Tyres & Accessories June 2013

OFC June 2013_4mm 06/06/2013 17:32 Page 1

June 2013

The magazine for the tyre and wheel industries

Tyres & Accessories June 2013

ENGINEERED EN GINEERED TO E EXCITE XCITE

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TECHNOL TECHNOLOGY TECHNO OLOGY OL OGY DESIGNED D ESIGNE ED D WITH WITH THE T HE BEST B BES ES ST T CAR CAR MAKERS TO MAKERS TO ENHANCE E ENHANC NHANC CE E THE THE PERFORMANCE PERF PERFOR OR RMANCE OF YOUR OF YO YOU UR CAR. CAR.

Race inspired

Grip and Braking for the road

New short braking blocks for reduced braking distance

Massive outer shoulder blocks for improved stability

New adaptive compound for enhanced grip on wet and dry

Light construction carcass to improve fuel efficiency

www.dunloptyres.co.uk

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06/06/2013 16:57

EDITORIAL

More [UK] market shifts?

WHILE IT SOUNDS TOO DRAMATIC to talk about seismic activity in the tyre market, the ongoing long-term effects of the various financial crises are continuing to be felt. At a continental level this has meant continued queries about how the largest tyre makers can better balance supply and demand in Europe. However it is also difficult to say how much of this conjecture is actually manifesting into any kind of practical reality. Indeed, at times like these people can get over-creative in their analyses, along with any legitimate market observations. That said, and without wanting to sound like a seventies pop song, it is as if we can feel the slow undulations of the terra firma under our feet.

As the saying goes: “there’s no smoke without fire”. While sometimes true, the problem is that this doesn’t mean things are always simple. Take the recent news that Jaguar Land Rover had bought the land Dunlop Motorsport currently uses to produce its tyres (see page 14 for more on this).

When the news broke it was as if speculation about the reasons behind this development spontaneously came into being nanoseconds after the news was announced. If Dunlop has to move out – and right now even this fact is not absolutely certain as Jaguar Land Rover could for example lease the land back to the tyre manufacturer – then where will the company go? Before any decisions had been made and while the details were still being assimilated at Fort Dunlop and Tyre Fort (T&A has it on good authority that the company only found out about the land sale and its possible consequences a matter of days before), myriad media outlets had proffered a plethora of potential scenarios. These include a suggested transfer of motorsport manufacturing to Wolverhampton, another solution within Birmingham and with some publications pointing out that the company has no fewer than six factories in Germany.

What does it all mean? We simply don’t know yet. But one has to question why a growing Jaguar Land Rover would buy land adjacent to its expanding operations and decline the chance to make

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

cars (its primary business) in preference for entering some comparatively lowlevel real estate business (which would of course be a distantly secondary business). Truth is though, if we want to really know what happens next, we are better off just watching this space.

But it’s not all about the manufacturing sector. Other shifts appear to be taking place elsewhere in the UK market in another part of the supply chain. As this issue of Tyres & Accessories goes to press a number of credible sources are reporting that a certain wholesale operation is in the process of redefining its ownership structure. We haven’t been able to get any concrete confirmation or third party corroboration of the facts yet, but it appears to be a tragic example of how unforgiving the business world can be. With the credit crunch being what it is, you may expect the prevailing cash flow-constricted environment to squeeze the most leveraged players most harshly. However if the reports we’ve heard turn out to be correct, in what must be an added twist of the knife for those involved, this particular story could be a bizarrely contradictory case of a relatively unleveraged business falling foul of the credit crunch. On the bright side, as is always the case in business, we have also heard that this very situation could also mark a significant step forward for another wholesale/retail business, which has – up till now – done an excellent job of growing strongly, consistently and apparently sustainably without drawing too much attention to itself.

Look out for further coverage of both developing stories in future issues of Tyres & Accessories.

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June 2013

Contents

48 Features

News • EDITORIAL More market shifts?

• NEWS IN BRIEF • NTDA NEWS

• COMPANY NEWS 3 6

• UHP

Re-focusing on Cooper 46 Amiens plant closure appears inevitable 48 Francois Michelin’s emotional insights 50 Leading tyre manufacturers 2013 54

TRA scheme extends

56

82

• UK TYRE MARKET

• AUTOPROMOTEC 14 16 18

• PRODUCT INFORMATION

96

14

2013 show the largest ever Vipal export factory announced

Pirelli’s 50 years of Lamborghini supply 88

• INTERNATIONAL TYRE MARKET • CAREER TRACKS

26 28

• TYRE RECYCLING

12

• MOTORSPORT The end of an era?

Triangle buys 10% of TYM Westlake wins first fleet deal

I know it when I see it 30 years of high performance

Buffing blade issue Lanxess adds bladder facility in Brazil Yokohama Mexico opens its doors

60 68

• WHEEL ALIGNMENT 92 93 94

50

Stop driving sideways The ultimate business partner?

74 76

83

102 Web Directory – 99 Classifieds – 101 Advertisers’ Index – 105 Preview – 105 Impressum

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>

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For more information please contact us at jobs@tyrepress.com

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Delti adds wheel configurator to site Delticom has added a wheel configurator to dealers at yourtyres.co.uk.

In addition the company’s complete aluminium wheel and alloy wheel range is also being expanded on yourtyres, and on Delticom’s dedicated site for fleet buyers.

According to the company, the new wheel configurator is easy to use and gives customers a huge range of products to best suit their needs. Split by tyre type - summer, all-season, and winter - and wheel type, alloy or steel, customers are then guided to choose the make of the car and the exact model. Upon filling in all of the details, provided via a drop-down list to reduce admin, they will be presented with a picture of their car, and the full range of combinations available to them.

Alongside this range of combinations, customers are presented with an accurate image of their chosen vehicle. At this point they can select various wheel combinations, with the wheel and tyre sizes shown in proportion, to demonstrate how they would look on the vehicle. This allows them to choose the most appropriate combination both in terms of specification and aesthetics. Additionally they can simply pick from the suggested complete wheel/tyre combinations, where tyres are already mounted on wheels.

Wheels for cars, SUVs, all-terrain vehicles and vans are all currently offered in the online tyre shop. cja

Cutting carbon, cutting costs - at LCRS conference The 2013 Cutting Carbon, Cutting Costs Conference, an interactive event designed to provide specialised carbon reduction advice for freight operators, is scheduled to be held on Wednesday 22 May at the Heritage Motor Museum, Gaydon, Warwickshire.

At the Logistics Carbon Reduction Scheme (LCRS) conference there will be a range of workshops to suit freight operators’ own individual fleet and business.

LCRS is a scheme managed by the Freight Transport Association (FTA) and the 2013 event will focus on the latest operational and technological measures to reduce carbon, providing delegates with tactics to improve efficiency, and ultimately lower fuel costs. The conference will also celebrate companies’ individual efforts to reduce carbon with the presentation of the inaugural LCRS Awards.

The conference, which is sponsored by LCRS industry partner Bridgestone Tyres and Iveco Trucks, will be chaired by Dave Rowlands, Technical Services Director at Wincanton and includes an address from Professor David Cebon, Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Cambridge, on the role of road freight in greening the transport sector. The conference will also feature speakers from Iveco UK, B&Q, John Lewis Partnership and Tesco. Delegates can choose from a range of sessions throughout the day to suit their operation. pg

Prime minister visits Pirelli

British prime minister David Cameron visited Pirelli’s factory in Carlisle on Friday 26 April where he met with the chairman and CEO of Pirelli, Marco Tronchetti Provera, as well as Italian Ambassador, Pasquale Terraciano, and chairman of Pirelli Tyres Ltd, Mr Dominic Sandivasci. The Pirelli employees were invited to question David Cameraon prime minister was on a tour to the area as part of his campaigning activities ahead of local elections and incorporated the visit to the Pirelli factory, which in 2011 was awarded a £2 million grant from the Regional Growth Fund.

During his visit, Mr Cameron met with Pirelli’s senior UK management, he was then updated on the development project, before having a brief tour of the factory. David Cameron then participated in a 30 minute question and answer session with a large gathering of Pirelli workers. According to the company, the RGF funds facilitate the development of a range of innovative, low CO2 emission, UHP tyres for the UK and export markets.

The Pirelli plant in Carlisle, which employs 756 people, opened in 1968 and is one of two Pirelli factories in the UK, the The prime minister met with the chairman and CEO of Pirelli, other being in Burton-on-Trent. Pirelli is at present committed to Marco Tronchetti Provera (left) investing a total of £20.4 million in Carlisle. cja

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Hankook invests 313 million euros in Hungary factory expansion Hankook Tire and the Hungarian Government have jointly announced details of further investment in the tyre manufacturer’s European production facility, located 60 kilometeres south of Budapest.

Hankook plans to invest some 313 million euros in adding a further manufacturing unit to the site, which will create over 950 new jobs and further boost Hankook’s production volume in Europe, bringing capacity up to 17 million tyres per year.

The investment represents the third expansion phase of Hankook’s European plant. Upon completion the company wil have put around 880 million euro into the site. Construction is scheduled to start in June 2013 with production following in mid-2014 with the full capacity being reached in 2015.

Since the initial opening of the plant in 2007, several million tyres have been pro-

recognition of Hankook’s high product quality in Europe, the UHP tyre segment shows increasing growth rates as well.

OE tyres are supplied directly from the plant to the European factories of Volkswagengroup, Hyundai and KIA, giving proof of the excellent production Hankook’s already large and modern factory is now entering its standards. Further prethird expansion phase mium OE supplies are duced in Hankook’s European factory and expected to start later this year.

“We are happy to announce the conoutput has been growing steadily.

Capacity totaled some 6 million tyres in struction plan for the third expansion 2010. By 2011 production reached 9 milli- phase of our European factory today.” on tyres and went up to 12 million tyres said Seung Hwa Suh, Hankook vice chairman and CEO of Hankook Tire. “As a key in 2012.

The company’s Rácalmás plant cur- investor in Hungary and an important rently produces tyres for passenger cars, market player in the European automotiSUVs and light trucks in various different ve industry, we will continue to explore specifications. Passenger car radial tyres opportunities to meet the growing account for the majority of the total pro- demand of our consumers, offering stateduction while thanks to the increased of-the-art tyre technologies.” cja

Continental TPMS wins product award Continental AG has been named as the 2013 Automotive News PACE (Premier Automotive Suppliers’ Contribution to Excellence) Award for its tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) with patented LocSync software.

The tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) from Continental is designed to provide the driver with the current inflation pressures individual tyres. If a particular tyre’s pressure is too low, the instrument alerts the driver.

According to the company, the new tyres and sensors are detected automatically without the need for any additional electronic equipment by using the LocSync software to combine the data from the wheel speed sensors and tyre sensors. LocSync is already integrated into three vehicle models, with further vehicle platforms planned to be equipped later in the year.

Conti wins short-range radar sensor PACE award too Continental was also singled out with a PACE award for a new sensor generation. Invisibly positioned behind the plastic bumpers on the right and left rear corners of the vehicle, the two short-range radar sensors (SRR sensors) detect, for example, vehicles crossing in the path of a reversing vehicle and warn the driver. In this way, they can prevent a collision. Various vehicle models are already equipped with the radar sensors. They make up part of a warning system that detects vehicles in the driver’s blind spot. They are also found in lane change assist systems. The Automotive News PACE Awards are awarded annually by an independent jury. cja

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28/05/2013 09:50

NEWS IN BRIEF

Bridgestone UK’s app goes global

THIS?

REMEMBER

A look back at stories from the past 20 years of T&A

June 1993 In France, Michelin introduced an emergency rationalisation programme in response to a 14 per cent fall in sales in Q1.

As part of its European restructuring programme, Pirelli announced that car production would cease at its Burton-on-Trent factory in the UK.

June 1998 Bridgestone/Firestone revealed plans for a joint venture to produce and market tyres in Poland. The plant at Poznan would be the company’s 6th tyre factory in Europe.

Continental celebrated 100 years of car tyre production.

June 2003 Samir Gibara resigned as Goodyear chairman at the end of June. His successor is Robert J. Keegan, who also continues his existing roles as CEO and president.

Sumitomo Rubber Industries introduced its new, automatic tyre production system, called Taiyo (‘the sun’).

June 2008 Yokohama Rubber Industries confirmed the acquisition of a 25 acre business site in Bahadurgarh, India.

In China, Cooper Tire opened the Cooper Tire Asia Technical Centre in Zhudi Town, 35km from Shanghai. It is Cooper’s 3rd such facility worldwide.

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BRIDGESTONE UK’s tyre monitoring app is now being rolled out across other European markets. According to the company, the sales force assisting ‘Challenge’ app works by calculating the true cost of tyres over time and shares the performance data with all other users, before providing performance comparisons against competitors’ tyres all on the user’s tablet.

Deployed in 2012, the technology has revolutionised Bridgestone’s sales process and is now regarded as a strategic tool, after being created by RNF Digital.

Bridgestone’s product and marketing manager Andy Mathias said: “We are proud of our innovative use of technology to help serve our customers and sales force. The application that we developed in the UK is now being used across Europe and is even being trialed in North and South America.”

Users can wirelessly synchronise their device with a centralised server, whereupon the sales representative’s data is uploaded.

At the same time, data captured by other representatives is downloaded to the device. Bridgestone reports that this

means the application has a significant body of globally sourced data at its disposal. The idea is that a tyre’s relative performance can therefore be objectively determined, which enables the sales representative to make an informed recommendation.

By sharing data in this manner it effectively creates a ‘crowd sourcing’ experience, where users are mutually benefiting from data being collated from various locations across the globe. It all means that users are no longer constrained by having to generate the data in their offices before presenting them to clients and can now create and discuss immediately with the customer.

The app also provides Bridgestone with a wealth of previously unobtainable management information, not only in terms of how their own tyres are performing, but also how they are performing against their competitors. cja

Jason Addison and Paul Dunn raise £500 for Children’s Cancer Centre ON SUNDAY 26TH MAY Jason Addison and Paul Dunn from Addison Tyres raised £500 for Birmingham Children’s Cancer Centre. The pair raised the money by cycling along the No: 81 cycle route from Cosely to Shrewsbury.

Although they made a few wrong turns along the way and at one stage rode through a field with a large scary bull in it they successful completed the route and raised £500.

They thanked all their friends, family and customers who have donated to this very worthy cause.

