AKRON, Ohio, Oct. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Ford Motor Company made a long list of improvements to its newest rendition of the iconic Shelby GT500 – including an updated powertrain, brakes, gearing and suspension. But at least one thing hasn't changed; it still rolls on Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperCar G:2 tires.

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The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NYSE: GT) has announced that its ultra-high performance tire was once again selected by Ford for the newest Shelby GT500, which is arriving in dealer showrooms now.

According to Ford, the 2013 Shelby GT500 features the most powerful production V8 in the world – a 5.8-liter supercharged aluminum-block engine capable of producing 662 horsepower, 631 lb.-ft of torque and a top speed of more than 200 mph.

"With every Eagle high performance tire, Goodyear strives to stretch the boundaries of performance and innovation," said Garth Ely, Goodyear's director of brand marketing. "So it's a great feeling of validation when an expert like Ford chooses to equip its flagship high-performance model with Goodyear Eagles." 

The Eagle F1 SuperCar G:2 builds upon Goodyear's continuously strong Eagle ultra-high performance platform. An asymmetric, directional tread design with massive tread blocks on the outboard shoulder help enhance dry cornering grip, while sweeping Aquachannel grooves on the inboard side of the tread help enhance wet cornering grip.

An innovative multi-radius mold shape offers precise handling and smooth, even wear. Even the appearance of the tire is important; a serrated band sidewall styling and distinctive lettering add to the overall ultra-performance look.

The race-inspired tire, tested on some of the most renowned road courses in North America, will appear on the 2013 Shelby GT 500 in sizes P265/40ZR19 (front) and P285/35ZR20 (rear).

Goodyear is one of the world's largest tire companies. It employs approximately 73,000 people and manufactures its products in 54 facilities in 22 countries around the world.  Its two Innovation Centers in Akron, Ohio and Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg strive to develop state-of-the-art products and services that set the technology and performance standard for the industry. For more information about Goodyear or its products, go to www.goodyear.com.

SOURCE The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company