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Australian Tyre Dealer | vol. 23 | issue 4 | Aug/Sep 2014
Sleek styling meets impressive handling for a head-turning performance.
Durabilty
Sports Performance
Quiet
Comfort
Superior Braking
Handling Handling
Handling technologies include excellent anti-hydroplaning performance, gripping & braking.
Fuel Fuel Saver Saver
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More resistance to irregular wear and rolling resistance & improved fuel economy.
Durabilty
Sports Performance
Quiet
Comfort
Superior Braking
Handling
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TRIANGLE T YRES OTR
THINKING BIG QLD & NT Asia Tyre Company 07 3277 1126
NSW Freedom Tyres 02 9604 0266
VIC Freedom Tyres 03 8360 8866
WA Get A Grip Tyres 1300 976 299
SA Statewide Tyres 08 8347 2999
CONTENTS 2. EDITORS WORD ATD is a publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland (MTA Queensland) and is endorsed by the Australian Tyre Dealers and Retreaders Association (ATDRA).
INDUSTRY NEWS 4. VW chooses Kumho for Polo original
equipment deal
Print Post approved PPP444752/0002
6. More MINI for Hankook Tyre OE portfolio
The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the ATDRA or any State or Territory constituent body, or of the Publishers and they take no responsibility for them, except where specifically indicated.
7. Kumho launches affordable tyre brand 8. Mercedes-Benz chooses Hankook
Tyres for new C-Class
9. Maserati approves Continental for Ghibli 10. Kumho platinum dealer program hits
HEAD OFFICE Building 8/2728 Logan Road Eight Mile Plains Qld 4113 PO Box 4530 Eight Mile Plains QLD 4113 Tel: 07 3237 8777 Fax: 07 3844 4488 Toll Free: 1800 177 951 Email: atd@mtaq.com.au Website: www.mtaq.com.au
40 strong
11. Bridgestone chosen as exclusive
supplier to the i8
14. Sustainability high on Continental’s agenda 15. Goodyear and Dunlop Tyres look to
EDITOR Jonathan Nash
the future
22. Performance the key for Michelin
ART DIRECTOR Marco Ilinic
and Carlsson
23. Goodyear launches newest airship with
ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Emily Metelmann 07 3237 8784 Facsimile: 07 3844 4488 Email: emilys@mtaq.com.auu
Bridgestone developed a tyre for the revolutionary BMW i8 that could match both its efficiency and dynamic handling characteristics, p. 11.
iconic name
FEATURE 16. Hands free: the future of driving?
EDITORIAL Enquiries should be made to: The Editor 07 3237 8721 or email atd@mtaq.com.au
20. Jeremy Andrews: a survivor’s story
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25. Monroe Magnum Commercial Vehicle
PRODUCTS 24. Safety greatly enhanced with 360º vision
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range now in Australia
Studies suggest that by as early as 2035, autonomous cars will number in the tens of millions and be a regular feature of our lives, p. 16.
MOTORSPORTS 26. Pirelli test new 18-inch concept tyre with Lotus F1 team
MTA-Queensland ABN: 740 289 338 48
27. Toyo Tires Enduro thrills the Riverland 28. Ricciardo on fast track to superstardom 29. Michelin’s new WRC tyre range for 2014/2015
WORLD NEWS 30. Toyo makes a gripping fashion statement
Jeremy Andrews, survived a brutal battle with cancer. Now, the 36-year-old is taking his story, and health message, to others in the industry, p. 20.
20140138 20140174
“Australian Tyre Dealer” welcomes submissions of information and prepared articles, but their publication will be at its sole discretion. Material appearing in “Australian Tyre Dealer” is copyright, and reproduction in whole or part without the Publisher’s written consent is prohibited. “Australian Tyre Dealer” is circulated to tyre dealers, senior executives of companies which supply the tyre industry, and representatives of relevant industry groups.
Hankook Tire has been selected to supply the original equipment tyres for the new MINI One, One D, Cooper, Cooper D and Cooper S, p. 6.
1
EDITOR’S WORD
W Jonathan Nash Editor
2
elcome to the August/ September edition of Australian Tyre Dealer. In our main feature this month we take a look at the development of the autonomous car. There have been a flood of articles in the past few months as manufacturers, governments, and even software developers have released news of technological developments that suggest the driverless vehicle is a inevitability, although quite how long it will take for them to appear on our roads is yet to be determined. We take a look at some of the history behind the autonomous car, the technologies that have been already been developed and, in some cases, deployed, and where things might be headed. Also this month, we talk to Tyres4U executive Jeremy Andrews. At just 36-years-old, Jeremy has survived a tortuous battle with cancer and come out the other side with a new perspective on life and work. Having spent his entire career within the tyre industry, he has recognised that the industrious and hard-working members of the industry might be able to learn something from his experience. He is now preparing to take his story to conferences and conventions, speaking to industry groups on just how important it is to look after your health as well as your business. His is an inspiring story. In tyre industry news, Kumho has launched the low-cost brand Marshal into the Australian market, offering affordable tyres - including the brand’s flagship tyre, the Matrac XM KH35 - with Kumho’s usual high levels of quality. Hankook, Yokohama, Bridgestone and Continental have all announced OE fitment deals in the past few weeks while Dunlop recently launched its latest innovative passenger tyre, the Direzza DZ102.
The performance tyre, Dunlop says, strikes the balance between performance and style while providing consumers with the hi-tech safety elements expected from the brand. In world news, Goodyear in America has reported that its drive to offer employment to 1000 US military veterans has been met, and has set a new goal of hiring 1000 more in the coming year. Bridgestone, meanwhile, announced that it has entered into an agreement with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and is now an official TOP worldwide Olympic partner through to the 2024 Olympic Games. The company also says that it has scored the exclusive supplier deal for the stunning and innovative BMW i8 hybrid car. In Motorsport news, Michelin has released three new tyres to be used for the World Rally Championship. The company says that it has now completely renewed its WRC rally tyre range over a period of just three months and in compliance with the FIA technical regulations. On a final note, the world of fashion is not, necessarily, one we would associate much with the world of tyres. But Toyo has taken a slightly different tack. The tread patterns of a number of the company’s tyres have been used to produce a design for the traditional Japanese clothing known as Yukata. And, we have to say, they look pretty good! Take a look for yourselves on page 30. I hope you enjoy this edition of Australian Tyre Dealer and, as always, feel free to drop me a line if you have some news you would like to share with the industry. I look forward to hearing from you.
Regards Jonathan Nash jonathann@mtaq.com.au
O TO TYRE W YN A A S
E ST
WE
Turning tyre waste into new opportunities
Look for the TSA logo at tyre retailers Australia generates over 48 million waste tyres per year*. You can help us turn them into a valuable resource and new jobs. The tyre industry is coming together to support the Tyre Product Stewardship Scheme – reducing waste, creating new products and jobs. Accredited tyre retailers don’t want your old tyres polluting our environment. Play your part! Make sure that from August of this year you look for the TSA stamp of approval where you buy your tyres.
For more information visit tyrestewardship.org.au *Volume based on Equivalent Passenger Units (EPUs). An EPU is a standard passenger car tyre. Full EPU Ratio Tables available at www.tyrestewardship.org.au
INDUSTRY NEWS
Kumho will supply its 185/60 R15 size Ecowing ES01 KH27 low rolling resistance tyres for Polos manufactured in Spain
VW chooses Kumho for Polo original equipment deal V
olkswagen has selected Kumho to supply original equipment tyres for its popular Polo hatchback. Kumho will supply its 185/60 R15 size Ecowing ES01 KH27 low rolling resistance tyres for Polos manufactured in Spain. According to Kumho Tyre Australia’s national marketing and training manager, David Basha, the Ecowing is the ideal match for the Polo because of its economical and environmental benefits. “It is a real vote of confidence by VW in selecting Kumho to supply tyres for the Polo and recognises the extensive R&D programs Kumho has invested in to deliver the highest quality tyres,” he said. “The Volkswagen Polo is a great, economical little car and Kumho’s Ecowing ES01 KH27 tyre will deliver added fuel savings and a reduced carbon footprint.” An independent economy test 4
staged last year which compared identical cars - one fitted with Kumho Ecowing KH27s, the other with an equivalent conventional steel radial - showed a five per cent reduction in fuel consumption by using Kumho’s flagship Eco tyre. “That equates to savings of more than $200 a year for the average motorist just by fitting low rolling resistance Ecowing tyres,” said Mr Basha. Kumho has achieved the fuel saving measures through its new generation silica compound and tread design. The KH27’s rigid centre tread minimises the amount of energy lost through tyre flexing - reducing the amount of drag and making it more efficient while maintaining high levels of grip. Three lateral grooves also ensure the tyre maintains stability while providing excellent water channeling to reduce the risk of aquaplaning in heavy rain.
Ecowing ES01 KH27
The Ecowing ES01 KH27’s innovative construction was recognised in 2013 with a prestigious Rod Dot Design Award. “The Ecowing ES01 is an important tyre for Kumho because it encapsulates our ethos of creating innovative and sophisticated products while also reducing our carbon emissions,” said Mr Basha.
The Mercedes GLA-Class
Yokohama to be factory-equipped on GLA-Class Compact SUV
T
he Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class compact SUV will come factoryequipped with Yokohama’s C.drive2 tyres for overseas markets. The GLA-Class will be fitted with one of two versions of the tyre - the standard version and a version based on Yokohama’s runflat technology. The tyre size for both versions is 235/50R18 97V.
The tyres will also bear Daimler’s official stamps of approval, with ‘MO’ for the standard version and ‘MOE’ for the runflat version. Both tyres offer superior wet-grip performance and fulfil the safe-performance requirements of the European market through improved handling and stability in both dry and wet conditions. They
The C.drive 2
also are highly fuel efficient tires. Yokohama tyres have been designated as original equipment on numerous other Mercedes-Benz models, including the S-Class, G-Class, G 63 AMG, G 65 AMG, CL 63 AMG, ML 63 AMG, E-Class Coupe, C-Class, C 63 AMG, CLS-Class, SL-Class, SLK-Class, B-Class, and the A-Class.
