SA Treads June 2012 by SA Treads Tyre Magazine

Alexandre Hennion on Michelin’s first pothole-resistant tyre R300m investment for Apollo Ladysmith plant Two new distribution groups for SA

Vol 18 • June 2012

Focus on New International TYRE Portal

International Tyre Portal is launched

Sailun – Technology is top focus

Three months free subscription to www.satreads.com!

Sync - 10715 - Tread S.A

RETREADING DOWN TO AN ART Bandag’s exclusive Application Specific tread range has placed them firmly at the top of the retreading food chain. As kings of the retreading jungle, we’ve become accustomed to pretenders to the throne who try to copy our designs. What can’t be copied however is the superior tread quality that provides fleets in the Bandag pride, best in class performance and Bandag’s unrelenting commitment to premium quality and better 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

the

One-on-One with Michelin’s Alexandre Hennion .......................................................

Focus on New International Tyre Portal ................................................................

Retreading Thomas Tyres crowned Winners of Best Bandag Factory 2012.............

Manufacturing Apollo Tyres expands Ladysmith Plant................................................... Goodyear markets first microchipped tyres in SA.................................. A day of fun for Dunlop Zone counter-hands......................................... Tyre Expo Africa a massive hit with a automotive equipment sector......

16 20 20 21

Conti Corner General Grabber AT conquers Africa......................................................

Talking Tyres Tyre Supply: The buck stops … where?.................................................

Goodyear News Sleek new Porsche flies with Goodyear Eagles....................................... International applause for new Eagle F1 AS2 Tyre confirms its cutting-edge quality.............................................................

30 31

Company Profile Sailun – Technology is top focus............................................................

World News Michelin to Strengthen Global Leadership in Earthmover Tyres............. A united front for Premium Brands........................................................ Bridgestone announces future tyre technologies................................... Reifen 2012 Show to break all records..................................................

35 35 35 35

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

Front Cover: www.istockphoto.com Editor

Liana Shaw

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

note from

Publishers

Sky Publications cc PO Box 702 Douglasdale, 2165

editor

What an exciting time this is for us! 18 years ago we brought out the first issue of SA TREADS magazine which to this day remains the only dedicated independent tyre publication on the market. Of course, with our world constantly evolving, so is modern technology, so much so that it is changing the way we do business even as I write. With this in mind we decided to develop another first in the market – an interactive International Tyre Portal that would provide the industry with fresh, upto-date news and developments globally, at the click of a button. More important, the site would focus first and foremost on the South African tyre sector! www.satreads.com was officially launched on 21 May to overwhelming response from the industry, and for that, we thank you! This site offers a myriad of features from daily news and stories, to possible job opportunities within the industry, website links, live videos and much more. More exciting still, it offers fabulous advertising opportunities for companies at a fraction of the price of print. To find out more about the portal and how it can be of benefit to you turn to our lead story on page 9 What’s more, you also stand the chance to win 3-months free subscription to the portal in our quarterly competition so get those entries in now! Also featuring in this issue is an exclusive interview with Michelin Marketing Manager for Michelin Tyre Company SA, Mr Alexandre Hennion, in which he explains the rationale behind the development of a revolutionary passenger tyre – released to the local market in May – that is designed expressly with South African road conditions in mind. So excited is the French tyre maker about this new offering that the company is also offering three unique guarantees with the purchase of two or more Michelin Energy XM2 tyres! And speaking of new releases, Goodyear has just launched the first microchipped tyre for commercial applications, at this time, only in one particular size and application, but more are expected to follow. Apollo has also been very active in this quarter with the inauguration of a new wing to its Ladysmith plant aimed at boosting capacity, a development that required massive investment on the part of its mother company in India. All these stories and much more appear in this issue, so take the time and catch up on all the news in the industry. Stay warm and don’t forget to sign up to the www.satreads.com portal for your daily news! Till we meet again in the spring.

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O n e - o n - O n e • 3

Inspired by nature MICHELIN ENERGY XM2 – POTHOLE RESISTANT TYRE A FIRST IN SA Michelin Tyres, global pioneers in tyre technology and development, stunned the local market last month with the release of the first-ever tyre engineered and built with South African road conditions in mind! This revolutionary product offering was launched in style at a three-day event at Gerotek Race Track which saw media and customers converge on this world-class venue to experience first-hand, the tyre being put through its paces.

ONE-ON-ONE WITH

MICHELIN’S ALEXANDRE HENNION

What’s more, complete with a staggering range of additional services such as Pothole Guarantee, Mileage Warranty and Roadside Assistance, so confident is Michelin in this new passenger car tyre, that the company is clearly willing to ‘put its money where its mouth is’. We caught up with Alexandre Hennion Marketing Manager for Michelin Tyre Company South Africa, to get the lowdown.

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Re s p o n s i ve

O n e - o n - O n e • 5

How did it come about that Michelin Tyres developed a tyre specific to

fuel consumption.

our market?

This performance balance is the result of leading-edge technical skills and

In a quest to pay equal attention to developing nations, where motorists

long-standing expertise.

are looking for affordable technical solutions, and with input from Michelin Tyre Company SA, Michelin engineers agreed to take on the worthy task

How is the new tyre able to deliver on both performance and fuel

of designing a tyre for countries like South Africa. They identified a need

consumption? Isn’t the one feature automatically compromised in favour

for this due to high traffic volumes experienced in this market and the fact

of the other in tyre design and construction?

that road networks ever under construction, thereby contributing to an

Traditionally engineers have to make trade-offs when developing new

unusually high number of potholes. Added to that, distances between the

technologies. However, where Michelin Tyres is concerned, there is an

city and the countryside are long, which means that drivers not only need

efficient way of improving overall performance without sacrificing one

to be extremely cautious and attentive when navigating these roads, they

particular area.

need a robust tyre.

