Tokyo/Hanover, December 16, 2002: The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., agreed formally today to participate in the cooperation between Continental AG and Bridgestone Corporation in runflat systems. Under today's agreement, Yokohama will participate in developing and promoting the Support Ring version of runflat technology for passenger cars and sport-utility vehicles. Yokohama's participation will include adopting the common Support Ring symbol mark. That mark symbolizes the global technology standard for the Support Ring that the companies will aim to establish for runflat systems.

Earlier this year, Continental and Bridgestone began sharing information in regard to runflat technologies that are compatible with conventional wheels. Continental and Bridgestone welcome the participation of Yokohama in their cooperation. They expect the broadened partnership to add momentum to their efforts toward establishing a global standard in runflat systems.