Testing begins for next-generation tire technology "Air Free Concept®" that does not require air filling for ultra-compact EVs - Contributing to a recycling-oriented society by conserving Resources-

Bridgestone's "Air Free Concept" aims to prevent punctures and eliminate the need for tire maintenance such as air pressure management by supporting the load with specially shaped spokes ^*1 on the side of the tire. In addition to being able to retread ^*2 the rubber part that comes into contact with the road, Bridgestone will also contribute to the efficient use of Resources and the realization of a circular economy ^*3 by recycling the renewable resin of the spokes, which the company developed independently.

The two companies share a common vision of providing Diverse resource conservation / circulation solutions to the world, leading to this demonstration experiment. Through this demonstration experiment, we will accelerate efforts to realize carbon neutrality society by promoting the shift to EVs. In the future, we will continue verification with a view to implementing the "Air Free Concept" in an ultra-compact EV that Idemitsu Kosan is involved in developing.

Comment from Akira Oishi, Manager Mobility Planning Department Idemitsu Kosan Co.,Ltd.

Idemitsu Kosan aims to achieve Vision for 2050 of "Shaping Change" as set out in Medium-term Management Plan announced in November 2022, and will fulfill Responsibility to protect the global environment now and in the future through provide for society of diverse Resources circulation solutions.
The "Air Free Concept" developed by Bridgestone is environmentally friendly and we believe it is highly compatible with our company's vision.
In addition, puncture-free tires will help reduce the risk of vehicle breakdowns, and are expected to increase value for customers.
The two companies will jointly conduct this demonstration experiment with the aim of installing the system in ultra-compact EVs currently under development in the future.

Comments from Takahiro Kawahara, Head of Solution and Digital Engineering Development Department, Bridgestone Corporation

We are very happy and excited to be able to start a demonstration experiment that will be a step toward the practical application of the "Air Free Concept" with Idemitsu Kosan, which aims to develop an advanced solution business using next-generation mobility. Through this co-creation, Bridgestone is committed to fulfilling its corporate commitments, ``Bridgestone E8 Commitment'<sup>'*4,</sup> ``Ecology: Passing on a better global environment to future generations through the spread of sustainable tires and solutions'' and ``Extension: Improving the mobility of people and goods.'' We are committed to continuing to support this innovation without stopping.