At the 2004 Paris International Auto Show, Dow’s polyurethane support ring for PAX System will debut in the 2005 Honda Odyssey, the first minivan to utilize the PAX System technology. The polyurethane support ring matches Dow’s unsurpassed polymer design expertise with PAX System technology to deliver this auto industry first.

“The inclusion of PAX System in the 2005 Odyssey marks an important milestone in the successful collaboration between Dow and PAX System tire manufacturers,” stated Daniel Lister, business development manager, Dow Polyurethanes. “We are very proud to play a major role in bringing this break-through technology to the industry.”

For Dow, PAX System represents a long-term opportunity to supply the auto industry with an advanced finished component, stepping beyond its traditional role of supplying raw materials to manufacture. “This success is an excellent example of how Dow technology can be applied in innovative ways, creating value from one end of the value chain to the other,” notes Lister.

A key to the PAX System’s success is an inner support ring -- made with Dow polyurethane -- attached to the wheel inside the tire which allows PAX System to run flat for up to 125 miles at 55 mph. If a flat does occur, the driver is warned of air-pressure loss and can drive the vehicle to a safe location. Dow’s polymer design experts develop the lightweight and durable polyurethane support ring, which provides longer mileage and support for a flat tire, particularly on heavier vehicles such as SUVs and minivans. While there are other run-flat tire systems, PAX System is the only one made with a polyurethane support ring.

According to Honda, the 2005 Honda Odyssey minivan, ultra-premium, Touring model, equipped with PAX System will be available for purchase September 22. The Odyssey is Honda’s top-selling light truck. In 2003, it sold 154,063 units in the United States, an increase of 0.4 percent over 2002. For more information about the Dow Polyurethanes, visit www.dowpolyurethanes.com.