SA Treads Dec 2012 by SA Treads Tyre Magazine

One-on-One with new Pirelli MD, Giovanni Arrigone Continental launches new fitment centre franchise Vredestein now in SA

Focus on SERVICE LEVELS

New Redisa Plan approved

The 2013 Pirelli Calendar

Vol 18 â&#x20AC;˘ December 2012

Service levels in the spotlight

Sync - 10715 - Tread S.A

FLEET MANAGEMENT DOWN TO AN ART With its large size, cohesive social dynamic and strategy of charging in formation, the Buffalo is feared by predators. Bandag’s National Fleet Programme provides Fleet Customers with a platform to act as a strategic herd in fending off bottom line predators, like the five mileage thieves. With its tailor-made fleet management solutions, national franchise network and superior retread products, Bandag’s National Fleet Programme increases vehicle uptime while reducing CPK.

That’s what we do.

Tel: +27 11 439 6000, Fax: +27 86 682 7027, e-mail: info@bandag.co.za or visit www.bandag.co.za

I n t r o d u c t i o n • 1

Contents

note from

the

One-on-One with Pirelli’s new MD, Giovanni Arrigone ..............................................

Focus on Service Levels . ......................................................................................

New Products Maxxis passenger car tyre re-introduced in SA...................................... Equipment Africa now importing top of the range brands into South Africa.........................................................

14 14

Competition New Pirelli Cal 2013 Unveiled! ..............................................................

Conti Corner ContiTrade Africa launches new fitment centre franchise .....................

Manufacturing Vredestein now in SA ............................................................................

Industry News Nankang Free Your Way Guarantee a Success....................................... Nitrogen Inflation to become Mandatory in Anglo American Group...... Redisa Plan Re-gazetted.......................................................................... Tyres & Rims Conference well attended by Mining Sector..................... Tyre Shoot Out puts tyre brands to the test...........................................

22 22 25 25 28

Talking Tyres Exclusive … and elusive! .......................................................................

Distribution news South Africans Honestly Prefer Tiger Wheel & Tyre............................... CFP adds Petlas range of tyres to its portfolio........................................

33 33

Goodyear News Goodyear Innovation Scoops Top Awards.............................................. Powerful Partnership –Goodyear proud to tyre the celebrated 3-pointed star.................................................................

Competition, Subscription, Website . .......................................

The unveiling of the new Pirelli Calendar which historically takes place at the end of November, reminds us that another year is about to draw to a close. This year, the release of the 2013 Pirelli Cal was staged in the country that served as its setting, Brazil. This much loved artistic icon continues to delight and entice audiences the world over with its seductive portrayal of the female form, with this latest, 40th edition being described as elegant, creative and artistically distinct. One lucky reader stands the chance to win one of these coveted calendars, so don’t delay! Enter our competition on page 36 either online via www.satreads. co.za or on fax: (011) 658-0010! And speaking of Pirelli, there’s a new man at the helm of Pirelli Tyres SA. Giovanni Arrigone hails from Dubai where he was responsible for Pirelli’s business interests in the Middle East and some Asian countries for the last 10 years. Following a long standing career with the Italian tyre producer, Arrigone is looking forward to taking up this newest challenge as he steers Pirelli Tyres into the future on the African continent. To read about his plans and objectives for the company, turn to page 2 Year-end also marks the time when we hear how the end users, our customers, rate our service levels. As has become customary over the years, we select a handful of operators to participate in our End User Survey, the results of which make for interesting reading on page 9. What is the industry getting right and in which areas can it improve? The commercial transport business tells it like it is. Also in this issue, we showcase new innovations recently unveiled at SEMA 2012, catch up on all the latest controversy surrounding Waste Tyre Management and bring you the results of a recent Tyre Shoot Out, conducted by a leading motoring publication. All this and much more in our December edition as we bid you and your families farewell and happy holidays!

Front Cover: www.istockphoto.com

Till we meet again in 2013. Editor

Liana Shaw

Publishers

Sky Publications cc PO Box 702 Douglasdale, 2165

Technical Consultant

Wray Shaw

Reproduction

Diane van Noort

Printing

Tel: (011) 658 0011 T YPO (011) 658 0010 – Colour Printing Specialists Fax: Cell: 082 851 6777 Prestige Bulk Mailers E-mail: satreads@mweb.co.za Liana Shaw Website: www.satreads.co.za

Distribution Advertising

editor

2 • O n e - o n - O n e

Pirelli

heralds in a new era

ONE-ON-ONE WITH NEW MD,

Giovanni Arrigone Latest financial reports indicate pleasing results for

What similarities, if any, do you see between SA and the European

Pirelli Tyres on a global level, and this despite the

market?

global recession and more importantly perhaps,

that we are currently in the throes of adapting the same systems over

the current economic crisis in the Italian tyre

I see several similarities between the two markets, so much so in fact, here as those in Europe in terms of marketing, distribution and the like. How so?

producer’s home market. Newly appointed MD

Simply put, we will be approaching our direct customers in South

for South Africa, Giovanni Arrigone, explains why,

policy, best pricing and so on.

whilst also outlining Pirelli’s strategy for the African

Africa in a similar fashion to our EU customers by way of commercial In addition and following European trends, we will classify our customers according to the following criteria, namely, standard,

and South African markets in the years ahead.

medium and premium customers, with each category qualifying for

A warm welcome to South Africa Giovanni. Is this your first time in this part

furnished with a stronger Pirelli presence in the form of a Pirelli Corner,

of the world? In a work-related function, yes. You arrived two months ago. What are your initial impressions of the local tyre market? I have been pleasantly surprised for multiple reasons. For one, the market is a lot more sophisticated than I envisaged. Added to this, South Africa boasts a strong work ethic with a nation of people that appear to be hard-working, committed and professional in everything they set out to do. The Pirelli staff complement in particular has impressed me in their willingness and ability to follow and implement the direction set out by management. I was also pleasantly surprised to discover that the Pirelli brand is well entrenched in this market.

certain preferential rates. Plus, our premium customers’ stores will, in the months to come, be an initiative that we hope will later evolve into the establishment of dedicated Pirelli stores. However, our approach in this regard will remain a soft one in keeping with local and international market trends. What we are striving for is that in the years that follow the Pirelli brand will become even more prominent in this market via its own flagship stores and other initiatives. What are some of these initiatives? We plan to begin the New Year with a firm focus on our direct customers which will include franchise stores, independents and the Tiger Wheel & Tyre franchise group which offers obvious synergies in terms of the high performance market (Pirelli is recognised as the world’s leading high performance brand) and their support of Formula One, to which Pirelli is the sole supplier.

www.leaderquip.co.za info@leaderquip.co.za 17 Rosettenville Rd Village Main Johannesburg, South Africa Tel. Fax Jan Jose

+27 (0)11 334 1680 +27 (0)11 334 1694 +27 (0)83 252 1920 +27 (0)83 450 6063

EVERY INDUSTRY HAS A LEADER

4 • O n e - o n - O n e

We will also be focusing on re-exporting to the neighbouring countries. We have

Yes, and also the Pirelli Calendar which has achieved cult status. True. The Cal

numerous clients and distributors in countries north of South Africa’s border

continues to generate incredible results for us. The 2013 Cal is particularly

who are experiencing setbacks in obtaining the sizes required for their markets.

exciting in my view, in that it is creative, elegant and artistically different.