Jason’s son Scott had three years of treatment for Leukaemia when he was five years old and made a full reco- Jason Addison (left) and Paul very, and he hopes that local lad Joshua Jackson who is cur- Dunn (right) from Addison Tyres rently undergoing his second round of treatment at raised £500 on charity bike ride Birmingham Children’s Cancer Centre can do the same.

Addison Tyres is a member of Point S, the leading independent tyre and car service dealer network. cja

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TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

GAU861 the new city bus tyre with an extra reinforced sidewall protector to ensure maximum resistance to curbing and impact damage, while a unique tread pattern and increased tread depth ensures good mileage performance combined with comfort and reduced noise.

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04/03/2013 12:40

www.ntda.co.uk

NEWS

TAFF Finalists Announced It hardly seems a year ago that we were getting ready to vote for the 2012 Tyre & Fast Fit Awards, but here we are again, with the shortlist for 2013 drawn up. Once again the Awards are sponsored by speciality chemicals group Lanxess and the media partner is Tyres & Accessories magazine.

This year's competition differs from those that have gone before in that there is no postal voting and the only way to make your opinion count is via the website at: www.ntda.co.uk/TAFF and all entries must be in by 27th September 2013. Both NTDA members and non-members are eligible to vote.

So who are the nominees seeking your vote this time around?

As usual, a number of the companies nominated fall into a category that could be entitled 'the usual suspects', but there are one or two newcomers among the familiar faces.

One such newcomer is in the Tyre Manufacturer of the Year category, where Apollo Vredestein is the David amongst a group of Goliaths, comprising Bridgestone UK, last year's winner Continental Tyre Group, Goodyear Dunlop and Michelin.

Looking at the Wholesaler of the Year category, there is a distinct feeling of déjà vu, as the same five finalists from last year appear in this year's short list as well. The five are BITS, Bond International, Grouptyre (UK), Micheldever Tyre Services and Stapleton's (Tyre Services). Will BITS be able to hang on to the top spot that they regained from Stapleton's last year?

There are a number of familiar faces too in the Tyre & Aftermarket Equipment Supplier of the Year with Apaseal, Autogem Motor Concepts and Rema Tip Top Automotive – all finalists last year – being joined by Auto4 and Harvie Tyres.

The final category in the TAFF Awards is given for Innovation. It could be a product, or a service but the overarching criterion is that it should be something new.

Companies are invited to nominate their own product or service for this category and these will be whittled down to a short list and the final decision made by a select panel of experts from various trade associations in the UK aftermarket. So, if you have something that you believe is truly innovative, contact the NTDA with details.

Last year Michelin won with their Energy Saver + tyre, but remember, it doesn't have to be a tyre to qualify – innovation is the key.

Tyre Centre of the Year Award Finally, we come to the Award that recognises and rewards the very best in tyre retailing excellence. This is only the third year that the Tyre Centre of the Year Award has been held but it has already captured the imagination of the trade – and understandably so, as who would not like to be named the best tyre centre in the country?

Invitations have already been sent out to member companies to nominate a centre to take part. Multi-depot companies can nominate a centre from each of the NTDA’s nine regions, if so desired.

Once again, the process will be overseen by the Association’s Aftermarket Supplier Group (ASG), while the mechanics of the process will be handled by market research experts Encircle Marketing. Initially those companies nominated will be mystery shopped by phone on two separate occasions and the results analysed in order to draw up a final short list. Those centres that do not make the final cut will receive a detailed report on their performance.

The Industry Advertising Award showcases some memorable and stunning adverts and can cover a number of media, from print to TV as well as online advertising. Michelin, who took the title last year, have again been nominated and they are joined in the final five by Dunlop, Goodyear, Infinity Tyres Europe and Pirelli Tyres.

The companies on the short list will be mystery shopped in person and the winner announced, along with all the other TAFF Award winners, at the NTDA’s 84th Annual Dinner, which is being held at the Hilton Metropole at the NEC Birmingham on Wednesday 16th October 2013.

Companies offering a wide and disparate set of services are contesting this year's Environment Award; these being Dunlop, Kingpin Tyres and three from last year's shortlist, Murfitt's Industries, Sapphire Energy Recovery (2012 winners) and Vellco Tyre Control.

That’s a little over four months away, so start thinking – which of your suppliers offer you the best service, or are prepared to go the extra mile when necessary?

Make your mind up and then vote online, before 27th September 2013.

NTDA NT N TDA DA 220 2011 0111 11 RECOGNISING EXCELLENCE

Sponsored by

FINALISTS Please vote for only ONE company in EACH category and please note voting is open to all members and non-members. All entries must be received by 27th September 2013.

NEW for 2013 voting via website only To vote go to www.ntda.co.uk/TAFF Tyre Manufacturer of the Year

Industry Advertising Campaign

Apollo Vredestein (UK) Ltd Bridgestone UK Ltd Continental Tyre Group Ltd* Goodyear Dunlop Tyres UK Ltd Michelin Tyre Plc

Dunlop Goodyear Infinity Tyres Europe Ltd Michelin Tyre Plc* Pirelli UK Tyres Ltd

Wholesaler of the Year

Environment Award

BITS* Bond International Group Tyre (UK) Ltd Micheldever Tyre Services Ltd Stapleton’s (Tyre Services) Ltd

Dunlop Kingpin Tyres Ltd Murfitts Industries Ltd Sapphire Energy Recovery* Vellco Tyre Control

Tyre & Aftermarket Equipment Supplier of the Year Apaseal Ltd Auto4 Ltd Autogem Motor Concepts LLP Harvie Tyres Ltd Rema Tip Top Automotive UK Ltd

We reserve the right to randomly audit entries.

* 2012 Winners

Media partner

UK TYRE MARKET

Goodyear Dunlop’s Wolverhampton compounding and retread plant has been mooted as a possible site for the relocation of the company’s motorsport tyre production. So far the company has only confirmed that it has “contingencies in place” and “currently sources motorsport tyres from several countries including the UK.”

The end of an era?

Dunlop to end tyre manufacturing at Fort Dunlop?

Despite an illustrious history dating back to 1917, 30 May could mark the end of an era for Dunlop as officials confirmed that its motorsports tyre manufacturing operation will have to find a new home away from the historic Fort Dunlop site from 2014 if their new landlord doesn’t lease it back to them again. According to the landlord, Canmoor, the site has been sold to neighbouring Jaguar Land Rover. Therefore it looks likely that Dunlop Aircraft Tyres (a completely separate company from Goodyear Dunlop) will be the only tyre manufacturing operation remaining in Birmingham after the end of the current lease. Dunlop’s annual motorsport tyre output is currently believed to be around 200,000 units. 180 manufacturing staff are employed there along with roughly 120 tyre testing, sales and marketing personnel.

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“We have a robust contingency plan to ensure continued supply of our motorsport tyres to our key customers. Our first aim is to assess impact and evaluate possible alternatives.” stated Jean-Felix Bazelin, general manager, Dunlop Motorsport Europe.

“Jaguar Land Rover has exchanged unconditional contracts with Canmoor Developments Limited to acquire approximately 11 acres of land adjacent to its Castle Bromwich manufacturing plant.

Jaguar Land Rover continues to work in partnership with local authorities and businesses to ensure that our growth plans support the local economy and community,” a Jaguar Land Rover spokesperson told reporters.

At this point it is worth defining what we mean by Fort Dunlop. The eye-catching Fort Dunlop building that is something of a landmark in Birmingham and which is visible to the millions of motorists that make their way up and down that part of the M6 motorway each year is just part of

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the Fort Dunlop site. This building had acted as the company’s warehousing centre until the 1980s, but laid empty from then through the SumitomoGoodyear joint venture initiation at the turn of the millennium and until around 2006. Goodyear Dunlop’s current UK and Ireland headquarters, Tyre Fort, resides in the same general area but the land this operation is built on is not affected by the news of the sale.

What next?

With Dunlop’s motorsport tyre production in need of a new home, the obvious question is “where’s next?” Potential alternatives mooted in the local and trade press include transfer of the Fort Dunlop production to the company’s Wolverhampton plant, which currently focuses on compound and retread production. Goodyear Dunlop representatives didn’t engage in any speculation about this, but did report that their focus

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UK TYRE MARKET

is on continuity for the businessis customers: “[the company] remains committed to the motorsport business and currently sources motorsport tyres from several countries including the UK”.

Nevertheless the Wolverhampton move could be one of a number of options being considered.

However, the news did result in concerns from a local politician. In a statement Jack Dromey, MP for Birmingham Erdington said his prime concern is for the employees at Dunlop Motorsport. He went on to commit to work with both companies to explore “all options including the relocation of the Dunlop factory elsewhere in Birmingham” if it proves impossible to remain on its current site, according to ITV News.

Dromey’s statement added: “Fort Dunlop and the remaining Dunlop factories producing motorsport tyres and aircraft tyres is a piece of Birmingham History. I welcome the fact that the site will continue to support motor manufacturing in the Midlands, with the expansion of Jaguar Land Rover, a world-class company with a world-class workforce going from strength to strength. The

task now is to secure the future of Dunlop Motorsport.”

At one point the wider Fort Dunlop site was known as the world’s largest tyre factory, when it employed 3,200 workers under a single roof. By 1954 some 10,000 workers were thought to have been employed across the whole site. Around 180 people are currently employed in manufacturing Motorsport tyres at Fort Dunlop. Goodyear Dunlop employs over 800 people in the wider West Midlands area.

In 2006 the site entered a new chapter when the re-vamped Fort Dunlop warehousing building, which is visible from the M6, opened its doors to design consultancy Boxer. The six-storey building had undergone a £40 million refurbishment, having stood empty for a quarter of a century. Trinity Mirror Group and Travelodge have since taken up residence there. chris.anthony@tyrepress.com

Fort Dunlop’s present reality is quite different from its heyday, with its most iconic factory building having since been turned into offices and a large Travelodge

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UK TYRE MARKET

Triangle buys 10% share of TYM International TRIANGLE AND TYM INTERNATIONAL have jointly announ- during the Triangle Group’s 2013 Global Business ced the Chinese tyre manufacturer’s purchase of a 10 per cent share of its UK distributor’s business. TYM International general manager, Steve Eke and Triangle board chairman, Ding Yuhua exchanged documents

Summit at the Pudong Shangri-La Hotel, Shanghai on 18 May.The purchase is currently subject to ratification by the Commerce Department of the Chinese Government, though both parties are confident that the deal will proceed smoothly. This year marks the tenth anniversary of TYM’s distribution of Triangle passenger car, truck and bus, and off-the-road products and Eke told Tyres & Accessories that he was very pleased to have converted “the customer-supplier relationship into a partner relationship.” the Norfolk based distributor revealed that around 3,000 earthmover tyres and 40,000 TBR tyres are included in that figure.

TYM International general manager, Steve Eke exchanges share purchase documents with Triangle board chairman, Ding Yuhua. Triangle executive president of global business, Lin Bin (centre-right) looks on

Speaking exclusively in Shanghai to T&A, Eke said that he had been approached originally by Triangle in January 2013, when the manufacturer expressed its desire to buy 10 per cent of TYM. Regarding the destination of the money generated from the sale, he said that “Triangle’s investment in TYM will be reinvested in the structure of the business.” While this was one part of the discussions begun in January, Eke said that this had not been “a prerequisite” of Triangle’s investment.

TYM started distributing Triangle brand tyres in 2003, and in its first year made sales totalling “more than $400,000,” Eke says. Having experienced increased demand for Triangle products over the last ten years, he now puts a figure of “$15 million” on the value of TYM’s business with the Weihai, Shandong Province headquartered manufacturer. Joining the “significant numbers of passenger car tyres” sold each year,

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T&A/Tyrepress.com noted the growing importance of Triangle’s TBR business when Triangle and TYM announced a previous long-term deal in November 2011, at which point Eke said 10,000 extra units had been sold year-on-year. Triangle customers from around the world at the

TYM International offering comprehensive Triangle, Techking ranges Norfolk based TYM International is one of a select number of UK importers that specialise in the sale and distribution of earthmover tyres. The company stocks a comprehensive range of products from Triangle and Techking, and TYM International is the sole importer of both brands. Products purchased from TYM are dispatched on the same day as the order is placed with a guaranteed 24 hour delivery to the site if required, subject to availability.

“We are proud to work with two suppliers from China that are not selling product on price alone,” TYM general manager Steve Eke told Tyres and Accessories.

“Our sales in Triangle and Techking OTR tyres are increasing year-on-year and in total have increased 68 per cent over the last three years. Our clients purchase in the knowledge they are buying a quantity tyre at economy prices”.

TYM has imported Triangle OTR tyres since 2005. The company says this product range covers every size required in the market, from 17.5R25 to 2700x49.

Triangle, it adds, has invested huge resources in developing a product that is not just economically priced, but has durability equal to the leading brands. The tyre maker is a global partner and OE supplier to both Caterpillar and Volvo.

TYM started its cooperation with Techking in 2008. Techking products are distributed to 165 countries worldwide and TYM says they are accepted as a premium Earthmover product. “Unlike some other products manufactured in , Techking is a product that TYM markets predominantly on the exceptional quality,” comments TYM International. “Techking monitors the sales and the application and continues to develop a product to suit all working conditions.” sg

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UK TYRE MARKET

Documents were exchanged in front of an audience of 400 at Shanghai’s Shangri-La Hotel, where Triangle was hosting its annual conference

Summit in Shanghai also spoke frequently of the strength of the brand’s EMOTR segment products.

Meanwhile executive president of global business and the company’s Market Development Center, Lin Bin spoke of Triangle’s motivation for buying into TYM: “Triangle has seen what has

been achieved by TYM and is keen to protect the market share it has gained in the UK.” In addition, he said that Triangle is seeking to “increase the professional marketing” of the brand.

Much of the Shanghai Summit was devoted to the subject of Triangle’s efforts to globalise its business effectively, and

Lin’s point about marketing chimes with this message. While the price position occupied by Triangle has often been the brand’s most marketable attribute, the messages taken from the latest meeting indicate the company’s desire to enter a phase of decommoditisation with regard to its products. It makes sense to use marketing as a primary driver of this function, and a key part of Triangle’s aim to become “a globalised tyre company,” a recurring theme of the Summit.

