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Transcript of SA Treads June 2016
Vol 2
2 • J
une
2016
Tyrexpo Africa – future hangs in the balance
Fight to restrict sub-standard imports continues
Continental unveils the new SportContact 6
How to sell up while cutting costs
Continental Vision Zero aims for accident-free future
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EMERGENCY TYRE ASSISTANCE DOWN TO AN ART
Tel: +27 11 439 6000, Fax: +27 86 682 7027, e-mail: [email protected] or visit www.bandag.co.za
Breakdowns can leave you dead in the water, but you needn’t be left to the sharks. With Bandag’s Emergency Tyre Assistance (ETA) programme you can be covered throughout South Africa 24/7, 365 days of the year. ETA has one easy to remember toll free number, efficient service, consistent on-road pricing and comprehensive reports. That’s what we do.
10715 - ETA ad - Tread S.A.indd 1 2011/11/08 1:45 PM
Half way through the year and talk turns
to shows and exhibitions. The final
instalment of the Reifen show as we know
it concluded in Essen last week. Closer to
home, Tyrexpo Africa graced our shores
for the sixth time in March of this year.
Suffice it to say that the importance and support for an international show such as Reifen speaks for itself. The global tyre
industry and the tyre manufacturing companies in particular, utilise the platform to launch new designs, compounds and technology, whereas visitors from across the world converge on this tiny town in Germany to keep abreast of new products and developments and to network with key people from different parts of the world. The venue for this popular be-ennial show might be set to change, but its future in terms of the value it is seen to provide is well secured.
Regrettably the same cannot necessarily be said for our own local show – currently the only tyre expo on the continent. With apparent support from the local industry steadily declining, as can be seen from this year’s exhibitor and visitor numbers, we take a microscopic view of the event in this issue, by way of a post-show review on page 7.
And as the primary reason behind the local industry’s reluctance to back the show allegedly is the number of Chinese trading companies that are regularly exhibiting, we pinned down two of TIASA’s key executives to ascertain the extent of the problem these exhibitors are seen to be posing, not only to local tyre producers, but to well established imported brands too. Turn to page 2 for this interview.
The second quarter has been a busy time for Continental Tyre SA. The company has just launched the brand new SportContact 6 which boasts Black Chilli technology for maximum grip in all directions, Force Vectoring for maximum control (a new era in tread pattern development) as well as Aralon350 new Adaptive Hybrid Cape Ply for maximum stability at high speeds of up to 350km/h.
And that’s not all. CTSA is also adopting an innovative and comprehensive approach to automotive safety under the Vision Zero banner, in a bid to reduce and ultimately eliminate vehicle accidents, injuries and fatalities; a global initiative, but one that is especially welcomed in South Africa given the high death toll on our roads.
All this and much more in this, our winter edition. Wrap up warm and happy reading. Until we meet again in the spring.
editor Liana Shaw
reproduction Diane van Noort
printing TYPO – Colour Printing Specialists
Advertising sA Liana Shaw – [email protected]
Advertising eu John Stone – [email protected]
Distribution Media Support Prosource
Contents A note fromthe editor
I n t r o d u c t i o n • 1
publishers Sky Publications cc • PO Box 702, Douglasdale, 2165Tel: 011 658 0011 • Fax: 011 658 0010 • Cell: 082 851 6777
E-mail: [email protected]: www.satreads.co.za • www.satreads.com
Syn
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EMERGENCY TYRE ASSISTANCE DOWN TO AN ART
Tel: +27 11 439 6000, Fax: +27 86 682 7027, e-mail: [email protected] or visit www.bandag.co.za
Breakdowns can leave you dead in the water, but you needn’t be left to the sharks. With Bandag’s Emergency Tyre Assistance (ETA) programme you can be covered throughout South Africa 24/7, 365 days of the year. ETA has one easy to remember toll free number, efficient service, consistent on-road pricing and comprehensive reports. That’s what we do.
10715 - ETA ad - Tread S.A.indd 1 2011/11/08 1:45 PM
one-on-one with TIASA ...........................................................................................2
Focus on Tyrexpo Africa _ Future hangs in the balance ......................................7
industry news Revolutionary technologies sets the trend-setting Continental SportContact 6 apart from the rest ............................... 16 Continental Vision Zero – aiming for an accident-free future ........... 20 New Sava Avant 4Plus and Orjak 4Plus Truck Tyres ......................... 22 A new South African horizon for Van den Ban ................................. 26
Talking Tyres Tyre Forum: Going a step further ..................................................... 29
Distribution news More new stores for Tiger Wheel & Tyre .......................................... 32 More Growth Planned As Supa Quick Turns 30 ............................... 33
World news Record breaking farewell from the Reifen Essen show ..................... 35 Pirelli introduces its new Triathlon TBR range at Reifen 2016 .......... 35 New high speed OTR tyre from Michelin.......................................... 36 Bridgestone wins Infringement Lawsuit ............................................ 36 Marangoni Retread turns 40 ............................................................. 36 A glittering ‘show-stopper’ from Zenises .......................................... 36
Visitwww.satreads.com
to see our
past issues
FIGHT AGAINST SUB-STANDARD
IMPORTS CONTINUESONE ON ONE WITH
TIASA
Our feature story on Tyrexpo Africa raises some important concerns around the topic of sub-standard tyres, otherwise known as ‘cheapies’, being circulated in the market. According to current statistics imported tyres account for more than 50% of total sales in South Africa, but how many of these tyres undergo the right checks and balances befoer entering the country? And what assurance does the consumer have that these tyres are in fact roadworthy?
We caught up with TIASA (Tyre Importers Association of South Africa), executives Pieter Kruger (Chairman) and Alida Mouton for their thoughts on this highly controversial issue.
2 • O n e - o n - O n e
O n e - o n - O n e • 3
What is the status quo currently of sub-standard
tyres being imported, especially those coming in
from China?
PK: It is difficult to say as all tyres need to go through a
homologation process.
How do you believe tyres of dubious quality are
able to infiltrate our market given the homologation
requirement?
PK: It is my opinion that many of these tyres are
homologated with the paperwork already supplied. But that does not
necessarily mean that the tyres arriving are of the same quality as those
tested and furnished with an ‘E’ mark of approval. More worrying still,
scores of tyres arrive in South Africa marked as something else, in order
to avoid paying the import duty.
Do you believe there are sufficient measures in place to limit their
entry into the country?
PK: No, not when tyres are being declared as something completely
different. Which begs the question; ‘how does one control this’? The
only way would be to scan each and every container at the arrival port,
but resources are scarce.
