Petaling Jaya, 18 September 2009 - More than 230 participants from the Asia Pacific region participated in the Michelin Pilot Experience 2009 (MPE). They got an opportunity to feel what only a select few have been privileged enough to experience – driving a Formula Michelin single seater, the closest they would ever get to feel like an F1 driver.

The MPE offered lucky participants comprising Michelin consumers and tyre dealers as well as journalists from across Asia Pacific the chance to feel the adrenaline rush of life in the fast lane through a unique high performance driving experience.

Michelin Malaysia Sdn Bhd Managing Director, Yves Pouliquen said Michelin‘s vast experience and premier reputation in world motor sports backed by its years of commitment enabled the Company to showcase technologically advanced tyres that significantly enhanced their competitive edge.

“We strongly believe in the spirit of competition and motor sports offer us an arena to promote the development of high quality tyres to test not only the world’s most demanding racing circuits but also tough and grueling rally terrain.

“Our performance on track spurs innovation as we constantly translate our learnings to improve our strengths to win championships. This eventually leads to the manufacturing of passenger and commercial tyres that greatly unleash a vehicle’s fullest potential while meeting the highest standards of safety and comfort,” said Pouliquen.

According to Pouliquen, the MPE participants were given the opportunity to discover the role of innovation in harnessing and cementing Michelin’s leadership in motor sports since a hundred years ago.

“At the MPE, we share with the participants our passion for motor sports and vision in delivering winning achievements through a thrilling day of fun filled activities. It is also our way of expressing our appreciation for their support throughout the years,” Pouliquen added.

The MPE also serves to strengthen the bond between Michelin and its dealers as well as building advocacy amongst its key partners to develop a greater trust and relationship.

Proving to be one the most preferred tyre choices amongst consumers, Michelin aims to reward its dealers for their relentless efforts in making the brand a success and to inspire them to perform better. The Company is confident that the knowledge gained at the MPE would give the dealers a better understanding of technological advancement on track contributes to the development of its comprehensive range of tyres used by the everyday consumers.

Before the participants could drive the Formula Michelin at a top speed of 260kph around the world class Sepang International Circuit, they were briefed on driving techniques and safety aspects by Michelin’s professional racing instructors.

They also participated in racing simulations, an interactive quiz, a Go-Kart race and experienced the challenging tasks of a pit crew as they raced against time in the ‘Pit Stop Challenge’.

In addition to that, they sat back and enjoyed more G-force adrenaline-fuelled laps around the circuit as they were strapped into a two-seater Formula 2-car and a Porsche Carrera Cup race car driven by professional drivers at lightning fast speed.

The MPE was an eye-opening experience for the participants as it enabled them to gain access to the world of motor sports and learned how research and development was the heart of Michelin that drove the Company forward.