This is largely because logistically, it is difficult to pack containers with a variety

What marketing and advertising plans are in place for 2013?

of different sizes. Our warehouse facility in South Africa however, allows us the

Whilst we will continue to maintain a presence in the media, our primary focus

opportunity to address these needs.

for next year is to focus our spend on our customers’ stores, as mentioned

And as far as stock levels are concerned, we are in the process of more than

earlier, by way of strengthening our in-store presence. This is also in response

doubling our current capacity in order to meet customer demands. It would be

to their requests for greater visibility and support.

of little use increasing our presence in the market, incentivising etc. if in the end, we cannot supply the product! My next priority will be to begin exploring the possibility of bringing Pirelli truck tyres into the market, something which I believe is critical to the long-term success and sustainability of the brand in the South African and African markets. Of course, given the complexity and sophistication of this market, we realise that in order to achieve our aims in this regard, we need to align ourselves with the right distribution partners who will be able to provide a full cradle-to-grave service. Consumers over here demand certain standards in terms of product quality and after-sales service so we need to ensure that we are fully geared to meet these demands before forging ahead.

Any new products in the pipeline? There are currently a number of new products in the market which have not officially been launched as such, in line with the newly implemented EU tyre labelling legislation. Tyres are now being constructed to offer lower rolling resistance and in accordance with eco-friendly manufacturing principles, and these same tyres are being imported into SA. For example, the new P1 Cinturato Verde (available in SA), is the ‘greener’ version of the P1 Cinturato and the new P7 Blue, is an evolution of the P7 Cinturato. What would you estimate Pirelli’s current market share to be in SA? Our current market share is somewhere below 3%, something which I hope to see grow to closer to 5% in the next few years. Whilst we are not competing with

Even so, that is an exciting initiative. What of talk over the last few years that

the local producers in terms of the range of tyres on which we are focusing, we

Pirelli was contemplating shutting down its truck tyre division?

believe that the quality of our product alone certainly deserves a larger footprint

While there was some talk a few years ago, I for one, am very happy that this did

in this country.

not take place as I believe that truck tyres are a complementary offering for any leading world brand of tyres. And as far as South Africa is concerned, diversifying into truck tyres will also allow for greater investment in this market.

Talk us through your career thus far. Having joined Pirelli 30 years ago, I’ve been privileged to travel extensively for the company, representing its interests in Kenya, Poland, Mexico, Belgium and finally Dubai for the last 10 years. Dubai in particular, was a fascinating

From which Pirelli plant would you consider importing truck tyres into the

destination from a career point of view in that it exposed me to starkly opposing

country?

markets – from the richest section of the Gulf on the one hand, to countries

Pirelli has plants all over the world – Italy, Germany, UK, China, Mexico, Brazil,

such as Iran, India and Pakistan on the other.

Turkey, Romania, USA, Argentina and Egypt. The two likely plants that would

That part of the world was an interesting place to operate in. Although the market

serve the South African market given their proximity, cost of production and

is bigger, it is certainly less sophisticated than the South African market from a

ability to produce the required sizes and compounds for our road conditions,

distribution point of view and presents its own unique challenges by way of work

would probably be Egypt and Turkey.

ethic, legislation and import laws.

What factors have attributed to Pirelli’s pleasing financial results?

Did you enjoy living in Dubai?

Aside from the strategic location of the plants, I would attribute it to the

Actually, I did. Dubai is an exciting city that is very easy to live in. It is also very

company’s concentration on the high performance tyre market. Over the last 10

secure which is important to me as a man with a young family.

years Pirelli has made a concerted effort to boost its presence in this sector both

Of course, as a family, we are equally excited about living in South Africa. My

through the replacement market and its OE presence, initiatives which have paid

wife is Mexican and has already identified many similarities between South Africa

off. Pirelli now has one of the highest footprints (percentage wise) in the OE

and her home country by way of the weather, altitude and social climate and my

luxury car market, an achievement that is largely responsible for the upward

two young daughters are looking forward to the experience as well.

trend the company has seen in the last three to four years, and this, despite the recession. That being said, Pirelli is striving for caution for the next few months and the year ahead in view of the EU crisis. And of course, let’s not forget Pirelli’s involvement in Formula One which is

Does your assignment in SA come with a time frame? Not officially. How long I stay depends on a number of factors, chiefly my performance (chuckles) as well as the company’s long term objectives for this market.

proving to be an amazing platform for the company from a marketing and brand

We wish you success in your new venture Giovanni. Thank you for taking the

awareness perspective.

time to meet with us.

O n e - o n - O n e • 5

6 • O n e - o n - O n e

F o c u s o n S e r v i c e L e v e l s • 7

Service Levels in the spotlight End Users Speak Out ‘Service levels on the part of tyre suppliers

This year we approached Imperial Cargo, Unitrans Foods – a Bandag

to the transport sector are satisfactory,

comment and were pleasantly surprised to discover that the industry

but there is room for improvement in some areas,’ this, according to transport operators who took part in our annual End User Survey recently.

national account – Manline Logistics and Buffelshoek Transport for seems to be getting it right, albeit for the most part. Buffelshoek Transport – serviced by Limpopo Tyres as well as Unitrans Foods which currently makes use of the services of Safety Grip (a Bandag franchise), had nothing but praise for their respective service providers who they say are going the extra mile in terms of providing professional timeous service to their operations alongside furnishing them with regular cost-cutting solutions. Responsible for 806 rolling wheels in the fleet, Athol Saunders of Buffelshoek Transport claims that their tyre supplier not only supplies them with new and retreaded tyres that prove their mettle in terms of cradle-to-grave performance, (Buffelshoek Transport uses new Michelin

YTS YTS TYRE SALES

Johannesburg tel: +27 11 974 7732 | email: yts.sales@telkomsa.net Cape Town tel: +27 82 337 8699 | email: aeolus.cape@netactive.co.za

F o c u s o n S e r v i c e L e v e l s • 9

tyres and Recamic retreads), the hands-on approach of the man at the helm of Limpopo Tyres, Brian Adendorff, makes all the difference. “The Limpopo team is genuinely interested in our business and in assisting

“Over and above the day-

us to improve our cpk,” said Saunders. “Over and above the day-to-day

to-day maintenance and

maintenance and monthly tyre surveys and scrap tyre analyses sessions, Brian has gone so far as to devise a device that prevents rim damage, a

monthly tyre surveys and

level of service other suppliers would do well to emulate.

scrap tyre analyses sessions,

“I have no complaints whatsoever about our current tyre supplier. If only

Limpopo Tyres has gone so

the same could be said about the worsening road conditions!” Similarly, Frikkie Dreyer, Operational Manager for Unitrans Foods, with 3802 rolling wheels in his care, claimed that he too could not fault his

far as to devise a device that prevents rim damage”

current tyre supplier, Safety Grip, on any level. He says that thanks to

Stephen Pienaar, Tyre Manager at Manline Logistics explained: “Trentyre

ongoing pressure maintenance, external Bandag auditing and driver and

provides a consistent level of service to our operation except in the areas

supervisor training, regular evaluation and monthly reporting indicates

where they have no representation. This often requires the involvement

that the company has seen a reduction in scrap tyres and breakdowns.

of a third party, which creates its own set of problems.”