AM: Thankfully, the NRCS is working hard to structure and put in place
the necessary procedures in order to protect the brands that do follow
the rules and regulations.
What would you like to see being done to combat this problem?
PK: I strongly believe we need an Independent Testing Facility to conduct
the relevant tests on random tyre samples, as opposed to checking
the samples ahead of arrival. Only then, will you have a real chance of
identifying and catching offending plants and unscrupulous importers.
Would you say that the number of imported ‘cheapies’ has grown in
recent years?
PK: Yes, up until twelve months ago this was definitely the case.
Currently there are around 449 tyre importers in South Africa (this
number includes the local manufacturers who also import product to
supplement their range), but the past few months have seen a sizeable
decrease in the numbers of tyres being imported, mainly due to the
exchange rate, which at this point, greatly favours the local producers
and makes it extremely difficult for imported products to compete.
But the biggest challenge in my opinion, remains the downward trend in
sales worldwide. In a bid to remain sustainable, this has forced factories
to cut prices in order to dispose of surplus stock.
How big a threat do tyres of inferior quality pose
to local manufacturers and importers of reputable
products alike?
PK: I believe that the dealer trade should be taking
greater responsibility for the products it is selling.
Granted, a lot of this is being driven by the consumer
asking for the cheapest product, but that said, the
dealer should be educating their customers on the
perils of buying some of these tyres which simply do
not perform in terms of mileage and more importantly,
safety.
AM: These cheap no-name brands are a big threat to the market as
typically, there is no long-term commitment or after-sales service.
What can be done to educate the general public on the dangers of
fitting inferior quality tyres to their vehicles?
PK: As I’ve just mentioned, dealers need to take responsibility for the
products they sell. Their customers rely on them to supply them with
a quality product at a reasonable price, but it has become the market
norm to flaunt the cheapest price, just to get the business.
In turn the consumer should also be asking some pertinent
questions, such as: ‘Does the tyre carry a full guarantee? Is the local
supplier large enough to assist in the event of a tyre fault/claim?
Why is this tyre so cheap, and will it last for 40 000kilometres?
AM: I believe a more targeted advertising drive aimed at the consumer
would go a long way towards educating the motorist, however, most
imported brands do not have a sufficient marketing budget to run
proper educational advertising campaigns.
How informed is the South African consumer on the differences
between reputable brands and sub-standard ones, in your view?
PK: Some are extremely brand-driven but the average person has no
clue and relies solely on what he is told by the dealer, or worse still,
insists on buying the cheapest product as that is all they can afford.
AM: I don’t believe the South African consumer is suitably informed.
For example, all Chinese brands are placed inside the ‘Chinese’ box. It
takes years for a good quality brand to step outside of this box and to
be seen as a reputable imported brand.
Do you believe the consumer would be prepared to pay more for a
reputable brand if properly informed?
PK: The irony here is that by buying a sub-standard tyre, the consumer
could in fact be paying double in that if the tyre only delivers 30 percent
❝I strongly believe we need an Independent Testing Facility to conduct the relevant tests
on random tyre samples❞
of its intended tyre life, he will need to replace it much
sooner than if he had purchased a quality brand. The
cost of replacing twice or even three times during the
cycle of a branded tyre works out a lot higher.
And of course, the consumer also needs to be made to
realise that he may well be gambling with his life and
that of his family.
Do you believe the industry as a whole is doing
enough to address this?
PK: Unfortunately, no. Dealers need to start considering the safety
of their customers ahead of selling them a dubious product. Plus, as
mentioned earlier, government needs to set up an Independent Testing
Facility for quality control purposes.
What is TIASA currently doing to protect its members and the
reputation of credible imported products?
PK: TIASA is working closely with the SATMC and SARS with regard
❝I don’t believe the
South African consumer is suitably
informed. ❞
to the importation of tyres. As you can imagine, this
process is ongoing. In addition, our members (importers
of reputable products) sign a Code of Conduct with us
to ensure that no illicit practices are taking place.
Is government receptive to addressing this issue, and
if so, what suggestions are being put forward?
PK: Government is looking to make changes in the
homologation process with which we agree for the
most part, however, over and above these measures,
we believe that imported tyres should be tested on a random basis, and
not along the lines of what is currently being done.
4 • O n e - o n - O n e
When braking counts
The challenge: to transmit the full power of modern high-performance models to the road safely and efficiently. The response: Continental SportContact 6.
Maximum control. The New SportContact™ 6
www.continental.co.za
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› Maximum control: Innovative force vectoring
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› Maximum stability: Advanced Aralon350™
Adaptive Hybrid Cap Ply for superior strength
› Maximum approval: Approved for original fitment
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DEVELOPED BY INDUSTRY EXPERTS FOR PERFORMANCE,
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70024_Davanti_SAfrica_Trade_Advert.indd 1 12/05/2016 17:13
F o c u s o n T y r e x p o A f r i c a • 7
The poor level of support for this year’s Tyrexpo Africa on the part of local industry begs the question, ‘how much value is this bi-ennial show being seen to provide’. With the sixth instalment of the Tyrexpo Africa series now behind us, debate over the merits and objectives of the show for our market is ongoing with some questioning the validity and effectiveness of the event and others further suggesting that the investment does not justify the end result.
Of rising concern for the local sector is the increasing presence of unknown
Chinese traders at the show, all hoping to ply their trade to a market that is
already being dubbed as a dumping ground for streams of poor quality brands
from other parts of the world and China in particular.
Chinese traders are seen as a serious risk as they often cannot provide that
essential after-sales service that industry and the South African consumer, has
come to expect of premium brands.
In their defence, show organisers, Singex, a Singapore based company that is
also the host of Tyrexpo Asia, Tyrexpo India and Tyrexpo UK, claims to have
taken the industry’s concerns to heart by limiting the number of Chinese trader
exhibits this time around.
Moreover the organisers say that in a bid to ignite interest in the show
and generate additional traffic, they brought something extra into the mix
this year, with the inclusion of a number of value-add services such as the
TYREXPO AFRICA– FUTURE HANGS IN THE BALANCE
8 • F o c u s o n T y r e x p o A f r i c a
TechTalk Seminar and Tyrexpo Technical Workshop.
What is more, they managed to secure support from local government with
a presence from the Gauteng Growth & Development Agency (GGDA), in
a bid to show their commitment to creating an environment conducive for
investment in the country.
Sadly however, visitor numbers which were reported to be 1 800 people from
58 countries, did not necessarily translate into the desired outcome.