Franchises available: are you ready for the ride? This could be your chance to be part of the revolution of automotive care. We have opportunities Australia wide for retail automotive enthusiasts seeking an exciting and rewarding business, with the support of a successful and innovative network. The Goodyear Autocare Franchise Program is backed by Goodyear, Australia’s largest tyre wholesaler and retailer, and a well respected, internationally recognised brand. This gives Goodyear Autocare Franchisees strong local support within a successful global network.
Goodyear Autocare is a unique one-stop shop for all automotive needs. We’ve put a lot of research into creating an automotive retail experience that is superior in the marketplace and highly sought after by consumers. Goodyear Autocare was launched in 2006 and has grown to over 130 stores nationwide. We believe you will find Goodyear Autocare to be one of the most exciting and rewarding franchise programs available.
For further information, contact franchising@goodyear.com Doug Trenwith on 0412 229 800 or email doug_trenwith@goodyear.com David Stafford on 0434 563 337 or email david_stafford@goodyear.com
Whether you wish to establish a new retail outlet or re-brand your existing business and like us, you have a passion for high quality automotive services, then we just might be on the road to a beautiful partnership.
goodyearautocare.com.au
5
INDUSTRY NEWS
More MINI for Hankook Tyre OE portfolio H ankook Tire has been selected to supply the original equipment tyres for the new MINI One, One D, Cooper, Cooper D and Cooper S, significantly expanding the company’s original equipment supply portfolio with the new edition of the sporty premium small car. Aside from the 15-inch tyres for the One and Cooper models, as well as 16-inch for the Cooper S, a sporty 17-inch Hankook tyre option is also available for the first time. In addition to the standard versions, Hankook Tire also supplies the 16- and 17-inch versions of the Hankook Runflat System (HRS)
as tyre sets with emergency running properties. Various summer patterns suiting each car’s respective engine power are utilised to effectively support the sporty-direct handling of the MINI. The extended original equipment portfolio mirrors the closer relationship with the BMW Group. In addition to the MINI, Hankook Tire’s products are already fitted as original equipment on five other BMW models, the 1-, 3-, 4- and 5-series, as well as the X5. The MINI’s sharp and direct chassis properties place special requirements on the tyres - they must optimally transfer the performance
The Hankook Runflat System is now available across a number of patterns and sizes, for Ventus and Optimo
HANKOOK TYRE ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT APPLICATIONS (MINI) TYRE SIZE
TREAD
APPLICATION
RUNFLAT
175/65R 15 H
Hankook Kinergy Eco
Summer
-
175/65R 15 H
Hankook Optimo H426
All-Season
-
195/55R 16 V
Hankook Optimo H426
All-Season
✔
195/55R 16 W
Hankook Ventus Prime²
Summer
-
195/55R 16 W
Hankook Ventus Prime²
Summer
✔
205/45R 17 V
Hankook Optimo H426
All-Season
✔
205/45R 17 W
Hankook Ventus S1 evo²
Summer
✔
MINI’s new 2014 Cooper comes factory equipped with Hankook tyres 6
The standard Hankook Ventus S1 evo (left), against the same tyre in HRS (right)
of the vehicle in order to support the renowned, typical MINI character. “We have shown that our summer and all-season tyres ideally highlight the driving characteristics of the MINI without neglecting important safety and environmental parameters like wet grip or rolling resistance”, explained Mr. Byung-il Woo, Vice President of Global OE Division at Hankook Tire. “We are very happy that our tyres have made a positive performance impression with the previous MINI generation and that we are now again fitted as original equipment to the new MINI edition with an extended tyre portfolio.” In addition to the high performance Ventus Prime2 tyres, which have been original equipment on MINIs since 2011, Hankook is also represented in original equipment with its ultra-highperformance flagship Ventus S1 evo2, the energy efficient Kinergy Eco as well as the all-season Optimo H426. This application includes Australiandelivered MINI vehicles.
Kumho launches affordable tyre brand K umho has launched a new and highly affordable tyre brand to provide better quality tyres to budget conscious motorists.
“Marshal Tyres boasts Kumho’s high levels of quality for an even more cost effective price and are the best possible combination of quality and price.”
Kumho’s Matrac MH11
The new brand, Marshal Tyres, will initially boast two entry-level products for small, medium and large passenger cars. According to Kumho Tyre Australia national marketing and training manager David Basha, the introduction of Marshal Tyres means saving money without compromising quality. “Kumho is conscious that not everyone can afford products in the top end of the market,” he said. “Marshal Tyres boasts Kumho’s high levels of quality for an even more cost effective price and are the best possible combination of quality and price.” Marshal’s flagship tyre, the Matrac XM KH35 is a high performance tyre that also delivers a comfortable ride. The KH35 is available in 15 sizes ranging from 177/65/ R15 to 235/40/R18. The asymmetrical tread design delivers high grip levels and performance handling. Tie bars between tread blocks strengthen the tyre and reduce flex in order to ensure a long lasting, durable tyre. The Matrac MH11 is a touring tyre for small cars such as the Holden Barina, Suzuki Swift and Mazda 2. The MH11 is available in a 14 inch 175/65 or 185/65 sizes with a directional tread pattern. A rigid central rib offers stability at highway speed while also providing a smooth, comfortable and quiet ride. Four longitudinal grooves deliver exceptional water channeling to reduce the risk of aquaplaning. “Marshal tyres have been designed and produced by Kumho to ensure price is not a factor when it comes to fitting reliable, quality tyres,” said Mr Basha. Marshal tyres are only available at Tyrepower and Kumho’s Platinum and master dealers.
2014 MICHELIN AUTHORISED
DEALER Michelin Authorised Dealer advantages: An official manufacturer’s warranty on MICHELIN tyres. Access to expert technical advice & after sales support. A full range of MICHELIN tyres to match your needs and suited to Australian conditions. MICHELIN tyres are transported & stored in transit according to manufacturer recommendations.
Go to www.michelin.com.au to see the full list of Michelin Authorised Dealers.
7
INDUSTRY NEWS
Mercedes-Benz chooses Hankook Tyres for new C-Class
Hankook supplies tyres for C-Class, E-Class and S-Class
H
ankook Tire is expanding its original equipment involvement with Daimler AG, equipping the brand new 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class with high performance tyres from its Ventus line. The C-Class is the third model to be fitted with Hankook tyres, following the Mercedes-Benz S- and E-Classes. The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class is also currently being equipped with Hankook’s Ventus S1 evo2 high-end tyres in sizes 225/50R17W in the standard and runflat versions. “The new C-Class is already the third Mercedes-Benz premium model that has been equipped with our high performance tyres in the last 12 months,” explained Mr. Byung-il Woo, Vice President of Global OE Division at Hankook Tire. “It thereby documents consistently recognised high-performance both in development and production. We are particularly proud that the Hankook Runflat System [HRS], produced in Europe, is able to satisfy the high demands of the Mercedes-Benz engineers when it comes to safety, driving dynamics and comfort. This original equipment is further proof of the worldwide technological competence 8
of the Hankook Tyre brand.” In addition to the standard version of Ventus S1 evo2, HRS - which is being used for the first time in the premium original equipment segment - has been specifically adapted to fit the typical Mercedes aspects of safety and comfort for the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class. The company says that even in the test phase, both versions of the Ventus S1 evo2 being used were distinguished by predictable, reliable handling, outstanding braking performance, high directional stability, low rolling noise and significantly reduced rolling resistance. The reason for it, among others, is a significant weight reduction through less unsprung mass, thanks to an extremely lightweight and durable steel cord material used for the belt package technology that is also found in the Hankook racing tyres in the DTM. The rubber mixture used is very hightech: by extending the mixing periods at reduced temperatures a significant increase of the compounding rate is achieved in the tread surface area and a significantly more targeted cross-linkage between the carbon black and rubber molecules. The result, Hankook says, is less heat development during the drive, which has a positive effect on driving
Hankook’s 17-inch tyre is now OE on the C-Class Mercedes-Benz, in normal and runflat
DTM technology is used to keep the Ventus S1 evo2 light
dynamic, particularly in relation to rolling resistance and wear. Furthermore, a specially developed styrene-polymer significantly increases the grip level of the tyres for outstanding braking and traction performance in wet conditions. The Ventus S1 evo2 line-up comprises 55 dimensions from 16- to 19-inch with aspect ratios from 60 to 30, covering tread widths from 205 to 305mm. The Ventus S1 evo2 is available for high powered compact cars, luxury limousines, sportive coupés /convertibles and GTs as well as high end sports cars. The runflat version comprises dimensions from 17- to 18-inch with aspect ratios 50 to 40, covering tread widths from 205 to 245mm.