This approach underlies all of Michelin’s fundamental advances. Throughout

When developing the all-new Michelin Energy XM2 tyre, Michelin engineers

its history, Michelin has broken down tyre components in order to work

addressed all of these issues with unique technologies that enable the tyre

on them separately. In 1891 Michelin invented the first tyre that could be

to deliver the highest level of safety for the lowest total cost of ownership.

detached from the wheel. And in 1946, Michelin invented the radial tyre,

The unrivalled robustness of the new Michelin Energy XM2 (exclusive

thereby effectively separating the functions of the crown and the sidewalls.

to Michelin by way of a trademark), guarantees user safety by reducing

This philosophy is still prevalent today with Michelin engineers constantly

the risk of blowouts and drivers losing control of their vehicle. Moreover,

innovating to find ways of improving individual tyre features with the goal of

during pothole damage tests it was shown and proven to have outstanding

enhancing overall performance.

robustness. The strength – indeed the relevance – of this remarkable new

I would add that as Michelin is responsible for most of the technical

tyre lies in the fact that it delivers several benefits at the same time. Robust,

advances that have shaped the tyre industry, the company is committed to

the tyre ensures optimal safety in a number of ways: in terms of grip in

being a pioneer in the area of innovation, a commitment that is reflected in

the wet and dry; increased resistance to pothole damage; longer mileage

the Group’s Research and Development Department, which has an annual

(fewer raw materials needed to travel a given distance); reduced vehicle

budget of 500 million euros and 6 000 employees around the world.

Press and tyre dealers alike putting the new Michelin Energy XM2 to the test at Gerotek.

6 • O n e - o n - O n e

With research facilities in North America, Europe and Asia, the Michelin

irregularity in the surface, the rubber delivers superior deformation

Technology Center enables engineers to adapt their innovations to local

flexibility while maintaining the highest levels of grip.

situations while providing the most effective solutions regardless of

Also bear in mind that robustness is synonymous with savings as a tyre that

conditions of use.

is more damage-resistant naturally delivers greater total mileage.

The new Michelin Energy XM2 is the most recent tangible illustration of the performance balance that is the hallmark of all Michelin tyres. No sacrifice

What segment of the market will the new Michelin Energy XM2 cater for?

is demanded on the part of users. The tyre’s robustness enhances safety

Intended for several categories of vehicles – including city cars, compacts

performance while also increasing longevity. As for safety, this important

and sedans, the new Michelin Energy XM2 was purpose-designed for

feature should be understood in the broad sense of the word, since the tyre

motorists in the 13-16-inch tyre segment who want to drive responsibly

reduces braking distances.

and safely. In short, it was purposely designed for the average man on the street.

How was the robustness of the new Michelin Energy XM2 achieved? Our engineers relied on Michelin IRONFlex technology, comprising ultra-

Could you elaborate on the remarkable range of additional services that

strong and resilient cables in the sidewall coupled with the optimisation of

accompany the sale of the new tyre?

the sidewall profile and thereby allowing for the rapid dissipation of stresses

Very simply, when purchasing two or more new Michelin Energy XM2

generated from road hazard impacts. Best of all, this ground-breaking

tyres, the purchaser will receive three additional benefits: Michelin’s unique

technology - inspired by properties found in nature, an in particular by

Pothole Guarantee which remains in effect for 12 months from the date

bamboo, which can bend without breaking – was created to offer solidity

of purchase of the tyres, Michelin’s unique Mileage Warranty as well as

and elasticity, strength and flexibility.

24-hour Roadside Assistance which includes the tow-in of a vehicle to the

Michelin IRONFlex technology effectively reinforces the tyre, making

nearest place of repair in the event of a breakdown.

it more solid, resistant and resilient to road hazards whilst maintaining a

Pothole Guarantee:

comfortable ride.

Should the Michelin Energy XM2 tyres be damaged, by accident, due to a

Further to this, the micro-adaptive rubber in the new tyre further enhances

pothole shock or road hazard impact, the tyre will be replaced with a new

the tyre’s adaptability. Made with compounds that adhere to the slightest

tyre of the same size and pattern by a Michelin Authorised Dealer who is empowered to assist immediately with the claim. (Ts and Cs apply). Mileage Warranty: Plus, the new Michelin Energy XM2 tyres come with Michelin’s unique mileage warranty. 13” to 15” tyres will be guaranteed to 70 000km while 16” tyres will carry a guarantee up to 50 000km. (Ts and Cs apply). Simply, if a tyre does not reach its warranted mileage, the tyres will be replaced with comparable new Michelin tyres for a pro rata charge based on mileage achieved for the usable tread life that is left. Roadside Assistance: This 24-hour service offers the customer assistance with mechanical and electrical breakdowns, flat tyre and flat battery, even assistance should the customer run out of fuel or lock their keys in their vehicle. Moreover, should the customer break down more than 100km from their destination, the service includes a night’s accommodation and car rental, recovery of their vehicle following repair and transport back to a holiday or permanent residence in the event of theft or hi-jacking, anywhere in South Africa. In the event of a breakdown, all the customer needs to do is call the Michelin Customer Service line and speak to a Michelin Assist Agent who will send out a technician or tow vehicle to assist. These services are remarkable and speak volumes for Michelin’s confidence in the new tyre. Yes, such is our complete confidence in the new Michelin Energy XM2 that we invite motorists to put it to the test! As the tyre has been engineered to address South African road conditions, we expect it to deliver on all levels!

O n e - o n - O n e • 7

THE MICHELIN ENERGY ™ XM2 TYRE

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MORE RESISTANT TO POTHOLE DAMAGE

Drive with conﬁdence, despite rough road conditions. The MICHELIN ENERGY™ XM2 tyre is designed with new IRONFlex technology, which enhances strength when impacting road hazards, such as potholes. MICHELIN ENERGY™ XM2 comes with a Pothole Guarantee as well as a Mileage Warranty of up to 70 000km and a 24-hour Roadside Assistance Service. For terms and conditions visit www.michelin.co.za

F o c u s o n N e w i n t e r n a t i o n a l T y r e P o r t a l • 9

click

for daily news – enter satreads.com You spoke, we listened. For some time now, the industry has expressed the need for a swift, easyto-access, up-to-date medium that can provide fresh, daily news on the tyre business, globally and domestically. After months of development, we are thrilled to announce the launch of our exciting new International Tyre Portal – www.satreads.com! Now, just a click away, and designed primarily with the SA tyre business in mind, the new site – which was launched on 21 May 2012 – has already generated worldwide interest from countries as far flung as China, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, UK and of course, South Africa. More exciting still, advertisers are already getting their money’s worth, with the Leader Board Ad (Infinity) reporting well over 6 800 hits on the first day of launch alone!