“We were hoping for more international clients as well as clients from
neighbouring states, but unfortunately, they did not materialise,” claimed Glen
Brothers of O’Green Metaforge. With over 100-million’s worth of tyres and
rims held across a network of five warehouses in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape
Town, Bloemfontein and Port Elizabeth, coupled with R35-million ploughed
into the construction of their Gauteng warehouse, Brothers said that O’Green
Metaforge is certainly no ‘knock and drop’ tyre importer, and that their offering
ranks highly on the international market.
He said: “Chinese tyre offerings have come a long way by way of polishing
their credentials, with independently owned O’Green in particular, relying
totally on its own resources to grow and develop its brand, thereby avoiding
cut-throat pricing trends. It’s a Chinese tyre, but it’s not a cheap Chinese tyre,”
he observed.
Founded a decade ago, the operation supplies a comprehensive range of
rims and tyres for the agricultural, industrial, OTR, commercial and passenger
sectors.
Brothers further stated: “Whilst we did manage to raise brand awareness
for our product and service offering to the few clients who made it to show,
and were able to benefit from the media coverage on hand, we believe the
investment we made in securing exhibition space could have been used a lot
more productively in other advertising streams and promotions.”
He added: “With the Chinese trading companies pushing for more business
in an already over supplied and saturated market, it only makes it harder for
those that are established to compete on the face of impossibly low margins.”
The organisers confirmed that the ratio of Chinese exhibitors to ‘Others’ was at
55%, but they added that they made a concerted effort to keep Chinese trading
companies to a minimum in light of the local industry’s concerns.
Notwithstanding, out of a total of 99 exhibiting companies, only 10 were South
African based, a statistic that clearly demonstrates that the show is losing
ground with domestic players.
Offered Hedley Judd, Association Director of the TDAFA: “The concern from
WHERE DID THE VISITORS COME FROM? Top 10 African Countries
South Africa • Zimbabwe • Botswana • Mozambique • Zambia • Namibia • Swaziland • Nigeria • Tanzania
• Kenya
Top 10 Participating
CountriesSouth Africa • P.R. China
• India • Singapore • United Arab Emirates •
Zimbabwe • Italy • Botswana • Mozambique
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www.tandemtyres.co.za | tel. 031 765 2650 | fax. 031 765 2695
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O n e - o n - O n e • 1 1
a local business perspective would be the plethora of brands already available
and to further dilute this with additional offerings in a market the size of ours
does not seem a logical approach, based upon the singular premise of ‘scale of
economy’, wherein with our local production, we need every unit possible to
keep our plants efficient and economical.
“Furthermore, the aspect of homologation of tyres remains a factor of concern
for any ‘new importer’ of tyres or importer of ‘new tyres’ for that matter,” he
said, “where any new pattern, size, or brand requires full accreditation from
NRCS before being allowed into South Africa for commercial purposes, and
import permit to be issued by ITAC.”
He added: “The point of interest is that there is no provision for the
importation of used tyres (passenger) for resale, the only import permit
allowance being for the purposes of retreading alone. ITAC have issued
a stern warning that any abuse of import permits as far as tyres are
concerned will be followed up on from every angle, to bring perpetrators to
book. The penalty for importing used tyres and selling them directly would
be a breach of an import permit and can attract a fine of R500 000 or ten
years in prison, or both, if convicted. This complements the ‘Road Safety’
concerns in South Africa.”
Judd further questioned the location of the show, suggesting an alternative
venue could well result in greater support for the event.
“The show location is not ideally suited to inbound travellers from around South
Africa, being located in Sandton. A venue closer to OR Tambo International
Airport would be more conducive to attendance, in my opinion, with arterial
roads feeding into the general area.”
WHAT WERE VISITORS LOOKING FOR?
1 2 • F o c u s o n T y r e x p o A f r i c a
Conversely, and despite some of the concerns being raised, certain
international exhibitors who supported the show for the first time offered a
different take on the event.
Cyril Versteeg, van den Ban’s Commercial Manager – one of the leading
and most successful tyre wholesaling companies in Europe said: “Following
the show we are now in advanced negotiations with various South African
companies with our long term objective being to appoint distributors
throughout the entire African tyre market.
“Undoubtedly, Tyrexpo Africa is the right show for us to tap into for our new
plans,” he claimed.
Van den Ban are a multi-brand distributor offering an extensive range of major
and quality brands for all segments of the market and also produce their own
private label – Novex – which is manufactured by Maxxis (see more on vdBan
on page 26)
Peter Cross, Commercial Manager for Oak Tyres in the UK agreed, stating that
the show was useful for their company and that they were confident that they
would be able to forge new and long-lasting partnerships in Africa as a result
of attending.
“It was useful for us to make new contacts in a new market and to spread the
message of our product. Davanti has been meticulously planned to enable our
partners to yield exceptional returns on the brand, and so finding the right
partner to fit the brand is essential in the roll-out of our global sales, strategy,”
he said.
He added that the show offered them the ability to meet a wide range of different
types of customers from different countries in a relatively short space of time
and afforded them the opportunity to conduct in-depth discussions with these
players ahead of making that all-important decision of ‘who to partner with’.
Recently introduced into market in 2015, Davanti is being described as a new
premium tyre brand especially aimed at a growing SUV market. Developed
using a combination of 3D computerised simulation, track testing and the
company’s in-house testing laboratory, the UK-based brand has already
amassed impressive EU label results in light of its wet-grip performance and
low noise ratings.
Singapore based Global Tap Pte Ltd was yet another progressive international
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F o c u s o n T y r e x p o A f r i c a • 1 5
tyre wholesaler making their first appearance at the show, their primary
objective being to introduce and promote their private brand, Gremax, in
South Africa and the African continent and in the hopes of appointing suitable
distributors in as many African countries as possible.
“The show was highly successful for us in furthering our profile in South Africa.
Global Tap is still in its infancy stage, so for us, attendance at the show was well
worth the effort,” said Daniel Eng, Export Director.
Conson Sia, MD of Stamford Tyres South Africa concurred: “The show was
an essential development in Stamford’s growing presence within the South
African tyre and wheel market,” he said.
But Pieter Kruger, TIASA Chairman, did not share their enthusiasm. He said:
“As to whether Tyrexpo Africa can add real value is difficult to say as some of
our members might agree that it has. Personally, I do not think so. The show
has never achieved what it was intended to achieve.”
TRADE VISITORS’ BUSINESS SECTOR
As far as the way forward is concerned Hedley Judd went on to suggest that
as an expo the show could be better used as a platform for the education
and improvement of processes and the facilitation of efficiencies in the tyre
fitment arena.