Maserati approves Continental for Ghibli
The ContiSportContact 5 has been approved for the Maserati Ghibli
M
aserati has approved Continental’s ContiSportContact 5 tyre as original equipment for its Ghibli model. The ContiSportContact 5 will be manufactured in eight sizes between 18 and 21 inches for the Ghibli, with each tyre to feature “MGT” on the sidewall, distinguishing it from other versions of the premium tyre. This approval for the Ghibli by the Italian sports car manufacturer follows on from last year’s approval of the Quattroporte. The base version of the Maserati Ghibli will be fitted with the ContiSportContact 5 in size 235/50 R18 97Y, with axles on
The ContactSportContact 5 will be manufactured in eight sizes between 18 and 21 inches
Reader’s Digest pick Bridgestone as Australia’s ‘Most Trusted Tyre Brand’
I
n an independent survey conducted by Reader’s Digest Australia, respondents voted Bridgestone as the most trusted brand in the Australian tyre market. “In what is a very competitive market, we ask Australians to trust the Bridgestone brand – not just in terms of the quality, safety and performance of our products but also the service and support we provide our customers across the country,” said
Andrew Moffatt, Managing Director Bridgestone Australia and New Zealand. “We make them a promise every day that they can rely on us, and we work extremely hard to keep that promise at every step of the journey. We are committed to serving society with superior quality, which is what we do every day and why we are in business.” “So, it is tremendously gratifying and also very humbling to see that trust returned and to know that you
the more powerful models to be fitted with 19-inch, 20-inch and 21-inch tyres. The tyre dimensions of the front and rear axles will be different. Wider tyres will be fitted on the rear axle to ensure that the sports sedan delivers high performance on the asphalt as well as precise handling. The product range starts with tyres from 18 inches, and the vehicle models with engines of up to 301 kW (410hp) will be fitted with ContiSportContact 5 tyres in sizes 245/35 ZR21 96Y XL on the front axle and 285/30 ZR21 100Y XL on the rear axle. The tyres for the Ghibli are approved for speeds of up to 320 km/h. have earned it. It’s something we have always been proud of and will never take for granted.” ‘Most Trusted Tyre Brand’ logos and advertising will be seen accompanying Bridgestone products in all major retail outlets. “Like Bridgestone, Reader’s Digest is an internationally‐recognised brand and one that consumers know and trust,” said Mr Moffatt. “We are confident that this accolade from Reader’s Digest will further help us distinguish our products in a very crowded market.” 9
INDUSTRY NEWS
Kumho platinum dealer program hits 40 strong
AA West Automotive at McGraths Hill is the 40th Kumho Platinum Dealer
K
umho has opened its 40th Platinum Dealer in Australia with the opening of AA West Automotive at McGraths Hill. The Platinum Dealer program was launched in late 2011 in Newcastle as a way for Kumho to showcase its extensive product range through friendly and professional dealers. Since then the program has flourished to 40 dealers around Australia - all pledging to bring higher levels of customer service and value for money to its local community. According to National Trade Manager at Kumho Tyre, Glenn Pearse, reaching the milestone of 40 stores is confirmation the formula is what customers want. “Kumho is proud to reach 40 Platinum Dealers throughout Australia,” said Mr Pearse. “Customers deserve the best advice and service without paying exorbitant prices and the Kumho Platinum scheme is focused around 10
professional and friendly dealers.” AA West Automotive is located at 2/28 Groves Avenue, McGraths Hill and offers tyre fitment, balancing, wheel alignment and a range of mechanical repairs as well - including exhaust services. Owners Ricky and Amanda Vigar say becoming a Kumho Platinum Dealer is the ideal way to expand their business. “The Kumho Platinum Dealer program was the perfect way for us to go from an automotive workshop to offering a complete service with tyre fitting and balancing too,” said Mr Vigar. “Our customers are important to us and being a Kumho Platinum Dealer is the ideal way to ensure we provide them with the best value for money when it comes to tyres.” Kumho is a proud supporter of the McGrath Foundation and holds an annual Pink Fitters Day as a fundraiser for the charity. AA West Automotive will play a key role in the 2015 event.
Toyo produces Proxes concept tyre
I
nnovative, high-quality tyres are a hallmark of Japanese manufacturer Toyo, and the company’s designers continue to excel. This stunning concept tyre, with its unique, sweeping V feature tread pattern, is a design study showing the possible direction for the company’s best selling Proxes UHP range. Designed by hand, the tyre made an appearance at this year’s AutoSalon in Japan, fitted to the Toyota 86, and debuted in Europe at the JAPFEST car show in the UK in May. “Like a concept car, this isn’t fully indicative of any final production model, but it does give you a real insight onto the minds of our talented designers,” said Alan Meaker, Toyo UK’s Technical and Motorsport Director. “There are new Proxes products on the horizon into 2015 and, without doubt, many elements of these styling and development exercises, combined with the knowledge and data that we glean from our comprehensive motorsport programme will trickle down into all of them.” Toyo Proxes concept tyre
The BMW i8 electric hybrid
Bridgestone chosen as exclusive supplier to the i8 B ridgestone is to supply tyres to BMW for fitment on the cuttingedge i8 electric hybrid car. This follows on the heels of Bridgestone’s selection as exclusive development partner for the electric BMW i3. Bridgestone developed a tyre for the revolutionary i8 that could match both its efficiency and dynamic handling characteristics. Building on Bridgestone’s strong tradition of safety, performance and efficient design, the existing Potenza S001 high-performance sports tyre and a specially developed one, were recently approved by BMW for fitment on the i8. Several combinations of summer sizes and patterns have been approved, each linked to a specific tyre specification that is developed to deliver optimum performance out on the road. The BMW i8 owner will be able to choose between the following sizes: • Front: 195/50 R20 Potenza S001-I 93W XL • Rear: 215/45 R20 Potenza S001-I 95W XL
Potenza S001
• Front: 215/45 R20 Potenza S001 95W XL • Rear: 245/40 R20 Potenza S001 99W XL “The Potenza S001 has already left its mark on the sports tyre category
with its balanced performance resulting in several high-level factory fitments,” said Jake Rønsholt, Managing Director of the Consumer Business Unit at Bridgestone Europe. “So it is little wonder that it was chosen to equip the i8, a car which is set to revolutionise its own individual category. “Delivering true sports performance while still meeting the strict fuel and energy consumption demands of this landmark vehicle has been a tough but rewarding challenge. And we are proud to have achieved such high recognition in being selected as an exclusive tyre supplier by BMW.” Bridgestone’s exclusive supplier agreement is just a small part of a long-standing collaboration with BMW both on and off the racing track. Over the past 17 years, that partnership has grown to include a long list of factory fitments, exclusive collaboration with the BMW Driving Experience programme and joint technological developments such as Run-Flat Technology tyres. 11
Direzza Z102 delivers on Dunlop’s “Race to Sleek styling meets impressive handling Road” Vision for a head-turning performance. D
unlop, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of high and ultrahigh performance tyres, has recently launched its latest innovative passenger tyre to market, the Direzza DZ102. The next generation of Direzza tyre stays true to Dunlop’s market-back innovation commitment, striking the balance between performance and style while providing consumers with Fuel theHandling hi-techHandling safety elements they’ve include technologies More resistance to irregular Saver come to expect fromanti-hydroplaning the tyre brand. excellent wear and rolling resistance performance, & braking. & improved fuel economy. The performance tyre gripping provides higher handling capability in dry and wet conditions, lower noise and an excellent ride while improving on its predecessor’s handling, grip and fuel efficiency. facebook.com/dunloptyresanz dunloptyres.com.au “The Dunlop heritage stands proud on its motorsport racing achievement, and with the driving enthusiast on the road – a feat not accomplished by many.” “We are launching a new breed in the field of performance road driving with 10897 Direzza the FPATD Cover v1.indd 1 It combines the very Direzza Z102. best of over 120 years of experience on the track and on the road, at an accessible price point for consumers who want the best for their vehicle,” said Jeanette Aston, Dunlop Product & Brand Manager. Featuring an extensive line-up of 31 sizes to fit most passenger vehicles, Direzza DZ102
er
Durabilty
Sports Performance
Quiet
Comfort
“The Dunlop heritage stands proud on its motorsport racing achievement, and with the driving enthusiast on the road – a feat not accomplished by many.”
Superior Braking
Fuel Saver
Handling
Wet Weather
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12
CMYK / .ai
Facebook “f ” Logo
CMYK / .ai
Durabilty
Sports Performance
Quiet
Comfort
Superior Braking
Handling
the Direzza DZ102 offers up to a 30% increase on mileage performance than its predecessors, thanks to its improved pattern design, offering bang for buck without compromising on performance. In addition to its improved fuel economy, the tyre features Dunlop’s best-in-class handling technologies providing excellent anti-hydroplaning performance, gripping and braking Available at: as well as more resistance to irregular wear and rolling resistance, all thanks to the bespoke tyre compounds and tread design featuring in the tyre. “The Direzza Z102 is a direct response to our consumer’s needs and a show of commitment to our focus on bringing meaningful benefits to drivers that they want and need.” “Shorter braking distances, higher levels of tyre durability, reduced noise and increased fuel savings are key focus areas for Dunlop, and areas that we’ve improved on significantly through 14/08/2014 this new tyre,” continued Jeanette. The Dunlop Direzza DZ102 tyres are available nationally through the Beaurepaires and Dunlop Super Dealer retail networks. Visit www.beaurepaires.com.au or www.dunlopsuperdealer.com.au to find your local store.
8:06 pm
©2012 The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. 2012 CHOICE Small SUV Tyre Review, 15 November 2012. Test tyre size was 225/60R17.
GooDyear’s Quietest suV tyre – With outstanDinG Wet Grip Available at:
and
www.goodyear.com.au www.goodyear.co.nz
facebook.com/GoodyearAustralia
13
INDUSTRY NEWS
Sustainability high on Continental’s agenda
T
yre manufacturer Continental continues to place high value on areas of sustainability with research into the dandelion tyre being one example of its focus. That program sees Continental working with the Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology (IME) with the objective of using latex from the roots of the dandelion as a commercially viable substitute for natural latex from rainforest plantations. “While the notion of obtaining latex from dandelions has been around for a long time, we have been working on this very intensively for the past four years, and two and a half years ago we entered into a joint development project with the Fraunhofer Institute with the aim of cultivating suitable plants,” said David O’Donnell, Head of Global Research
and Development for Passenger Car and Light Truck Tyres for Continental Tyres. “The outcome is a dandelionbased rubber that is comparable in quality and functionality with the product of the rubber tree.” The dandelions can be cultivated on land that is unsuitable for food crops, which means creating plantations next to the tyre plants in central Europe makes both economic and ecological sense. The short transportation distances would mean a substantial drop in CO2 emissions; monocultures of rubber trees in rainforest regions could be reduced; and Continental could gain a degree of immunity from the volatile prices of the global rubber market. Given that between ten and 30 per cent of the rubber in a car tyre comes from the rubber tree, the benefits are clear. “While we don’t want to set a date, the main obstacles have already been overcome - we think that in three or four years, a substantial number of our initial ‘dandelion tyres’ will be involved in road testing,” said Mr O’Donnell. Other sustainability initiatives at Continental see experts from a wide variety of fields working closely together in research and development, testing and production to make the tyre of the future even more energy efficient and eco-friendly throughout its lifecycle. In the process, they analyse every tyre component and replace it where possible with more environmentally
compatible materials. For instance, an innovative process has been introduced to return waste rubber to the production cycle at the ContiLifeCycle plant, enabling rubber from end-of-life truck tyres to be reutilised during retreading. A targeted recycling volume of 4,000 tonnes a year at the plant means that a total of around 2,400 tonnes of rubber and 1,600 tonnes of filler materials such as carbon black and silica can be saved each year. Another sustainability measure is the latest product to join the Continental’s European line-up, the Conti.eContact, a special tyre for hybrid vehicles that, the company says, features a 30 percent drop in rolling resistance when compared to a standard tyre. With this tyre, hybrid models can reduce the distances covered with the help of their internal combustion engines and increase the stretches travelled in electric mode. In February 2014, Tire Technology International magazine named Continental Tire Manufacturer of the Year 2014 and the magazine’s international panel of experts specifically commended Continental’s used tyre recycling process in conjunction with its truck tyre retreading operations. Earlier this year, the dandelion tyres project won a GreenTec Award 2014, one of Europe’s biggest environmental and business awards.