Joining the announcement of the purchase of a share in TYM on 18 May were two other parts of Triangle’s “capital strategic collaboration project”, with documents exchanged with Australia’s Consolidated Tyre Company and Russia’s SP LLC-Tyre Service Provider in front of the 400 guests, including Chinese Government dignitaries and Triangle employees and customers, attending the Summit. A full report will be published in the July edition of Tyres & Accessories. andrew.bogie@tyrepress.com

Westlake wins first UK fleet deal MELTON MOWBRAY, Leicestershire-based transport operator Charles Brown & Son Haulage Limited has become the first UK operator to fit Westlake tyres to its fleet since Vacu-Lug was appointed sole UK distributorship for the brand, which is produced by China’s largest domestic tyre manufacturer.

To date, Charles Brown & Son has fitted Westlake units to the steer axles of six Scania tractor units out of its fleet of 16.

As the initial batch have now proven themselves in service across a variety of demanding transport applications, the company’s remaining vehicles will also be equipped with Westlake tyres as replacements become due.

“We undertake general haulage, fridge work, waste and bulk tipper work and run our fleet hard, with some vehicles covering up to 3,000 kilometres a week,“ says Charles Brown & Son Transport Manager Paddy Conboy. “Consequently we need tyres which are versatile, durable, reliable and competitively priced. In Westlake, we have found all these demands are met by a single tyre range, hence our commitment to them for the future.“ Westlake tyres span a wide variety of operation types and with a choice of 17.5“, 19.5“ and 22.5“ rim diameters its products are suitable for drive and steer axle applications for light, medium and heavy commercial vehicles.

In terms of its environmental credentials, Westlake reports

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that is one of the first global manufacturers to produce an entirely aromatic-free range of tyres. This means all Westlake tyres are fully REACH compliant. Standing for Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals, the (REACH) Reach Directive EC/1907-2006 identifies and defines chemicals of concern contained in products for use in the European Union. The standard details the registration obligations of manufacturers and suppliers to ensure compliance.

Charles Brown & Son Haulage Limited is an old-established transport operator. In addition to its haulage operations, the company also operates Melton Mowbray Tyre Recycling, a tyre recycling company which shreds tyres primarily for use in the equestrian industry. In addition, a proportion of its output is reprocessed for use as fuel. cja

Charles Brown & Son transport manager Paddy Conboy

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TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

UK TYRE MARKET

Going, Going…1980s cars will soon be gone THE 1980S MAY have enjoyed a fashion and pop revival but cars from that decade are some of the most endangered cars on British roads today. New research into the top British family cars by consumer motoring champion HonestJohn.co.uk reveals that many of UK’s once-popular family cars are on the verge of disappearing completely. .

The Austin Metro is typical. It was once a common sight on British roads and enjoyed celebrity status as Princess Diana’s car when she married Charles in July 1981. It was also the driving school car of choice for BSM, and everyone knew someone who had one and now, there’s a mere 823 taxed or SORN’d Austin Metros, from an original production run of 1.5 million between 1981-1991.

The once-derided Austin Allegro has suffered the largest decline of all, with just 291 remaining in the UK (taxed and SORN) at the end of 2011, from a total production run of 640,000 between 1973 and 1982.

The Ford Cortina is another model on the list that may raise a few eyebrows - after all it was Britain’s best-selling car between 1973 and 1980. Many people will know the Cortina, because once upon a time, it was the darling of a million sales reps - but it most recently had its moment of fame as the star of 2006-’07 TV drama, Life on Mars. Just 5,411 remain registered in the UK, from more than four million built. Other endangered former street furniture classics include the Ford Sierra and Rover SD1.

All the top 20 cars on the Most Endangered List have a survival rate of less than 1 per cent. At the other end of the scale, some classic cars had impressive survival rates such as the Lotus Elan, which is the UK’s most popular classic car with 38 per cent of its pre-1995 models (3,361) still surviving today with an astonishing 24 per cent (2,151) still on the road.

Keith Adams, Editor of Honest John Classics, said: “This list of endangered cars is fascinating - pretty much all of them littered the UK roads as recently as 10 years ago and now you’ll be lucky to spot them at a classic car meeting. The low survival rate for these models is shocking. 1980s cars are particularly vulnerable - because their passage into popular classic status is yet to happen and their disappearance has been hastened by needless scrappage and artificially low market values in recent years.“ The ‘Top 20 Endangered Cars’ research by Honestjohn.co.uk involved examining DVLA records of classic cars (those cars registered between 1950 and 1995) to find out how many were still registered today (both on the road and SORN) compared to the amount originally built. The results are published at classics.honestjohn.co.uk - a newly launched site that contains a wealth of research and information about classic cars. pg

T

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Top 20 fastest disappearing family cars by model Percentage Remaining 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

Austin Allegro Austin Montego Austin Princess Hillman Avenger Vauxhall Viva Morris Marina Austin Maxi Morris Ital Rover SD1 Vauxhall VX-Series Austin Metro Ford Cortina MG 1100|MG 1300 Austin Maestro Vauxhall Chevette Austin Ambassador Hillman Imp Rover 200 Triumph Acclaim Ford Sierra

0.05 0.05 0.05 0.06 0.07 0.08 0.08 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.4

Top 10 classic survivors by model Percentage Remaining 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

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Lotus Elan Triumph Stag Reliant Scimitar and SS1 Aston Martin V8 Lotus Europa Aston Martin DB5 Aston Martin DB6 Daimler SP250 Dart Aston Martin DBS Triumph TRS

38 25 21 21 20 19 18 17 15 13

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

UK TYRE MARKET

Kirkby hails Double Coin CV show appearance Kirkby Tyres has hailed the recent appearance of its Double Coin exclusive brand at the CV Show in Birmingham as “an overwhelming success”. According to the company, Kirkby Tyres has been the UK and Irish sole importer of Double Coin for more than 20 years was said to have been pleased to participate in the 2013 CV Show.

Ben Santhouse Double Coin’s sales specialist commented: “The level of interest in the Double Coin range of TBR tyres was unprecedented and far exceeded our expectations!” He added: “People are becoming more aware of the true value that Double Coin offers over its competition.

There are not many manufacturers that can boast the range and still keep to the core values of quality and performance, if you couple this with the ability to re-groove and remould the casings; it is an outstanding product.”

“Real” interest was reportedly felt by “all the staff working the Double Coin stand”, including numerous positive reports heralding the value that the tyres offer in comparison to premium equivalents. Large haulage firms and fleet operators commented repeatedly on the benefits of the comprehensive range that Double Coin offers and the high level of customer service they receive through Kirkby Tyres national dealer network in place.

Kirkby Tyres reports that it offer “consistent and reliable levels of supply through its core network of over 4,500 authorized tyre outlets.” Or in other words, for hauliers this means knowing that the Double Coin product is accessible where and when they need it.

The CV Show is the largest road freight transport event staged in Britain, catering for every operator’s requirements from truck, van and trailer manufacturers through to handling equipment, insurers, tyre, telemetry and training providers, fuels and lubricant suppliers. With an attendance of over 16,000 high quality visitors, Kirkby Tyres was evidently “delighted” flying the flag for Double Coin’s TBR range during the show. cja

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General UK retail outlook improving FOR THE FIRST TIME in two and a half years the general UK retail performance has improved. However, unless something changes the second quarter of 2013 is set to “flat line” , according to the Retail Think Tank.

F

Following its quarterly meeting in April, the KPMG/Ipsos Retail Think Tank (RTT) reported that the downward trajectory that has plagued UK retail since the start of 2011 finally turned around in quarter one of 2013, although a significant increase in the health of UK retailing is unlikely to arrive any time soon. The RTT’s Retail Health Index improved one point to 77 points, thanks to a marginal lift in demand, which would have been better still had it not been for the prolonged extension of wintry weather throughout the whole quarter.

The RTT agreed that overall Christmas trading figures had been relatively good, and that there were very few new casualties coming through now – the consequence of better run businesses and an uplift in demand. Details about the different sectors are perhaps irrelevant to those of us interested in the tyre business and automotive parts in general. However, what they do offer is an insight into consumer confidence. For example while the food sector was something of a start performer, food margins remained broadly flat. And extra discounting was necessary to stimulate clothing sales in particular, and some major players remained heavily promotional led in the quarter (notably Debenhams and M&S).

The logic is that if people are scrimping on clothes they won’t necessarily have disposable income to spend on tyres. But once again because of the unique type of product context tyres are sold in, what it may mean in practice is that rather than fewer tyres being sold it will the fight will really be over which tyres are sold.

And, again the fact, that retail outlook is improving in general may suggest that people will spend a bit more on tyres.

However, the broad retail situation remainds “very mixed” and the RTT report suggests confidence is likely to remain weak because “the recent employment growth is expected to tail off, inflation is on the increase again, and with fuel and energy prices set to rise.” However, looking more optimistically, there is some support for increased spending from the fact that recent changes in income tax thresholds and better flowing lending.

Commenting, David McCorquodale, Head of Retail, KPMG UK, said: “Overall the quarter was quite an even one for UK retailers as demand, margins and costs all remained relatively static and it looks like we’re at the bottom of the decline.”

Vicky Redwood, Chief UK Economist at Capital Economics, said: “It’s a mixed picture. We have seen more employment growth during the quarter, mainly parttime jobs and individuals setting up their own companies. Also, more people are looking for work as they come off benefits or come out of education. Consumers are more inclined to spend because it has become easier to borrow and at the moment there is less incentive to save. However, employment growth is tailing off a bit incomes will again be squeezed in the coming months so nothing is certain. Everything is stacked against the consumer, but they keep on spending.”

So while there quarter one delivered some very welcome results, whether we see any release of pent-up demand in the next quarter is open to discussion.

There are some positive signs, but especially in the tyre industry it is too early to say. What is even less clear is what effect this will have on the segmentation of the UK market as and when such effects kick in. cja

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UK TYRE MARKET With levels of label-readiness varying significantly across the country and across Europe, the introduction of EU tyre labels that began a year ago remains in infancy.

However, while some have gone on the record as saying it is a waste of space, labelling could also be seen as a developing field that – also like a small child – grows fas-

test in its early years. And with this debate in mind, Tyres & Accessories recently received an interesting addition to the debate, focusing on the nuts and bolts of retail labelling. Add your views by emailing theeditor@tyrepress.com.

Sir, The advent of tyre labelling legislation has given rise to a seismic shift in the way tyre performance characteristics are presented to the consumer. Since 1 November 2012, tyre manufacturers and importers have made available over 60,000 part numbers via systems like the Online Tyre Catalogue. As of today’s date, some 6,080 individual data changes have taken place within the OTC in Categories C1, C2 and C3 since the legislation was introduced, representing the entry of new labels or revisions on existing labels. This has placed a critical focus on the importance of accurate data profiling aligned with effective product management to be able to process information quickly and make the necessary adjustments to keep purchasing mechanisms streamlined and resilient.

A recent survey into consumers’ buying habits since the legislation was introduced has highlighted that, far from being a misplaced directive from Brussels imposing a cost on the tyre industry as some thought, tyre labelling is being used by motorists to make informed decisions online about the tyre products they require before going to their local tyre centre to complete the transaction and have the tyres fitted at the depot.

The influence of the tyre label is such that it is having a positive impact on the industry and is creating an opportunity for those proactive retailers who are embracing the legislation and using it as a way to reshape their retail businesses. We’re already seeing an increase in tyre dealers’ online presence as they use the web strategically to direct traffic back to their physical locations.

At the heart of the ruling is the assumption of transparency and accuracy of tyre information. Not only is it a legal entitlement for the motorist but it’s also imperative that tyre dealers have access to the right data so they can fulfill sales orders. Let’s consider the basis of purchasing systems – whether they are from CAM Systems or anyone else. A purchase order is generated in your own system and requires some kind of reconciliation with a supplier’s. At the lowest level, this means product data must be recognised between parties, otherwise the system misfires or even fails outright.

But how are such mechanisms affected when the product data is changing so frequently?

The introduction of new labels, constantly changing product information, amendments to article numbers, changes within categories and movement of tyres from active to non-active products are a daily occurrence.

Tyres are also reducing in weight to make them more energy efficient, for example, but their labelling characteristics may not have been changed.

Yet retailers may be ordering and re-ordering tyres based on existing product information within their own systems, leading to failed orders as a minimum, right through to the delivery of the wrong tyres and the administrative issues which naturally emerge downstream.

Without the ability to analyse these revisions, dealers are unaware of the level of changes that are taking place.

What they need is access to accurate and timely tyre information. As a result, IT systems have to be sufficiently adaptive and robust to translate these revisions systematically and in near real time and flag them up to tyre dealers. This will ensure their status is completely up-to-date, enabling retailers to manage their purchase transactions successfully. In essence, a dynamic catalogue that reflects all the tyre data changes on a regular basis, checks and validates them and then publishes all the variations so the retailer can view these changes and make decisions on their stock profile effectively.

Tyre labelling may not have been everyone’s panacea to new business development. But conducted with the right product data management support that ensures retailers are placing the order right first time every time, it’s proving to be just that. And an unforeseen channel for reducing costs and inefficiency.

Yours sincerely

Steve Daly Commercial Director CAM Systems

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Speed camera casualty reduction claims are false VYSIONICS ITS, makers of SPECS average-speed cameras, have agreed with the Advertising Standards Authority to change their advertising claims, following a complaint from Malcolm Heymer, traffic management adviser to the Alliance of British Drivers.

Vysionics claimed that SPECS installations “on average reduce KSIs (Killed and Seriously Injured casualties) by more than 70 per cent“. The clear implication of this wording is that the entire reduction in casualties was due to the cameras alone.

As Malcolm Heymer points out, this cannot be the case: “Road accidents require two or more contributory factors to come together at the same time. This means there is an element of chance, so accident numbers along a particular section of road willpage:Layout always vary year to16:08 year.Page Speed half 1 from 07/02/2012 1

cameras are usually installed after two or three years of above average accident numbers. There is a very strong chance, therefore, that the numbers would drop again of their own accord anyway. When they do, the speed cameras undeservedly get the credit. This is the biggest cause of the exaggerated claims for speed cameras.“ Heymer continues, “Other factors are also involved, especially the national downward trend in casualties, particularly those involving serious injuries and deaths.

For instance, between 2004-06 and 200810, KSIs on rural A-roads nationally fell by 26 per cent. In many cases where speed cameras are installed, other engineering improvements are made at the same time.