“Although this would take time to gain traction (pun intended), I believe this
type of format would be far more beneficial to the “local” attendees in the
future,” he concluded.
And according to Alida Mouton of CFP Tyres and Executive Member of
TIASA, if compared to other international shows, the only way Tyrexpo
Africa will be successful in the long run will be if the local manufacturers
come to recognise and support it.
She said: “This will definitely provide the show with greater substance whilst
also attracting the support and participation of larger imported brands.”
1 6 • I n d u s t r y N e w s
Revolutionary technologies sets the trend-setting Continental SportContact 6 apart from the rest
The South African motoring press recently converged on Zwartkops Raceway in Gauteng to experience the purported advantages of the new SportContact 6 over its predecessor. Motoring journalists put the new tyre to the test via a gruelling series of activities that test wet weather performance, drive comfort and above all, road safety. SA TREADS was there.
As the new range-topper in Continental’s ultra-high performance (UHP)
passenger car tyre range, the SportContact 6 boasts an array of advanced
technologies that deliver maximum handling, grip, control and stability in all
types of driving conditions.
Rated to a maximum speed of 350 km/h, the SportContact 6 employs
three key technologies that push the performance boundaries of the UHP
segment, and represent significant gains over its predecessor – the highly
rated ContiSportContact 5P.
Black Chili Compound
The innovative Black Chili tyre compound was originally introduced in
conjunction with the ContiSportContact 5P, and achieved exceptional all-round
grip in all directions.
This technology uses an ingeniously engineered micro-flexibility compound
that allows the microscopic roughness and irregularities of the road surface
to penetrate the rubber and mesh with the tyre, generating micro-level
interlocking between the road and the tyre. This ensures exceptional all-round
grip with short braking distances, optimal acceleration and safe cornering – on
both wet and dry roads.
New to the SportContact 6, the structures of Black Chili compound now
employ fleeting atomic bonds, known as the Atomic Force Compatabilisers, in
the contact area between the tyre and asphalt. These serve as strong adhesive
forces, acting like nanoscopic suction pads that connect the tyre to the road
surface with functional quick-release, resulting in maximum grip at all times.
I n d u s t r y N e w s • 1 7
Force Vectoring
The Continental SportContact 6 introduces a new era in tread pattern
development. The pioneering Force Vectoring technology features different
tread elements on the inside, centre and outside of the tyre to deliver
maximum transmission and control of the tyre’s lateral forces.
The solid Centre Responsive Rib Design uses reinforced shaped centre
ribs and an inner shoulder that allow for maximised stress resistance when
cornering, where the lateral forces from the outside of the tyre are larger
than from the inside.
To enhance the transmission of these forces, the centre rib design
incorporates improved bracing with asymmetric flank angles and chamfered
edges. Additionally, concave long grooves produce a broad rib base,
providing more rigid stabilisation for maximum lateral force transmission.
An Advanced Macro Block Design is used on the outer shoulder of the
SportContact 6. It contains large shoulder blocks connected to interlinked
elements in a second row of tread blocks – which together create a larger
macro block unit. This enables the tread blocks to provide mutual support
during fast cornering, contributing to maximum cornering stability at the
limit.
Aralon 350
Overall tyre stability is further aided through the use of a new synthetic
reinforcing material specially designed for the SportContact 6.
Aralon 350 uses two strands of high-strength aramid and one strand
of flexible nylon, which are tightly wound together, combining the
oppositional behaviour of two different materials in one yarn. It is located
beneath the tread as a jointless Adaptive High Speed Cap Ply which acts like
an additional steel belt, above the regular angled belt and lateral casing ply.
This allows the construction as a whole to adapt flexibly to varying stability
requirements – in particular the enormous centrifugal forces acting on the
tyre at very high speeds – thus resulting in unprecedented high-speed
stability and safety.
uHp Tread Wear indicator
Incorporated in the advanced design of the SportContact 6 is an
innovative new multi-stage ultra-high performance tread wear indicator
(TWI), specifically developed for Continental’s latest offering.
The new UHP TWI makes it easy for the driver to identify when the
remaining tyre tread depth reaches 3,0 mm. Continental recommends
replacing tyres at this point in order to provide continued safety in wet
conditions, especially in terms of aquaplaning resistance.
A further TWI marker is set at 1,6 mm remaining tread depth, indicating
that the tyre must be replaced.
Although legal tread depth limit for South Africa is 1,0 mm across the
entire width of the tyre, wet grip is severely compromised at this level, as
the tyre simply isn’t able to channel water away from the tread surface.
Accordingly, this results in a far greater risk of aquaplaning, reduced
cornering grip and traction, as well as longer braking distances in wet
conditions.
Outstanding performance
Our first-hand driving experience on this new tyre confirms that it does
indeed provide significant improvements in handling, stability and wear
resistance.
Compared to its predecessor, steering precision has improved by 14
percent, along with an 11 percent increase in dry handling.
High-speed performance sees a 10 percent improvement, while wear and
noise levels have both seen a 7 percent gain. Race track grip, which is
the most punishing environment for any road tyre, has been enhanced
by 4 percent.
And despite the exceptional top-end performance characteristics on the
new SportContact 6, it matches the proven capabilities of the previous
model in aquaplaning and wet braking, thus achieving a new level of all-
round capability.
3232-DS-PointS-Value Structure Double Page Spread.indd 1 2016/03/03 4:51 PM
3232-DS-PointS-Value Structure Double Page Spread.indd 1 2016/03/03 4:51 PM
2 0 • I n d u s t r y N e w s
In other industry news, Continental has adopted an innovative and
comprehensive approach to automotive safety under the Vision Zero
banner, which aims to reduce and ultimately eliminate vehicle accidents,
injuries and fatalities.
The initiative is allegedly driven by the Continental Group’s leading
status as one of the world’s largest tyre and automotive safety systems
manufacturers.
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Vision Zero:
The long way to zero road deaths
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December
Accident rates
are highest in
this month
23,6%75,5%
9%
9%
26%
24%
15%
10%
7%10-19
0-9
20-29
60+
30-39
40-49
50-59
Total % of
fatalities per
age group
Males
have a
higher
accident rate
compared
to women
Month
DayTime
Vehiclesinvolved in accidents
11%
8%
9%
10%
18%
25%
19%
Mon
Tues
Thurs
Wed
Fri
Sat
Sun
Accident
rates are
highest on
weekends
Most fatal crashes
occur
betweenPM
Many victims are
pedestrians,
often under the
incluence of
alcohol or drugs
Our situation in South Africa
Accident avoiding driving – innovatively powered by Continental.Vision Zero
Creating the safest
and most reliable
tyres.