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F o c u s o n N e w i n t e r n a t i o n a l T y r e P o r t a l • 1 1

Designed for easy access, the new portal will be made available to a growing

These stats are extremely encouraging for a new site. More important, they

subscriber base – currently numbering 3 400 tyre specialists worldwide –

justify our belief that an online portal such as this was well overdue.

free of charge for the first six months after launch so as to enable industry personnel to become familiar with the wide range of features and services

Jobs Portal

on offer. In that time, we will also be able to provide advertisers with

One of the briefs we paid particular attention to when developing this

accurate regular data on their investment and exposure, click by click!

portal was the call from industry for a platform to showcase job openings/

What’s more, we recognise that an initiative of this scope and magnitude

opportunities in the industry.

requires international exposure and marketing which is why we are embarking on a dedicated marketing campaign via Google Adwords and

In response, the portal provides a job search for job seekers (free of

SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) to raise further awareness of the portal’s

charge), whereby they can upload their CVs and conduct a search, either

value and global reach.

by company or by industry. Job seekers can further subscribe to job alerts and reply to companies.

Features and benefits Daily updates

For employers, the site offers a pre-paid subscriptions service via top

Via the appointment of dedicated international tyre journalists who are

international gateway www.2checkout.com , that provides them with their

stationed in the USA, Europe and the Far East and who have pledged

own company profile, logo and exact staff requirements.

to provide us with exclusive stories for the portal, we will be uploading international and local news on a daily basis, at no cost to you! And that’s

Comments

not all. Stories that feature on the site will automatically include links to

Have something to say? The interactive nature of the site allows for

their respective websites, thereby providing greater levels of publicity and

comment and debate on every story featured, so feel free to make use of

maximum value to the industry.

this feature. Should you have a query aimed directly at us, we will be glad to answer it.

Live videos and interactive material The virtual world allows for exciting features such as live video coverage,

Social media

television/radio campaigns, lifestyle magazines and the like as is currently

And speaking of comments, no initiative of this kind would be quite

demonstrated on the site via the inclusion of footage of the new Michelin

complete without a notable presence in the realm of social media. A Twitter

pot hole-resistant tyre and the excerpt (courtesy of YouTube) on how Pirelli

account has been set up (we have a number of followers already!) and we

makes a F1 tyre. In the first week since launch (21-25 May) the interactive

are also working on a dedicated Facebook page for the portal which will be

features on the website performed remarkably well with Michelin topping

introduced shortly.

the charts with a percentage click rate of 7.14, followed by the Infinity Lifestyle magazine which generated a percentage click rate of 5.57.

Affordable advertising

Bandag’s BDR launch video came in third with a percentage click rate of

Another first for the South African industry, the new portal provides a host

4.79, while the Pirelli video generated a percentage click rate of 2.51.

of opportunities for companies to showcase their products and services for

1 2 • F o c u s o n N e w i n t e r n a t i o n a l T y r e P o r t a l

as little as R1 500.00 per month, thus paving the way for companies with tighter budgets to feature alongside multinational brands. Advertising rates

are available on the site, simply click onto the Advertising function and consult the drop-down menu for available zones and prices. What about SA TREADS? The digital age has opened up a whole new world to us. A few years from now, experts are predicting the total demise of the print industry in favour of the web (better for the trees and a far less costly way for publishers to get their message out) and when that happens, we will have no option other than to embrace the virtual opportunities of the internet, head on. But for now, and to quell some of the concerns already raised, we are not planning to halt production of the SA TREADS magazine in the immediate future. However, the new site will serve to bridge the gap between issues which currently number four per year. Further to this, the portal will serve as a preview to upcoming issues and features which will be explored in greater depth in the forthcoming issue of the publication. In addition, the site will host archives of past issues dating back two years prior to production and will also showcase a digital version of the latest print issue. Special introductory offer So why not make the most of both worlds? Whilst you will continue to receive your free copy of SA TREADS in the mail, we urge you to take us up on our special introductory offer and sign up with the www. satreads.com International Portal as soon as possible, and stand the chance to benefit from our introductory offer. Subscribers who sign up by the end of July 2012 (AT NO COST) will receive a two-month free subscription service for the months of January and February 2013! So, click and win!

We’d love to hear your thoughts and perceptions of the portal. Have we catered to the industry’s every need? If not, what have we missed and what can we do better? The portal has been expressly designed and developed for you, the industry. Your feedback will feature on the site. Click Daily for News Above all, remember to click on the site daily for fresh news! Breaking stories pertaining to the local and international sectors are uploaded overnight, so keep your finger on the pulse of all the news as and when they happen. It’s quick, it’s easy, and most of all, for the next six months at least….it’s free!

1 4 • R e t r e a d i n g N e w s

Thomas Tyres Crowned Winners of Best BANDAG Factory 2012 Quest for Gold Winners.

At Bandag’s 2012 franchise conference which

Bandag Manufacturing Franchise 10 Years

this year, was held at the exquisite Hyatt

NATIONAL TYRE SERVICES – HARARE

Regency Oubaai in the Eastern Cape, Thomas

NATIONAL TYRE SERVICES – BULAWAYO

Tyres (Meyerton) clinched the award for Best

KJF TYRES – ERMELO

Bandag Factory 2012. More than 110 people

CYGNA BANDAG – CAPE TOWN

converged for this year’s conference and Gala

BANDAG DISTRIBUTORS – NAMIBIA

Awards Evening where the best of the best were acknowledged and aptly rewarded.

The awards evening was also used reveal

This year’s winners were:

Bandag’s Quest for Gold (QFG) Winners.

Best Bandag Factory – Thomas Tyres

Quest for Gold is Bandag’s way of rewarding

(Meyerton)

operators get the best products and services

franchisees that excel in delivering the Bandag

Best Web Tool Reporting – National Tyre

Bandag have on offer! The categories on

Package of Value (POV).

Services – Zimbabwe

which franchisees were measured were very

Best Application Specific Sales – Mega Treads

focused on Bandag’s POV.

Once the business part of the conference was

(Caledon)

Long service and loyalty awards also formed

complete, there were a number of fun activities

Best On–Site Servicing – BTS Kya Sands

part of the evening’s procedures:

on offer, among them, golf, paintballing and

(Safety Grip)

BTS Franchise 5 Years

photo boothing, all building up to the final

Best On-Road Servicing – BTS Ladysmith

BTS DURBAN – THE TYRE PEOPLE

event of the weekend which was the awards

(Mark’s Tyres)

BTS LADYSMITH – MARK’S TYRES

ceremony.