Moreover, he said that his supplier goes the extra mile by way of providing cost-cutting solutions via the use of Application Specific Bandag treads, electronic inspections and pressure maintenance as well as via load studies which not only ensure cost reductions on tyres, but also on fuel.

Andries Smith, Technical Executive at Imperial Cargo concurred: “Our business is split 70/30 between Trentyre and Max T Solutions. Service levels are fair but there is room for improvement when it comes to communication, stock availability and quality/thoroughness of paperwork,

“I’m currently very happy with my service provider,” stated Dreyer. “The

especially in the event of a breakdown that is attended to by a third party.

important thing now is to keep service levels up to the same standards

On the upside, we are continuously being brought up to date with regards

by using the relevant KPIs and measurements that ensure consistency.”

to new products and technologies which, in turn, help us to arrive at

Breakdowns, third party transactions and stock levels

educated decisions in fitting the correct tyres for our applications.”

Of course, not surprisingly, the exercise also brought perceived

The paper trail surrounding breakdowns also came up for discussion

weaknesses to light. Rearing its ugly head for the fifth consecutive

with Smith in particular, highlighting the importance of paperwork. ‘It is

time was the issue of breakdowns, particularly where they require the

essential that the relevant paper work is filled in correctly with each and

involvement of a third party provider.

every breakdown,” he claimed, “as failure to do so cannot only result

1 0 • F o c u s o n S e r v i c e L e v e l s

“In short, service providers need to provide the end user with practical solutions pertinent to their operation that will ensure sustainable growth for both parties”

In response to these allegations, Glen Duffield, National Commercial Fleet Manager for Trentyre said: “In terms of improving communication levels between clients and ourselves, improving the quality of paperwork, processing tyre claims and ensuring adequate stock levels, these are certainly areas of concern which we will address with Imperial Cargo as soon as possible. We are constantly striving for perfection and as such, we welcome opportunities such as these which can help identify and improve our service levels to the end user.

in chaos but more importantly, does not contribute towards a well-run

“As for the concerns surrounding personnel and training, the tyre industry

professional tyre fleet.”

is facing a challenge when it comes to retaining experienced staff; the

And not altogether unexpectedly given the shortages in the market,

eroding pool of qualified tyre technicians and tyre consultants is further

Smith further raised the issue of stock availability, stressing the need for

being hampered by the poaching of the very people in question by the

the industry to ensure sufficient stock levels across the country. This is

transporters themselves. Trentyre runs its own Commercial Tyre Training

perhaps even more important for fleets that have elected to run solely on

Academy to skill new associates with the ability to provide a better service

a single tyre brand but which are at the mercy of third party providers who

to the transport industry but unfortunately, there is a little way to go yet

may not carry that specific make.

before the younger, less experienced associates reach the same standard

Also raised were new tyre claims with transporters seeking a speedier solution in the event of a tyre failure. “Overall, there is a general lack of understanding of the critical role a tyre plays in keeping a transport business rolling within the desired cpk,” suggested Manline’s Pienaar, who is responsible for 7 500 rolling wheels. “This is especially evident among staff at ground level where extensive training always lends itself to continuous improvement.

of service previously offered by their more senior counterparts which are left in our skill pool. Notwithstanding, we will pay immediate attention to the specific concern raised by Manline Logistics.” As encouraging as it was to come across some extremely happy customers, there is no denying that the tyre sector has some way to go in its quest to provide end users with what is being deemed as an acceptable level of service by the commercial market. And all this amidst ever increasing challenges in the marketplace by way of economic and

“In short, service providers need to provide the end user with practical

manpower related pressures. Notwithstanding the current operating

solutions pertinent to their operation that will ensure sustainable growth

environment, the willingness of both parties to work together in arriving

for both parties,” said Pienaar.

at a mutually satisfactory arrangement, is however, clearly evident.

3D - Special Offers 3D LAWRENCE - Special Offers 3D ALIGNER LAWRENCE 3D ALIGNER + NEW EUROPA + 3D ALIGNER RELEASE! NEW EUROPA 3D ALIGNER RELEASE! + + USA Technology - Built tough for Africa Free Automatic tyre changer USA Technology - Built tough for Africa Free Automatic tyre changer Free Nitrogen Machine Free Nitrogen Machine

Eurotek High Rise Lift

Available in the following colours: Red, Yellow or Blue. Available in the following colours: Red, Yellow or Blue.

Full range of Balancers and Lifts for all applications Full range of Balancers and Lifts for all applications

CALL FOR A DEMO ON OUR LEVERLESS CHANGERS CALL FOR A DEMO ON OUR LAWRENCE / BRIGHT / M&B / EUROPA / PRIMAN AND more! LEVERLESS CHANGERS LAWRENCE / BRIGHT / M&B / EUROPA / PRIMAN AND more! www.equipmentafrica.net

Telephone: 012 653 0364 / 082 413 2629

www.equipmentafrica.net

Telephone: 012 653 0364 / 082 413 2629

WHY PAY MORE?

Unit 9 Edison Park, 183 Edison Crescent, Hennops Park, Centurion, 0157

1 2 • N e w P r o d u c t s

MAXXIS PASSENGER CAR TYRE RE-INTRODUCED IN SA After 4 years of long absence in the passenger tyre segment, Maxxis South Africa has re-launched its wide range of high performance radial tyres in the Southern Africa market. Maxxis has primarily focused on the 4x4 industry since their first arrival in the South African market back in 2006. In the period of 6 years, Maxxis

Maxxis distributes its products in approximately 170 countries and

has made tremendous impact on the 4x4 tyre segment and have since

employs more than 22,000 people.

become one of the most popular tyre brands among the 4x4 fraternity and has continued their high level of involvement with the local 4x4 communities.

Creating and retaining lifelong customers has been instrumental in Maxxis’ steady growth. Customers trust Maxxis tyres during every stage of their lives, from those first childhood bike rides through changing careers, modes of

According to Jon Wen, General Manager of Maxxis Tyre South Africa, “As

transportation, and interests – and they know that Maxxis will always be

we continue to grow our market share we do not want to be labeled as

there when the time comes for their own

a 4x4 tyre company. We want our customers to know that we can offer

children to choose tyres.

them a wide variety of high quality tyre products in different segments such as passenger cars, light trucks (4x4 Bakkies), bicycles, motorcycles, ATV’s (Quad bikes), Go-Karts and light industrial vehicles”.

For more information on Maxxis’ range of products or to find out how you can become a Maxxis dealer in your area

Maxxis is currently rated one of the top 10 tyre manufactures in the

please call us on (011)314-2428 or send

world. Operating in North & South America, Asia, Europe and Africa,

us an e-mail to cs@maxxis.co.za.

Maxxis USA Headquarters

EQUIPMENT AFRICA NOW IMPORTING TOP OF THE RANGE BRANDS INTO SOUTH AFRICA Equipment Africa has managed to get exclusivity

wheel balancers and related tyre equipment is

on marketing leading products namely M&B

already being sold throughout South Africa and

Engineering , Europa , Lawrence just to name a few.

exported into the SADC region to some of the tyre industries top tyre dealers.