TyreAutomotive
Driver
Knowledge, attitude
and awareness
through professional
driver‘s education, for
example.
Our contribution
Holistic state-of-the-
art expertise from
brake pedal to tyre.
Infrastructure
Improving driving
conditions by
consulting with
communities
and infrastructure
planners.
Did you know?
Motorists are
involved in fatal
accidents due to
various human, vehicle
and road factors
13, 000 & 14, 000lives annually in South Africa
Road accidents claim between
6, 649
TAXI
OTHER
1, 003450292309
2, 803
3051, 2261, 348
222
Continental Vision Zero – aiming for an accident-free future
“Vision Zero is Continental’s strategy
to bring an end to traffic fatalities and
injuries,” says Niel Langner, Marketing
Manager for Continental Tyre South
Africa. “It is a long-term global programme
that combines Continental’s various
automotive divisions, along with strategic
partners, to develop solutions that will
reduce and eventually eliminate road
traffic collisions, injuries and fatalities.
“Since seatbelts, airbags, electronic
stability control, tyre pressure
monitoring systems and ABS brakes
became mandatory in Europe, the
total number of road accidents,
injuries and deaths has declined
significantly,” Langner states. “But
we have to take this process further
and make a concerted effort to
address the more than 1,2-million
people that are killed on the world’s
roads every year.”
He adds that the problem is even
more extreme in SA, which has
amongst the world’s highest
number of road fatalities: around
15 000 people lose their lives
in traffic-related incidents
annually.
Networked communications
and automated driving
“Vehicle safety is a
complex interplay between
different factors, including
human, technological and
I n d u s t r y N e w s • 2 1
environmental aspects,” Langner says. “Continental takes all of these
elements into consideration when developing new safety technologies.”
He goes on to say that ContiGuard is one of Continental’s key divisions
that plays a major role in the realisation of accident-free driving. It
integrates all of the car’s active safety systems (such as ABS, ESP,
Blind Spot Detection System, and head-up display) and passive safety
features (active emergency seatbelt control, airbags) with vehicular and
surrounding sensors that provide ongoing and coordinated interaction
related to traffic and the movement of other vehicles.
“The networking of multiple advanced driver assistance systems will
pave the way for the evolutionary path towards automated driving,
a core technology that Continental has been developing under the
ContiGuard banner,” Langner explains.
Automated driving is envisaged as a key future development that will
contribute to improved road safety. Continental recently launched
2025AD.com, a public and independent website promoting a global
conversation on all aspects of automated driving and future mobility.
Aside from eventually automating the driving process, networked
communications will promote car-to-car interaction to actively inform
and assist drivers to avoiding collisions, claims the company, thereby
providing insight into a future without collisions and resulting injuries
or deaths.
In addition, according to Langner, ‘Tyre education and awareness is at
the forefront of the company’s campaign in SA, as there is a significant
lack of understanding regarding the critical role that tyres play in overall
driving safety.’
2 2 • I n d u s t r y N e w s
Sava is launching the new Sava Avant 4Plus steer tyre and Orjak 4Plus
drive tyre. These European on-road quality truck tyres feature the
latest generation tread designs. The new Sava 4Plus tyres offer cost-
conscious fleet operators further benefits including improved mileage
of up to 10% when compared to their predecessors and a wider range
of sizes.
Seven sizes are available in the Sava Avant 4Plus steer tyre range
including one new size. The tread profile of the Avant 4Plus gives an
optimal footprint to ensure even wear and high mileage. A further
feature of the new tyres is that the widest sizes 385/55R22.5 and
385/65R22.5 now have six ribs giving more flexibility than the previous
five-rib design. This too improves wear characteristics. The new Sava
Avant 4Plus steer tyres are more robust and offer a mileage increase of
up to 10%2 compared to their predecessors.
The new Orjak 4Plus drive tyre range comprises five sizes and has
a tread pattern that with increased tread depth improves mileage.
Enhancements to the shoulder area of the tyres improve handling and
stability. Like the Avant 4Plus tyres, the Orjak 4Plus offer up to 10%
higher mileage3 compared to the predecessor.
The new sava truck tyres will be available
progressively from June 2016 in the
following sizes.
Sava Avant 4Plus steer: 315/80R22.5, 295/80R22.5,
315/70R22.5 385/55R22.5 (new size),
315/60R22.5, 295/60R22.5 and 385/65R22.5.
Sava Orjak 4Plus drive: 315/80R22.5, 295/80R22.5,
315/60R22.5, 315/70R22.5 and 295/60R22.5.
The new Sava Avant 4Plus steer tyre and Orjak
4Plus drive tyre complement the 385/65R22.5 and
385/55R22.5 Sava Cargo 4.
The Sava tyres supplied to the South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa
market are produced at the Izmit Plant in Turkey, Wittlich Plant located
in Germany and Debica Plant located in Poland. These Plant facilities
have state of the art equipment and the latest manufacturing technology.
Goodyear has been at the forefront of tyre innovation for more than
a century striving for new and better ways to enhance its products.
Goodyear is offering value back on performance and a line extension
addressing market demand at the right value to its customers.
About sava
Sava is a leading brand in Goodyear’s product
portfolio and is one of the best known tyre brands
in Central and South-East Europe. The brand name
originates from Slovenia, where Goodyear has a
large manufacturing facility, and offers a wide range
of commercial vehicle and passenger car tyres. Sava
tyres are sold throughout Europe and exported to
other parts of the world. When buying Sava branded
tyres, customers acquire European quality products
driven by Goodyear technology.
Sava launches new Avant 4Plus and Orjak 4Plus Truck Tyres
With the reliability you get from Bandag, your fleet can take on anything. www.bandag.co.za
8182 Bandag Strip Ad.indd 3 5/15/08 4:39:38 PM
With Bandag, you don’t have to be a tyre expert. You just have to know one! Bandag specialises in the manufacture of retreads and best-in-class after sales service. That’s what we do!
For more information please contact Bandag on 011 439 6000 or visit the website at www.bandag.co.za.
P r o m o t i o n • 2 3
DASHBOARD VIEW:
REDISA’S ACHIEVEMENTS:
2 067 3 219 227 143 077DEALERS SERVICED JOBS CREATED SMMES CREATED
*AS AT END APRIL 2016
TONNES PROCESSED
AN ECONOMYCREATED ENTIRELYFROM WASTEREDISA continually creates positive futures for businesses, people and the environment by driving a circular economy that will help redesign, reinvent and reuse the products we consume. Our first-of-its-kind plan and revolutionary systems are making meaningful contributions to our society – creating jobs, opportunities and brighter futures for all. The potential for our future? Endless.