Even fairly minor changes to junctions, signs and road markings can make a signif-

icant difference to accident frequency.

When all these factors are taken into account, there is often no discernible benefit from speed cameras at all.“ The ABD’s deputy chairman, Brian Gregory, concludes, “This is long overdue recognition that the claims of the whole speed enforcement industry are exaggerated and self-serving. The huge increase in speeding penalties in recent years has contributed nothing to the downward trend in casualties which, since 2008, has been largely due to the economic downturn. A similar downward trend has been seen in other developed countries, regardless of whether they use speed cameras. The main cause of road accidents is inattention, so this is where road safety policies should be focussed.“ pg

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HIGH PERFORMANCE TYRES

High performance: ‘I know it when I see it’ POSSIBLY THE

MOST FAMOUS PHRASE in the history of the United States Supreme Court occurred when Justice Potter Stewart attempted to explain why, in his opinion the 1958 European film festival awardwinner Les Amants should not be censored as pornographic: “I know it when I see it, and the motion picture involved in this case is not that.” Two months later James Bond uttered the same seven-word phrase in the film Goldfinger – “it” referring to gold in this instance rather than questionable motion pictures – further popularising the phrase as a sort of shorthand for the application of common sense when attempts to define a field become tedious.

Some of this attitude has certainly come through to Tyrepress.com this month, after the Question of the Month queried, “Are all tyres now ‘high performance’?”

Given only two straightforward options, just 0.98 per cent of over 1,000 respondents claimed that all tyres could essentially be described this way. When over 99.02 per cent answers a yes/no question in the negative, it certainly feels like a brusque dismissal of the very idea.

While it seems the title of this section therefore still means something, the difficulty of defining what characteristics a tyre must possess to be described as a high performance product still raise questions that receive different answers depending on who you ask and how they take the question. If we argue the point in terms of perceived quality, privileging the traditionally designated premium brands and a small number of players who have broken into this club more recently through motorsport, technological development, OE contracts or even sheer weight of sales, then what of the more budget-conscious brands that have outperformed more expensive tyres on the European tyre label – even on tyres with speed ratings above V? Likewise, if we talk about high performance indicated by speed rating, or even by size, we face the problem of shifting consumer perceptions. Five or ten years ago, the tyres sized 225/45R17 91W fitted to one Tyres & Accessories vehicle would have been noted as a high performance product without question.

But now this size is almost regulation on medium-sized family vehicles (no matter what the Volkswagen Group may think, a

S

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1.9 diesel Seat Leon doesn’t scream high performance to T&A). Similarly many models in the road-going SUV segment that could be called high performance travel on Vrated tyres. Technological progression and the demands of OEMs and motorists have destabilised the marketingfriendly definitions of segments.

One may have thought that tyre makers and consumers would be happy to shift their segment definitions along with the market trends of the times, but this doesn’t appear to be what happens.

The estimable manufacturer of high-technology products such as the tyre test slaying SportContact 5/5P, Continental answered the quest- Continental’s SportContact 5P: higher than high performance ion of these definitions with a sense of Teutonic logic and order when it rather taken to categorisation. Ignoring briefed at the end of 2012 that tyres of the designation of summer, all season 17” and above are ultra-high performance and winter products for a moment, pas(UHP), while tyres larger than 19” repre- senger car tyres (not including SUV/4x4 sent an ultra-ultra-high performance tyres) are arranged in eight separate per(UUHP) segment. 16” tyres were descri- formance-based sections. In the nonbed as “still dominant” – and presumably track performance stakes, Tyrereviews capable of regular old high performance. organises products into high performThis approach both satisfies an under- ance, UHP, max performance and exstandable desire not to declassify part of treme performance segments, while a manufacturer’s range as high perform- space is left for touring, premium touring ance, and indulges a national pastime of and electric vehicle products below these four segments. With the number of buygleefully compounding words.

On the consumer side, the site adm- ers researching tyres on the internet coninistrators of the predominant UK peer tinuing to rise strongly, it makes sense to review website, Tyrereviews.co.uk have have an orderly system. But it is also

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TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

HIGH PERFORMANCE TYRES

worth noting that a consumer review’s greatest potential strength – its subjectivity – also makes an objective assessment of which tyres belong in which category into more of a case of “I know it when I see it”.

UHP segment where “the vast majority of the action takes place” The observation that trends regarding tyre size and speed rating have been tracing an upward trajectory for some time is nothing new, but the clear focus of the world’s largest tyre manufacturers on higher than high performance segments in Europe has perhaps never been so pronounced. Chasing improved profit margins with increased technology is always attractive to those with the capability and the incongruously strong luxury car market has provided an additional reason for migrating business focus from V-rated and 17” tyres into WYZ and 18”-plus territory. Automotive market research company GfK Kevin Glynn, account director, Auto at GfK comments, “In my dealings with manufacturers most of them agree that the UHP sector is 17” and above. The focus of the market is definitely here with further focus on 18” and above.

Clearly this is the more profitable area for both manufacturers and retailers. In terms of speed index the vast majority of the action takes place in the WYZ arena although there are small volumes in V.” The most popular size in the UHP arena, defined as 17” and WYZ speed rated, would be the 225/45R17, which alone holds a share of over 17 per cent of this segment, GfK reveals. This size has seen varied growth patterns over the last six months comparing month on month. Consistent growth is seen in the 225/40/18 holding around 12 per cent of the segment share which has seen increased volume sales for the last six months.

The top five sizes by unit sales are as follows: • • • • •

225/45R17 225/40R18 235/45R17 205/50R17 225/50R17

The Maserati Quattroporte is the Italian manufacturer’s first vehicle to run on Continental rubber

Conti achieves first Maserati homologation Italian sports car manufacturer Maserati has made Continental its tyre brand of choice for the first time, fitting the ContiSportContact 5P on its new Quattroporte. Maserati will fit six different sizes between 19 and 21 inches in line with equipment specifications and engine size. The high-tech sports tyre will be tweaked specially for the Quattroporte marked with the letters “MGT”. The rubber is capable of supporting speeds of up to 320km/h.

Maserati has approved two tyres in 19, 20 and 21 inch sizes, with different size tyres fitted at the front and rear. The Quattroporte uses 19 inch tyres on its standard models, while the cars with higher engine outputs are equipped with 20 and 21 inch tyres.

The ContiSportContact 5P features asymmetrical tread ribs and offset tread blocks. Manufactured in different versions for front and rear axles using a rubber compound with high silica content, the tyre has fitments available between 18 and 23 inches, in widths from 225mm, and with aspect ratios of 40, 35, 30 and 25. The tyre manufacturer supplies the 5P to many leading high-end sports cars and prominent tuning companies. akb

andrew.bogie@tyrepress.com

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

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HIGH PERFORMANCE TYRES

Falken UHP SUV tyre introduced amidst wet Nürburgring FALKEN

CELEBRATED 30 YEARS since its birth with what could be described as an eventful 24 Hours of the Nürburgring.

The Falken Motorsports team held first position for a time following an overnight break in racing as a result of heavy rain.

British driver Peter Dumbreck climbed from tenth to first during the first stint, using Falken’s wet weather tyres to excellent effect. However, two incidents, including one off that required a rescue vehicle, put paid to dreams of glory, with the team ending the 24 hours in a very creditable 20th.

Falken’s motorsport tyres, put to the test in such endurance arenas as this, represent the direct lineage of the company’s high performance PCR products, and the Sumitomo Rubber Industries daughter company is suitably proud of its racing-derived product line and brand image. Taking the German name for the high-speed bird of prey, the brand formed its European operation, Falken Tyre Europe, in Offenbach in 2009 with 10 employees, a figure that has risen to 62 in 2013. The company has announced the building of a plant in Cankiri, Turkey, due to come on line in 2015. It is one of two Sumitomo factories due to start production in the next two-three years, including a Brazilian operation in Fazenda Rio Grande starting production later in 2013. The Turkish operation is earmarked for passenger car tyres only, and will supply the EMEA region, including Russia. Currently, Falken Europe imports tyres from Japan and Thailand for the European PCR market.

In terms of product news at the Nürburgring, Falken was launching its new Euroall Season AS200 tyre for compact, midrange and SUV models; available in 27 dimensions between 13 and 18 inches, and speed rated T, H and V, the tyre moves into HP territory at the top of its range, with 17” XL fitments for the Audi A4, A5 and A6, BMW 3, 5

and 6 Series and the Mercedes SLK. The tyre features an asymmetric tread with broad shoulders – improving dry handling – containing a wide lateral groove for enhanced winter traction.

Its structure shows high-speed capability through its rigidity – it has an “endless spiral upper layer” as well as a high-tension casing ply for greater stability. Finally the tread’s high-silica compound is designed to improve wet handling, grip and braking performance.

Two new FK 453 CC fitments The continued success of Jaguar Land Rover in the UK market, with an increase in sales and market share in 2012 fuelled by the Evoque and the continued popularity of Range Rover and Range Rover Sport, makes high performance SUV products an important aspect of Falken’s range. To meet these vehicles’ demanding requirements, Falken says it will be providing its Azenis FK-453CC, tyres in new sizes to fit the specifications of the latest Range Rovers and Land Rovers. The size range will now include 255/55R19 and 275/40R20.

The Azenis FK-453CC, its number linking it to Falken’s high performance PCR product, is designed to provide SUVs with increased dry and wet surface traction for a sporty, fun driving experience. Developed, like its non-SUV counterpart, on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, the Azenis FK-453CC features a warp-resistant casing construction that incorporates an additional nylon-reinforced cover ply to further improve highspeed stability.

It has a rounder shape, optimising pressure deployment on the tread area, and the increased silica proportion in the “NURSpec” rubber compound of the Azenis FK-453CC result in stronger interaction with the road surface. Falken says these features result in a 25 per cent increase in dry handling and a 30 per cent increase in wet conditions. It also reduces by eight per cent the braking distance on wet surfaces over the previous Azenis FK-452.

“The FK 453 CC SUV UHP tyre is available in 16 sizes and additional dimensions will follow soon,” UK director Matt Smith told T&A. The last two fitments to be added to the offering (in bold below) are aimed squarely at the Land Rover and Range Rover sizes most suited to the UK replacement market, considering the brand’s current growth in popularity in the country. andrew.bogie@tyrepress.com

Falken uses endurance competition and a development centre at the Nürburgring to develop its high performance products

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Pirelli latest P Zero: the ‘harder wearing’ Nero GT HP segment specialist celebrates golden anniversary of Lamborghini partnership Pirelli has introduced the latest addition to its P Zero family: the new Pirelli P Zero Nero GT. Available in a wide range of fitments, the new ultra high performance tyre was introduced for 2013.The tyre’s headline improvement is increased durability, which Pirelli says it has achieved without affecting driving pleasure, safety and performance. Also underlining the importance of the high performance segment to Pirelli is May 2013’s 50th anniversary celebration of its partnership with Lamborghini.

Taking the current P Zero Nero as a starting point, Pirelli’s engineers report adjustments to the materials, tread pattern, contact patch and sizes available in producing the new tyre. The renewed range benefits from improved stability, road holding, and dry braking. Pirelli says that it has also achieved consistency in driving comfort and noise levels throughout the tyre’s life. The company says the P Zero Nero GT is an example of how the brand continues to evolve alongside the “huge advances made in the automotive industry with bigger and better supercars and increasingly higher-powered vehicles.”

In addition to the wide range of existing homologations, the P Zero has recently been approved as original equipment for the new Porsche 911. It performs well in wet conditions with improved safety in potential aquaplaning situations as a result of its new nano-composite compound that increases grip and stability. Pirelli says the “highest evolution” in its P Zero range is the P Zero Corsa System. It has a directional tread pattern on the front axle and an asymmetric pattern for the rear, designed for both road and track with an innovative racing tread compound.

50 years of Lamborghini Pirelli celebrates the 50th anniversary of its partnership with Lamborghini this year. In 1963 Ferruccio Lamborghini asked Pirelli to equip the newly-created constructor’s first car, the 350 GTV, which launched as a prototype at the Turin Motor Show the same year. Pirelli technology and safety remain integral to Lamborghini’s present models: the new Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster uses a bespoke P Zero tyre and the Veneno, a dream car created to celebrate Lamborghini’s 50th birthday, is fitted with specially-developed Pirelli tyres that carry a distinctive red logo inspired by the P Zero Formula One tyres.

The Pirelli Foundation in Milan hosted the opening event in Lamborghini’s half-century celebrations, which will conclude at Lamborghini’s headquarters in Sant’Agata, taking in Forte dei Marmi, Rome and Bologna. Pirelli says this choice shows reco-

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Pirelli’s F1 styled P Zero are fitted to the Veneno, developed specially for the 50th anniversary

gnition for an all-encompassing collaboration across one of the most important periods of technical and cultural automotive history.

Both this model and the production version, badged 350 GT, which was presented at the Geneva Motor Show the following year used Pirelli’s Cinturato HS tyre: developed at the time to equip sports cars that were already capable of reaching the 240km/h mark. The HS designation stood for ‘high speed’, indicating the tyre’s capability of withstanding the sustained high speeds generated by the emerging supercars of the 1960s.

In 1966 Lamborghini came of age, introducing the Miura, whose tyres were added to Pirelli’s range in 1967 together with original equipment for the Lamborghini 350 GT and 400 GT. The latest models were fitted with Cinturato HS CN72, in 205VR15 size. Pirelli responded to Lamborghini’s request for a revised ‘series 70’ tyre later with a much lower sidewall to improve roadholding, to which the response was the Cinturato CN73 in 225/70VR15, which paved the way for the low profile tyre that would be marketed as the Pirelli P7. This was to be fitted to the Countach, whose ‘Anniversary’ edition was among the first supercars to use the new Pirelli P Zero family of tyres.

Fitments on Lamborghini’s LM002 4x4 saw the creation of the Scorpion range, which used Kevlar in the structure of the carcass. The LM002’s participation in the 1988 Paris-Dakar Rally marked the beginning of Pirelli and Lamborghini in motorsport; the tyre maker is presently the exclusive supplier of the Super Trofeo Lamborghini Blancpain.