Lexus launches crossover suv
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he smart new Lexus NX crossover SUV has been launched in Japan and will start making its way to new markets across
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for the vehicle in sizes 225/60R18 100H and 235/55R18 100V. Earlier in the year, the globe in the Yokohama announced coming months. that it too was to supply Bridgestone has its BluEarth E51 and announced that its Geolander G91 tyres Dueler H/L 33 has been chosen as original to Lexus as OE fitment equipment fitment on the NX.
Bridgestone Dueler H/L 33
BluEarth E51
Geolandar G91
Goodyear and Dunlop Tyres look to the future G
oodyear & Dunlop Tyres has opened the doors to its new distribution and customer service centre in Victoria. The facility, located in the western suburb of Truganina, is the largest single user tyre distribution centre in Australia and the latest demonstration of Goodyear & Dunlop Tyres’ commitment to creating sustainable economic value in the local market. The 23,000 sqm distribution centre replaces the company’s previous premises in Somerton. In a major improvement over its previous facilities, the Truganina centre has the capacity to hold up to 250,000 tyres at one time and distribute over 1.3million tyres each year to customers in Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and Southern New South Wales. Each year, the centre will receive over 3000 shipping containers of tyres servicing Goodyear & Dunlop Tyres’ consumer, commercial and four-wheel drive segments from 70 locations across the world, including Europe, China, Indonesia and Latin America. In addition to housing all storage and distribution facilities, the building is also home to Goodyear & Dunlop Tyres’ new customer service centre. Combining both its customer service and distribution functions brings
together the key customer-focused team members across the supply chain, sales and call centre, offering a start to finish solution from sales order through to dispatch, all in the one building. Key planning and design elements of the centre include: • Centre of gravity customer analysis which has identified Truganina as the optimal geographic location in Melbourne to e-service Goodyear customers • First safety: state-of-the-art fire retardant system that protects first, employees, as well as tyres • 14 docks with self-adjusting leveller security locks which improves safety for warehouse operations • For energy conservation, there isn’t a single light switch in the building - all lights are activated by motion sensors • Modular design for flexing up capacity or flexing down which ensures the size of the distribution centre matches the future needs of the customer base • Layout design based on thermal mapping to locate fast moving stock versus slow moving stock • Investment in radio frequency picking technology which ensures accurate and efficient selection for customer orders • Traffic flow management system that results in efficient and safe flow of trucks
“The creation of the combined distribution and customer service centre is the first step of our customer focused journey and one we are very proud of,” said Thierry Villard, Managing Director of Goodyear & Dunlop Tyres ANZ. “Our aim is to rejuvenate and transform our organisation into a more nimble marketing and sales organisation, in order to successfully meet the everchanging requirements and behaviours of our customers and end users. “The Truganina centre is the second major distribution investment in our Australian network, after Eastern Creek in New South Wales, and one that we intend to continually grow alongside the success of the business.” Goodyear & Dunlop Tyres will also be re-locating its central business services functions to new offices on Church Street, Richmond, Victoria in August.
Goodyear and Dunlop Tyres new distribution and customer service centre, located in Truganina, Victoria 15
HANDS FREE: THE FU AUTONOMOUS CARS ARE NO LONGER CONSIGNED TO THE IMAGINATION OF THE SCIENCE FICTION-LOVING GEEK. EVERY MAJOR CAR MANUFACTURER, AND AT LEAST ONE BIG COMPUTER SOFTWARE COMPANY, HAVE TURNED THEIR R&D CLOUT TO A FUTURE THAT, SO FAR, WE’VE ONLY SEEN IN THE MOVIES.
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magine the scenario: It’s early on a Monday morning. A few hours earlier you were at a social gathering, consuming a few glasses of decent red. You didn’t get home until late and now, at 6am on Monday, you’ve got the nightmare of battling highway traffic on your way to a meeting. It’s not looking good. You could really use the time to get focused. Well, what if you did have the time? In fact, what if you not only had the time to get focused, but also the facilities to contact colleagues via Skype; or surf the web and get the latest financial updates? And what if you had the facilities to make yourself a decent coffee too? And what if you could do all of this in your car? Such is the future. For the age of the autonomous vehicle is just around the corner. Or so we are told. 16
This past year the trickle of news surrounding driverless cars has turned into a flood. Articles and reports emerge on an almost weekly basis regarding the newest technology, the latest road tests and the news of governments leaping on the possibilities this new era of transport might offer its economy. In July this year, for instance, the UK government announced that autonomous cars would be able to be tested there in 2015
UTURE OF DRIVING? “Depending on where you look, studies suggest that by as early as 2035, autonomous cars will number in the tens of millions and be a regular feature of our lives.” and that a review had been ordered into road regulations. “Today’s announcement will see driverless cars take to our streets in less than six months, putting us at the forefront of this transformational technology and opening up new opportunities for our economy and society,” said Vince Cable, the UK Government’s Business Secretary. Depending on where you look, studies suggest that by as early as 2035, autonomous cars will number in the tens of millions and be a regular feature of our lives. Sounds like science-fiction? It only seems that way. A number of manufacturers have either tested autonomous vehicles, have them in the pipeline, or have tested technologies that can only help to achieve that result. In the USA, several states have approved testing for autonomous vehicles on public roads – a move that has allowed Google to notch up nearly 700,000kms
Google bosses Eric Schmidt,
Larry Page and Sergey Brin
with a Google driverless car
‘Platooning’ could see vehicles make massive fuel savings
of testing of its driverless technology. BMW and Audi both conducted demonstrations of aspects of their technology in the US this year too, while Nissan outfitted one of its Leaf electric cars with its ‘Autonomous Drive Technology’ and tested it on an Expressway near Tokyo in 2013. The Mercedes S500 Intelligent Drive car completed a ‘hands-free’ 100km drive through Germany this year and Mercedes has also demonstrated the capabilities of its ‘Highway Pilot’ system, which can detect how fast the car is going, how close it is to cars in front and even change lanes for you. This type of system has also been demonstrated on trucks, allowing for a technique known as ‘platooning’, where one truck, controlled by a driver, is the lead for a number of vehicles. The technology allows the following trucks to ‘stack-up’ behind the leader at close distances, creating a slipstreaming ‘road train’. Allowing the vehicles to slipstream like this means not only that more trucks can be on the highway, but would see a vast improvement in fuel economy. And it is efficiency and safety that are the force behind the push to autonomous driving - Sebastian Thrun, who led the development of the Google car, is on the record as saying the death of a close friend in a traffic accident was a main reason for him to research such technology. continued page 18 17
And according to a report released in 2013 by the Eno Centre for Transportation in the US, if 90 per cent of cars on the road were autonomous cars, then more than 20,000 lives would be saved each year in the US. The reason? Autonomous cars don’t get drunk, or tired, or distracted. “A lot of this has to do with safety,” says Dr Glenn Geers, Technology Director, Infrastructure, Transport and Logistics for National ICT Australia (NICTA), the nation’s largest organisation dedicated to ICT research. “The vehicles themselves have reached the limit of what can be achieved with a human in the loop. “So the next logical step is to make the systems fully automated, and that’s what I believe manufacturers are working towards.” Transportation safety is one of the research areas for Dr Geers and he mentions the concept of the Cooperative Intelligent Transport System. “The Cooperative ITS is how you can increase the safety,
Autonomous cars and the law Liability today Using a simple example, if a person driving a car was to lose control at speed and crash into a tree, we might consider the following parties as being potentially responsible: 1. The driver (who we will assume is the owner of the car for the sake of this discussion); 2. The car dealership who sold the car to the driver; 3. A mechanic who had recently serviced the vehicle; or 4. The manufacturer of the car (who for this discussion we will assume produces and assembles all of the parts of a vehicle, including the electronics). There are a number of factors which would be considered by the court in order to determine liability. Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may be liable where more than one party is found to have materially contributed to the incident Where multiple parties are culpable, they would share the liability in the proportions determined by the court. If we fast forward to an age of driverless cars, where all cars on the road are autonomous - how might the assessment of liability change?