JOIN THE JOURNEY | www.redisa.org.za | /wasteintoworth | @wasteintoworth | +27 87 35-REUSE (73873)
SA_Treads.indd 1 2016/06/03 12:17 PM
DASHBOARD VIEW:
REDISA’S ACHIEVEMENTS:
2 067 3 219 227 143 077DEALERS SERVICED JOBS CREATED SMMES CREATED
*AS AT END APRIL 2016
TONNES PROCESSED
AN ECONOMYCREATED ENTIRELYFROM WASTEREDISA continually creates positive futures for businesses, people and the environment by driving a circular economy that will help redesign, reinvent and reuse the products we consume. Our first-of-its-kind plan and revolutionary systems are making meaningful contributions to our society – creating jobs, opportunities and brighter futures for all. The potential for our future? Endless.
JOIN THE JOURNEY | www.redisa.org.za | /wasteintoworth | @wasteintoworth | +27 87 35-REUSE (73873)
SA_Treads.indd 1 2016/06/03 12:17 PM
2 6 • I n d u s t r y N e w s
Having successfully exhibited at Tyrexpo Africa
2016 in Johannesburg in March where the
company took their very first venture into
the South African tyre market. Netherlands
based Van Den Ban Autobanden B.V. (VDB)
are confident of expanding their impressive
company profile throughout South Africa and in
due course the entire African Continent.
SA Treads spoke exclusively with Cyril Versteeg,
VDB’s Commercial Manager who states that
as one of the leading and most successful
tyre wholesalers in Europe the company has
now started to focus on Southern Africa.
Cyril adds, “Following the show we are now
in advanced negotiations with various South
African companies and our long term objective
is to appoint distributors throughout the entire
African tyre market.”
Strongly supported by a state-of-the-art,
technologically advanced tyre distribution
centre in Hellevoetsluis, near Rotterdam and with
a continuous stock of around 1.5 million tyres
A new South African horizon for Van den Ban
and an annual sales performance of 6 million
tyres, VDB are a multi-brand distributor offering
an extremely wide and extensive range of major
and quality brands covering the passenger car,
high performance, winter, all season, 4x4/SUV,
light truck, trailer, caravan and truck tyre market
sectors. VDB is also covering a complete range
of economy and budget brands. In the economy
range VDB is distributing in a lot of European
countries brands including Federal, Silverstone
and Sava whilst in the budget segment VDB has
a very extensive range, including brands such
as Hifly and Gripmax (4x4/SUV) which have
created a lot of popularity throughout Europe.
Also a private label called Novex (produced by
Maxxis) belongs to the assortment of VDB. The
Novex brand is VDB’s flagship brand and was
exhibited at Tyrexpo Africa 2016. It incorporates
a very comprehensive range of over 200 size
options including 101 summer in 5 patterns,
57 winter and 54 all-season patterns in both
passenger and light truck sectors. Cyril confirms
that our dealer network in Europe is growing
and with the fantastic Novex Super Speed
A2 pattern we cover the high end of the PCR
market.
Finally, in keeping with VDB’s ongoing
commitment to consistently responding to
new market developments around the world
as a unique ‘Total Tyre Supplier’. The company
will be introducing a new private label brand in
the budget segment at the Reifen Show which
incorporates summer, winter and all-season
tyres in a total of almost 200 size options.
Cyril Versteeg concludes: “We are proud of
the fact that we cover two segments with
our private labels; Novex in the premium
budget segment/mid segment and our new
private label in the budget segment therefore
underlining our commitment as ‘your Total
Tyre Supplier!”
For further information on the complete VDB
product portfolio and services visit www.
vandenban.nl
OTR RADIALS
FOR ORDERS & INFORMATIONContact: Ken Martin or Marlin Pillay
Tel: 031 764 6451 | Ken: 083 387 8403 | Marlin: 071 880 9247 | Fax: 086 558 8382 Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
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TESTED & PROVEN
TrenTyre is the largest commercial tyre fitment network in the country. Our outlets stand ready and waiting to help. So you can take confidence in the fact that whenever you need us, wherever you are, we’re right behind you.
We’reright behind youwherever you are.24/7.
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23203 Trentyre Mag Ad FA.pdf 1 2015/08/13 9:08 AM
T a l k i n g T y r e s • 2 9
Motorists, and consumers in general, are being hit exceptionally hard
financially due to a multitude of factors, starting out with deplorable situation
regarding exchange rates. Political turmoil is just one of the factors driving
our currency down, while soaring inflation is rubbing salt into the wound.
As the South African economy teeters ever-closer towards zero growth
for 2016 (now expected to be just 0.5% for the year), government insists
on playing Russian roulette with dubious political appointments, ill-judged
economic decisions, pervasive in-fighting and a culture of corruption.
Inevitably, this means the country’s consumers and taxpayers are ultimately
paying the price.
Tyre Foru M
Going a step further…
Disposable income is being stretched to the absolute limit, and more
people are not only struggling, but failing, to make ends meet while jobs are
being shed at an alarming rate – as the 26.7% unemployment level for the
first quarter of 2016 shows.
While this paints a depressing picture of our current predicament, it
is encouraging to see business leaders engaging with government –
or, more accurately, those in power are finally taking cognisance of
the views, opinions and advice from the leaders of hugely successful
multinational corporations. But we still have a long and tumultuous road
to travel …
Everyone is feeling the pressure of doing more with less money in the current economic climate. So how can the industry up-sell tyres when the focus is entirely on cutting costs?
By Colin Mileman
3 0 • T a l k i n g T y r e s
Colin Mileman is a freelance motoring journalist, photographer and advanced driving specialist with over 17
years of experience in this field. As a former editor of Topcar and Topbike magazines, he’s as enthusiastic
about cars and bikes as they come, and has extensive knowledge of all motoring-related matters, including
the topic of tyres, having run the annual and highly regarded Topcar tyre tests for several years.
In the meantime, people are counting their rands and cents a lot more
carefully, and purchasing decisions are being considered and reconsidered
several times over before any money is spent on essential items, never mind
luxuries.
The impact on the motoring industry is clear, with new vehicle sales for
2016 expected to fall by 12% compared to last year. The upside is that the
buying pattern has shifted towards used vehicles, with the likes of WesBank
indicating a 10% increase in used vehicle finance applications.
For the tyre industry, the times are equally challenging. Manufacturers,
importers and dealers across the country will no doubt vouch for the fact the
buy-down trend towards smaller, cheaper vehicles is effectively mirrored in
the tyre segment too.