Established by Sean Joubert, whose lengthy track record in the industry with a rival leading

“I believe that our tyre shops will be looking

wheel equipment company will undoubtedly

to invest in equipment that offers the latest

assist him in his current aspiration to build on

technology, but is durable and tough enough for

the company’s reputation for their products

the conditions that our clients operate in, that

and service delivered over the past 13 years, Joubert claims they are

is where our new lever less tyre changer will prove very successful

well placed to deliver an unrivalled service offering to the market. The

in making the operator’s job easier, without complex systems and

company’s workshop and showroom is based in Centurion Gauteng,

training, our customers have had firsthand experience of these fantastic

and sports a wide range of well renowned brands, among them,

machines and believe we have finally brought in a product which will

Lawrence, Bright, Europa and M&B. Wheel Aligners, Tyre changers,

revolutionize the market ,” says Joubert.

C o m p e t i t i o n • 1 5

NEW PIRELLI CAL 2013

UNVEILED! Win a copy of the coveted Pirelli Calendar 2013 courtesy

humanitarian projects and non-governmental organisations. There are 34 colourful images in the 2013 Pirelli Calendar, bound together in a calendar

of Pirelli Tyres SA!

book: 23 portraits of actresses and models, nine

Set in the exotic location that is Brazil, the Pirelli

images depicting bits and pieces of daily life,

Calendar 2013 was officially unveiled in Rio de

and two pictures entirely composed of graffiti

Janeiro at the ‘Pier Maua’ warehouses at the old

and murals.

port of the ‘Cidale Maravilhosa’ on 27 November.

The Cal features 11 models, actresses and

The creator of the 40th edition of ‘The Cal’

singers: Brazilian Isabeli Fontana (who appeared

is Steve McCurry, one of the world’s most

in Bruce Weber’s 2003 Pirelli Cal, in Patrick

renowned photographers, who recounts the

Demarchelier’s 2005 edition, in Peter Beard’s of

recent social and economic transformation of

2009, in Karl Lagerfeld’s of 2011 and in Mario

Brazil. His work celebrates the beauty and colours

Sorrenti’s of 2012) and Adriana Lima (also in

that represent the soul of this magical South

Patrick Demarchelier’s 2005 edition), actress

American country, capturing stories, experiences

Sonia Braga and singer Marisa Monte; Italian-

and traits of people and faraway lands. The

Egyptian actress Elisa Sednaoui, Czech model

2013 Pirelli Calendar tells its tales through faces

Petra Nemcova, Tunisian model Hanaa Ben

drawn in graffiti and ordinary people, as well

Abdesslem, Ethiopian model Liya Kebede and

as through this year’s models whose common

American models, Karlie Kloss, Kyleigh Kuhn

thread is a powerful commitment to foundations,

and Summer Rayne Oakes.

To stand a chance to win one of these world-renowned Calendars turn to our Competition page (page 36), answer the simple question and submit your entries either via www.satreads.co.za or via fax: (011) 658-0010.

1 6 • C o n t i C o r n e r

Kevin Slabbert, Head of Franchise, ContiTrade Africa (left) and Cathy Hutchinson, Project Manager Franchising evaluate the final signage ready for the first store to open in Welkom.

ContiTrade Africa launches new fitment centre franchise ContiTrade Africa – the worldwide trade organisation of Continental AG, responsible for franchise and retail operations – has announced the launch of a new fitment centre franchise opportunity in South Africa called FIT&GO.

ccording to Gishma Johnson, Continental Tyre South Africa (CTSA) Corporate Communications Manager, FIT&GO will be managed by ContiTrade Africa and offers something new and different – both for the franchisee and franchisor. She said that while the successful Contipartner programme remains an important channel to market for CTSA the addition of this franchise presents the opportunity to further grow its distribution footprint. FIT&GO owners will have access to CTSA’s product offering for passenger, 4x4, light truck (radial and bias),

C o n t i C o r n e r • 1 7

truck radial and speciality tyres. In addition to tyres, the product assortment will extend to car parts and related fitment services. Kevin Slabbert, Head of Franchising for ContiTrade Africa added that FIT&GO is all about offering affordable, quality products and services while being honest and dependable to the customer. “Our aim is to enhance the traditional offering of the tyre fitment store and assist in improving service levels,” said Slabbert. The FIT&GO brand is built around traits which have universal appeal – dependability, friendliness and honesty. Slabbert said, “These traits will govern the approach and relationship that ContiTrade SA has with its FIT&GO franchise partners who in turn will follow through on this with their customers.” FIT&GO will appeal to the business person currently in the tyre retail industry or wanting to enter this market with the full support of a local manufacturer. Outside of the fresh approach to the franchisee, what CTSA offers in terms of product, brand and consumer pull will clearly differentiate this opportunity from some of the others in the market. The first FIT&GO is set to open in Welkom on 1 December 2012. Welkom is the first of many centres planned. Each committed to building a dependable service where relationships with the customer are key.

Our aim is to enhance the traditional offering of the tyre fitment store and assist in improving service levels

Cathy Hutchinson and Kevin Slabbert have recently joined the Marketing and Sales Department at Continental Tyre South Africa (CTSA) to assist in the establishment of the ContiTrade retail organisation.

Appointed as FIT&GO Project

Manager, Hutchinson takes on the

role with extensive experience in the Marketing Business Development environments having spent

several years running functions in

Volkswagen, Telkom and Coca Cola SABCO.

Slabbert, Head of Franchising for ContiTrade Africa, joined CTSA with more than 20 years experience in the tyre industry. His previous functions include Business Analyst, Marketing eBusiness and National Sales Manager.

CONSTR

TYRES & WHE

RUCTION

EELS

SKID STEER LOADERS

BACKHOES

WHEEL EXCAVATORS

TELEHANDLER

WHEEL LOADERS

GRADERS

0861 TYRECOR www.tyrecor.co.za

M a n u f a c t u r i n g • 2 1

VREDESTEIN NOW IN SA Heralded as one of the most elite performance tyre brands in Europe, the Dutch-engineered Vredestein brand is now exclusively available in South Africa at Dunlop Zones. Manufacted in Enschede, The Netherlands by Apollo Vredestein, the range – which comprises passenger, SUV, light truck, agricultural and industrial tyres – is said to offer superior safety, performance and handling to top-end vehicles. Plus, the company’s products are engineered to meet and surpass all safety criteria, including the stringent European safety standards.

Premium styling is a concept around which tyres are created to guarantee superior road handling and performance with an extra elegant and stylish

More important, they have been awarded top marks in many leading

appearance. To achieve this, since 1997 Vredestein has been collaborating

international tyre tests, among them, UK-based Auto Express magazine

with the world-famous Italian design consultancy, Giugiaro Design, whose

which recently named the Vredestein Sportrac 5 ‘Recommended Tyre of

design achievements have ranged from the very first Volkswagen Golf and

the Year 2012’.

the BMW M1 to famous cars for Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Maserati, Bugatti and Lamborghini. Interestingly, the global automotive press named Giugiaro the ‘designer of the century’ in 1999. The following flagship Vredestein products are now available in South Africa: the Ultrac Vorti, Ultrac Sessanta, Ultrac Sessanta SUV, Ultrac Centro, Sportrac 3, Quatrac 3, Quatrac 3 SUV, Sportrac 5, Sprint Classic, Hi Trac 2 and Comtrac. Dunlop Zone Incentive Available exclusively at Dunlop Zone stores nationwide, dealers stand the chance to win an unforgettable overseas trip in May 2013 via a dedicated incentive campaign named The Dolce Vita.

