AKRON, Ohio, Oct. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Ford Motor Company is turning to Goodyear's popular Fortera HL tire as a key original equipment fitment for the 2011 Ford Explorer.

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The standard tire fitment for the Explorer SE model will be Goodyear Fortera HL tires in a P245/65R17 size. The most fuel-efficient version of this popular SUV would help deliver expected best-in-class fuel economy in highway driving, with both the 3.5 TiVCT V-6 and the new 2.0 I-4 EcoBoost engine.

The completely reinvented and much-anticipated 2011 Ford Explorer is expected in dealer showrooms this winter.

Goodyear's Fortera HL is an award-winning tire with other original equipment fitments. With an optimized tread pattern that features deep blades and grooves, the tire provides a quiet ride and all-season traction for SUVs.

Goodyear tires are original equipment on many vehicles from Acura, Audi, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Hummer, Infiniti, Isuzu, Jeep, Land Rover, Lexus, Mazda, Mercury, Nissan and Toyota.  Traditionally, more new vehicles in North America are equipped with Goodyear tires than any other brand.

For more information about Goodyear's (NYSE: GT) broad selection of tires for cars, light trucks, SUVs, and more, visit www.goodyeartires.com.

SOURCE The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company