Kick-Off and Signing Event Highlighted at Detroit’s Grand Prix

ST. PAUL, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The shift from traditional lead wheel weights to more environmentally responsible lead-free wheel weights got a boost today when 3M Automotive took part in a signing ceremony for the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) National Lead-Free Wheel Weight Initiative (NLFWWI) at the Detroit Grand Prix.

The EPA created the NLFWWI as an opportunity for entities engaged in the manufacture, distribution, sale or use of wheel weights to participate in a voluntary effort to accelerate the transition away from traditional lead wheel weights.

“The Environmental Protection Agency is proud to announce this important Initiative and recognize the contribution of our partners,” said Susan Parker Bodine, Assistant Administrator for EPA's Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response. "By taking part in the National Lead-Free Wheel Weight Initiative, EPA's partners are helping protect public health and the environment by phasing out the sale and installation of lead wheel weights and educating the public about the benefits of alternatives."

3M, a leader in the production of lead-free wheel weights and the only manufacturer of a composite-based wheel weight system, has never produced lead weights. By signing the initiative, 3M intends to continue to produce, market and sell a lead-free alternative composite wheel weight system, endorse the NLFWWI and encourage the use of lead-free wheel weights by others.

“We’re honored to be a part of this EPA initiative and to help continue the promotion of lead-free wheel weights,” said Tony Stokes, vice president and general manager, 3M Automotive. “We feel our lead-free wheel weight system is truly groundbreaking, and our involvement with the NLFWWI underscores 3M’s commitment to developing innovative and high-quality products that are also more sustainable and practical.”

3M’s award-winning wheel weights, made of a highly flexible and conformable material, can be cut to length to meet exact weight requirements and fit all wheel diameters. The material is flexible enough to cut with scissors, yet tough enough to withstand rigorous durability, weathering, salt spray and salt fog testing to exceed current OEM standards.

The 3M™ Wheel Weight System is designed to replace traditional systems that require large inventories of individual parts. The 3M system comes in a roll with a self-dispensing package that includes a dispensing stand and cutting device, making it efficient and allowing for weights to be easily dispensed, cut to the exact weight and applied, which reduces waste and frees up floor space.

For more information about the 3M Wheel Weight System, contact:

About 3M

A recognized leader in research and development, 3M produces thousands of innovative products for dozens of diverse markets. 3M’s core strength is applying its more than 40 distinct technology platforms – often in combination – to a wide array of customer needs. With $24 billion in sales, 3M employs 79,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 60 countries. For more information, visit www.3M.com.

3MStephanie Sanderson, 651-733-8588sjsanderson@mmm.comorBianchi Public RelationsLeslie Dagg, 248-269-1122ldagg@bianchipr.com