2 2 • I n d u s t r y N e w s

Nankang Free Your Way Guarantee a Success Tubestone,

purchasing Nankang tyres.

partnership

with Nankang Tyres, launched

In the long run, it’s simply a

the Free Your Way Guarantee

quality product, purchased

earlier this year, designed to

at a good price and including

protect motorists against daily

an incredible after purchase

mishaps affecting their tyres.

service,” claims the company.

Thus far, the feedback from the company’s dealers as well

“It’s an unfortunate reality that

as the public is far exceeding

our roads in South Africa are

expectations, the company

in dire need of maintenance

says.

in certain areas, and tyres are an expensive recurring expenditure of all vehicle owners. More reports

The Free Your Way Guarantee is valid on any Nankang Passenger Tyre

from the public mention the satisfaction of the Free Your Way Guarantee

purchased including tyres for passenger vehicles, SUVs and light commercial

on bakkie tyres, which is a very unique offer and incredibly valuable for the

vehicles. If the tyre is damaged by a road hazard including cuts, puncture

consumer,” they add.

(non-repairable) or impact damage, Tubestone will guarantee a replacement on all the remaining tread that a customer has left on the tyre. In short, the

Nankang is a major tyre factory in Taiwan, leading the industry in quality,

consumer will only pay for the tread already used.

reputation, research and development. More important, the company receives commendation from clients and industrial players from all over

According to Tubestone, no other manufacturer can offer the same

the world. With continued improvements and innovation, Nankang

extensive coverage in range or the convenience factor in replacing these

strives to remain at the forefront in technology and quality, so as to bring

tyres, particularly when one takes into account that some of today’s

comfort, speed and safety in their product. This is why it’s so important for

guarantees are only available at some selected outlets, thereby limiting the

consumers to be aware of the benefits of purchasing a Nankang tyre, and

customer’s options. Conversely, the Free Your Way Guarantee is available

to be sure to ask about the Free Your Way Guarantee when visiting their

to any tyre dealer who wants to participate in the programme.

tyre dealer.

Tubestone further alleges that the feedback from the public has been

“Combining unsurpassed confidence in our products and striving to render

overwhelmingly successful thus far. “Our dealing companies reported

top customer service, is what has made the Free Your Way Guarantee a

back that this Guarantee is giving the customer incredible peace of

reality. It’s just another way we surpass our customers’ expectations,”

mind and is vastly contributing towards the customer’s final choice in

concludes Tubestone.

Nitrogen Inflation to become Mandatory in Anglo American Group The Anglo American mining group has ruled for nitrogen inflation to

being subjected to excessive heat and pressure, whereas its counterpart

become mandatory throughout its global operations, including South

exploded within minutes.

Africa. This is in response to the recent spate of fatalities resulting from tyre explosions on South African mines which has led to the mining sector

“No open cast mine should operate without nitrogen inflation,” claims Tom

switching its focus firmly to safety and accident prevention.

Sowry of Nitralife. “We have been supplying Anglo open cast mines with nitrogen for over 10 years now and demand is now such that we are even

Because nitrogen is an inert (dead) gas, it cannot support combustion,

supplying to mines in northern and central Africa.

thereby ultimately preventing the probability of tyre pyrolosis which ultimately results in a tyre explosion. To prove this, Anglo ran tyre

“We recently completed a mine contract for De Beers Jwaneng where we

pyrolosis tests using an industrial tyre pumped with air compared to a

installed a 5600 litre per minute production system for inflating the mines

tyre pumped with nitrogen. The tests conclusively proved the value

new 63 inch tyres. To our knowledge, this is the biggest on-site nitrogen

of nitrogen in that the tyre did not succumb to tyre pyrolosis despite

generator system for tyre inflation in the world.”

www.nitralife.co.za

O n e - o n - O n e • 2 3

OTR RADIALS hines r all OTR Mac fo le b a it u S l in 25” to 35” e g n ra e iz s ll l Fu e Radials ‘E’ and ‘L’ typ ial el Belted Rad te S t s u b o R l construction tant tread is s re n io s ra b lA compound a rced tread are fo in re lt e lb e l Ste ad patterns e tr rn e d o M l lity standard l Global qua rer Warranty l Manufactu Hour

= Low Cost P

TESTED & PROVEN

FOR ORDERS & INFORMATION Contact: Ken Martin or Marlin Pillay Tel: 031 764 6451 | Ken: 083 387 8403 | Marlin: 071 880 9247 | Fax: 086 558 8382 Email: ken@tafrica.net or marlin@tafrica.net OnLy AvAILABLE fROm

Transafrica Tyre & Wheel Exclusive

Distributor for RSA, Lesotho, Swaziland and Botswana

SAT201209.FH9 Mon Aug 27 10:02:10 2012

Page 1 C

REDISA PLAN RE-GAZETTED

CY CMY

The Minister for Environmental Affairs, Ms Edna Molewa, has reapproved the REDISA Waste Tyre Management Plan for immediate

implementation. The plan replaces the REDISA plan that was suspended in terms of an interdict granted on 20 November 2012. The legal challenge to the implementation of the REDISA plan,

Â&#x152;Â&#x2039; Â&#x17D;Â&#x2018; Â?

launched in August this year, contained a long list of criticisms. The case was heard on the 8th of November, with judgment delivered on

Â? Â&#x2020;Â? Â&#x201E; Â?Â&#x2026;

20th November. The judge found in favour for REDISA on all counts

Â? Â&#x2C6; Â? Â?Â&#x2026;

except one technical issue regarding the insertion of waste reduction targets into the plan after the public comment period, and determined that the plan should be suspended pending a review application. However, he also suggested that the Minister could simply withdraw her approval of the plan, and re-apply her mind to approving the plan

Â&#x2020;Â? Â&#x201E; Â?Â&#x2026;

with the insertion removed. This is what the Minister has now done. Hermann Erdmann, REDISA CEO, commented â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are very pleased that the Minister has taken such prompt action to resolve the chaos that the suspension of the plan was causing in the tyre industry. Getting the plan suspended pending a review application meant that

Â? Â? Â&#x201E; Â&#x2020; Â&#x201E;Â? Â&#x2026; Â? Â? Â? Â?

Â?

Â? Â&#x2021; Â Â?

Â Â? Â&#x201E; Â?Â&#x2026;

Â&#x2026;Â? Â&#x2026;

the industry would have been in a state of uncertainty for months, not knowing if the waste tyre management fee was going to have to be paid or not. A review application takes months to complete, and for all that time the industry would have had to provisionally set aside funds to pay the fee if the Review Court found in favour of the Minister, and deal with refund claims if it found against her.â&#x20AC;?

Tyres & Rims Conference well attended by Mining Sector In a bid to combat the rising death toll in the mining sector as a direct cause of tyre and rim failures, the Institute of International Research (iir), held a dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s conference at the Wandererâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club yesterday.

Â? Â&#x2026; Â?Â?Â?