Lamborghini’s Murcielago (2002) and Gallardo (2003) both used P Zero Rossos, while the partnership’s marketing implications are summed up by the Lamborghini Diablo’s presence in Pirelli’s ‘Mission Zero’ film in 2007, starring Uma Thurman. This marketing synergy dates back to the Miura’s appearance in a 1970 advert for Pirelli original equipment, whose tagline was: “The Miura chose Pirelli Cinturato.” akb

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TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

HIGH PERFORMANCE TYRES

Hankook’s Dynapro HP2 adds SUV to high performance range Hankook’s most recent addition to its high performance tyre range focuses on the increasingly important European segment of SUV tyres designed for high performance road use. In the March issue of Tyres & Accessories, we discussed the migration of SUV tyres to speed ratings above T; V alone has nearly 10 times the market share (20.4 per cent) it had 10

years ago, and though H (34.5) is currently the predominant designation for the SUV market, it is expected that SUV tyres will continue to follow the trends set by passenger cars. Indeed, 2012 saw a small year-onyear reduction in H’s market share. High performance tyres are now the most important story for SUVs as well as passenger cars.

The Dynapro HP2 is in this respect a tyre designed for this moment, reflecting today’s market.

Presented in sizes from 15 to 19 inches, many of which have extra load markings, it focuses on H and V sizes, with some non-HP T coverage too. In its aims to reduce noise and rolling resistance, it is very much tuned to the current, want-it-all nature of the European SUV market that has fostered the success of the Range Rover Evoque, for example.

Hankook’s Dynapro HP2 entered the market in spring 2013. The manufacturer explains that it was developed for modern all-wheel road cruisers, an aim made apparent in the characteristics the company chose to highlight on its launch. First of all, Hankook’s engineers reduced the noise levels of the Dynapro HP2 by an average of four per cent compared with the predecessor. It did this through the addition of kerfs in the shoulder blocks extended into the sidewall, which had a positive knockon effect on the overall ride comfort.

Hankook used a full-silica tread compound which, combined with the tread design especially on the block level, improves both the wet grip performance (eight per cent) and directional control.

Together with the wide belt package, the extrawide contour design yields a more even distribution of ground pressure for improved dry-braking Hankook highlights the (four per cent) and handling properties. It also Dynapro HP2’s sturdy centre enhances the total tread life. The tread’s sturdy rib as a feature designed to heighten the SUV tyre’s roadcentre rib works to improve handling going performance precision and steering feedback at higher speeds.

OE strategy Mark Grace, marketing manager for Hankook Tyre UK explains that high performance SUV tyres, such

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as the Dynapro HP2, are also a part of the mix that is contributing to the increased importance of the high performance sector.

As well as the Dynapro HP2 the latest additions to the Hankook high performance range include the Ventus S1 Evo2 and the Ventus Prime2. The Ventus S1 Evo2 is OE on the BMW 3 series uses technology developed in the DTM race series, to which Hankook is the sole supplier of its Ventus Race tyres. Building on the S1 Evo, the new tyre offers improvements in performance and environmental characteristics with rolling resistance reduced and handling and braking performance improved in both wet and dry conditions.

Hankook credits its latest generation silica compounding technology as one of the key factors that lead to the seemingly contradictory improvements in all aspects of performance. This is also applied to the Ventus Prime2 tyre, which Hankook characterises as a step forward in all areas compared to the previous model, itself an award winning product.

Hankook identifies high performance tyres as a major part in its continued sales success; the original equipment manufacturer recognition of its premium brand qualities has added to the increased revenue by creating a pull through in the aftermarket. Fitment on volume models such as Audi A3, BMW 1 and 3 series, Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Astra is part of this success as the bigger wheels selected by the manufacturers are fitted with high performance segment tyres.

Hankook’s tyres’ high performance credentials have been recognised by original equipment manufacturers and by independent tyre tests.

According to the company, this OE recognition and independent test success is achieved through a commitment to research and development that includes significant investment in programmes carried out at R&D centres in Korea, Europe, the USA, Japan and China. akb

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10/06/2013 14:43

HIGH PERFORMANCE TYRES

Bridgestone Adrenalin RE002 designed for fun Bridgestone aims to bring high performance to the smaller, sporty version of evergreen mass market brands with the Potenza Adrenalin RE002. The manufacturer describes this as being “designed with the sport conscious, thrill seeking driver in mind, possessing the ability to transform any car into a spirited, superior vehicle.” It has a line-up of sizes that includes 15 to 16 inch fitments for models such as the Fiesta RS and sports model Astra. It is, in Bridgestone’s opinion, “at its best on Britain’s maze of B roads and lanes.”

Communications manager Andy Dingley said that the aftermarket-only Adrenalin RE002 compliments the flagship Potenza S001 and is aimed at motorists who were searching for a more sporty experience: “The Adrenalin RE002 represents the fun, quality end of the market and doesn’t compete with the S001.”

The silica based top compound, high grip shoulder blocks and solid contact centre rib design are all intended to work together to provide excellent dry handling. This tyre is, the tyre maker continues, fashioned to provide drivers with better traction, sharp steering performance and advanced cornering capabilities – distinct characteristics that allow drivers to experience a truly exhilarating ride.

The top of the Bridgestone high performance range continues to be occupied by the Potenza S001, which added run-flat fitments early in the year. Historically, run-flat fitments have been criticised for their ride characteristics and when asked about the difficulties of pairing ultra-high performance with the requirements of run-flat technology, Dingley added: “There are

Bridgestone’s Adrenalin RE0 02 aims to bring high perform ance to 15 and 16 inch wheels

always design issues to consider, and the S001 RFT was no different.

“However we employed new technologies to counter these. Our aim was to get within five per cent of the standard product for vertical stiffness. To achieve this, it was necessary to reduce sidewall gauge thickness, and to do so we used different compounds and sidewall gums, and also employed cooling fins that utilise airflow to reduce sidewall temperature in flat mode. The combination of these measures made the comfort improvements possible.”

Summing up the company’s current high portfolio for this segment, Dingley concluded: “The innovative designs of the RE002, S001 and its run-flat equivalent illustrate what Bridgestone is capable of - effectively pairing high-performance and wet grip to produce a first-class tyre.” akb

Michelin UHP OE deals continue with AMG, Corvette fitments in 2013 Michelin’s supply of its high and higher than high performance Pilot Sport branded tyres as original equipment has continued to yield new deals moving into 2013. The all new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé

Black Series will be fitted with the new Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyre, while specially developed Pilot Super Sport ZP tyres will be fitted to the full 2014 range of Chevrolet Corvette Stingray models.

Mercedes-AMG set demanding criteria for the tyres that will equip its supersport model, according to Michelin. The new Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyre complies, displaying Mercedes-AMG s own certification markings for the model. The tyres are designed to provide continuous precision steering whether taking to the track with cold or heated tyres. They also have enhanced responsiveness , increased grip, heat resistance for more consistent performance, and adherence, balance and stability on wet surfaces.

Michelin says that delivering performance in these areas is the result of a co-development project involving teams from the Michelin Technology Center and engineers from the Stuttgartbased car manufacturer. The project comprised more than 100 dynamic evaluations and test sessions conducted on tracks in Northern and Southern Europe; 1,800 prototype and special

series tyres; 800 pre-series tires; and speeds of up to 315km/h.

The deal bringing the Pilot Super Sport ZP to the Corvette Stingray came about as a result of Michelin’s relationship with Chevrolet at the American Le Mans Series. The French tyre giant previously gained fitments for the 2009 Corvette ZR1 and 2011 Corvette Z06.

The tyre includes features such as Michelin’s most advanced tread compound; a footprint shape designed by computer modelling and analytic tools usually used to predict the stresses acting on race tyres, utilised for the first time on a roadgoing tyre; a new aramid cap ply tuned for optimum contact patch control for high speed and performance handling and longevity; a specially adapted internal rubber compound to reduce rolling resistance; and asymmetric run-flat inserts and carcass configuration. akb

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TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

DRIVEN BY SUCCESS.

s st off road tyre some of the be lly g ra rin ar tu ak D ac g uf in the punish ing and man as gn si ch de su r fo es lli ed 4x4 ra claim ips.

Cooper are ac ccess in world s championsh s driven to su pean rallycros re rb range ro Ty pe .

Eu su ld g r in or w ou om e in in th years forthc so be found is al th n ty in ca e gy sa ag , lo st ormance fe d techno and centre recognise perf ul chemistr y an ho sf w es le cc op su e pe m r The sa s made fo experience. car tyres. Tyre e total driving th of passenger g in is im ax r. tal for m ce for ever y ca and quality, vi the fitting choi e ar s re ty er Coop ertire.co.uk Visit www.coop unity. orld of opport w a and discover

DRIVING ON

HIGH PERFORMANCE TYRES

GT Radial R&D investments supporting higher performance products ESTABLISHED AS a leading Chinese tyre brand, GT Radial continues to develop higher performance products through an increasing emphasis on R&D investment, and, in the UK specifically, with its brand experience days for dealers hosted by the company’s European Testing Centre at Mira. Tyres & Accessories’ visit, where the performance of TBR and off-road 4x4 products were demonstrated by the company’s test drivers alongside the highest performing PCR models that are the focus of this article. When T&A spoke with ETC head Eddie Young, who is involved with GT Radial manufacturer Giti Tire’s R&D operations around the world, he played up the growing strength of the brand in this area, which now has close to 300 full-time R&D personnel. The strategy of hiring ex-pats from premium brands has led to an experienced, multinational knowledge base, which is allowing GT Radial to pursue crosssegment original equipment goals in Europe, where it “is already competing for PCR” deals, according to Young.

Giti currently uses three major and rigorous proving grounds, Ding Yuan in China and Mellatracks in Finland joining the UK base at Mira. Its capabilities are also being enhanced by the latest R&D facility in China, which boasts an appropriately elephantine footprint of 27,247m2. Some significant advantages this is giving the company include a stronger focus on environmentally friendly products, the improvement of production technology and processes and compliance with product regulations. But the most significant improvement for the events of the Experience Day is that seen in the company’s technical specifications and performance capabilities.

The manufacturer’s Champiro VP1, whose largest sizes fall into V-rated high performance territory, and the “entry level” ultra-high performance Champiro UHP1, which has sizes up to 19 inches and plenty of coverage for the W speed index within its 34 fitment range, are together helping GT Radial to supply tyres into the segment. Fitted to the Ariel Atom at Mira, the GT Radials give the test driver the confidence to throw the car around a dry handling track. In the hands of a skilful driver, it feels exhilaratingly fast. The tyres, just regulation 16 inch road tyres, handle reliably according to the driver with “very predictable grip” in the corners. It’s a similar story in the BMW; without the kart-esque handling of the Atom, the driver can drift around corners on both the dry and wet circuits. Again, both drivers praise the tyre’s “predictability”, as well as its grip and stability.

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GT Radial demonstrated its high performance capabilities to dealers from its European Testing Centre at Mira

In terms of characteristics, the more versatile Champiro VP1 has four deep, wide circumferential tread grooves for better performance in the wet; stable shoulder block with lateral grooves for responsiveness and cornering grip; a centre rib to improve straight line stability; lateral grooves and sipes in the tread blocks, improving wet handling and reducing road noise; and a grippy compound.

Meanwhile the UHP1 boasts a more solid shoulder design for cornering grip; four straight circumferential grooves for smoother water dispersion and wet performance; and a highsilica tread compound. These join a similarly solid centre rib for straight-line stability during acceleration and breaking and optimised pitch variance design to reduce noise.

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andrew.bogie@tyrepress.com

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

THE UEFA EUROPA LEAGUE You support your team, and Hankook Tire supports your spirit

The premium UHP tyre for dramatic performance Ensure optimum balance on both wet and dry surfaces through triple layered block design and cooling system.

Hankook Tyre UK Ltd, Fawsley Drive, Heartlands Business Park, Daventry, Northamptonshire NN11 8UG Tel: +44 1327 304 100 Fax: +44 1327 304 110

www.hankooktyres.co.uk

HIGH PERFORMANCE TYRES

More high-performance OE fitments for Yokohama Revolution Motorstore’s fastest road legal Subaru Impreza at the Nürburgring Nordschleife supported by Yokohama Yokohama has been selected as original equipment tyre provider by Audi and Mercedes-Benz for a number of the German brands’ latest high performance cars.

The newest addition to Yokohama’s high performance range, the recently-unveiled Advan Sport V105, has been adopted by both on some of their most rewarding drivers’ cars. Additionally Yokohama tyres were

used recently to break a Nürburgring Nordschleife record for the fastest road-legal Subaru Impreza around the Green Hell. Built by Yokohama partner Revolution Motorstore in the UK, the Impreza was driven to and from the Nordschleife having lapped the circuit in 7:53.08.

Audi has selected Yokohama’s Advan V105 for the new version of both the RS6 and RS7 models, the highest-performance variants of its luxury saloon and coupe respectively. Advan Sport tyres will be fitted to all UK-bound versions, sized 275/35R20 on both models and will be an Audi-specific product, designated ‘R01’.

Several new models from the Mercedes-Benz range will also feature the Advan Sport V105, notably the CLS Shooting Brake. In addition, the new S-Class will also feature Mercedesspecific versions of the V105 - ‘MO’ marked and approved – as will the new A-Class and B-Class models.

Tyres for the CLS Shooting Brake will be the same as those supplied for the CLS, sized 255/40R18 at the front and 285/35R18 for the rear. Those for the S-Class will be sized 245/50R18 and in addition, will feature Yokohama’s BluEarth logo, representing the manufacturer’s reduced environmental impact products. Tyres for the new A-and B-Class models will be sized 225/45R17 front and rear.

The UK distributor, Yokohama HPT, has stocked replacement OE-specification Advan Sport V105 tyres, as well as replacement options for other cars since the end of March.

The Impreza’s turbocharged engine was built with stronger Cosworth internal components and used a Turbo Technics modified turbocharger and fuel additives, sending a conservative 420bhp through the Advan A048s for the lap, despite the capacity to produce in excess of 500bhp if required. The car is also fitted with uprated suspension and brakes, as well as a wide-arch bodykit to house the larger wheels and tyres. Fredy Lienhard, proprietor of Nordschleife specialists Rent4Ring, to whom Revolution sends its customers to for guidance when tackling the Green Hell.

Commenting, Campbell said: “We have a very long-standing relationship with Yokohama and always use their products on extreme projects such as this one.”

Managing director of Yokohama HPT, David Seward, said: “I would like to offer our congratulations to Glenn and the rest of the Revolution team for an amazing achievement. We have worked with Revolution for many years and in that time, have come to understand that when they say they are going to do something, they do it and I am delighted that Yokohama was able to be part of their success.”