BTS MIDLANDS – MARK’S TYRES Overall Bandag and BTS franchisees were also

BTS KYA SANDS – SAFETY GRIP

And

that’s

not all Bandag

selected and winners for these categories were:

BTS Franchise 10 Years

franchisees have to

Best Bandag Franchise – Tonway Tyres

BTS NELSPRUIT – PROTEA TRUCK DEN

look forward to: The

(Rosslyn)

BTS VRYHEID – PROTEA VRYHEID

trip for this year’s QFG

Best BTS Franchise – BTS Cape Town (VT

BTS GEORGE – TYRES & TREADS

incentive is magical Turkey where Bandag Franchisees will

Tyres) According to Bandag SA, the achievements

Bandag Manufacturing Franchise 5 Years

enjoy the Midas Touch first hand

of franchisees do not go unnoticed and

MEGA TREADS – CALEDON

and enjoy the richness of the

recognition is encouraged to ensure fleet

KILO TYRES – PAARL

Turkish heritage.

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1 6 • M a n u f a c t u r i n g N e w s

APOLLO TYRES EXPANDS LADYSMITH PLANT 15 May marked an auspicious moment in the history of Apollo SA with the inauguration of a new Component Preparation Unit which has cost R300 million to construct and install. The Unit has been added to Apollo’s Ladysmith plant, with the primary objective being to improve quality and productivity so that the factory could increase tyre production to 1 000 tyres per day in Durban and 13 000 tyres per day in Ladysmith.

Some of the new machinery .

In order to achieve this, a 6 500 square metre building was constructed and a Combined/ Steel/Textile Calendar was installed. Designed to facilitate future growth, eventually, it is expected to take the level of production to 15 000 PCR tyres per day in Ladysmith and 1 500 tyres in Durban. The now outdated Two Pass Calendar and the two Steelastics will be phased out. An additional R4.5 million was also invested in a closed circuit cooling system for the extruders in both the old and new plant to prevent contamination of the extrudate by general cooling water.

Dr. Luis Ceneviz (CEO of Apollo Tyres SA), Mr. Onkar Kanwar (Chairman - Apollo Tyres International), Counsellor Dudu Mazibuko (Uthukela District Municipality Mayor) and Mr. Neeraj Kanwar (Vice Chairman Apollo Tyres International)

Other major state-of-the-art pieces of equipment

to existing machines; Nigerian Cutter Fisher

Mr Neeraj Kanwar, Apollo Tyres CEO, Dr. Luis

introduced to Ladysmith and sourced from

Upgrader; PCR Tyre Building machine pair; 2

Ceneviz, the Indian Consular General, Mr VHS

around the world include the: PCR Bead Apexing

First Stage Tyre Building machines and a Tyre

Negi, Uthukela District Mayor, Counsellor Dudu

machine; Speeding up the existing Inner Liner

Testing machine fitted in Nigeria.

Mazibuko and Ladysmith Mayor, Counsellor M

Line; The Triplex extrusion line for PCR treads

According to Apollo’s International Chairman,

Madlala.

and sidewalls; Constant Tension Wind Ups fitted

Mr Onkar Kanwar, the company spares no

In a heartfelt speech delivered by Counsellor

expense when it comes to installing top

Dudu Mazibuko, she thanked Apollo Tyres for

quality equipment in their factories, with the

its investment in the region and the province

best machinery from Finland, USA, Japan and

and for its continued support of a number of

Canada lining the manufacturing plants. The

social awareness initiatives. She further pledged

Ladysmith plant forms one of the company’s

that Apollo SA’s concerns around anti-dumping

nine technologically advanced manufacturing

would be brought to the notice and attention of

facilities.

the relevant parties.

A special day for Ladysmith and the KZN

in 2006, Apollo has invested a total of R700

Since it first acquired the Dunlop Tyres brand province

million in the company through various industrial

The inauguration was attended by a number of

and factory upgrades. This is in alignment with

dignitaries, key Apollo personnel and media,

recent developments following India’s President,

among them: Mr Onkar Kanwar, Vice Chairman,

Pratibha Patil’s recent state visit to South Africa whereby President Zuma announced a trade

Mr. Neeraj Kanwar and Mr. Onkar Kanwar with Apollo Tyres SA Ladysmith factory Mascot

target agreement between South Africa and India of R15billion per year by 2014.

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Infinity tyres. Bred to be better. There are tyres. Then there are Inﬁnity tyres. Designed speciﬁcally to meet the demands of your customers’ lives, their unfailing safety, dependability and performance mean they’re the natural choice for every motoring situation.

2 0 • M a n u f a c t u r i n g N e w s

GOODYEAR MARKETS FIRST MICROCHIPPED TYRES IN SA Goodyear SA has introduced the company’s first commercial use of microchips in truck tyres by way of the new Goodyear Regional RHT II RFID (Radio Frequency Identity) 435/50R19.5

held reader to see the type and size of the

its sidewall markings, which are often not easy

trailer tyre which now has a microchip built into

tyre as well as its unique identity number. In

to see due to dirt or scuffing. RFID means that

it. The new tyre is said to offer fleet operators

service, a Goodyear service provider or fleet

an operation can very quickly identify each

benefits including downtime, improved tyre

operator can quickly scan all RFID tyres and

tyre by passing a hand-held scanner around

management and greater security and is a

record the details electronically, saving time

the sidewall and then have that information

result of new technology which won an award

and ensuring accuracy. And apparently, stock

accurately electronically recorded. There are

for Goodyear in Latin America earlier this year.

control of new, used and retreaded tyres is a

further benefits as these tyres are much easier

The microchip is built into the tyre on the

further benefit.

to trace than other tyres if they are stolen. Plus

assembly line and programmed with a unique

Traditionally, monitoring tyres can be a slow

the tyres can be monitored throughout their

code that identifies the tyre, enabling a hand-

process as each tyre has to be identified by

service lives, including retreading.

A DAY OF FUN FOR DUNLOP ZONE COUNTER-HANDS After a nationwide search of hundreds of hopeful Dunlop Zone counterhand contenders with the best product experience, 20 Apollo Hawkz

Counter-hands and their dealers were granted the opportunity to test-drive

Champions were crowned. And for this, together with their dealer principle

popular SA vehicles such as the BMW320i, Landrover Defender, Toyota

they were treated to a day at the Gerotek Test Facilities in Hartbeespoort,

Hilux, Audi A4 and Polo Vivo on a number of Apollo’s tyre applications

North West, on 17 April.

including the Apollo Acelere, Apollo Aspire 4G, Dunlop Sport Maxx GT and

Apollo Tyres SA ran a promotion whereby the counter-hands were entered

Dunlop SP Sport 560.

into a competition in which they were tested on their product knowledge –

As for the Apollo Hawkz tyres, these are available in two applications locally,

thereby offering customers the best possible service and advice.

the Apollo Hawkz R/Ts and the Apollo Hawkz A/T.

