Hankook nets outstanding global supplier honors at Ford World Excellence Awards

Ford Motor Co. has recognized Hankook Tire as one of its outstanding global suppliers, saluting the firm for contributing to a fleet of high quality vehicles produced at affordable prices for consumers.

This marks the first time Hankook has received the award from Ford.

It was the only tire supplier so-honored at the 10th anniversary of the automaker’s World Excellence Awards. Ford recognized 47 global vendors for outstanding efforts.

Greg Pae, president of Hankook Tire America Corp., discussed the importance of this award and Ford’s commitment to quality. “We have a great relationship with Ford and this announcement illustrates that they realize how committed we are to providing them with the best tires in the industry,” he says. “Ford’s latest result for high quality products is terrific news, and we’re happy to be a part of it.”

While Hankook has a strong presence in the replacement market, expanding the company’s original equipment presence is a high priority, according to Pae. “As we continue to grow, the original equipment industry is an area where we want to play a strong role,” he notes. “Working with manufacturers, such as Ford, allows us to reach new customers, who can experience our products that are specifically tailored for each vehicle.”

“This marks the 10th year we have honored world-class suppliers for extraordinary contributions that directly impact Ford’s ability to deliver high quality vehicles and customer satisfaction,” says Tony Brown, Ford’s group vice president of global purchasing.

“This commitment to excellence is coming through in the latest quality data, which show Ford’s initial quality in North America is now equal to the best in the industry,” says Brown. “These successes belong not just to Ford – but our suppliers as well.”

In North America, Hankook supplies tires for Ford’s Focus, Edge, E-250, E-350 and the upcoming Flex. In addition, Ford fits Hankook Tires on the Ford F-150.

In addition to Ford, Hankook has global fitments with General Motors, Hyundai, Kia, Volkswagen, Audi, International Truck and Chrysler.

Company executives report that Hankook remains the fastest growing tire manufacturer in the world, posting global sales of $3.4 billion in 2007. North American sales topped $751 million in 2007 for an increase of more than 9.5 percent over 2006.

For more information, visit www.hankooktireusa.com.