For many motorists, replacing premium tyres with cheaper alternatives is a
matter of necessity (real or perceived) due to their wallets being bled dry as
the cost of living continues rising. This trend isn’t limited to the budget market
either, as any car park inspection reveals. Even affluent motorists driving
expensive cars are feeling the pinch, and are opting for second or third-tier
products in place of more expensive original equipment rubber.
Or could it be attributed to the all-pervasive ‘grudge purchase’ that has
afflicted the tyre industry for as long as we can remember? Maybe it’s the
simple lack of understanding of the critical role that tyres play in overall
driving safety, and the perception that all tyres are relatively equal.
In reality, it’s a combination of all three. Firstly, disposable incomes are tighter
than ever, making it an easy choice between an expensive tyre and a more
affordable option. Secondly, and inextricably linked to this, very few people
plan and budget for replacement tyres, which means when the hit comes, it’s
a bitter pill to swallow.
Lastly, people genuinely do not comprehend how important tyres are.
Through years of advanced driver training, it’s always amazed me how little
drivers of all ages and levels of experience know about tyres. Most people
remember that the legal tread depth limit is 1 mm, but few really know
why this is the case, or what impact it has on handling, braking and grip –
particularly in the wet.
Ask drivers to guess stopping distances from speeds such as 60 and 120
km/h, and 99% of the time they would all have been wiped out if they were
standing in the road at the predicted point. Do the same exercise with a cheap
tyre in place of a premium tyre, and the scenario becomes even more tragic.
Budget tyres are built to price. They benefit from far less research, development
and testing than a premium tyre, and forego all the fancy materials that give the
more expensive the tyres huge advantage in cornering grip, emergency braking
and outright traction – in one word: safety!
In most cases, the premium tyre will last longer too, as it employs the latest
technologies and tread compounds that improve tyre wear and durability.
Obviously there are exceptions to the rule, and I know of a particular set of
4x4 tyres that managed more than 160 000 km, and still had much more to
offer – but the rock-hard compound made them truly scary to drive on, in both
wet and dry conditions.
Ultimately, buying cheap is likely cost more in the long run, whether it’s in terms
of the replacement cycle of the rubber, or an expensive, possibly even life-
threatening, collision that could have been prevented.
In these heavily constrained times, there needs to be an informed shift in
mindset – and that has to come with a multi-faceted awareness campaign for
the industry and motorists in general in order to change perceptions and habits.
Crucially, however, it will be the primary point of interaction between customers
and retailers that will have the greatest impact.
Successful tyre retailers and fitment centre staff will be those that proactively
advise customers not to purchase on price alone, but rather convince them to
make safety a primary consideration, followed by durability and the total cost
over the entire life of the tyre.
Most tyre manufacturers have access to independent tyre tests from around
the world, and these offer detailed insight into the performance virtues of
competitor tyres across various vehicle segments. Recently cheap tyres have
added to the tests too, and the results are simply shocking. Armed with this
information, the job of selling a quality product versus something cheap, nasty
and potentially deadly, becomes a whole lot easier.
Additionally, manufacturers and retailers that offer some sort of embedded
tyre insurance (preferably standard or at a nominal fee) will earn even greater
support and loyalty by adding further value for money and peace of mind to
the ownership experience.
3 2 • D i s t r i b u t i o n N e w s
SAT-201604.FH11 Wed Mar 02 14:12:39 2016 Page 1
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��������������New Stores For Tiger Wheel & Tyre
Tiger Wheel & Tyre has added a new store in Table View to its growing
network, located on the corner of Raats Drive and Briza Road.
The new store, which opened on 9 May under the expert supervision of
store manager, David Harding, boasts a high-tech showroom, comfortable
hospitality area that provides customers with something to take their minds
off business while they wait, as well as skilled technicians to attend to their
vehicle.
Meanwhile, another high-tech store opened on 21 April, in Eastlea, Harare
to cater for the Msasa industry and surrounding residential suburbs.
And like the Group’s other stores, the Eastlea store stocks a complete
range of tyres, among them, Continental, Yokohama, Hankook, Michelin
BFGoodrich, Pirelli, GT Radial, Sumitomo and Tiger Wheel’s own value
brand, Velocity.
D i s t r i b u t i o n N e w s • 3 3
Supa Quick’s 30 birthday year sees
the retail tyre chain having grown
from a single pilot store in 1986
to the biggest tyre franchise chain
in the country, with 257 outlets
countrywide.
More growth is planned, with the
chain aiming to reach in excess of 300
outlets by 2020. This is according to
Supa Quick head, Christo Jansen van
Rensburg, who says that the key to growth is to identify communities which
are under-serviced in terms of quality fitment centers. “When we investigate
a site for a new Supa Quick, we do in-depth research of the surrounding
area to see what options consumers have,” he commented. “There is a risk
in trying to serve too many areas with a single outlet – you end up being too
far from everyone, so we look for locations embedded within a community
or a retail node which is convenient for consumers to visit.”
Jansen van Rensburg said this enabled consumers to choose a fitment centre
on quality and service, not just convenience. “Of course, we hope they’ll
choose us!” He explained that the fitment market evolved constantly, and that
Supa Quick did not just rely on its original proposition of ‘super quick service’.
“Back before Supa Quick started, it could take in excess of two hours for a
fitment centre to fit and balance four tyres. We cut that to less than an hour,
and this kind of service has become the benchmark for the industry, so it is
less of a differentiator than it used to be,” he commented.
A new Supa Quick outlet must be quickly accepted by the community it
serves in order to get on a solid footing, and the chain has turned its attention
to new ways of staying at the head of the market. One of the key benefits has
been the support of Bridgestone SA’s specialists who provide franchisees
with support in a host of areas including training, marketing and financial
management. “A franchisee’ is focused
on making sure the business runs
effectively and customers are happy.
Our support network frees them
from a lot of business development
work,” commented Jansen van
Rensburg. “With Bridgestone’s global
footprint as the world’s largest tyre
maker, franchisees can tap into new
developments in equipment and
fitment almost as they happen. This
provides an essential line of support for the safety-critical work we do on
customers’ vehicles.”
Another growth driver is the appeal of the outlet itself, and modern Supa
Quick outlets would be unrecognizable to someone used to a typical
tyre outlet from the 1970s or early 1980s. “We have worked very hard
on ensuring the customer is received in a comfortable and appealing
environment,” said Jansen van Rensburg. “The experience must be of a
high standard no matter which outlet a customer visits. After all, a customer
loyal to a particular Supa Quick outlet could be put off the brand altogether
if they visit another one which doesn’t provide the service they are used
to,” he explained.