Mining and tyre personnel alike converged on the day to highlight the need for dedicated efforts on the part of the mining and tyre sectors to address this all-important issue before any more lives are lost. This year alone has seen 78 fatalities in the mining industry (excluding the recent Marikana incident), 28 of which can be directly attributed to tyre and machinery problems.

Â&#x2C6; Â&#x2030; Â? Â&#x201A; Â&#x2030; Â&#x160; Â&#x2030; Â?

Respected tyre and rubber experts from Michelin, Otraco, Rimex and Thandi

Â&#x2039; Â&#x201E;

Â&#x2026;Â? Â&#x2026; Â&#x201A; Â&#x2020; Â?

Solutions presented papers (contact www.iir.co.za for these presentations) highlighting tyre construction, thermo-mechanical indicators, tyre servicing Â&#x20AC;

Â&#x201A;Â? Â&#x20AC; Â&#x192; Â? Â&#x201E; Â? Â&#x2026; Â? Â?Â Â? Â?Â?Â?

American stressed the importance of inflating with nitrogen in an effort to avoid

Â Â? Â? Â? Â? Â? Â Â? ÂÂÂ&#x20AC; Â&#x201A; ÂÂ&#x192;Â

tyre explosions resulting from tyre pyrolosis.

The event was sponsored by Otraco Southern Africa, with SA TREADS as the media partner.

www.iir.co.za / www.otraco.com

Â Â?Â? Â?Â?Â Â Â?Â?

and pyrolosis while Hennie Klopper, Senior Mechanical Engineer at Anglo

2 6 • B a n d a g N e w s

Bandag retreads – Built on a reputation to Outperform Whether it is Cost per Kilometre (CPK) or Wearout Performance you’re after, Bandag’s retread product range offers a perfect blend of options to provide your fleet with just that… For more than a decade, Bandag SA has been investing in its Application Specific product range. During this time, products such as UDR, BDV and BMS have been introduced to the market and have managed to silence their critics… Best of all, these Application Specific products in the Bandag product range have achieved this by delivering on Bandag’s reputation to Outperform… They have delivered so well, that imitations exist today to honour them… But, the true secret of Bandag’s products lies in its DNA. That can’t be easily imitated! Every Bandag retread is made using compounding that is uncompromised. This enables Bandag to deliver excellent Wearout Performance. It allows Bandag to deliver Application Specific products geared at meeting and even exceeding the expectations of transport operators. So what are these Application Specific products and how can they deliver excellent mileage and a resultant good CPK? Quite simply, they

are unique Bandag products, developed over long periods of time, across continents and thousands of kilometres. And, perhaps most importantly, Bandag Application Specific products are engineered and developed with one question in mind – will they deliver on the needs of transport operators? If CPK and Mileage Performance are truly what transport operators are looking for, then the choice is clear. Still not convinced? Why not take on the Bandag Challenge and put us to the test? With Bandag, you don’t have to be a tyre expert. You just have to know one! Bandag specialises in the manufacture of retreads and best-in-class after sales service. That’s what we do. For more information on how you can benefit contact Bandag today on +27 11 439 6000 or visit www.bandag.co.za.

With the reliability you get from Bandag, your ﬂeet can take on anything. 8182 Bandag Strip Ad.indd 3

www.bandag.co.za 5/15/08 4:39:38 PM

2 8 • I n d u s t r y N e w s

Tyre Shoot Out puts tyre brands to the test The October issue of Leisure Wheels magazine features a comprehensive all-terrain tyre shoot-out, the first independent test of its kind in more than a decade. The test was held across a wide variety of terrain, from Witsand Nature Reserve in the Northern Cape to the Gerotek Testing Facility near Hartbeespoort Dam, and to the gravel skidpan of African Dream Adventures, also near Hartbeespoort. It included sand, wet and dry tar handling and braking, as well

The rankings Position Tyre 1 General Grabber A/T 2 Continental CrossContact AT 3 Apollo A/T 4 Goodyear Wrangler AT/SA 5 Bridgestone Dueler 694 A/T 6 Hankook Dynapro AT-M RF10 7 Pirelli Scorpion ATR 8 Kumho Road Venture AT 9 Yokohama Geolander AT-S 10 Cooper Discoverer A/T3 11 Maxxis 700 Bravo AT 12 Dunlop Grandtrek AT3 13 Velocity Raptor 14 BFGoodrich All Terrain T/A KO 15 Mickey Thompson Baja STZ

Percentage 96.95% 95.64% 94.49% 93.27% 92.76% 92.70% 91.66% 91.46% 91.41% 90.57% 90.47% 90.33% 88.21% 87.14% 85.59%

as gravel handling and braking. The test vehicle, a standard Toyota Hilux 3.0D-4D 4x4 Raider double cab with an automatic gearbox, was piloted for more than 4000km by SA motorsport

the shoot out included sand (Kalahari), wet handling, wet braking, dry handling, dry braking, gravel handling and gravel braking.

legend Hannes Grobler, managing director of 4.4 Mega Zambesi, who was also

According to Gishma Johnson, Continental Tyre SA Corporate Communications

the brainchild behind the test.

Manager, this tyre’s performance was particularly rated best in wet handling,

The brands tested include (in alphabetical order): Apollo, BF Goodrich, Bridgestone, Continental, Cooper, Dunlop, General, Goodyear, Hankook, Kumho, Maxxis, Mickey Thompson, Pirelli, Velocity and Yokohama in the size 265/65 R17. To ensure repeatable results, the team used Goodyear’s Wrangler HP as the control tyre – after every three runs with the all-terrains, Grobler, the Hilux and the HPs tackled the respective test to check for any changes in conditions. A state-of-the-art pyrometer was also used to keep tabs on surface and air temperatures after each run. “It was an eye opener, comparing these products back to back, in the same conditions, says Grobler. “Some of the tyres surprised us with how well they performed, while others fell out of the bus in certain tests. My opinion of some products has certainly changed.” Grobler believes that, in the end, it comes down to personal preferences and requirements. And compromise.

best in wet braking and best in gravel braking. “Compared with its predecessor the braking performance on wet roads and noise reduction have been improved. This makes the Grabber AT an excellent all-terrain tyre for use on and off the road,” she said. “Its robust construction provides protection against damage to the tread pattern and sidewall area. The technology used in the Grabber AT ensures comfortable handling combined with high mileage potential. “The compound and the tread pattern were developed with a focus on maximum safety for both off-and-on-road driving,” Johnson added. “The winner of this shoot-out scored highly in most of the tests. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best tyre if you want to drive from Cape Town to Timbuktu. Do you drive 90% of the time on tar, and 10% on gravel? Or is it vice versa? “Tyres are about compromise, and each driver has to weigh up the compromises he or she is willing to make. This test showed that you can’t have a tyre that is extremely hardy and tough and provides excellent grip on a wet road. I believe