Liability for driverless cars A self-driving car is controlled by computer software - artificial intelligence designed specifically to operate the car without human input and to deal with traffic conditions and other variables. One significant hurdle to the introduction of driverless cars is whether people would be willing to place their trust, and their safety, in the hands of computers. From a legal perspective, the issue of trust and reliance required of passengers to driverless cars is particularly relevant as it is an established principle of law that trust-based relationships give rise to duties of care. If the point of a driverless car to allow people to simply set the destination and then enjoy the ride, then the responsibility for the operation and movement of the vehicle must lie with the company who manufactured the car and programmed its software. Today’s consumer protection laws would impose an 18
sustainability and efficiency of the road network by having the vehicles talk to each other – it’s not about increasing what one vehicle can do on its own but about how they can act together cooperatively for better outcomes.” It is essentially, says Dr Geers, Wi-Fi for cars. “The system has been optimised to work at speeds of up to 200kmh and at a range of 1000m, so every car can talk to other cars within a 1km radius. Vehicles broadcast data such as position, speed, steering wheel angle and so on, at 10 times per second and any car within that 1km is aware of what other cars are doing.” Technologies such as C-ITS are what are required to make a car truly autonomous, for a vehicle needs to not only be able to ‘sense’ the environment through which it travels but also respond to that environment. It needs to be able to map the world around it by spotting road edges, lane markings, signs, traffic lights, and it needs to be able to identify pedestrians, cyclists and other potential hazards. obligation on the manufacturer to compensate any person suffering injury or damage as a result of any safety defect. However, will a manufacturer’s closer connection to the actual movement and operation of a driverless car result in the law placing more onerous obligations on the manufacturer such as a duty to ensure the safety of its customer? For a conventional car which requires a person to drive, the car manufacturer is removed from the situation. The manufacturer has no control over where the car is driven, or the manner in which it is driven. As long as there is no safety defect in the car, the manufacturer is much more likely to avoid being liable for an accident. Driverless cars are a different story. There may still be ways in which a car dealership or a mechanic might be responsible for a crash. However, a manufacturer has a much closer connection to the day-to-day operation of the vehicle due to its development of the software which controls it’s vehicles. In a sense, a manufacturer steps into the shoes of a driver of a conventional car. To minimise or avoid liability, manufacturers might lobby consumers and their insurers to take on all risk associated with their driverless vehicles as a condition of purchase. Would consumers agree to take on the risk? Before driverless cars can become widespread, it is critical that an effective legislative framework is implemented so that the issue of liability can be appropriately dealt with before any accidents occur. Taking a reactive approach may result in a substantial loss of life and money. Whether driverless cars are adopted on a large scale depends on how well car manufacturers, lawmakers and community members are able to work together to develop a workable regulatory system. There are many legal and social issues relating to driverless cars which need to be resolved before we will see any significant changes to private transportation. By discussing the issues, it might be possible to formulate effective laws to accommodate the evolving technology. If this can be achieved, then the transportation revolution may come sooner than we think. This is an excerpt of an article provided courtesy of Bennett & Philp Lawyers. Bennett & Philp Lawyers specialises in servicing members of the motor trades industry. For advice, please contact Mark O’Connor at Bennett & Philp Lawyers on 07 3001 2999
Which is why vehicles currently in development carry cameras, radar and LIDAR (Light Radar System - a sensor that works by using a laser to detect an obstacle, its shape and size) to help give it that particular information while GPS, accelerometers and wheel sensors help keep track of the car’s physical location. In truth, though the technology today now makes autonomous vehicles inevitable, it has been decades in the making. Cruise control, adaptive cruise control, GPS, automatic braking, self-parking functions, stop-start technology, Bluetooth connectivity - all these functions are ones we accept as the norm on vehicles today, and each can be seen as a technological stepping-stone on the route to driverless motoring. You can go back as far as 1939 to see when the idea was first given serious thought. In 1939, at the New York World’s Fair, General Motors’ Futurama exhibit took visitors on a ride over an enormous model ‘future’ city - a city that included a sophisticated transport system and ‘autonomous highways’ ridden by ‘self-guided’ cars. Following up on this idea GM built the Firebird series of cars in the ‘50s. The wildly futuristic-looking Series III
“Drivers should be relieved of certain actions, but only when they want to be — for example, when autonomous operation makes driving safer or more comfortable.”
The Rinspeed XchangE
Nissan’s autonomous drive vehicle
General Motors, Firebird Series III
had a function called ‘autoguide’ that worked through the use of coils under the front of the car which straddled a current-carrying wire embedded in the road. The onboard ‘computer’ read the signals to control the car. Much research was done in the intervening years but it was the early part of the 2000s when things really picked up speed. In 2004, The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) in the US opened things up to the wider scientific community by instigating the ‘Grand Challenge’ – a competition open to researchers that offered a prize to the team that built a vehicle that could, on its own, cross a 150 mile course in the Mojave desert. In 2005, five vehicles achieved the feat, the winner coming from a team from Stanford University – a team which included Sebastian Thrun. So assuming the inevitability of autonomous vehicles, what will it mean for the humble motorcar? If the purpose of the car is reduced simply to a means of getting from Point A to Point B, does that point to a world full of four-wheeled blandness? In a 2013 speech, Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG said, “Drivers should be relieved of certain actions, but only when they want to be — for example, when autonomous operation makes driving safer or more comfortable . . . driving a Mercedes should not be ‘free of emotion’ - and definitely not ‘free of fun.’ That is our vision of autonomous driving.” So, perhaps a combination of autonomy and driver control is more likely? It may take another decade or more to find out, but some companies are so comfortable with the idea they have moved away from researching the technical aspects of it altogether and are instead, looking at just how we humans will enjoy this hassle-free future. Swiss design firm Rinspeed recently unveiled the XchangE, a car based on the Tesla Model S. The XchangE is stuffed full of neat offerings for the hands-free ‘driver’ and passengers, with technology that allows occupants to surf the web, play games, watch movies thanks to a cutting edge entertainment system, and even make a decent cup of coffee. With seats offering adjustments that allow virtually any resting position, a steering wheel that can be moved to the centre of the dash to allow for more room, and a computer system that is fully networked with the outside world it is, Rinspeed says, a place where you can hold a ‘four-party meeting at 120kmh’. If that’s the future - that Monday morning trip through the rush hour traffic doesn’t seem like such a nightmare after all. 19
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A SURVIVOR’S STORY JEREMY ANDREWS, AN EXECUTIVE WITH TYRE IMPORTER AND DISTRIBUTOR TYRES4U, SURVIVED A BRUTAL BATTLE WITH CANCER. NOW, THE 36-YEAR-OLD IS TAKING HIS STORY, AND HEALTH MESSAGE, TO OTHERS IN THE INDUSTRY. 20
f you had to write a list of the ten things that you dread most, there is a pretty good chance being told you have cancer would be right near the top. It’s a terrifying word; a word filled with dread; a word that makes us fear the worst. And it is a word that Jeremy Andrews, National Fleet and Government Sales Manager (Southern) for Tyres4U, heard from his doctor in December 2012. He didn’t know it was coming, of course. Aged 34 at the time, he didn’t worry too much about his persistent sore back. Even when it got bad enough for him to ask for a referral to get some X-rays, ‘cancer’ never crossed his mind as the cause. And it was then that the nightmare started. Just 45 minutes after the X-rays were taken, the clinic called him at Goodyear Dunlop, his employer at the time. He had to come back for more tests. Just a few hours after that, Jeremy received the dreadful news. “They sat me down and said, ‘We don’t know how to tell you this but we’ve found a tumour in your stomach’,” he says. And it wasn’t a small tumour. It was massive. An 18cm monster so big it was pushing against his internal organs, including the nerves in his back – the reason for his back pain. Unsure of the origins of the tumour, the medical team performed more tests before the source was discovered. Jeremy, it turned out, had testicular cancer which had metastasised to other parts of his body. The news, and the outlook, was very bad. Doctors had to act quickly but such a large tumour needed to be reduced in size before surgeons could safely remove it. “There was no other option than to give me three rounds of chemotherapy,” says Jeremy. “The hope was that they could shrink the tumour enough that they could operate.” The chemotherapy sessions were severe – six-hour sessions for five days straight, followed by two days off, then another four hours on day eight. Jeremy had only two weeks off before the cycle began again. Not surprisingly, the toxic drugs took their toll leaving him extremely sick and basically bedridden. “It was hard,” says Jeremy philosophically. “But it was even harder on those around me. It was very difficult, emotionally, for my wife to see me in the state I was in. I couldn’t be a husband or a father and there was the constant worry about whether the chemotherapy would
work and whether I would survive.” The chemotherapy did, however, perform its task. By the end of the last session of treatment, the tumour had shrunk to 11cm, and six weeks after that Jeremy was deemed fit enough to face the grueling operation to remove it. “They told me it would be a very big operation, and it was” says Jeremy. “It took eight-and-a-half hours and they removed not only the tumour, but my left kidney and my left testicle too. They also had to replace some of my aorta that had been engulfed by the tumour.” It was hard for Jeremy to stay positive during this terrible time, but determination and the support of people around him helped considerably. “A lot of negative things run through your head but as a father with a 3-year-old son, I said to myself ‘There’s no way I am going to be leaving this earth. No way.’ “And I was surrounded by positive people all the time and that definitely helped to get through the horrible days.” One example of that positive help was revealed at the 2013 Clipsal 500. As part of his job, Jeremy had arranged the sponsorship of a vehicle in the V8 Ute series and had also negotiated for motorsport veteran John Bowe, competing in the Touring Car Masters, to be the ambassador for the Dunlop Super Dealer brand. “I remember the ute had ‘Get well
“One in two Australians will get cancer. It’s a scary number. So, if I only motivate one person to go the doctor when they’re not feeling right I’d be a happy person.”
Jeremy’ across its back,” he says. “And John Bowe had ‘Get Well Jezza’ on his Mustang for the whole season. It was fantastic and very uplifting.” By May of 2013, Jeremy had recovered enough to return to work and, perhaps by chance, one life-changing event would be followed by another. His first job back was organising a dealer conference in Singapore. Many of the conference delegates knew Jeremy well, knew of his illness and were led to believe he would not be attending. However, Jeremy secretly made his way to Singapore to make a surprise presentation. “When I appeared at the conference it was one of the best days of my life,” he says with a chuckle. “The dealers all clapped and cheered - it was a very emotional moment.” But it was Jeremy’s decision to include the facts of his illness, making it part of his presentation on ‘Partnerships in Business’, that really changed things. For the presentation was a big hit with the delegates - Jeremy’s humorous delivery setting the tone for the entire event. “At conferences there is usually someone who has a bee-in-their-bonnet about the price of a tyre or something like that,” he says. “But my story kind of cancelled all that out. It was as if people were thinking afterwards ‘Why am I worrying about the price of a tyre when this guy almost died!’ “I tried to make it fun and I got
Jeremy at the Dunlop Super Dealers conference in Singapore
Jeremy’s treatment was severe but support from figures like John Bowe helped him through it
a lot of positive feedback.” And the message rolled into the presentation was a logical one – one that hard-working business people across the nation would do well to heed. “The message is about getting people to acknowledge that if they’re not quite well, then they should get themselves checked out. They should think about contingency plans if they are not around; they should understand the support around them, and work hard on success in life as well as in business. “The tyre industry is fast-paced and these guys get so busy in the day-to-day operation of their business, they don’t take time out to think about themselves.” It’s a message that Jeremy has been inspired to take to a wider audience, recognising that many business owners could do with the reminder of how important their health is, not only for the benefit of their own lives but to the benefit of their business too. And to that end, Jeremy has joined the National Speakers Association to hone his new craft and tailor his presentations so other industries and groups can hear the message too. However, whatever adaptations he makes for the requirements of his audience, the underlying message remains the same. “One in two Australians will get cancer,” he says. “It’s a scary number. So, if I only motivate one person to go the doctor when they’re not feeling right, I’d be a happy person.” As for Jeremy himself, he is clear of cancer but regular visits to the doctor are now a fact of life. “The word they always use is ‘remission’, he says. “They’re fence-sitters! “Some of my hair has grown back and, unfortunately, I have gained some weight back too – I am carrying the spare tyre again! “But I have been rebuilding myself and I am back doing what I do best. “It has been a long road, but I got there.” Jeremy always loves a chat, so if you would like to know more about his journey or find out how he could present to your audience, drop him an email. People respond to ‘real’ people and Jeremy is one of those rare real people who can share, care and motivate to help you and your team. Jeremy’s ability to tailor his presentation to suit specific requirements is what sets him apart. Contact him at jeremyandrews@tpg.com.au 21
INDUSTRY NEWS
Performance the key for Michelin and Carlsson G erman car tuner Carlsson will bring advanced Michelin tyre technology to all of its customers. Michelin manufactures tyres for every kind of vehicle, including the world’s most powerful and demanding cars, and has signed an agreement with Carlsson, which specialises in enhancing the inherent sporting and luxury characteristics of the full Mercedes-Benz line-up. The German tuning specialist selected three of the sportiest Michelin tyres on the market for its vehicles - the Michelin Pilot Sport 3, Pilot Super Sport and Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres. Michelin places a great deal of importance on this type of partnership, and has created a ‘Specialty Products’
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“The three Michelin tyres we’ve selected are now being used to equip our most powerful models and are offered to all of our customers.”
