WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Commerce has issued a proposed rule to impose countervailing duties on countries that undervalue their currency relative to the dollar.

EVANSVILLE, Ind. — Accuride Corp. has appointed Robin Kendrick as the company's new president and CEO, effective June 1.

PITTSBURGH — Joseph L. Rauso, 82, co-owner of Pittsburgh-based Lockhart Tire, died May 6.

REYNOLDSBURG, Ohio — Kenda Tire USA Inc. has hired experienced salesmen David Alari and Rob Schussler as sales managers, covering the western and eastern region, respectively, overseeing business in both consumer (passenger, light truck and SUV) and specialty tire categories for sales to the dealer and distributor channels.

CHARLOTTE, N.C.— Carlos Acosta has joined CEAT Specialty Tires Inc. as business development manager for Central America, Mexico and the Caribbean.

IRWINDALE, Calif. — Billy Eordekian of 1-800EveryRim-OEM Wheels was named president for a second term and Chris Barry of the Independent Tire Dealers Group (ITDG) was named past president at the California Tire Dealers Association (CTDA) meeting, held April 25 at Turbo Wholesale Tires.

HANOVER, Germany — As one of five main partners for the Tour de France bicycle race, Continental is highlighting its success of using dandelion rubber as alternative source of natural rubber in tires.

PLANO, Texas — Toyota Motor North America Inc. CEO Jim Lentz has mapped out a strategy for the auto maker's regional operations that will keep the Toyota and Lexus brands active in sedans as the company focuses on spreading fuel-saving hybrid technology across its lineup.

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Hankook Tire America Corp. won two Supplier of the Year awards from Honda Motor Co. at the 35th annual Honda Supplier Conference in Columbus.