WHO:    -- Steve Mazor, manager, Auto Club Automotive Research Center        -- Jim MacMaster, chairman, Rubber Manufacturers Association        -- Takao Oishi, Yokohama Tire Corporation, president and CEO        -- Representative from California Highway PatrolWHAT:   Press conference/media ride & drive: Tires are the most important        safety component on a vehicle and are largely ignored.        Approximately 60 percent of vehicles on the road have        under-inflated tires, which can be unsafe and costly. One of the        simplest but most often neglected actions that car owners can take        to stay safe and help the planet is right under their nose (or        fender)! During National Tire Safety Week, April 20-26, we want to        show So-Cal car owners how having the right tire pressure can keep        them and their passengers safe, as well as save gas and benefit        the environment for greener living.        Here's what you'll get:        -- Startling statistics: Experts offering crash and survey        statistics that show motorists are unaware of basic tire care for        safe driving, fuel economy and environmental benefit of longer        tire life.        -- Driving course: Reporters will be able to drive a Ford Fusion        with under-inflated tires to feel firsthand how vehicle handling is        adversely affected by incorrect inflation. Reporters also will be        able to drive another vehicle with proper inflation for comparison        to complete video package.        -- Tire tread depth cards: Reporters get one of 13,500 wallet-size        tire tread depth cards to be distributed during campaign week at        Auto Club offices, by AAA Roadside Assistance and through Yokohama        Tire Corp.        -- Free tire inspections: AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities will        check tires and tire pressure free of charge during the campaign        week. RMA and Auto Club are also distributing "Be Tire Smart"        brochures in AAA offices.WHEN:   10 a.m. Tuesday, April 22, Earth DayWHERE:  TOYOTA Speedway, 500 Speedway Dr., Irwindale, CA 91706;        626-358-1100