department within the Michelin Motorsports division. The department’s mission is to manage the ultra-highperformance car tyre business, serving small and large manufacturers on the one hand and tuners on the other. “The partnership that we’ve just set up with Carlsson is very important to us, because working with such prestigious customers, whether tuners or niche manufacturers, allows us to reach out to real car enthusiasts and demonstrate
our commitment to the high-end market and to driving pleasure,” said Lorenzo Giovanelli, Director of Specialty Products, Michelin Motorsport. “The partnership is perfectly aligned with our strategy for performance vehicles, which emphasizes performance, driving enjoyment and pure sportiness, with a constant focus on safety. What’s more, it’s allowing us to reach customers who access the Carlsson universe through its range of rims, equipped with Michelin tyres.” “It made perfect sense for Michelin to become our tyre supplier,” said Markus Schuster, CEO of Carlsson. “We’ve conducted many tests over the past three years, and Michelin tyres have always been the ones to offer the highest, most consistent level of performance, on both the track and the open road, in dry as well as wet weather. The three Michelin tyres we’ve selected are now being used to equip our most powerful models and are offered to all of our customers, regardless of the extent to which their car is tuned.”
Goodyear’s newest airship, the Wingfoot One
Goodyear launches newest airship with iconic name R eflecting the design of its corporate logo, Goodyear announced that the name for its newest airship would be Wingfoot One. The name was selected from nearly 15,000 submitted in an on-line public contest. A panel of Goodyear judges narrowed the submissions to 10 finalists before a final round of public voting determined the name of the newest addition to the Goodyear fleet of airships. With nearly 35 percent of the public vote, Wingfoot One received the most votes of the 10 finalists, and will take its place in Goodyear airship history as the name connected with the first of a new generation of state-of-art airships. Goodyear’s use of the Wingfoot trademark dates back to 1901 when the company first used it in advertising to promote the launch of its new Straight Side tyre. Inspired by a statue of the Roman god Mercury in his home, Goodyear co-founder Frank Seiberling
“The name Wingfoot One makes an ideal connection between our trusted, global brand and our iconic airships.”
conceived of the idea of using the Wingfoot trade mark as a symbol of the company’s global ambitions. “The Wingfoot symbol has played a prominent role in defining the Goodyear brand for more than a century,” said Paul Fitzhenry, senior vice president, global communications. “The name Wingfoot One makes an ideal connection between our trusted, global brand and our iconic airships.”
Wingfoot One is a semi-rigid, Zeppelin model LZ N07-101 assembled at Goodyear’s Wingfoot Lake airship hangar. During its long operational history, Goodyear has built more than 300 lighter-than-air vehicles, including two large rigid airships – the U.S.S. Macon and U.S.S. Akron. This is the first semi-rigid airship to be built in the 95-year history of Goodyear’s Wingfoot Lake hangar. The new airship model replaces the previous “GZ-20A” model that flew for 45 years. Wingfoot One will travel the United States and take its place as a fixture over the country’s biggest sporting, news and entertainment events. Since 1925, the Goodyear blimps have appeared at the most watched news, entertainment and sporting events around the world. The blimps also heavily support local and national charities, and community emergency response programs.
Classic tyres now available from Stuckey Tyre Service
S
tuckey Tyre Service of Melbourne has been appointed as distributors for the famous range of classic tyres by Vredestein of Holland. Stuckey Tyre Service has been distributing competition tyres since 1972 and has recently branched into the specialist
Classic tyre market with a number of brands. The Sprint Classic from Vredestein completes the classic image of the classic car. The tyre was specially developed for enthusiasts with an eye for detail and design. While the unique tyre profile and contour
remain unchanged, a stylish sidewall marking has been added. However, beneath this classic exterior lies the most advanced technology. For the larger sizes the Classic has a W symbol and the high-quality design ensures that the ‘Sprint’ element in the name is
fully justified, allowing speeds up to 270 km/h. The tyres are available in a wide range of sizes, from 145R10 (Classic Mini), through 185R15 (Jag), to 185R16 (Jag XK140). For more information, contact Jeff Hastie on 03 9386 5331.
The Sprint Classic from Vredestein
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PRODUCTS
Safety greatly enhanced with 360º vision W ith safety always a top priority for any industry, Continental says its VDO ProViu® system will give operators of large vehicles the benefit of all-round vision, giving unprecedented coverage of the vehicle’s surroundings and assisting in risk reduction of accidents and life threatening incidents. Available for retrofit or original equipment application on a wide range of public transport, trucks, buses commercial, contracting, agricultural and special purpose vehicles, Continental’s VDO 360º surround-view system provides realtime high quality images utilising four specialised cameras with 187º fisheye lenses giving the driver or operator 360º all-round vision. The four camera system is linked to provide all-round visibility for the operator, reducing blind spots and displaying pedestrians, obstacles and dangerous situations that may not appear in direct rear vision mirrors. The transmitted images are adjusted and consolidated to create a preview in one bird’s-eye view with automatic balancing of the whole image on the screen reducing the differential between the images.
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“In public transit operations, blind spots can become a serious and life threatening problem.”
Marketed as VDO ProViu® the company says the new system improves the ease of manoeuvring large vehicles whilst decreasing the risk of accidents, improving turnarounds and downtime associated with damage to a vehicle and is ideal in critical situations such as dense city traffic, narrow loading areas, cluttered factory yards, building sites or when negotiating narrow streets with parked cars, cyclists and obstacles. Formally produced by VDO for original equipment fitment at the factory, the new ProViu® is now highly customisable and versatile and available for retrofit for commercial, industrial and special purpose vehicles making it an indispensable safety feature
for today’s traffic conditions. “In public transit operations, blind spots can become a serious and life threatening problem, usually the bigger the vehicle the bigger the hidden area with blind spots hiding pedestrians, cyclists or even entire cars,” said Phil Crosbie, VDO Commercial Vehicle and Aftermarket Manager. VDO ProViu® hardware included in this cutting edge technology system includes 4 cameras with 187º plus lenses, horizontal viewing angle, intelligent software driven light balance plus an Electronic Control Unit. Continental says the system is ideal for applications on a broad range of vehicles including buses, coaches, garbage trucks, large and medium commercial vehicles, construction and mining equipment, fire appliances, agricultural tractors and combine harvesters. The VDO ProViu® is available from VDO stockists throughout Australia and New Zealand. For videos and pictures showing the ProViu visit www.vdo.net.au or contact phil.crosbie@ continental-corporation.com
Monroe Magnum Commercial Vehicle range now in Australia M
onroe’s market leading range of passenger vehicle, four wheel drive and light commercial vehicle applications are all designed to meet, and more often to exceed, original equipment specifications. These are now joined by the Monroe Commercial Vehicle suspension product range, known as Monroe Magnum. Monroe globally is a major producer of heavy truck shock absorbers for original equipment manufacturers and the company’s world leading innovations in shock absorber technologies have resulted in market leading advantages, from cab to road, which Monroe now brings to the commercial vehicle aftermarket in Australia. The Monroe Magnum range covers the key areas of cabin dampers, seat dampers and axle shock systems. The Monroe Magnum range provides world class leading quality and suspension performance, followed up by Australian sales support that is second to none in the market. Monroe Magnum ride performance product advantages include ease of fitment with single bonded bushings, ensuring
very high bushing durability along with a high temperature resistant sealing system and high temperature resistant hydraulic fluid. The Monroe Magnum specially formulated semi-synthetic fluid improves damping behaviour
Monroe Australia’s market leading range of passenger vehicle, four wheel drive and light commercial vehicle applications are now joined by a world class Monroe Commercial Vehicle suspension product range, known as Monroe Magnum
Cooldrive expands intercooler, CAC range
C
oolDrive Distribution has significantly expanded its range of Intercoolers and Charge Air Coolers. With turbocharged diesel engines now increasingly popular in mainstream passenger cars, as well as traditional fitments to four-wheeldrive vehicles, trucks and light trucks, CoolDrive predicts that demand for Intercoolers and Charge Air Coolers (CAC) is set to rocket. The company can now offer Intercoolers and CAC to fit turbocharged diesel engines from
a Hyundai I30 to a Kenworth T950 prime mover, and just about everything in between. Two types of CoolDrive Intercooler and CAC are offered, in either Tub & Fin or Plate & Bar configurations. Both come with full cast tanks with an aluminium core or a plastic tank with an aluminium core.