The full lap can be viewed on Tyrepress.com, YouTube, and through the Revolution Motorsport Facebook page. akb

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Yokohama partner’s Impreza lap record Revolution Motorstore’s road legal Subaru Impreza became

Yokohama, which has a development centre located at the quickest such vehicle to complete the Green Hell the Nordschleife, has a long-standing relationship with Gateshead auto parts supplier and tuning store, Revolution Motorstore, spanning 16 years. When the retailer built the Impreza, celebrating its 15th anniversary, Yokohama tyres were the natural choice for the project, according to MD Glenn Campbell. Revolution chose the Yokohama Advan A048 road legal track day tyre for the attempt, sized 255/40R17. While the car was highly modified, it was driven directly to the circuit, completed its record lap and was then driven back to the UK, all on the same tyres, fuel and brake pads. A handful of tools and spares travelled in the car but it was a genuine road-going car.

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TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

MICHELIN PRIMACY 3:

SAFETY TO THE POWER OF 3.

EXCELLENCE IN DRY BRAKING, WET BRAKING AND CORNERING IN WET CONDITIONS.*

By choosing the MICHELIN PRIMACY 3, your customers will benefit from safety to the power of 3. Excellence in dry braking, wet braking and cornering in wet conditions*, along with MICHELIN’s renowned performance in mileage and fuel efficiency.

See how the right tyre changes everything at www.michelin.co.uk

*Based on independent tests carried out by TÜV SÜD and IDIADA in 2011 on sizes 205/55 R 16 V and 225/45 R 17 W.

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03/04/2013 16:02

HIGH PERFORMANCE TYRES

Kumho: ECTSTA LE Sport ‘a milestone product’ Kumho is promoting its ECSTA LE Sport KU39, an asymmetric ultra high performance tyre designed, as a product designed for Europe’s top car marques. According to the company, it was developed using the company’s KADAS prediction tools and on Europe’s most demanding test tracks. The Y speed rated product’s key selling points are said to be its enhanced performance, braking in wet conditions and controlled ride and refinement. Its high grip tread compound ensures maximum traction and braking performance, while its specially designed casing provides impressive high speed stability.

The Kumho KU39 ECSTA LE Sport is squarely aimed at Europe’s top car marques

This fresh offering from the technology-driven Korean company is regarded by the firm as a milestone product by Kumho – taking it to the next tier of tyre performance. It is currently available in over 50 sizes from 16 to 20 inches, most with extra load capability.

T

ECSTA HM KH31

Kumho’s KH31 is available in a wide range of sizes from 155/65R14 to 225/40R18.

The ECSTA HM KH31 is aimed at one of the most demanding areas of the European tyre market – that occupied by such perennial top selling models as the Ford Focus, Vauxhall Astra and VW Golf. In a recent tyre test, the highly influential German automotive magazine Auto Bild ranked it third overall out of 14 summer products from 13 tyre manufacturers (including Michelin, Continental, Pirelli and Goodyear), and ‘exemplary’ overall.

In addition to the key UHP and run-flat options, Kumho was among the first tyre manufacturers to supply run-flat tyres for the European replacement market and the company introduced its first XRP or Extended Run-Flat Performance version of the ECSTA SPT KU31 for the Mini Cooper in 2005. This has since been joined by the most popular BMW fitments from 195/55R16 to 245/40R18, which between them cover the majority of models in the Mini, 1, 3 and 5 Series BMW ranges. cja

Toyo Tires launches new Proxes CF2 Toyo Tires has launched a new tyre promising the highest levels of safety, grip and wet-weather performance in an attractive case design that comes in many sizes and fitments.The new Proxes CF2 offers outstanding all-round ability and excellent value for money.

Ideal for medium and high-powered cars, the CF2 utilises the very latest materials and production methods, drawing heavily from Toyo’s UHP and Motorsport ranges to create a tyre that offers exceptionally high levels of safety, durability, and comfort.

Safety was high on the wishlists of Toyo’s engineer’s during the design phase, and this is evident in the tread compound and optimised pattern stiffness. As a result, the Proxes CF2 offers improved water evacuation capability, and 15 per cent better wet-weather grip than its predecessor.

An optimised tread pattern ensures maximum braking performance in all conditions and situations, combined with reassuring and communicative handling. Wet or dry, the Proxes CF2 is a tyre that telegraphs information back to the driver for an involving and rewarding driving experience.

Although the Proxes CF2 has clearly been designed to be highly capable in all conditions, Toyo has been equally stringent

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in its design demands for comfort and efficiency. Low noise and excellent high-speed stability ensure a smooth and comfortable ride, while the clever blending of Super Active, Grip and Wear Resistant polymers offer drivers improved fuel economy and 25 per cent less rolling resistance than the outgoing Proxes CF1. The tyre itself is also said to be capable of up to 41 per cent longer life than the previous model.

The tread features four longitudinal grooves to move standing, while the jointless cap ply and polyester casing promise durability, response and stability. Ribbed shoulder blocks are said to offer low noise at motorway speeds and the lightweight construction is designed to ensure low rolling resistance and noise – only 70dB under the new EU labelling programme.

To begin with, some 45 different fitments will be available upon UK launch, ranging from 175/65/R15 through to 235/45/R17. cja

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TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

HIGH PERFORMANCE TYRES

Motorsport infused car tyres The Cooper and Avon performance ranges With Cooper Tire Europe renewing attention on its Cooper brand, while also upping marketing efforts in general including on its Avon brand (see separate article in this month’s Company News section for more on this), here is a summary of the company’s current range including details of both brands’ line ups.

MOTORSPORT PLAYS A KEY PART in how from three distinct performance attribuCooper markets its performance tyres. tes – an open inner shoulder for wet grip, Continuing support of the Cooper Tires wide circumferential grooves to help British F3 series highlights the company’s resist aquaplaning and an optimised solid ability to produce tyres that perform at outer shoulder for dry handling.

In addition the 4XS benefits from the toughest limits and for 2013, Cooper is appearing in the FIA European Fully Coupled Silica Tread Technology – Rallycross Championship, showing how formulated to give advanced wet grip and the company’s tyres can perform in a tread wear and Optimised Polymer Technology, promoting fuel saving, wet range of conditions.

Sarah McRoberts, European market- traction and wear, while its tread pattern ing communications manager for Cooper, has been designed using Cooper’s prosays of the brand’s performance tyres: ven high performance car tyre technology “Our expertise in motorsport is helping to ensure quiet running. us to build Cooper’s image as a performance tyre brand across Europe, while Avon Tyres High Performance Tyres having products such as the Zeon 4XS as well as the 2XS enables us to provide a As far as the Avon side of things is conwide variety of fitments for high perfor- cerned, company representatives report mance SUVs as well as cars.” that Avon “continues to be The Cooper Zeon 2XS is synonymous with high perCooper’s ultra-high performance formance and industrytyre for high performance cars. leading technology, as A tapered tread pattern, with demonstrated by its grodeep central tyre tread is dewing involvement in signed to provide responsive motorsport across the steering, while shallower tread world.” on the tyre shoulders evacuates In 2013, Avon has water from the contact area for further expanded its improved wet handling. Wet motorsport involvement, traction is also improved by an adding the Swedish GT, optimised tyre profile; a slightly French Rallycross, Time rounded mould balances wet Attack, Opel Adam Cup and traction and delivers long The Cooper Zeon 2XS Lotus On Track Championships to tread life. Meanwhile, the represents Cooper’s its already impressive motorsport flagship UHP offering double shoulder tread eleportfolio. Avon is said to be able ment is said to reduce noise. The Cooper to transfer its knowledge and developZeon 2XS is available in a range of fit- ment used in the production of race tyres ments to suit a variety of high perfor- to improve its high performance tyre mance vehicles. offering.

The Cooper Zeon 4XS is a high perCommenting this on this range Sarah formance tyre designed for premium McRoberts added: “Avon’s reputation as 4x4s and SUVs. The 4XS tyre benefits a performance brand has been built over

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The well-known Avon ZZ5 continues to be popular in the UK

many years, partly thanks to our success in providing high performance tyres for use in a wide range of motorsport championships worldwide. The increasing number of GT championships we now supply with tyres across Europe ensures that our tyres are seen as performing at the highest level on some of the most glamorous supercars around.”

The ZZ5 is an ultra-high performance tyre for driving enthusiasts and high-end sports cars. Benefiting from a newlydeveloped Tri-Arc mould shape, the ZZ5 delivers improved contact pressure distribution handling and balanced tread wear.

An Intelligent Asymmetric Tread Design (IATD) is divided into three fundamental zones; the inner shoulder is designed to give high contact pressures, which further promote balanced tread wear and enhance wet grip, while continuous central grooves ensure efficient water clearance and a wide continuous outer shoulder provides confident handling in wet and dry conditions.

Tested in challenging conditions across the UK and Europe, the ZZ5 has demonstrated dynamic high speed durability and excellent wet and dry performance. The ZZ3 is both W and Y rated and available in a range of fitments for the majority of high performance cars. cja

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

Lean Engineering.

Everything we’ve learned as sole tyre supplier to MotoGP has gone into the Battlax S20.

It’s engineered for ultimate grip, dry or wet. A quick warm up to maximum performance within minutes. And to satisfy the world’s most demanding riders.

Rossi, Lorenzo and Pedrosa all put their trust in Bridgestone.

Now you can feel the way they feel. Inspired. Invigorated.

In control. Riding is believing.

To find your nearest Bridgestone Biker’s Club Dealer scan the QR code opposite or visit www.bridgestonebikersclub.co.uk

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06/06/2013 16:48

HIGH PERFORMANCE TYRES

Infinity introduces Ecomax along with “performance delivered” strapline FOR INFINITY TYRES, 2013 has brought with it the introduction of the Ecomax range, a new high performance tyre with an ecological and economical twist – presented under the “performance delivered” strapline.

According to the company, Infinity representatives have evaluated the tyre at several European test facilities, including IDIADA in Spain, in order to analyse performance characteristics in areas such as wet and dry braking distances, subjective handling and rolling resistance. Infinity reports that the positive results of these tests position this range at a similar “performance level comparable to many of Europe’s premium tyre brands.”

Therefore, Ecomax is said to be “the tyre of choice for ultra-high performance requirements.” And to this end it is described as offering “a winning combination of enhanced handling, precise cornering and offers excellent grip in both wet and dry conditions through its enhanced silica tread compound.”

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One key way the Ecomax range does this is by virtue of wide longitudinal grooves for improved hydroplaning resistance and water evacuation and asymmetric tread design, which supports excellent dry handling and traction with constant performance at high speed. The new range has also been augmented with improved shoulder profiles for excellent manoeuvrability and Ecomax’s computer-optimised pitch sequence reduces pattern noise and vehicle vibration as well as helping to minimise irregular tread wear. Finally, Ecomax’s computer-optimised tread void ratio is intended to improve fuel efficiency and lower CO2.

Infinity reports that the Ecomax will be available in 25 dimensions covering all popular European vehicle fitments, ranging from 205/55WR16 to 255/35YR19. cja

SD International: Pace and Zeta ‘emerging’ brands in the UK Shanghai-based contract manufacturer SD-International reports that both its Pace and Zeta brands have “steadily emerged as a popular competitive option within the high performance markets in the UK and Europe.”

ACCORDING TO THE COMPANY, the Pace PC10 and Zeta ZTR10 patterns are produced in China within a plant that uses European pattern design technology. Both tyres are approved to meet a number of important standards such as ETRTO, DOT, GCC, E4, S-Marking and are REACH compliant.

Furthermore SD International reports that both brands provide a number of impressive features including a directional pattern, ultra-low profile design, excellent road handling, maximum speed response in all weather conditions at high

44

speed plus optimum balance providing extreme performance level, low noise, superior wet grip and ride comfort.

Peter Nicholls, SD-International's sales and marketing director said: “Both the Zeta and Pace UHP patterns are an important part of the company's future growth momentum across Europe as quality budget brands providing superb benefits in high speed driving without compromising on safety and ride comfort.” cja

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TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

COMMAND PERFORMANCE

www.kumhotyre.co.uk To find out more about selling KUMHO tyres through the ECSTA Performance Centre programme, contact: Neil Schmid at Micheldever Tyre Services on 07775 676929 or Bonnie Adams on 01926 816826 For Kumho sales in Northern Ireland, contact Modern Tyre Service on (028) 6632 2299/3025 9300

10393 Command performance UK.indd 1

10/08/2011 15:11

COMPANY NEWS

Re-focusing on Cooper Tyres & Accessories meets Cooper Europe managing director Jeff Schumaker AT THE START OF 2013, Jeff Schumaker took over as managing director of CooperTire Europe moving to the company’s Melksham headquarters in order to take up the role. But Schumaker’s appointment wasn’t a UK debut, but rather a return to the country and to familiar faces. Schumaker’s first stint in the UK took place roughly a decade ago in 2002/2003 when he was mentored by then MD Ron Shield and worked alongside his immediate predecessor in Melksham, Julian Baldwin, who was then marketing and motorsports director. Roughly four months after Schumaker took up the reigns at Cooper Tire Europe, Tyres & Accessories visited the company’s Melksham headquarters to see what direction the company is taking following the most recent change of leadership.

According to Schumaker, a return to the UK was always in the back of his mind but, with Julian Baldwin having been MD for some seven years, it was said to have been something of a surprise when the opportunity opened up in the summer of 2012. Surprises aside, now he’s in post the first move has been the further prioritisation of sales and marketing considerations – something that is being rolled out across the whole Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region as opposed to Europe alone. And this has meant scheduling a punishing 15-countries-in-ninemonths tour of the region, its facilities and key partners.

A

Cooper Tire EMEA managing director, Jeff Schumaker

46

Of course with Western European tyre demand in general down some -10 to -12 per cent year-to-date at the time of the interview, it is not surprising that keeping the sales volumes fluid is a priority to the new managing director. But headline figures like this have a tendency of obscuring the subtleties associated with the enormous breadth of market conditions across a region as diverse in size, language, climate and requirements as EMEA. While we know Europe as a whole is “challenging” to say the least, the UK is said to be in a “flat to small growth” state, while other markets such as Russia, the Middle Easter region in general and South Africa are described as “seeing continuing growth”. Granted this is not enough to offset the weaknesses of the whole European continent, but it does demonstrate the variety of conditions.