Crowned king of all terrain tyres, the Grabber AT was described as best in its

the results of this shoot-out will make 4x4 drivers think twice when shopping

class and being in a class of its own during the shoot out. The terrain covered in

for a new set of all-terrain tyres,” concludes Grobler. www.leisurewheels.co.za

REMO REVOLUTION O n e - o n - O n e • 2 9

TOUCHLESS WHEEL ALIGNMENT

It’s com ing... Launch ing March 2013

CLAMPLESS A REVOLUTION from

w w w . r e m o r e v o l u t i o n . c o m

EXACT BLACKTECH X

WHEEL ALIGNERS

WHEEL BALANCERS

TYRE CHANGERS A 2025 “DV” ARTIGLIO MASTER

EM 9380

EM 7240 DD

LIFTS

TRUCK EQUIPMENT HD1400

PNEUSEAL TUBE REPAIRS 021 5566798

ERCO 4004B

CONSUMABLES

ERCO TP LIFT

ET66

ERCO 321

WHEEL SERVICE & GARAGE EQUIPMENT ¥ TYRE RELATED ACCESSORIES

Johannesburg 011 390 7160 Windhoek 00264 61 301161 Port Elizabeth 082 553 9987

Cape Town 021 949 0010 Durban 031 705 9505 Welkom 082 921 5450

STICK-ON WHEEL WEIGHT

RUBBER SNAP-IN VALVE

T a l k i n g T y r e s • 3 1

N EW TYRES

Exclusive … and elusive! Tyre development and original equipment selection is an integral part of any new car – but it can lead to very limited choice …

Never before has the co-development of car and tyre been so intimately and intricately intertwined. Any new vehicle has endured a rigorous research, test and development regime to produce what the manufacturer regards as the best-possible compromise between performance, comfort, safety and efficiency – to varying degrees in each direction of this complex matrix.

By Colin Mileman Tyres are so fundamental to this final package that the partnership begins at the very earliest stages of conception, and are refined, tweaked and modified until they are a perfect match in every respect. It seems a fairly straightforward and obvious concept, but there’s no doubt that the car and tyre manufacturer have become inseparable – particularly in the performance car sector.

3 2 • T a l k i n g T y r e s

Which, in some ways, is a good thing. As a driver, you know that the sparkling

tread wear rating, they were destined for the dustbin at a much faster rate.

new vehicle you’re driving has been honed to within an inch of its life to cover every possible scenario – from cruising to carving through your favourite pass.

And where the expensive rubber provided infinite levels of communication and

The tyres it rides on deliver the ideal balance of grip and feedback, durability

of grip and balance. On the Goodyears the ABS and ESP systems were rarely

and ride refinement. The rubber communicates perfectly with the suspension,

called into action, but on the cheaper tyres they were working overtime. As the

the new high-tech electric power steering systems, the dazzling array of

saying goes, you get what you pay for …

confidence, the rip-offs floundered under duress with rapidly changing levels

electronic safety and performance features and, ultimately with the driver. However, over many years of car and tyre testing, I’ve also encountered similar A case in point is the new Ford Focus ST, which I helped launch in South

traits with different brands of tyres of relatively equal pricing. Several years ago

Africa in October 2012. It’s a truly brilliant car that sets new benchmarks for

Honda brought in a couple of limited edition Type-R models for the motoring

seriously hot hatchback performance, fantastic driver involvement and sheer

media to evaluate, although they weren’t ultimately sold in SA.

entertainment. The OE-spec Bridgestones, clearly, were tailor-made for the car. And when It’s shod with the latest generation Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 rubber,

they had been sufficiently decimated by the local journos, no replacements

specifically developed for the car. And it’s the only tyre approved for the ST.

could be sourced so Pirellis were fitted instead.

A punishing launch schedule included hammering it around the abrasive Aldo

And that’s when it all started going wrong. The specialised Bridgestones

Scribante race track, day after day – and the car, its electronic systems, brakes

seemed to handle the hard-core nature of the cars (or more pertinently, the

and tyres shone throughout. Until there was no tread left.

eager driving) very well, and while the Italian rubber clung on initially, they experienced a sudden and radical drop-off in performance as temperatures

Naturally, as a brand-new car, there was no replacement rubber available in the

climbed.

country, and subsequent enquiries indicated that stock of the Eagle F1 AS2, priced at R2 650 each, would arrive at the end of November. Just over a month

What this encounter, and the recent ST experience proved, is that the

after it hit the dealer showrooms, which isn’t bad.

relationship between car and tyre is so closely aligned that you almost dare not deviate from the original equipment specification. Clearly that may not be the

Unless, of course, you’re an excitable new ST driver that got a little too eager

case with run-of-the-mill cars, but on performance machinery it seems critical.

to embrace the car’s spirited character or, more likely, hit one of the country’s rapidly expanding population of potholes – in which case you’re forced to play

Yet that may not always be entirely practical due to the aforementioned stock

the waiting game.

availability issue. And, keeping in mind that a car like the ST will be an every day driver, you’re simply not going to have identical replacement tyres available

Towards the end of the launch, with many of the original tyres destroyed, we

across length and breadth of the country at a moment’s notice.

sourced the only other tyres in this specific size (235/40 R18) available at short notice in order to evaluate their performance as an interim measure.

It’s perfectly acceptable that the more exclusive the application, the more elusive the tyre. Having a specialist sports car out of action for a while as tyres

Ironically, this happened to be a no-name brand, dubbed F-One, which

are sourced or flown in isn’t an issue when it’s simply a weekend toy. But when

mimicked the characteristic design of the original Goodyear F1. At a grand per

it’s your daily mode of transport, it’s a nightmare. Other factors such as pricing

tyre, they were a bargain too.

and even brand affinity also come into the equation.

But it was clear from the outset that they simply weren’t just of a lower standard,

So while it’s great to have a purpose-built tyre for the application, in the real

they were worlds apart from the ST’s OE-spec Goodyears. Despite a harder

world, it’s fraught with problems.

Colin Mileman is a freelance motoring journalist, photographer and advanced driving specialist with over 13 years of experience in this field. As a former editor of Topcar and Topbike magazines, he’s as enthusiastic about cars and bikes as they come, and has extensive knowledge of all motoring-related matters, including the topic of tyres, having run the annual and highly regarded Topcar tyre tests for several years.

D i s t r i b u t i o n N e w s • 3 3

South Africans Honestly Prefer Tiger Wheel & Tyre The people of KZN made their voices heard through the Daily News “Your Choice 2012” awards, choosing Tiger Wheel & Tyre as “The Best Tyre Retailer” for the eighth consecutive year. The province wasn’t alone in this however; its sentiments were echoed nationwide as readers of The Sowetan, The Times and The Sunday Times, voted the company “The Top Retailer” in the Tyre and Auto Fitment Centre Category of AVUSA’s 2012 Readers Choice Awards, for the fourth consecutive year. Comments Joe du Plooy, Marketing Executive of Tiger Wheel & Tyre: “There’s nothing more gratifying than being told by South African consumers that you’re their favourite company. More than anything, this validates who we are as a company, what we stand and strive for and how we come across to our customers in the process. We are proud and humbled by these awards and grateful to South Africans for speaking their minds and choosing us. Thank you South Africa!” For a complete list of Tiger Wheel & Tyre stores and to browse through the wheels, tyres and latest promotions visit the website www.twt.to

Mustafa Kemal Türkgil (Petlas Regional Sales Manager), Alida Mouton (CFP Director) and Oguz Ay (Petlas Director – International Sales & marketing)

CFP adds Petlas range of tyres to its portfolio As of 1 October, CFP Tyres are now sole distributors for the PETLAS

network of more than 2 000 selling points, Petlas currently ranks as the

brand of tyres in South Africa.

largest tyre distributor in the Middle East. And with tyres being exported to more than 90 countries across the globe coupled with its research-

Established in 1976, the Petlas tyre factory was the first plant with the

development, technology, production, management and strong

ability to produce military aircraft tyres in Turkey. Today, the company

marketing orientation, it is increasing its market share on a daily basis.

remains the only factory supplying the Turkish Air Force and also exports F16 aircraft tyres worldwide.