SAT201206.FH9 Tue Jun 05 11:33:31 2012

Page 1

TYRE EXPO AFRICA a Massive Hit With Automotive Equipment Sector

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Centre from 4-6 March of this year, drew over 140 delegates and exhibitors from more than 70 countries. Among them was an ever increasing presence from the automotive Â&#x2020;Â? Â&#x201E; Â?Â&#x2026;

equipment sector, which this year, saw the likes of Leaderquip, AEI, Wheelquip, John Bean and Hoffmann Megaplan exhibiting. Said Elize Labuschagne from Leaderquip: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We were very busy during the show. We have an established customer base in South Africa and we found that people came specifically to see us. We also found the opportunity to use a hand-held scanner to monitor visitors to the stand to be especially useful.â&#x20AC;?

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The busy trading environment was praised by both exhibitors and delegates, which ECI says further endorses the role of a quality, niche-market tyre and workshop equipment trade event in the region. Most innovative stand design awards at the show went to Rema Tip Top (Platinum), Stamford Tyres (Gold) and TVS Srichakra Ltd (Silver). Encouraged by the continued success of the event, ECI has already confirmed that Tyrexpo Africa 2014 will take place at the Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg on 4, 5, 6 March 2014.

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2 2 • C o n t i C o r n e r

General Grabber AT conquers Africa! low-key contender in the 4x4 sector for some time,” explained Russel Stewart, marketing manager for Continental Tyre SA. “Continental has invested a lot of money into the General tyre brand recently, and has brought out a completely new range in the US and Europe. Therefore it’s the right time to relaunch General Tyre and bring it back into the market as a very competitive 4x4 tyre.”

hat’s the best way to launch a new 4x4 tyre? How about sixteen days travelling through five countries and over 6 100 km! That’s how the all-new General Grabber AT did it, while signalling the relaunch of the brand in SA. The General Tyre brand has a long and proud history in South Africa, but hasn’t really been front of mind for a while. Well that’s all changing, as Continental Tyre SA has relaunched the brand in SA, and set the ball rolling in the most high-profile way – with the General Tyre 4x4 African Adventure that embraced South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. “With this superb new range of off-road tyres, we had to do something with the brand in South Africa. It has a strong reputation locally, but has been a rather

This adventure, which comprised 10 vehicles and 31 participants, would certainly test the new Grabber AT to the limit, including the claims of balanced on/ off-road tread compound and design, outstanding all-round traction, high grip in muddy terrain, robust shoulder and sidewall, and long-lasting durability. The heavily laden convoy set off from Port Elizabeth in the middle of March, headed by the Adventure Junkies team from the Friendly City. After a lengthy on-road stint, Botswana’s mesmerising Makgadikgadi Pans presented the first main challenge for the crews, with heavy rains having transformed the vast, desolate salt pan into a treacherous mud bath. Remarkably everyone get through without getting stuck, even the two vehicles towing hefty off-road trailers. Over the next couple of days the route headed up north, taking in Chobe National Park and the Chobe River, a

C o n t i C o r n e r • 2 3

wildlife haven rich in elephant, hippos and abundant bird life. Following a brief visit to Namibia’s Caprivi Strip it was on to Zambia. A couple of days were spent exploring this fascinating country, including staying at a spectacular lodge on the bank of the mighty Zambezi, and a memorable night spent camping literally in the middle of the African bush near Kafue National Park. Then it was on to the Malambu Middle Basic School near Monze. The school caters for around 240 children living in the farm village, and is supported by the Dutch charity Mwabuka (www.mwabuka.org). The General Tyre 4x4 African Adventure selected the school for its sustainable community project, and the participants donated a variety of goods including

clothes, soccer balls, books, crayons, writing pads and toys. A further R17 100 was generously committed by the African Adventure families in cash to assist with the building of a library and computer centre, with the same value matched by Continental Tyre SA for a total donation of R34 200. This was followed by amazing stop-overs at Lake Kariba and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe before heading back on the long road home. It was a spectacular adventure that revealed many of Southern Africa’s well-known highlights, and many more largely undiscovered gems. But more than anything, it proved that General Tyre has a winner in the brilliant new Grabber AT. It conquered everything from rain-drenched highways at speed to sticky mud, soft sand and punishing rocky trails. After more than 61 000 cumulative kilometres, around a third of which was off-road, the Grabber AT-shod convoy arrived back in Port Elizabeth without a single puncture or any damage, not a single vehicle got stuck and the tyres looked virtually as good-as-new. “We had so much good feedback regarding all aspects of the General Grabber AT on the trip,” Stewart commented. “This confirms its status as an extremely well balanced, competent and very competitive allrounder, and a serious contender in the 4x4 sector.”

2 4 • B a n d a g N e w s

What do fleet owners really want … This is a question often being asked by tyre suppliers. Bandag is no different in that it also wants to identify what fleet owners and operators want. But why? Well, the answer is simple really…

To ensure that the needs of customers are being met and in so doing, positively impacting on their BOTTOM LINE! In the latest end-user survey conducted

Taking the results further, services and

by Bandag, a relatively large sample of

in particular a professional tyre

respondents made up of both current

breakdown service with a national

and prospective customers provided

network of tyre specialists providing

some valuable insights which are too

superior on-site and on-road servicing

important not to share. Results revealed

is what respondents selected as critical to

surprising and encouraging views on the tyre

the success of their businesses.

industry as well as the expectations end-users

These results were mind blowing as end-users

have. If we explore that statement in some detail, we find that end-users are seeking the best cost per kilometre, reliability and superior mileage performance. Not the cheapest price, but the best CPK. By no means is there a claim that price is not important. End users reveal that price is important in their decision as they do not wish to over pay for a product. This starts to make sense and ties in with best CPK being the most important tyre attribute being sought by the majority of respondents.

are looking for exactly what Bandag has on offer – the Bandag Package of Value. 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

D i s t r i b u t i o n N e w s • 2 5

Two new players for SA market Two new distribution companies are making their way into

of months. Further expansion plans for the group are

the SA market.

already underway.

The first of these is the Tyremart Smart Fitment Centres,

And speaking of buying smarter, the local landscape has

headed by Gavin Kockott, the founder of the Supa Quick

further welcomed the arrival of yet another player in the form

franchise group of tyre fitment centres who claims that

of point S.