So, with such conditions in mind, how does Jeff Schumaker hope to address these realities? And with some of the largest tyre manufacturers considering their European production needs, does volume restructuring figure in his plans?

“Supply/demand is pretty balanced”, comes the reply. Really, he says, it is about rebalancing the company’s supply to suit the complex route market the company intends to serve. Cooper’s Serbia plant is likely to play an increasingly significant role in this as its production

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is ramped up to capacity in the months and years to come. With Schumaker specifically referring to the plant as an “opportunity to get localised” and offer “low cost supply across the entire region.” Of course Eastern Europe as well as the growing Russian market, which has a free-trade agreement with Serbia, are focal points, but there is a wider scope to deliver product from this factory where deliveries were previously arriving across the water; sourcing such tyres locally clearly reduces lead time massively. With this in mind it is no surprise that the Serbia manufacturing line-up closely resembles the products that had previously been sourced from China – namely T to H-rate tyres. The larger, higher speed rated tyres as well as 4x4 products are still made in Melksham alongside motorsport and motorbike tyres. There have been some “slight” changes in output in Melksham, says Schumaker, but this is now likely to stay the way it is for “the foreseeable future”. So, while there will inevitably some back and forth between the two factories, for the time being each has their own game plan. And this is particularly likely to be the case as long as the Serbia plant is continuing on its development path.

Of course this set up, which requires a manager to balance local market production considerations with close-by but low cost manufacturing, is not new to

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

COMPANY NEWS

Tyre manufacturing at Cooper’s Melksham plant Schumaker who has experience at Cooper’s Corporación de Occidente, S.A. de C.V. production plant in Mexico.

Having lived there for four years, there are said to be some striking similarities between this market and Russia, such as credit and currency volatility. Likewise theft and stock security are said to be big issues in Mexico. Are there headaches working in markets like this? Of course, but these challenges also bring with them some of the strongest opportunities. As far as production is concerned, Schumaker offered this sage advice: “In Serbia as in Mexico you have to be careful to fill it with volume, but not kill it with complexity.” As far as brands are concerned, this means Cooper and Avon-branded tyres are being produced in Serbia alongside a Serbian-market orientated third tear Mentor product. And of course this highlights how production choice at each plant is being determined by product type and size rather than by brand.

All of which segues nicely into the conversation on the company’s brand strategy in general.

Re-emphasing Cooper Moving forward, it seems clear that the company is putting renewed emphasis on the flagship Cooper brand, which will be made up of a full range of T and H to Y-rated products in summer, winter, 4x4 and light truck fitments. As a footnote it is worth mentioning that all of Cooper’s US plants had been converted to clean oil technology by January of this year, which

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

means the complete range is now available to the European markets. Previously it was only the Texarkana plant that was compliant. This conversion is a big practical and logistical change, but also means there is further impetus to bring the Cooper brand to Europe.

This means we will see the introduction of the CS-Sport line in Europe in the Autumn as well as launching the successor to the CS6 (which is expected to be called the CS8) in the second quarter of 2014. All of this will be supported by more advertising and promotional investment then we have seen recently.

Furthermore this is expected to bring with it an additional focus on the consumer marketing as opposed to the business-to-business orientated approach of the past. Or in other words, the marketing department has identified that now is the time to familiarise the end-consumer with the brand and this specifically means an inside back cover advertising campaign in well-known men’s title FHM. This is being supported by marketing effort across different media platforms.

The company’s new Facebook page is a notable example of this. Cooper will continue to work with dealers to develop the value of the brand and its prevalence in the minds of those selling it. And it is worth making clear that this is a panregional approach (across EMEA) that will result in similar specific examples in other key markets.

Meanwhile Avon, a brand which is well known in the UK and able to achieve slightly highly prices than Cooper, will

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focus more on on-road and passenger car fitments (including some winter sizes).

The strategy here is one of positioning and clarification rather than any kind of removal of Avon, Schumaker explained answering rumours that this was the endgame Cooper had in mind. This will come as a relief for those loyal to Avon in the UK, where this brand is a clear leader over Cooper in terms of market share and able to bring in roughly £1 a tyre more than its counterpart. However it has to be said that his position is nowhere near the same in the other European markets, hence Schumaker’s summary of the approach: “We are not removing the Avon brand, but will rather promote Cooper”. Indeed there are said to be seven additional Avon sizes coming and investment in this brand is also continuing. The firm has also produced a new Avon Facebook page.

As far as the company’s other brands are concerned, private brands aside, Starfire is exclusive to First Stop, the Chinese produced Austone and Chengshan brands are not being imported into Europe by the company themselves, Dean (a brand that is available in both the US and China) is not expected to receive a European introduction and Mastercraft remains a North American stronghold with company leaving this to importers for the time being. “Three brands are plenty. Too many may result in confusion and out advertising investment needs to be focused”, Schumaker explained. chris.anthony@tyrepress.com

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COMPANY NEWS

Amiens plant closure appears inevitable But what does this mean for everyone else?

Amiens may be closing its doors, but what does this all mean for the rest of the European tyre manufacturing industry?

With no buyers seeking to purchase it, the closure of Goodyear’s Amiens Nord tyre manufacturing facility now looks inevitable. And according to various French news reports, France's government has now faced up to the fact that this means the loss of up to 1,200 jobs.

INDEED CLOSURE IS NOW THE ONLY OPTION on the table after the French Agency for International Investment (AFII) contacted 57 potentially suitable of which just eight said they would be interested. Of these five signed confidentiality agreements and two non-binding offers were presented, but France's Economic Redevelopment Ministry said "after careful examination of the plans put forward," no candidates were in a position to present a binding offer.

"Taking into account the major impact of Goodyear withdrawing on staff and the region's economy, we have asked the company to propose solutions allowing workers who will be made redundant to find another job as quickly as possible," a statement from the Economic Redevelopment Ministry pointedly said. "The State will commit itself to be with the regions and workers, to support reindustrialisation projects it will initiate to save the most jobs possible."

So now, that it appears that the inevitable is indeed happening, what are the knock-on effects of Goodyear’s Amiens closu-

48

re? Apart from the fact that this much-discussed move has made it palatable for virtually all the leading manufacturers to raise the spectre of their own potential industrial rationalisation programmes (read factory closures) when talking in terms of European manufacturing demand/capacity balance, it means a direct impact on total European production volumes in the here and now.

According to financial analysts at Deutsche Bank, the closure brings industry total capacity to 33 million units across Western Europe over the last 5 years. Goodyear’s passenger car and light truck tyre plant in Amiens France had an annual capacity of 5.5 million units and employed 1200 people. But what is perhaps more interesting is the fact that Bridgestone Bari in Italy (which itself offered 7 million units of production capacity and employed 950 people) also being wound down.

Therefore over the course of the last five years the industry Michelin, Continental, Pirelli, Bridgestone and now Goodyear have closed 34 million units of tyre manufacturing capacity in

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TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

COMPANY NEWS

Western Europe. At the same time the industry has built 33 million units of new capacity in Central Europe (specifically Poland, Romania, Czech Republic, Serbia).

To put this into perspective, Deutsche Bank estimates that the Western European passenger car tyre market has remained stable at around 275 million (65 million tyres for OE and 210 million for the replacement market) for the last 5 years.

The reason? Producing tyres in Western Europe has a high labour cost of roughly 8 euros a tyre and continues to face competition from lower priced Chinese-produced imports from China, which are estimated to total around 50 million units in Europe and which have doubled in unit volume in the last five years.

Therefore tyre manufacturers are expanding capacity in Eastern Europe where labour cost are considerably cheaper at around 2 euros a tyre, while closing capacity in Western Europe.

Its about more than just here and there While well thought out and no-doubt factually based, isn’t this numbers-only thesis a little over simplistic? Speaking at the 29th Clemson University Global Tire Industry Conference at the end of April, Dennis McGavis, Goodyear’s director of global sustainability spoke of how companies such as Goodyear are having to assimilated something of a paradigm shift in order move forward in the second decade of the 21st century. The globalised market simply isn’t the linear zero-sum game it once was.

Once global trade, he explains, was all about basing growth on positions in developed nations. It was a question of “make there and sell here” as well as “make here and sell there” where appropriate.

Now, with the meteoric growth of the so-called emerging economies, some countries that were once called third world and are only just ending development aid are in the driving seat. As a result the new mantra is somewhat more complicated: “make here, sell there, make there, sell here, make there, sell there.” And with the “emerging markets” growing at the rate that they are it is this latter point that is

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

Brembo 1Q sales and profits soar Leading brake manufacturer Brembo has posted first quarter 2013 net consolidated revenues of 371.9 million euros, up 6.3 per cent compared to the first quarter of the previous year. Pre-tax profits grew even faster. EBITDA amounted to 47.3 million euros (12.7 per cent of revenues), up 10.2 per cent compared to first quarter of previous year. Meanwhile EBIT amounted to 26.1 million euros (7 per cent of revenues), up 9.3 per cent compared to the first quarter of 2012.

The sectors that most contributed to first quarter revenues were car applications, up 13.3 per cent compared to the same period of 2012 and motorbike applications, up 3 per cent. According to the company, the latter figure was especially positive considering the sharp decline in motorbike registrations in Europe during in the reporting period.

Sales to commercial vehicles decreased by 11.9 per cent compared to the first quarter of 2012. Racing applications also showed a negative trend in the first quarter of 2013, down by 6.3 per cent compared to 2012, due to the decision of some teams in major championships to postpone purchases of components.

At geographical level, Germany, which continues to be Brembo Group’s main market, showed an increase of 14.5 per cent, followed by the North American market, up by 17.8 per cent. However, the fastest growth was in China where sales grew 50.2 per cent compared to the previous year.

But it wasn’t all rosy. France and Italy dropped by 21.3 per cent and 1.5 per cent, respectively. The exception was represented by the United Kingdom, which reported a 2.8 per cent increase, mainly due the positive results in sales of some major UK car makers. Both the Brazilian and Japanese markets shrank by 2.8 per cent and 13.9 per cent, respectively. Sales in India fell by 5.7 per cent. cja becoming increasingly important – wherever businesses are making their tyres, they are paying more attention than ever to the “sell there” side of things.

Meanwhile, no-one can deny that demand has faltered in mature markets such as those in Western Europe and the question of matching demand with production capacity has to be addressed. But closing down factories is not as easy as simply shutting up shop, whatever the financial analysts and the stock markets they represent might think. Firstly tyre manufacturers have demonstrated that they take corporate and social responsibility serious over the years with many helping those whose jobs no longer exist diversify into other areas and even set up new businesses of their own. But in addition to philosophical arguments against plant closures, much more recent history shows us that closures themselves are expensive and bring with them their own complications.

For example, taking Goodyear as case study once again, on 10 April it emerged

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that court proceeding that took place in saw Akron, Ohio Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. being sued by French workers claiming the company’s factory closure plans violated laws of both countries.

Mickael Wamen, an employee, and the Central Works Council, a body elected by employees to represent them, filed a complaint 9 April in the state court in Akron, Ohio, calling for US$4 million in damages and class-action status for the case. The employees claim the parent company interfered with their relationship with its French unit against Ohio law. Furthermore the case was said to have been filed in the US because the offending conduct is alleged to have occurred at Goodyear’s headquarters in Akron.

The point is that large tyre manufacturers may want to close down some manufacturing capacity for economic reasons, but philosophical and practical considerations mean this is far from simple and – up till now – there has often been a creative “third way” out of this particular rabbit hole. chris.anthony@tyrepress.com

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COMPANY NEWS

François Michelin shares an insight into his emotional life ALMOST PRECISELY seven years after Edouard Michelin’s fatal accident, his father and legendary head of the Michelin-clan, François Michelin (87), has granted French weekly magazine Paris Match a rare interview and divulged a glimpse into his emotional life.

François Michelin, whose daughter-in-law, Edouard’s wife, Cecilia died of cancer in 2011, today lives in retirement home in Auvergne, free from every luxury.

François Michelin (archive photo, taken 2003)

U

Understandably, he has quarreled with God over the drowning of Edouard, aged 43, during a deep sea fishing trip.

Everything they’d built up together collapsed all of a sudden. However, at his time of life the deeply religious Christian finds comfort in his belief in an eternal life that knows no death, rather only dramatic changes. Even following Edouard’s death, life hasn’t lost all meaning for him; there is a meaning in everything and God answers all questions.

François Michelin is unconcerned that no family member currently leads the Michelin Group. The question is only whether Jean-Dominique Senard has a feeling for the company or – loosely translated – an understanding of how the company ticks and why it does so. It has always been common knowledge at Michelin that the customer is the boss of the company. And it must constantly be spelled out that nothing can be achieved without people. Over the years there have been many high achievers from outside the family within the Michelin Group.

François Michelin appears to be very satisfied with Senard.

And the grandchildren? Edouard left six young children behind, the oldest of

50

which had just reached adolescence at the time of his death. The children’s mother, Edouard’s widow Cecilia, died of cancer in autumn 2011, aged just 44. No, François Michelin didn’t want a change of direction and he decided against advising his grandchildren to join the company in due course. Such pressure cannot be placed upon young people.

When it comes to French politicians, François Michelin doesn’t always seem happy. He says he was closest to François Mitterrand. Michelin did not agree with everything Mitterrand undertook, however Mitterand made an honest effort to understand things and implement them accordingly. For François Michelin, dabbling in politics was never an option. He occasionally offered his industrial expertise. Very few politicians have had a real mission; many are only too happy to hide facts, and the only reality for them is the day they are re-elected – and they align everything towards this.

François Michelin seems more enamoured with German economic policy, which is – in marked contrast to its French counterpart – successful. And while Michelin usually allergorises so eloquently, he simply describes the current

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French President’s plan to introduce a 75 per cent tax on the highest earners as, in a nutshell, bullshit. Whoever wants to move something needs money, and in industry nothing happens without money. Money should be a servant, but not a master. You need money to make a piano, and without it you’ll never be the best pianist, either.

To highlight the risk that the French Government’s taxation plans may drive very rich people out of the country, the interviewer gave the example of industrialist Bernard Arnault, who intends to acquire Belgian citizenship for tax purposes. This is unthinkable for François Michelin. However, Michelin has also left his country, admittedly in a completely different way. It is many years since exporting tyres around the world from France has been viable, so Michelin went out into global markets.