through more consistent damping over a wide temperature range. More consistent commercial vehicle damping is also achieved with the Monroe Magnum anti-wear coated piston ring, providing high levels of wear resistance. Forces on chassis components are kept to a minimum with the Monroe Magnum double action valving system during bump and rebound actions. This assists greatly to achieve safer commercial vehicle handling performances. Australian commercial vehicle suspension specialists and general truck and bus repairers can now benefit from decades of Monroe commercial vehicle suspension research and development which has extended from being an original equipment supplier of choice to many of the world’s leading heavy duty vehicle manufacturers. To find out more about the Monroe Magnum Heavy Duty range and to receive your Monroe Magnum Catalogue, contact your local Monroe sales representative or contact Monroe Australia customer service on 1800 088 205. CoolDrive’s range, 25 in all, fit a diverse range of vehicles that includes Nissan’s Patrol and X Trail, Volvo’s S60 and S80, BMW’s X5 and X6, Hyundai’s I30, I40, Tucson and Santa Fe, the Mercedes Benz C200 Kompressor, Citroen C4, Peugeot 308/3008 and Audi A4. In the truck and light truck sector, there are CoolDrive Intercoolers and CACs to fit models from Hino, Isuzu, International Eagle, Kenworth, Mitsubishi Fuso and UD. CoolDrive can even fit Komatsu bulldozers! 25
MOTORSPORTS
Pirelli test new 18-inch concept tyre with Lotus F1 team
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The 13-inch current F1 tyre and the concept 18-inch F1 tyre
irelli has tested new 18-inch Formula One concept tyres. The test, carried out at Silverstone in July saw the new rubber shod on the Lotus F1 E22 car, driven by reserve driver Charles Pic. The company developed the low profile tyres to prompt discussion on whether such a tyre could be used in F1 racing in the future. It has been suggested that running with larger wheels and tyres would lead to greater technology transfer between F1 tyres and road car rubber. The objective of the test was, the company says, to gauge reaction to the very
Charles Pic drives the Lotus team F1 car out of the garage for its first outing on 18-inch concept tyres 2626
different new design. “In our view, the new tyres looked stunning fitted to the Lotus,” said Pirelli’s motorsport director Paul Hembery. “These are just a prototype concept, but if the teams decided that they wanted us to proceed in this direction, we have the capability to carry on development in this area and come up with a productionready version in a comparatively short space of time. We’ve heard a lot of opinions already and we look forward to canvassing other opinions in the coming weeks and months. “Even though performance wasn’t by any means priority here, the new tyres still behaved exactly in line with our expectations, so we’re clearly potentially at the beginning of a huge development curve, with the wheel and tyre size rules having remained unaltered for many years.”
The new tyres were designed and built in accordance with Pirelli’s premium strategy in Milan. The key technical advantage of an 18-inch tyre is a stiffer sidewall that helps maintain the structural rigidity of the tyre and also makes it easier for the tyre to maintain a constant pressure – as there is less actual air inside the tyre. The new tyre is physically bigger, which makes it much more relevant to the Ultra High Performance tyres that are seen on the road, leading to greater technology transfer. The tyres tested had the same width as the current 13-inch tyres (245mm at the front and 325mm at the rear) but a diameter that is bigger by 30mm. The weight is approximately the same as the 13-inch tyre, because although the diameter is bigger, there is a smaller sidewall. The total weight, including the rim, is around 4 kilograms heavier.
Team Toyo’s Brad Gallard took out the Extreme 2WD class and third place overall at the Riverland Enduro
Toyo Tires Enduro thrills the Riverland T he Toyo Tires Riverland Enduro saw the Riverland region of South Australia become the epicentre of Australian off-road racing in July as it hosted the third round of the Australian Off Road Championship. Normally known for its pristine vineyards and orange orchards, it was the first time a round of the national competition had been held at Waikerie since 1992. The race attracted a field of over 90 competitors from all over the country and the specially designed buggies and trophy trucks tore up the 80km course over five intense laps. First place honours were claimed by Jack Rhodes who clocked a blistering 3h 23m 57s in the #91 Pro Buggy. Current series champ Shannon Rentsch pulled in second, with Team Toyo’s own Brad Gallard collecting third place, and first in the Extreme 2WD class. Many Riverland Enduro spectators travelled great distances to attend one of the fastest and most spectator-friendly events on the off-road calendar.
“Toyo provided great support and did a wonderful job helping push the event and make it into a great spectacle for the public.”
Event organiser and president of the Waikerie Off-Roaders Association, James Lochert, thanked Toyo for its sponsorship and assistance in hosting the race weekend. “The Riverland Enduro was bigger, more spectacular and packed with faster cars than ever before. The drivers put on a great show with high horsepower, which is what everyone likes to see,” he said. “We had massive crowds for both days all around the road sections. “From a spectator point of view
Team Toyo’s Brad Gallard (right) celebrates his podium finish with winner Jack Rhodes and second place getter Shannon Rentsch
it was the most people we have ever had out here. I can’t recall seeing anything like this,” he said. “It was great to have Toyo on board this year. We had a short timeframe between finding out we were going to be a national round and putting on the event. “Toyo provided great support and did a wonderful job helping push the event and make it into a great spectacle for the public.” Toyo Tires marketing manager Jose Angeles was thrilled with the weekend’s results. “Off-road racing is an engrossing and growing sport. Toyo is excited to be involved not only with the race events, but also with the most exciting and engaging teams, cars and drivers in the series,” he said. “To see Toyo’s naming rights sponsorship bringing attention back to the Riverland round is an incredible feeling. There was electricity in the air all weekend and we can’t wait until next year. Off road racing is here to stay and Team Toyo is leading the charge.” 27
MOTORSPORTS
Ricciardo on fast track to superstardom D
aniel Ricciardo has scored back-to-back Formula One victories, and notched his third win of the season, by taking out the Belgian GP at Spa-Francorchamps. The win saw the Australian remain in third place in the championship but close the points gap on leader Nico Rosberg and second-placed Lewis Hamilton. The Mercedes’ drivers made early contact during the race with Rosberg hitting Hamilton’s rear as he tried a passing move during the second lap. Hamilton suffered a puncture and never recovered, eventually being retired from the race. It was yet another controversial moment between the Mercedes’ pair. But it was Ricciardo’s day and the Aussie, who started from fifth on the grid, took the lead during pit calls and then drove superbly to build a healthy lead. Rosberg made a late pit stop and, with 10 laps to go, put in a massive effort to catch Ricciardo – slashing the lead from 21 seconds on lap 35 to just 4.3 by Lap 43 – but Ricciardo hung on to cross the
in Budapest Daniel Ricciardo signs autographs for fans Eniko Balogh / Shutterstock.com
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line 3.3 seconds ahead of the German. The win moves Ricciardo to 166 points in the championship race, with Hamilton on 191 and Rosberg on 220. In the constructors’ points table Mercedes have 411 to Red Bull’s 254, Ferrari’s 158 and Williams’ 150, while McLaren move back ahead of Force India with 111 to 100. Ricciardo, after securing wins at
“It feels a bit surreal, but another win is very cool, very cool.” CHAMPIONSHIP STANDING AS OF BELGIAN GP Nico Rosberg, Mercedes
220
Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes
191
Daniel Ricciardo, Red Bull
156
Fernando Alonso, Ferrari
121
the Canadian and Hungarian Grand Prix, is beginning to look like a certain future champion and he was ecstatic with his victory. “You know everyone was saying we didn’t really have a chance around here, but I think we had some really good pace today and surprised ourselves,” he said after the race. “It feels a bit surreal, but another win is very cool, very cool. “It was difficult staying out at the end of the race. When you’re the leader as well you always feel like you’re the most vulnerable when it comes to a pit stop or not, but Simon my engineer came on the radio and said I think it’s 11 laps left, can these tyres get to the end? And I said I think I can keep more or less this pace, and we were able to, and then on the last lap I found a couple more tenths, so I was having a bit of fun then! “There’s been a lot of good things about the win today, obviously the last two came from a more aggressive style of race, but today was more calculated and it was nice to win under different circumstances.”
Michelin’s new WRC tyre range for 2014/2015 M ichelin Motorsport has introduced three new rally tyres – the Michelin LTX Force, the Michelin Pilot Sport FW and the Michelin Pilot Sport - that will see use in the remaining rounds of this year’s World Rally Championship (WRC) and the company says that the three tyres will ‘provide partner teams in the WRC with a comprehensive selection of tyre capable of ensuring optimum performance whatever the weather, on all types of surface and
Michelin Pilot Sport FW, Pilot Sport and LTX
whatever the length of the stage. The Michelin LTX Force gravel tyre will be available in a choice of soft (S4) and hard (H4). The Michelin Pilot Sport FW has been devised for work in heavy rain featuring a deeply-grooved tread pattern. Its very soft compound means that it is only for use in extremely wet conditions. The Michelin Pilot Sport in soft (S4) and hard (H4) configurations replaces the Pilot Sport S2/H2.
The H4 version (hard) provides the same high grip as its predecessor while at the same time delivering superior longevity (up 10 percent). The S4 version (soft) delivers a spectacular increase in performance in damp conditions. Tests revealed a significant improvement in stage times even when running with a significant amount of water on the road. The three tyres will make their debuts over the next few races of the WRC.
Force
Sebastien Ogier and his co-driver Julien Ingrassia in the 2014 Rally Poland (Jaroma / Shutterstock.com)
MOTORSPORT CALENDAR V8 SUPERCARS Sept 12-14: Rd 10, Sandown, Sandown Raceway, Victoria Oct 9-12: Rd 11, Bathurst 1000, Mount Panorama, NSW Oct 24-26: Rd 12, Gold Coast 600, Gold Coast, Qld Nov 14-16: Rd 13, Phillip Island 360, Phillip Island, Vic
FORMULA 1 Sep 5-7: Rd 13, Italian Grand Prix, Monza Sep 19-21: Rd 14, Singapore Grand Prix, Marina Bay Oct 3-5: Rd 15, Japanese Grand Prix, Suzuka Oct 10-12: Rd 16, Russian Grand Prix, Sochi
MOTO GP Aug 29-31: Rd 12, Silverstone, UK
Sep 12-14: Rd 13, Misano, San Marino Sep 26-28: Rd 14, Aragon, Spain Oct 10-12: Rd 15, Motegi, Japan
WRC Sept 11-14: Rd 10, Rally Australia, Coffs Harbour Oct 2-5: Rd 11, Rally de France, Alsace Oct 23-26: Rd 12, Rally de Espana, Salou Nov 14-16: Rd 13, Rally Great Britain, Wales
WEC Sept 18-20: Rd 4, Circuit of the Americas, USA Oct 10-12: Rd 5, Fuji, Japan Oct 31-Nov 2: Rd 6, Shanghai, China Nov 13-15: Rd 7, Bahrain 29
WORLD NEWS
Toyo makes a gripping fashion statement Y ou might not associate the business of tyre development and manufacture with the business of fashion, but Toyo obviously thinks a little differently. Technologically innovative when it comes to tyres, the company has come up with a clever way of utilising the tread pattern from some of its most popular tyres. The design from the Proxes R1R, the Open Country M/T and the Nanoenergy 0 have been used and tailored into the patterns for yukata – a garment commonly worn during summers in Japan. The results are pretty impressive. In producing these designs, a traditional Japanese technique was used to dye three types of original cloth that were the tailored into cool designs. Toyo says it plans to use the resulting cloth and yukata at future company events.