Tyremart is already changing the tyre fitment landscape by affording customers an unprecedented selection of choice

Allegedly, the strength of this particular retail chain which was

across a wide variety of leading brand tyres.

created in France in 1971 as a tyre dealer association and has since spread to 25 countries with over 2 350 points of sale,

He adds: “Historically, the prevalence of specific tyre

also lies in its independence from any tyre manufacturer or

manufacturer owned retail chains has deprived the

financial funds.

customer of the freedom of choice or the benefit of impartial tyre fitment advice and comparative pricing. At

Instead, each national organisation has its own local

Tyremart, customers now have the advantage of being

management close to its market and more important still,

able to shop comparatively, under one roof, across a wide

each point S member remains an independent entrepreneur.

range of brands, and be empowered to make smarter buying decisions by being able to compare and choose the right product

In SA, a newly formed company – Unity Tyre Trading formed by a group of tyre

for their particular needs at the right price.”

dealers known as Tyre Alliance – has joined the point S network in an attempt

And according to David Harrington, Strategic Development and Operations

point S group of companies also offers a modern retail concept which can be

Director for the group, the Tyremart business model not only makes sense to

adapted to any point of sale and business area.

to add value to some of South Africa’s longest standing family dealerships. The

vehicle and fleet owners, but it has also created something of a tyre revolution within the fitment franchise sector – particularly amongst traditional fitment

The South African contingent, formed two and a half years ago with the

centre franchisees who had long decried the fact that the prevalence of specific

purpose of establishing a platform for its members to strengthen themselves in

tyre manufacturer owned franchises was stifling their product offering and

combined negotiations with suppliers, the sharing of ideas and information and

customer choice in favour of pushing ‘house brand’ tyres.

ultimately working together to ensure a better trading environment for all the members, consists of 11 own who own a total of 18 dealerships.

Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Free State, Kwazulu-Natal and the Western Cape have already seen the number of new Tyremart Smart Fitment Centres

According to Chairman point S South Africa Nico de Rouwe, the Alliance was

opening their doors more than double in number to 25 in just a matter

drawn to point S because of the similar value system and great programme concept that they have developed over 40 years of using the knowledge and experience of tyre dealers from across the world. The focus, he says, has been on developing a model that would protect the individuality of the member and allow him to be entrepreneurial while still having the strength and protection of a group behind him. He further claims that this concept not only focuses on all the services and products offered by the members in South Africa, but internationally includes even more products and services that could benefit the local members. Best of all, their clout in terms of buying power and negotiation is greatly enhanced.

T a l k i n g T y r e s • 2 7

T YR E S U P P LY

The buck stops … where? The last thing a motorist expects when buying a new car is to be stranded without replacement tyres. But it happens – and probably more often than we think …

proactive maintenance, our tyres are facing an ever-more arduous and treacherous task. It’s clear that infrastructure development and road maintenance simply isn’t keeping up with the times or traffic volumes. And incurring tyre damage after hitting yet another pothole or hazard on what should be a decent, safe road is infuriating at best, and dangerous or even deadly at worst.

By Colin Mileman What complicates and sours the picture even further is when motorists get It’s a well-documented fact that our country’s roads are in a dire state

stranded without replacement rubber. In a case in point that motivated the

of disrepair. Unless you commute on Joburg’s costly and controversial

topic for this column, we received input from a motorist that purchased the

new stretch of N1 highway, the tarmac is increasingly crumbling under

new Honda Ballade in early 2012. He hit a pothole just two weeks later,

our wheels, with the roughly 10,5-million vehicles currently registered

resulting in one of the Goodyear Excellence tyres being destroyed and

in SA climbing by an additional half a million each year.

needing replacement.

With resources stretched to the limit and beyond, and road

A year after the Ballade’s launch in SA there wasn’t a replacement tyre to

repairs typically being a case of putting out fires rather than

be found. The 185/55 R16 isn’t a particularly common size, but it is fitted

2 8 • T a l k i n g T y r e s

to the Ballade, the Jazz and the likes of the Suzuki Swift.

of guaranteeing availability across the full spectrum.

The Honda dealer eventually had to specially source

However, is it not irresponsible to market and sell a

a tyre for this customer, and it cost the poor guy an

vehicle without ensuring that there’s steady spares back-

exorbitant R2 300, which is double the going rate for this

up and yes, that includes tyres of the correct size and

type of tyre!

type? But it happens, relatively often, and with various car manufacturers as I’ve seen over the years – especially

There are a couple of problems and questions that

with the increasingly specialised tyres co-developed and

emerge from this scenario, which became even more

fine-tuned for particular models.

apparent when I went digging deeper into the issue. Firstly, how can a car manufacturer launch a new model,

You would think that, before introducing a new model, the

and not ensure that there are appropriate tyres available

car importer or manufacturer would consult with the tyre

for it locally?

industry and inform them of the impending launch of a vehicle, and address the need for a suitable stock of correct rubber? We’re

Our detailed query to Honda SA on this customer complaint simply

not talking about luxuries here – just tyres, a rather essential commodity!

indicated that they sourced a replacement tyre as quickly as possible for the client, but “it does happen from time to time that the tyre suppliers run out of stock.”

Based on feedback from other tyre industry players, this rarely happens, particularly with the imported vehicles. The tyre dealers then usually have to deal with the wrath of irate motorists and attempt to come up with a

The same set of questions was sent to Goodyear SA, and a month later I’m

feasible solution.

still waiting for answers. But scanning the Goodyear website, and chatting to tyre dealers, revealed that Goodyear doesn’t actually sell this tyre (in this

One marketing representative I spoke to said he uses every motor show,

particular size) in South Africa!

expo and related event to scrutinise the tyre brands, types and sizes fitted

A couple of other brands carry the size, but they are always in extremely

no heads-up from the vehicle importers.

to the vehicles in order to keep as up to date as possible as there’s typically short supply. One fitment centre manager told us he currently has a long-standing back-order for 17 of these tyres, and one of his big clients

What makes it even more complicated – even from a local manufacturing

runs two Honda Ballades. Getting replacement rubber has been a major

perspective – he indicated, is that within an established tyre range

headache since day one, and his advice is simply to change to a more

produced for OE fitment, a vehicle manufacturer often specifies a unique

conventional sized tyre.

tread pattern, compound or construction to suit their particular vehicle. So they have to make the standard tyre and the unique off-shoot in sufficient

But what choice did our customer have – cough up for one outrageously

quantities for OE supply, plus anticipate demand in the aftermarket segment

expensive replacement? Incur the additional cost of fitting a minimum of

for both.

two new tyres from a different brand? Or opt for a different size all-round, on a brand new car?

