Akihiro Kusano, Head of Tire Development Division 3, stated that the NH100 series offers performance equivalent to new car tires. He highlighted two key features: "combining low rolling resistance with high mileage" and "long-lasting wet performance." He revealed that performance evaluations showed a 16% reduction in rolling resistance and a 30% improvement in wear life (both compared to the company's basic tires). The series will be available for sedans/coupes, minivans, and kei/compact cars, considering vehicle characteristics and usage patterns.