The tire maker has begun testing a UHF transponder that it adapted for use inside rubber sidewalls.

Jan 17, 2003 - Michelin this week revealed that it has begun fleet testing of an RFID transponder embedded in its tires to enable them to be tracked electronically. After it completes testing, which will likely last 18 months, Michelin will begin offering automakers the option of purchasing tires with embedded transponders.
12:36:04 AM    

This from ACLU on "Bigger Monster, Weaker Chains: The Growth of an American Surveillance Society (why can't I get the damn PDF version to load?!)

"Too many people still do not understand the danger, do not grasp just how radical an increase in surveillance by both the government and the private sector is becoming possible, or do not see that the danger stems not just from a single government program, but from a number of parallel developments in the worlds of technology, law and politics."

12:09:17 AM