And I shudder at the thought of throwing run-flat tyres in all their various incarnations into the mix.

So where does the liability rest? With the vehicle manufacturer/importer I would say. Granted, our car industry is a small drop in the ocean and

You have to wonder what the odds are, then, of a reasonable number of

we often have to take the spec made available to SA by the global car

tyre manufacturers and dealers right across the country carrying a suitably

companies, especially when it comes to imported models. And, as a

diverse range of stock to meet all of this increasingly multifarious demand

diverse range of tyres are specified for OE fitment, so there’s no way

– especially when they’re working in the dark?

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.

3 0 • G o o d y e a r N e w s

SLEEK NEW PORSCHE FLIES WITH GOODYEAR EAGLES

High performance Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 tyres selected for new Carrera 911 Goodyear’s award winning Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 tyres have been chosen for original 19” wheel fitment on the latest generation of one of the world’s most adored sport cars: the muscle-ripped Porsche 911 Carrera. It’s the perfect choice for cars like the buffed

Aside

from

the

excellent

performance

surface’ silica grade that contributes to reduced

new 911, whose rear engine configuration

qualities of both tyre and machine, both

heat generation and lower rolling resistance.

offers outstanding traction but is exceptionally

were additionally designed to meet low CO2

Porsche has called the 911 “the ultimate choice

demanding on its rear tyres’ ability to transfer

emission requirements. Goodyear’s FuelSaving

for drivers who want the fun and excitement of

350 break horsepower to the tarmac to ensure

Technology, integrated into the Eagle F1

a true benchmark-setting sports car”. While the

full performance. For the new Eagles, this level

Asymmetric 2, will further assist the Porsche

2012 model has preserved the classic 911 lines,

of performance demand is simply a reason to

in its emission reductions, as the technology is

every inch of this machine has been revisited for

play.

driven by reduced tyre weight and a new ‘high

advances in power and fuel economy. ”

The Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 features ActiveBraking Technology, which employs an innovative three-dimensional block design within the tread to increase the tyre’s contact with the road when braking. The superb control and braking performance of the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 – demonstrated repeatedly in independent benchmarking tests – is a critical factor for the demanding drivers of sports cars like the Porsche 911.

G o o d y e a r N e w s • 3 1

INTERNATIONAL APPLAUSE FOR NEW EAGLE F1 AS2 TYRE CONFIRMS ITS CUTTING-EDGE QUALITY The string of spectacular awards, rave reviews and competitor-test results earned around the world by new Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 tyres are a successful confirmation of Goodyear’s global mission: to deliver the highest quality products to consumers. Leading motoring media have been unanimous in praise for the tyre and the

and silent. It has excellent grip, especially on those corners.” – Elias Ismail,

market-driven, innovative Goodyear technology it utilises.

Civic 8 Gen Car Club; and “Goodyear has taken the Asymmetric 2 and further

• In AUSTRALIA – Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 was awarded the Gold Medal in

improved on certain aspects for it to stay ahead of the pack. The Asymmetric

the latest Motor Magazine tyre test, cementing its position as Australia’s

2 sports Goodyear’s new ActiveBraking Technology which allows for shorter

ultimate performance road tyre.

braking by up to three metres in wet conditions and two metres in dry

The accolade meant a hat-trick of wins in this authoritative test, as the tyre’s

conditions.” — Danny Tan, Paul Tan’s Automotive News, Malaysia.

predecessor, the original Eagle F1 Asymmetric, earned the award in the previous two years. In benchmark testing against nine competitor products at

• In CHINA – Goodyear topped the charts when two of the country’s leading

Eastern Creek Raceway, Sydney, the new tyres were put through their paces

auto magazines revealed the winners of their annual product awards.

in four separate challenges: figure eight road circuit, wet skidpan, dry slalom

Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 won Auto Magazine’s highest honour, the title of Best Product of the Year. Goodyear’s

and emergency braking. The Eagle F1 EW

Asymmetric 2 was the clear leader in three of the four categories, an accurate

Assurance Fuel Max was also named Best Car Tyre of the Year by China Auto

representation of the tyre’s ability to

News. The publication also applauded the

perform at the highest standards when

company’s all-round customer offerings

faced with a range of tough conditions.

as it named Goodyear one of China’s ‘Auto Parts Top 100 Foreign Companies’.

• In MALAYSIA – Auto Express named the tyre the Best Buy 2011 award.

• In SPAIN – Goodyear currently boasts

The judges were looking for the best

two ‘Tyres of the Year’ titles.

overall tyre on the market, and the

Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 beat eight

Goodyear received high marks in

competitors to be named Tyre of the Year

the majority of categories. They were

2012 in the touring car category by leading

especially impressed by the tyre’s

industry magazine Neumáticos y Mecánica

superior performance in dry conditions,

Rápida. The tyre’s brilliant performance in

when, the publication reported, “it turns

wet and dry braking was what cemented

sharply and hangs on well”.

its title – thanks especially to Goodyear’s ActiveBraking Technology. Goodyear’s

Other rave reviews from Malaysian

EfficientGrip SUV also earned the title of

car clubs and automotive journalists

Best 4x4/SUV Tyre – thanks to its fuel-

included:

saving ability and low carbon dioxide

“The Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 is smooth

emissions.

3 2 • C o m p a n y P r o f i l e

SAILUN – Technology is top focus

In contrast to the common manufacturing business model and according to Vice Chairman of Sailun Mr Mao Qingwen, developing and establishing a world-quality brand requires a shift in focus from being purely volumedriven to that of becoming technologically advanced. This, Sailun has

During a recent trip to China I discovered that out of the multitude of tyre plants that are sprouting across the country, only two

allegedly achieved by introducing the best technologies available from different parts of the world as well as by actively collaborating with its global partners. In addition, the company has managed to source the services of tyre specialists from across the globe in accordance with its vision to become a respected world player. Currently, 10 members of Sailun’s key staff complement is made up of international industry experts.

possess Approved State Level Tyre Engineering facilities. The one belongs to Sailun, which despite its size and age (Sailun was established eight years ago), is fast becoming a force to be reckoned with, both domestically and abroad. Such has been its success, that Sailun attained public listing status on June 3, 2011, a milestone which the company professes is the direct result of their fixed focus on technology.