To service the home market as well as markets further afield, Petlas

In 2005 Petlas was acquired by the Abdulkadir Ozcan Co Group. It

all tyre ranges – PCR, TBR, OTR and most importantly, agricultural

has increased its production capacity and expanded to manufacture is now listed under the top 150 companies in Turkey and is also sole

tyres. Currently, Petlas is the exclusive agricultural OE supplier for

distributor of Toyo, Hankook and Maxxis in Turkey, as well as being the

Turkish Tractors, Erkunt, Basak, Tumosa, CNH, Hidromek and Massey

largest distributor of Pirelli in the country. With 12 warehouses and a

Ferguson.

www.cfptyres.co.za

3 4 • G o o d y e a r N e w s

Goodyear Innovation Scoops Top Awards Goodyear’s Air Maintenance Technology (AMT) is not only a Popular Mechanics magazine Breakthrough Awards winner, but has

Powerful Partnership Goodyear proud to tyre the celebrated 3-pointed star

also been applauded as one of Time magazine’s ‘Best Inventions of 2012’. The Popular Mechanics Breakthrough Awards, now in their eighth year, recognise the innovators and products that have dramatically advanced the fields of technology, medicine, space exploration, automotive design, environmental engineering and more. Air Maintenance Technology is currently under development by Goodyear in Akron and Luxembourg and

Goodyear’s supply relationship with the prestigious Mercedes-Benz marque has gone from strength to strength this year, with rewarding original equipment (OE) fitments in both passenger and commercial product lines.

is not yet available for purchase. Essentially, AMT will make tyres self-inflating, which could mean substantial fuel savings. While the technology is complex, the idea behind the AMT system is relatively simple and powered by the tyre itself as it rolls down the road. All of its components are contained within the tyre. As soon as pressure gets too low, an internal pressure regulator opens to allow air to flow into a pumping tube, and as the wheel turns, the flattened part squeezes air from the tube through an inlet valve into the tyre. Among other products honoured by Popular Mechanics for their role in shaping the future were a featherweight metal and the world’s fastest (to date!) and most electrically efficient supercomputer. Time’s Best Innovations Time’s technology editors annually list the year’s “most important innovations.” This year included Goodyear’s pioneering AMT development among their top 25. Goodyear’s self-inflating tyre was joined by 25 other brilliant innovations – from a home test for HIV, batlike suits that enable humans to fly, a friendly robot named Baxter, and the Curiosity rover that recently visited Mars.

PASSENGER TYRES Stylish and sporty, Mercedes-Benz’s B-Class rolls off the assembly line on Goodyear tyres. Award winning Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 and feisty EfficientGrip tyres, both with Run On Flat, were among the leading designs selected for original equipment fitment to the new B-Class when it was introduced to European markets late last year. Mercedes-Benz has dubbed its new class as the car “for people who don’t think like their parents”. Its distinctive contours, modern interior and dynamic performance are matched by forward-thinking environmental awareness and outstanding safety. Only the highest quality equipment and most efficient technologies are fitted to this confident operator, and that includes, of course, its tyres. B-Class incorporates Mercedes-Benz’s unique BlueEFFICIENCY measures. Comprehensive vehicle optimisations – like intelligent aerodynamics, an ECO stop/start function and tyres with optimised rolling resistance – help save fuel and ease the burden on the environment.

G o o d y e a r N e w s • 3 5

the same unfailing professionalism for every item of equipment, especially their tyres. Goodyear supplies RHSll and RHDll tyres to the Mercedes-Benz Actros and Axor range of trucks, which are imported to South Africa in a knockeddown format (CKD). Norman Newcombe, Goodyear’s National Sales Manager: Commercial OE said the Goodyears were selected by MercedesBenz as “the best all round tyres for their application”. The truck tyre division’s exceptional service and support has further impressed this important customer. “As a supplier of premium products in the South African transport industry, Mercedes-Benz Trucks associates itself with business partners who are prepared to support their products 100% percent and who share our passion of building sustainable relationships with our mutual customers. Goodyear South Africa is definitely a huge value add partner in our business Douglas Wasserman, Goodyear Business Development Manager, said customers had a choice of four Mercedes B-Class derivatives: B180 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (diesel); B180 BlueEFFICIENCY (petrol); B200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (diesel); and B200 BlueEFFICIENCY (petrol). “Goodyear’s EfficientGrip 205/55 R16 ROF is a standard option tyre for all these vehicles. Customers have the option of selecting a vehicle with a bigger OE-approved tyre size in the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2. These products are readily available in South Africa, and imported regularly to satisfy local demand, on the following codes: l 205/55R16 91V EfficientGrip MOE ROF – Product code 526757 l 224/40R18 92W Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 MOE ROF – Product code 526851

“Tyre fitments to high premium marques such as Mercedes-Benz complement Goodyear’s marketing strategy for the Ultra High Performance (UHP) segment of the market,” said Robert Harris, Goodyear Marketing Manager. “Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 is our flagship premium tyre, so there is huge value to having it imported on such a high profile platform. There are also gains in the replacement market and it is all good for the brand.” TRUCK TYRES Mercedes-Benz trucks combine comfort, economy and safety in every vehicle. They are professionals prepared for any task – and they demand

and the sales, product and aftermarket support provided by Goodyear South Africa is benchmark in the local market,” said Christo Kleynhans, Product Manager for Mercedes-Benz Trucks. Actros trucks incorporate innovative technology to provide an economical transport solution. It was recently awarded International Truck of the Year for the third time, thanks to its superb specification and design.

3 6 • C o m p e t i t i o n / S u b s c r i p t i o n

Congratulations!

to our previous competition winner

B McGegan of Yellow Metal Tyres, Queenstown whose correct answer wins him a set of Nankang tyres complete with Tyre Guarantee to the value of R4 000.00!

quarterly competition QUESTION:

Where was the 2013 Pirelli Cal shot? ANSWER: �� Name: �� Company: �� Address: �� __________________________________________________

Code: ��

Telephone:___________________________________ Cellphone: ��

Click www.sa onto treads. to ente co.za r!

Win… The 2013 Pirelli Calendar

Please address your competition entries and subscriptions to: Sky Publications cc, PO Box 702, Douglasdale, 2165, or Fax entries to: (011) 658 0010 (only one per person please)

or enter online at www.satreads.co.za

subscription

I/we wish to subscribe to SA Treads for one year’s subscription (incl. VAT and postage) Local (SA) R 96-00 International R 220-00 (Please address cheques to Sky Publications)

Name:___________________________________________________________________________ Company: �� Address: ��

____________________________________________________________________________________

Code: ��

Profession:_ ___________________________________________________________________ Telephone: ��

Get your entries in on: www.satreads.co.za

3 8 • O n e - o n - O n e