He also noted that part of development planning for new Supa Quick outlets
is considering businesses in the area. Selected outlets in the Supa Quick
group are nowadays able to provide commercial tyre services alongside
their consumer offerings, and Jansen van Rensburg said this was a key focus
for expansion. “Private individuals have come to demand high quality and
good service in a convenient environment, and we are increasingly siting
startup branches in locations likely to also draw commercial customers who
want the same service,” he added. “Expanding our network has required
new thinking about the way fitment centers should service customers, and
we’re confident we’ve got the right recipe,” he concluded.
More Growth Planned As Supa Quick Turns 30
YTS
Johannesburgtel: +27 11 974 7732 | email: [email protected]
Cape Towntel: +27 82 337 8699 | email: [email protected]
Official Distributors in South Africa:
YTS TYRE SALES
E N G I N E E R E D T O G O T H E D I S T A N C ETruck and Bus | Dump Trucks | Scrapers | Loaders | Compactors | Graders
W o r l d N e w s • 3 5
The very last Reifen Show in its current format took place last week
in Essen, Germany before relocating further south in the country in
Frankfurt in 2018 in a ‘groundbreaking’ move that sees this longstanding
European event link up with the Automechanika Show in September.
This historic show was attended by SA Treads European correspondent
– John Stone who confirms that a new highest total of 675 exhibitors
participated at the event representing 43 countries over 12 halls and
a record breaking 60,000 sq metres. Also rather predictably Germany
was the most represented country followed by China, The Netherlands,
Taiwan, UK and America and it is anticipated that a total of around
22,000 visitors attended the four day show.
John also attended the prestigious 2016 Innovation Awards ceremony
with both Michelin and Bridgestone being named as the dual winners of
the ‘Technology and Products category’, Michelin for its X Line Energy
Tripla A range of commercial tyres and Bridgestone for their recently
introduced Driveguard range.
Whilst in the Service Concepts and Process Optimisation category,
4JET Technologies from Germany were recognised for their Scannect
product which is the first solution in the world designed to equip
tyres with an individual, permanent QR code which can be read by a
Smartphone camera. Winners in the Motor Vehicle Service category
were ASE Corghi from Italy for the development of Uniformity, their first
tyre fitting machine complete with diagnostic functions.
Messe Essen, organisers of the biennial Reifen Show have also stated that
around 90 per cent of visitors to this year’s event have indicated they will
attend the 2018 Reifen/Automechanika show in Frankfurt although John
also reports that the future of the new event is far from certain with many
exhibitors questioning the relocation and partnership of the show in two
years’ time and in particular the fact that it will be staged in September as
opposed to the traditional month of May.
Additional reports will be published in the coming days of specific exhibitors
at the show and their new products. www.satreads.com
RecoRd bReaking faRewell fRom the Reifen essen show
This years Reifen Show
The Innovation Awards Winners
PiRelli intRoduces its new tRiathlon tbR Range at Reifen 2016Milan based Pirelli used their appearance at this year’s Reifen Show to launch
its new tyre range for commercial vehicles – the R:01 Triathlon which has been
designed as a third generation of tyre which replace the current R:01 11 pattern
but also overlap the winter W:01 and long haul H:01 ranges.
The new R:01 range has been specifically produced to recognise the variable needs
of Pirelli customers and the ongoing development of Europe goods transportation.
www.satreads.com
3 6 • W o r l d N e w s
bRidgestone wins infRingement lawsuit
A ruling in favor of Bridgestone
Corp. was upheld in a recent
appeals case, the tiremaker
shared.
In October 2013, Bridgestone
filed a lawsuit against Chinese
tire manufacturer Triangle Tyre
Co. Bridgestone said Triangle
had been manufacturing and
selling tires using a tread
pattern for studless tires that’s
exclusive design rights held by
Bridgestone. In July 2015, a Chinese court found that Triangle
infringed on Bridgestone’s design rights. The court ordered
Triangle to cease producing the tires in question and pay
damages to Bridgestone.
Triangle appealed the court’s decision, but the High People’s
Court in Jilin Province upheld the original in Bridgestone’s
favor.
“Bridgestone is committed to protecting its intellectual
property and will continue to deal with any unauthorized
use or infringement of its patents, trademarks, or any other
intellectual property in a strict manner. With this level of
vigilance, Bridgestone is prioritizing the safety and quality
associated with its products, and maintaining and enhancing
its hard-earned brand value,” the tiremaker said.
www.tirereview.com
new high sPeed otR tyRe fRom michelinFrom their headquarters in France,
Michelin has announced their latest
OTR tyre which has been specifically
designed to cater for underground
mining operations where higher
speed capabilities are required from
loader tyres.
The all-new 18.00 R25 Michelin XSM D2+ Long Cycle L5S tyre is capable
of six kilometres an hour which is a significant improvement on the existing
XSM pattern for this application. www.satreads.com
maRangoni RetRead tuRns 40Marangoni Tread North America is celebrating 40 years of the
Ringtread.
Marangoni introduced the first Ringtread (the splice-less retread)
on April 27, 1976, in Ferentino, Italy. The product combined the
no splice, double contour round shape, and precision control
of dimensions of mold cure technology with precure tread
manufacturing.
The American-made Ringtread was manufactured for the first time
at the Madison Tennessee facility on April 27, 2004. Marangoni
Tread North America has since produced and sold millions of
Ringtreads.
“Today we celebrate 40 years of excellence and although the Ring
of 40 years ago was a quality leap in retread technology, the Ring
of today is even better,” Marangoni Tread North America CEO and
President Bill Sweatman said to the Marangoni team. “Our new
Extreme Performance line is setting new records for reliability,
durability, mileage, traction, fuel economy, appearance and ride.
I would also like to celebrate and recognize all of you for your
continued commitment to manufacturing excellence”
www.tirereview.com
a glitteRing ‘show-stoPPeR’ fRom ZenisesDubai based tyre manufacturer Zenises added a new glamorous edge at
the Reifen Show last week by showcasing the world’s most expensive
tyre which costs a stunning US$ 600,000 for a set of four tyres.
The Z branded 295/35 ZR21 107Y XL tyre was specially manufactured
at the Sentry Tire factory in Qingdao, Shandong Province, China and
incorporates a 24 carat gold and expertly selected diamond stones as its
centrepiece and has already been officially recognised by the Guinness
Book of World Records. www.satreads.com
www.vipal.com | [email protected] | +55 51 3205 3051
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