BMW Group and Samsung SDI expand partnership
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he BMW Group and Samsung SDI plan to expand their supply relationship for battery cells for electro-mobility. Samsung SDI will supply the BMW Group with battery cells for the BMW i3, BMW i8 and additional hybrid models over the coming years. The most important elements of the agreement are the increase in quantities delivered over the medium term. “Our partnership with Samsung SDI is a good example of successful Korean-German cooperation on innovative technologies,” said Dr Klaus Draeger, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Purchasing and Supplier Network. “The battery is a key component in every
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L-r: Rolf Mafael, German Ambassador to the Republic of Korea; Dr. Klaus Draeger, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Purchasing and Supplier Network; Sangjin Park, SAMSUNG SDI CEO, and Sangjick Yoon, The Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy
electric vehicle – since it basically determines the range and performance capabilities of the car. In Samsung SDI, we have chosen a supplier that offers us the bestavailable technology with futureoriented Korean battery expertise.” “I am very proud that
Samsung SDI supports the success of the BMW i3 and i8. The decision taken in 2009 to choose lithium-ion battery cells from Samsung SDI for the BMW i models was the right one for both companies,” said Sang-Jin Park, CEO of Samsung SDI.
US
Michelin’s Two-Wheel business has launched a new online tool designed to capture consumer feedback about the performance of Michelin motorcycle tyres. The site, mototirereviews.michelin. com, highlights consumer feedback of products with a five star rating system as well as allowing users to provide their riding profile along with their motorcycle’s year, make and model, share their personal experience with Michelin motorcycle tyres, and upload two favourite photos.
GERMANY
OTR tyre specialist Rösler has launched a TPMS system called the Intread Tyre Sensor. Two sensors are capable of measuring the belt temperature, the
remaining tread depth and the air pressure. One sensor is placed at the inner liner of the tyre while the other is placed in the tread to measure tread depth and belt temperature – the sensor is made of rubber and wears down with the tread of the tyre. A PDA Communication Centre mounted in the cabin of the truck shows the driver the status of the tyres and transmits that data so that the status of the tyre can be checked from anywhere in the world.
JAPAN
Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., has announced that the Hangzhou Yokohama Tire Co., Ltd., a producer and seller of tyres for passenger cars in China, was commended as an “Energy continued page 32
Infiniti announces Future F1 engineering stars
I
nfiniti announced the winners of its global talent search initiative that will see three engineering students given the career opportunity of a lifetime with World Championshipwinning Formula One team, Infiniti Red Bull Racing. After a grueling three-day world final event in the UK which saw 12 hopefuls from around the world competing for victory in the Infiniti Performance Engineering Academy, it was William Priest (23) from Chesham, Buckinghamshire, UK, Eric LaRoche (25) from Hamilton Square, New Jersey, USA, and Jason Zide (21) from Laguna Beach, California, USA that were deemed the winners. They were judged by a panel of senior engineering personnel from Infiniti and the race team, led by Chief Technical Officer Adrian Newey, recently announced
to be taking a broader role on other special Red Bull Technology projects. Along with a lucrative 12-month work placement with the team beginning in September, the winners will receive accommodation in the UK, an Infiniti company car and full salary. With the in-depth assessment process split between Infiniti’s Technical Center in Cranfield, UK and Infiniti Red Bull Racing in Milton Keynes, UK, the final candidates, selected from over 1,500 entrants across 100 top engineering universities worldwide, faced a series of challenges over three days relating to road car and racing car engineering. These included practical design tasks, written exams, intense interviews and complex group exercises to test their technical ability, teamwork skills and performance under pressure.
Goodyear surpasses goal of hiring 1,000 U.S. military veterans
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wo years after announcing it had made a commitment to hiring 1000 US military veterans, the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company announced it had surpassed its three-year goal more than a year early, and has pledged to hire an additional 1,000 veterans. “The response to Goodyear’s military hiring initiative—both from veterans and the public—has been incredible,” said Gary VanderLind, vice president of human resources, Goodyear North America. “Thanks to our military recruiting efforts and the talent exhibited by veteran candidates, we’ve surpassed our initial goal more than a year early and are making an aggressive new pledge to hire 1,000 more veterans over the next year.” Goodyear’s original commitment was announced in cooperation with the United States Chamber of Commerce Hiring Our Heroes program—a nationwide initiative to help veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses find meaningful employment opportunities—and the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve. “It is simply amazing what Goodyear has been able to do in only two years,” said Eric Eversole, vice president at the U.S. Chamber and executive director of Hiring Our Heroes. “Thanks to industry leaders like Goodyear and the companies who have followed suit, we have seen real progress and momentum in the effort to get veterans back to work in America. There is still so much to be done on this issue, but Goodyear is setting a tremendous example by doubling down on their commitment.” Goodyear’s relationship with the military dates back to World War I, when the company produced truck tyres and airships for the war effort. Today, Goodyear is the largest producer of military tyres in the United States. 31
WORLD NEWS Efficiency Forerunner” at the 2013 Annual Petroleum and Chemical Energy Efficiency Benchmarking Enterprise Conference. The commendation is aimed at promoting the energy saving policies of the Chinese government. Hangzhou Yokohama was recognized for the lowest consumption of energy per ton of tyres produced. Hangzhou Yokohama, in 2011, introduced the first solar power generation system among Yokohama’s overseas group companies. In 2010, it achieved “complete zero emissions,” the first among Yokohama’s overseas production sites to do so. The company is committed to maintaining its high level of environmental protection activities.
US
Toyo Tire’s Open Country A/T II tyre has been adopted as an original equipment tyre for the Ford F-250 & F-350 pickup trucks. This is the first time
that a TNA-produced tyre has been adopted as OE by an American car maker. The Ford F-250 and F-350 will come equipped with Toyo Open Country A/T II tyres sized LT275/65R20.
KOREA
Nexen Tire is to supply its N’Blue HD tyre to two European market Dacia models. Dacia, part of the Renualt Group, will fit the tyre to the ‘Lodgy’, a small multi-purpose vehicle, and the ‘Dokker’, a leisure vehicle. Nexen will exclusively supply tyres to the entire colume of the two models to be manufactured at a Renault plant in Tangiers, Morocco.
GERMANY
Kumho has expanded its European Technical Centre (KETC) with the creation of an innovative new tyre testing facility at Papenburg in Lower Saxony, Germany.
The company has further expanded its burgeoning resource to help meet the demands of an expanding portfolio of Original Equipment (OE) contracts with European vehicle manufacturers and numerous new products for the European aftermarket. The self-contained 1,000 square metre facility houses the technical and engineering team along with all the test tyres and wheel rims and is adjacent to Kumho’s European proving ground which has been particularly designed to encompass subjective handling, wet handling characteristics, aquaplaning, driving comfort, interior/exterior noise and braking on all surfaces. The new centre will manage all of Kumho ETC’s outdoor test requirements, while any additional needs will be catered for using a mix of race circuit facilities at Idiada (Spain), Nardo (Italy), Nürburgring (Germany) and Ivalo (Finland).
Bridgestone Becomes Official Worldwide Olympic Partner
B
ridgestone Corporation announced it has entered into an agreement with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) that makes the world’s largest tyre and rubber company an official TOP worldwide Olympic partner through the 2024 Olympic Games. The announcement was made in Tokyo at a press conference and ceremonial signing of the TOP agreement attended by IOC President Thomas Bach; Masaaki Tsuya, Bridgestone CEO and Chairman of the Board; and other company and IOC dignitaries and guests. The Bridgestone relationship with the Olympic Games and the Olympic Movement is effective immediately and includes activation in connection with the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. In addition, Bridgestone has been granted sponsorship activation rights in Brazil, Korea, Japan, and the United States through 2016. Beginning in 2017, Bridgestone’s activation rights will extend globally and will include the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games, the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games and the Olympic Games to be held in 2022 32
Bridgestone CEO Masaaki Tsuya with IOC President Thomas Bach
and 2024 in cities yet to be elected by the IOC. The agreement also includes the activation rights at any Youth Olympic Games which may be held during the term 2017 to 2024. The product categories covered by the Bridgestone sponsorship agreement include: seismic isolation bearings, which are used to protect structures from earthquake damage; non-motorized bicycles, a product segment in which Bridgestone has been innovating for more than 60 years; and the full range of tyres manufactured by the company, making Bridgestone the Official Tyre of the Olympic Games. In commenting on Bridgestone’s TOP sponsorship, Bridgestone CEO and Chairman of the Board
Tsuya said, “As a global corporation, Bridgestone is excited to partner with the entire Olympic Movement, a group of organizations that not only brings together the world’s athletes at the greatest athletic festival, but also blends this celebration of sport with a spirit of service to community, social responsibility, a respect for diversity and a commitment to the fundamental principles of Olympism.” He continued by saying, “We look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship where, through this partnership, we will communicate on a global basis our commitment to society as well as our brand message.” IOC President Bach said “The TOP programme is a truly global sponsorship programme as it benefits all future Games organisers and all the National Olympic Committees and their athletes, ensuring athletes from all over the world, and not just the largest countries, are able to compete at the Games. Bridgestone is a global leader in its field and we are delighted to welcome the company to the TOP programme and are excited for the long term commitment they have shown to the Olympic Movement.”
Breaking the mold
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WDR37
WGC52
New deep tread cut/chip resistant 295/80R22.5 steer tyre Reinforced casing and durable tough wearing compound Designed for Australia’s harsh conditions Front runner in the choice for a logging, construction or demolition truck steer tyre Yellow dot dynamically factory balanced Computer generated flex carcass allows optimum grip, performance and superior heat dispersion.
New wider foot print premium 11R/22.5 drive tyre Latest technology in compound and case design Wider than standard hard wearing directional tread pattern Computer generated stabilising & water dispersing sipes Number one choice for fleets wanting maximum performance and durability Australian testing has shown never seen before results against main brand drive tyres
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