KUMHO SCORES MAJOR ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT CONTRACTS WITH FORD AND CHRYSLER

Kumho has been chosen as original fitment tyre supplier by two of the world's best known brands, with Ford choosing Kumho for its 2011 Fiesta and Jeep choosing a new low rolling resistance Kumho for its new Grand Cherokee.The all-new 2011 Ford Fiesta recently launched in the USA will be equipped with Kumho Solus while Jeep will use the Kumho eco Solus KL21 on the Grand Cherokee for all export markets around the world.

Ford has sold more than 750,000 Fiestas globally and the new model is aimed at continuing the model's sales momentum.The new Fiesta will be shod with P185/60R15 Kumho Solus with an H-speed rating size.
The Solus is engineered to provide high performance grip and handling in all weather conditions while delivering long mileage.According to Kumho Tyre USA, CEO, J.B. Kim, Kumho is proud to partner with the Ford Motor Company by providing the OE fitment on the 2011 Fiesta."The Fiesta name has been synonymous with drive quality, design and value which matches the core features of Kumho's Solus line of tyres.

" Said J.B. Kim."The all-new Fiesta features an expressive, vibrant design and a global track record that will redefine US small car customers' expectations and the quiet, comfortable ride of the Solus KH25 will contribute to the Fiesta's class-leading NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) levels," he said.Kumho is also supplying ultra-high performance tyres as OE fitment on the new Jeep Grand Cherokee for international markets.

"The partnership marks a steady increase in the sales of UHP tyres and an active exploration of the OE market for premium vehicles," said J.B Kim. Chrysler chose Kumho as the tyre supplier for the launch of its new premium SUV Jeep Grand Cherokee which will be equipped with Kumho's new eco Solus KL21 UHP tire, in 265/60R18 and 265/50R20 sizes.Kumho's agreement with Chrysler is expected to generate an even stronger momentum in its pursuit of OE fitment with major vehicle manufacturers around the globe.

Manufactured using a combination of silica and rubber, eco Solus KL21 enhances wet road performance, improves fuel efficiency by reducing rolling resistance, and boasts fair handling and less noise.

"The relationship between Chrysler and Kumho Tire dates back to 2006, when Kumho first supplied OE UHP tyres to Chrysler for fitment to its Sebring model.After entering the OE market in North America, Kumho has built a solid confidence and has enjoyed a close partnership with Chrysler over the past four years.

"Kumho has already gained strong market confidence in North America, the biggest tyre market in the world and is one of the top five manufacturers in the replacement tyre market, including UHP tyres," said J.B Kim.

Kumho has won a series of OE tyre fitment contracts this year with Mercedes Benz, Chrysler, VW and Ford, enabling Kumho to continue to successfully expand its presence as a truly global tyre manufacturer.