Mr Mao

More impressive still, a state-of-the-art Production Command Centre, the culmination of a 10-year development initiative, employs stringent levels of process control so as to provide transparency and consistency throughout the complete tyre making process, from the sourcing of the raw materials, right through to the tyre’s final destination. Data

C o m p a n y P r o f i l e • 3 3

Sailun front entrance.

is dutifully captured and retained for a period of up to seven years, information that not only allows the company’s engineers to pin point the source of a potential problem along the precisely-monitored chain, but more important perhaps, contributes better consistency. And apparently, the quest for excellence doesn’t end there. According to Mao, the mandate is to continually improve the manufacturing process, thereby improving the consistency and overall quality of the product. He explains: “Only quality-driven factories will survive and if we are to be among them, we need to continue embracing new technology that ultimately leads to enhanced safety levels and better tyre performance. “Our goal for the next 10-20 years is to become China’s leading tyre maker. We are aiming to feature among the world’s top 10 leading tyre makers by the year 2019, a milestone we intend reaching via technological advancement and further expansion. RFID technique

Production command centre.

3 4 â&#x20AC;˘ C o m p a n y P r o f i l e

In a relatively short period of time Sailun is active in more than

be a winning formula. Investment in a new plant in Vietnam which will

45 countries and this despite its relative newcomer status. Firmly

replicate the systems and processes employed at their Qingdao plant is

established in Europe and North America, Sailun is now targeting the

underway, with the factory scheduled for production in 2013.

worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s emerging nations, by way of securing a long-term global market

sailuntyre.com/ www.cfptyres.co.za

presence, with products which they describe as superior in terms of quality and above all, safety. Sailun has been working closely with CFP Tyres for the past two years, establishing the Sailun brand in the South African market. Together they are working to grow the brand stronger and expanding the current range (Sailun currently produces PCR, PLT, TBR and SUV tyres). They are also busy promoting the brand in neighbouring countries such as Namibia, Botswana, Angola and Zambia with the rest of Southern Africa set to follow. Sailun is a young dynamic company with big ambitions. Its ability to work quickly and make swift decisions coupled with its cautious approach to growth appears to

Remote Monitoring

www.

World News

• 3 5

Michelin to Strengthen Global Leadership in Earthmover Tyres Michelin looks set to strengthen its global leadership in Earthmover tyres

American market and other regions of the world. Construction of the new

with the construction of a new plant and the extension of another in North

plant will begin within weeks, with the first tyres scheduled to be produced

America.

in late 2013.

The company will build a new Earthmover tyre plant in North America on its

Further to this, Michelin has also announced that it is expanding its existing

current site in Anderson, South Carolina, which currently produces semi-finished

Earthmover tyre facility in Lexington, South Carolina.

products and rubber compounds for the Group’s North American plants.

The two projects represent a $750 investment and will create up to 500

The new facility will manufacture giant-off-the-road radial tyres for the North

new jobs.

A UNITED FRONT FOR PREMIUM BRANDS Michelin, Continental and Yokohama join forces in build up to the

Bridgestone Announces Future Tyre Technologies

tyre labelling legislation

On 23 May Bridgestone Corporation announced the development of new

With tyre labelling just six months away in Europe, as expected

tyre technologies that will contribute to the realisation of a sustainable

there has been a lot of furious activity surround this impending

society. These technologies, announced at the World Rubber Summit 2012

legislation which is expected to change the tyre markets and how

by Bridgestone Chairman of the Board, Shoshi Arakawa, are aimed at

they operate significantly.

developing world-class tyres from 100% sustainable materials.

With the emphasis on educating not only the end user but also the

To achieve its goals with respect to developing tyres from 100% sustainable

retail sector who have the important task of explaining the new labelling laws to drivers, many tyre manufacturers have been busy marketing their products accordingly. However at a recent Track Day Event held by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) in the UK at the famous Millbrook Proving Ground, a unique development took place in terms of tyre producer collaboration. The SMMT Track Day is a periodical event open to all automotive magazine Editors and Journalists (from the UK and Europe) inviting them to test drive most vehicle marques on one of the UK’s most demanding and fastest high speed tracks. However leading tyre manufacturers Michelin, Continental and Yokohama (who are

material, Bridgestone will need to fully leverage its technical capabilities and diversify and expand the range of renewable resources it uses in the production of tyres and other rubber products. To accomplish this, the Group is diversifying the regions in which it produces natural rubber and expanding the range of reinforced plant fibres it uses. Moreover, in order to replace fossil resources with renewable materials, the Group is working to develop synthetic rubber, carbon black, and rubber compounding agents that can be created from biomass materials. Looking forward to 2050, the Group will continue to advance the development of these technologies and will report on the progress of these initiatives as appropriate.

members of the SMMT), seized the opportunity to provide a totally

Reifen 2012 Show to break all records

unique ‘combined alliance’ to promote the benefits of premium

Reifen Tyre Trade Show to be held June 2012 Essen Germany

brands over budget brands at the event.

The 27th bi-annual international Reifen Trade Show taking place in Essen,

At a specially prepared Tyre Testing site, the three manufacturers offered ongoing informative training sessions explaining what Tyre Labelling was all about and how the new legislation would help motorists appreciate the benefits of premium brands. Following a lecture on the new tyre labelling laws, there was a ‘live’ demonstration in Rolling Resistance and Wet Braking performance. Michelin, Continental and Yokohama issued a joint statement confirming that the presentations and tests had been well attended by motoring journalists who were now ‘more aware’ of the important issues surrounding tyre labelling and the benefits of major brands. A spokesman stated, “For once this event was not about promoting individual tyre brands but supporting the proven facts that premium tyres offer better ‘value for money’ in terms of mileage and safety.”

Germany from June 5th - 8th already looks set to become the largest ever tyre trade fair held in Europe. 645 exhibitors from 44 countries will be offering tires and wheels and chassis technology covering most market sectors. The number of exhibitors has increased by over 10 per cent on the last event in 2010. It is also confidentially anticipated that visitors to the show will break all previous records and be the highest ever recorded with over 65 per cent expected to arrive from outside Europe. Once again the coveted Innovation Award, commonly known as the ‘Oscar of the tire industry’ will be fiercely contested with a record number of 28 candidates from 21 companies covering six nations. There will also be a special ‘Forum’ hosted by ex-Formula One driver Christian Danner entitled ‘Certification of the fitting of UHP and Runflat tires’. There is no doubt that Reifen 2012 looks set to be the most successful tire show ever held in Europe.

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