And has François Michelin’s fortune served him rather than acted as a master? He answers this question in his usual manner. He’s looked after many things but kept these quiet, and not even associated his name with them. This is something he doesn’t intend to change. klaus.haddenbrock@reifenpresse.de/sg

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COMPANY NEWS

Maxxis: Sales have grown US$2 billion in five years Maxxis International has reported another strong year of growth for the 12 months to January 2013. Results from the last financial year show Maxxis tyre sales figures surpassing US$4.5 billion for the first time, up over $2 billion in the last five years alone. The company reports that despite an adverse global economy and substantial investment in research and development, increased manufacturing capacity, its new academy and latest testing facilities, Maxxis has still succeeded in posting net earnings of well over $1 billion.

According to UK MD Derek McMartin, these results are just the latest stage in a meteoric rise for the Asian-based manufacturer: “We’ve been making good progress up the Global Tire Company Rankings for a long time and have been in the top ten for over five years now. In these turbulent times it will be interesting to see how we have fared against our competitors, and where we would have been had we not invested so much on

future proofing our place amongst the elite. Demand for our products continues on an upward spiral and we have moved to meet this by almost doubling our production output.

“We are making good headway in the European OE sector, and I think these figures will have a few eyebrows twitching, and a few of the more established ‘big names’ looking at us as very closely in the coming months.”

In the UK, Maxxis has looked to increase its market share by switching distribution to Stapletons. This has given dealers more access to Maxxis tyres, which are growing in popularity with buyers and sellers alike due to their high performance characteristics, cost effective pricing and the opportunity to make good margin.

Maxxis International was established in 1967 and has developed a wide range that caters for automotive, light truck, motorcycle, ATV, bicycle, turf, trailer and industrial use. The company distributes its products in approximately 170 countries and operates from bases in Asia, Europe and North America, including research and development centres in Taiwan, China, the USA and the Netherlands. cja

Cordenka celebrates 75th anniversary Cordenka celebrated 75 tyre cord manufacturing on 25 April 2013.The company’s Obernburg location has been producing technical viscose yarn under the Cordenka name since 1938. And for the seven and half decades since then its products have been used as reinforcing material for tyres and other technical rubber goods.

Bayerische Glanzstoff-Fabrik AG, the original name of Cordenka and the other chemical fiber companies located at the Obernburg Industrial Center, was founded as far back as in 1918. To create jobs in the Spessart and Odenwald region characterized at the time by the agricultural and cottage industry, the Royal Bavarian State Government encouraged the establishment of an industrial park. Precisely in view of the importance of the textile industry in the region, the founding of a fiber company was ideal. In March 1924, the first spinning of textile viscose (back then also called artificial silk) marked the birth of the Obernburg plant. Since 1938, the Obernburg location has manufactured not only textile viscose yarn but also technical viscose yarn as reinforcing material for tyres and technical rubber goods sold under the well-known product name Cordenka.

In addition to tyres Cordenka is also used as reinforcing material in hoses and other industrial applications. In addition, Cordenka produces sodium sulfate for the detergent and glass industry.

The automobile has become indispensable in our lives and has developed into much more than ‘just’ a mode of transportation. After all, strict requirements are imposed on cars – and justifiably so. Safety aspects have grown in importance through

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the years and advances made in engineering and safety rapidly follow one another. All this has made automobiles increasingly more comfortable, luxurious and safe. Apart from the pure safety aspects, however, driving dynamics, driving comfort and fuel consumption play an important role so that these requirements must always be met – and tyres are a decisive contributing factor.

“A car can be the most perfect example of ingeniousness, but if the tyres are not good, the requirements mentioned above cannot be met. Formula 1 impressively shows how decisive tyres are for overall success”, comments Andreas Eule, chief executive officer. “By continuously innovating and improving products, we make a decisive contribution to car-related safety, environmental compatibility and driving pleasure”.

Such is Cordenka’s reputation that all the best known brands can be counted among the company’s worldwide customers. And the export ratio of over 70 per cent underlines the company’s international orientation. Cordenka currently has 620 employees in two production facilities – a primary yarn plant and a converting plant – in Obernburg on the Main River.

Additional production locations are in Mühlhausen (Thuringia) and Gorzow (Poland). cja

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COMPANY NEWS

Yokohama sales and income down over a third, but outlook ‘unchanged’ THEYOKOHAMA RUBBER CO., LTD., has reported first quar- cent to 5.6 billion yen. According to the company, the ter net sales of 127.7 billion yen a 5.6 per cent decline downturn in sales and earnings resulted chiefly from compared with the same period in the previous year. weakening sales of tyres in the Japanese original equipOperating income was worse, down 18.1 per cent, to 7.6 ment market and in Yokohama's principal markets overbillion yen. Meanwhile net income was down 35.7 per seas.

In Yokohama's tyre operations, sales declined 6.6 per cent, to 100.1 billion yen, and operating income declined 27.6 per cent, to 5.7 billion yen. Japanese demand for original equipment tyres declined following the expiration of government incentives for purchases of fuel-saving, low-emission vehicles and tyre demand was generally sluggish in North America, Europe, and China. Yokohama's sales were basically unchanged in the

Japanese market for replacement tyres.

However, the company reported “vigorous” sales in winter tyres and launched new summer tyre products.

Yokohama projects that net sales in the six months to 30 June 2013, will increase 9.7 per cent over the same period of the previous fiscal year, to 295 billion yen; that operating income will increase 0.5 per cent, to 20.0 billion yen; and that net income will decline 5.1 per

Financial Highlights

Millions of yen Jan. 1 March 31, 2013

Jan. 1March 31, 2012

127,674

135,251

Operating income

7,580

9,258

Income before income taxes and minority interests

9,208

11,820

Net income

5,644

8,784

Net assets

232,306

190,259

Total assets

566,398

514,935

17.46

26.22

Net sales

Net income per share (yen)

Results by Business Segment and by Region

Millions of yen

Jan. 1 March 31, 2013

Jan. 1March 31, 2012

By business segment Sales to third parties Tires

100,103

107,173

Industrial products

22,112

22,721

Other products

5,458

5,357

Tires

5,689

7,861

Industrial products

1,469

1,208

Other products

416

185

Eliminations

4

3

Operating income

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cent, to 13.0 billion yen. Therefore company has left unchanged its previously announced full-year projections for record sales and earnings. It projects that net sales will rise 12.6 per cent, to 630 billion yen; that operating income will rise 18.7 per cent, to 59 billion yen; and that net income will rise 0.4 per cent, to 36 billion yen. Underlying those projections are expectations of a strong recovery in overseas tyre sales in the latter half of the year.

Analysts support case behind recovery thesis, pricing strategy While there were marked drops in sales and profitability at the centre of Yokohama’s financial figures, while tyre sales volumes fell by double-digit amounts in the period F12/13 and while the company’s share price reacted negatively in response the announcement, it wasn’t all bad. Financial analysts have pointed out that the bad news comes off the back of widely experienced factors and pointed to the hope for recovery in the second half of the year expected by many firms.

Analysts pointed the finger at Russia, Europe, and China when it came to explaining Yokohama’s falling demand and highlighted declining market share in the US as well. However delays in the switch to summer tyres from heavy snowfall in Russia and anti-Japanese sentiment in China are also likely to have played a part.To this end there has reportedly been some support for Yokohama’s apparent moves to adjust tyre prices and the company’s hopeful outlook for the rest of the year too.

“We look for the firm to regain lost

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COMPANY NEWS

By geographical segment Sales to third parties Japan

77,273

86,393

North America

28,625

28,590

9,741

9,043

12,033

11,224

Asia Other Regions Operating income Japan

5,689

7,861

North America

1,469

1,208

Asia Other Regions Eliminations

(20)

1,947

(644)

216

(2,402)

(921)

Notes: 1. Yokohama has prepared this information in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in Japan 2 Under Results by Region, North America refers to the United States and Canada; Asia to the Philippines, Thailand, China and Taiwan; and Other Regions to Europe and Oceania

ground in second quarter, but believe challenge for tyre firms,� Morgan Stanley balancing product prices (margins) and analysts wrote in an investor’s note dated sales volume (capacity utilisation) is the 13 May 2013. cja

Yokohama, residents plant 5,000 trees in Otsuchi-cho The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., carried out a "Heisei Forest" tree planting event on 18 May to support recovery of Otsuchicho, Kamihei-gun, Iwate prefecture, one of the areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake. 553 participants, including 160 Otsuchi-cho residents, planted about 5,000 broad-leaved evergreen seedlings indigenous to the local area. Together with guests, including Otsuchi Mayor Yutaka Ikarigawa, representatives of supporting companies, Dr. Akira Miyawaki (plant ecologist) and former F1 driver Ukyo Katayama, 245 people from Yokohama Rubber attended the event, including chairman and CEO Tadanobu Nagumo, President Hikomitsu Noji and 54 employee volunteers.

Otsuchi-cho promotes creation of "Forests That Protect Lives" as part of its recovery plan. In support, on April 30, 2012, Yokohama Rubber carried out a model-forest tree planting in the town under its Yokohama Forever Forest Project. This day's event was the second-phase planting. A new 250-metre extension was created to the 50-metre mound where seedlings

T

were planted last year, and the planting this time was in a 50metre portion of the new mound. Hereafter, Yokohama Rubber will carry out further tree plantings in 50-meter areas each year, completing planting of the 300-meter mound by 2017, the year the company will mark its 100th anniversary. The first-phase model forest was renamed "Heisei Forest" - from "Forever Forest" - so the great earthquake that occurred in the Heisei perio will be remembered.

The Yokohama Rubber Group has been carrying out the Yokohama Forever Forest Project since 2007, largely on the initiative of its employees, under the guidance of Dr. Akira Miyawaki, plant ecologist and professor emeritus of Yokohama National University. Conceived by him, "Forests That Protect Lives" is an effort to create "genuine" or "native" forests that will withstand tsunami along the 300-kilometer Pacific coast in the Tohoku region. Dr. Miyawaki advocates effective use of disaster debris in mounds created for planting. cja

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Remog 1/4 H strip AD

REMOG S.p.A. - Via Lithos, 13 - 25086 - Rezzato BS Italy Tel.:+39(0)30-2593383 Fax: +39(0)30-2593386 Website: www.remog.it - e-mail: remog@remog.it

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Key tyre industry figures – the sector’s largest companies** Turnover Updated 31 May 2012

2012

1)

1. (1.)

2011

Percentage tyres

Euro

Local curr.

2010

Local curr.

27,310.3

3,024.4

Euro

24,953.3

84,1 %

21,474.0

21,044.0

98,0 %

3. (3.)

16,333.0

16,333.0

100 %

4. (4.)

32,736.2

9,665.0

29,5 %

30,504.9

26,046.9

6,071.5

6,031.3

99,3 %

5,654.8

4,848.4

6,930.2

5,767.7

83,2 %

710,2

6,112.4

676,9

5,593.6

604,5

4,840.6

4,840.6

100 %

7,029.1

4,204.7

6,489.0

3,607.1

5,420.1

5,461.6

4,338.4

79,4 %

559,7

4,218.5

465,1

4,448.5

519,7

3,417.6

3,417.6

100 %

4,392.5

2,921.0

4,067.3

2,484.7

3,293.0

3,268.0

3,268.0

100 %

4,200.8

2,822.6

3,927.0

2,536.0

3,361.0

20,719.0

26,477.2

Local curr.

29,661.6

2. (2.)

3,039.7

Euro

2,862.0

17,891.0

2)

5. (5.)

20,992.0

16,364.0

22,767.0

14,210.0

18,832.0

1)

6. (6.)

4)

7. (7.)

1)

8. (8.)

2)

9. (10.)

2)

10. (11.)

3)

11. (9.)

12. (12.)

3,017.1 [Hangzhou Zongce]

n/a

n.v.

2,956.4

2,657.3

9)

2,945.9

2,945.9

100 %

23,928.5

2,722.0

24,511.4

2,548.7

22,333.0

2,803.2

2,761.2

98,5

4,070.6

2,537.4

3,915.9

2,154.2

3,530.0

2,840.7

2,232.8

78,6 %

291,1

2,951.9

320,6

2,721.1

294,1

1,915.6

1,915.6

100 %

15,559.9

1,806.8

16,270.6

1,747.8

15,315.2

4)

13. (13.)

1, 14)

14. (14.)

9)

15. (16.)

5, 13)

16. (15.)

1,821.1

n/a

n.v. 127,946.3

1,821.0

121,532.9

1,385.4

88,677.2

1,719.2

n/a

n.v. 118,701.8

1,670.9

106,370.3

1,322.4

80,804.5

5, 12)

17. (17.)

18. (18.)

1,612.4

1,612.4

100 %

1,456.8

1,058.1

9)

19. (-)

[Double Coin]

1,489.9

n/a

n.v.

12,101.6

986,8

8,886.1

828,5

7,442.6

2)

20. (-.)

1,416.6

1,416.6

100 %

1,820.7

1,068.8

1,487.0

640,1

881,6

1,415.2

1,415.2

100 %

11,495.0

1,234.8

11,119.5

1,135.9

10,204.1

1,185.4

1,185.4

100 %

9,628.2

1,175.3

10,583.6

905,7

8,135.8

9)

9)

4)

1,171.1

n/a

n.v.

1,700.6

926,6

1,430.0

718,7

1,080.0

1,110.9

n/a

n.v.

9,023.0

1,126.7

10,146.2

909,0

8,165.2

994,7

n/a

n.v.

69,852.3

1,017.2

67,829.7

934,8

59,834.7

812,1

n/a

6,596.6

832,3

7,495.0

688,8

6,187.4

713,3

n/a

50,090.0

692,6

46,489.9

598,8

36,416.8

n.v.

652,3

26,400.0

9)

5, 13)

9)

[Guizhou Tyre]

5, 13)

n.v.

7)

n.v. n/a

n/a

6)

8)

614.9

614.9

100 %

1,424.0

587,8

1,347.8

475,4

979,9

2,898.8

443,5

15,3 %

25,237.0

3,221.7

29,106.0

3,021.9

27,196.0

n.v. n/a

563,3

13,857.5

438,4

10,783.8

13,508.2

414,3

17,013.1

349,5

13,618.3

11)

10)

354,3

n/a

n.v.

1) billion yen. 2) million US dollar. 3) Indonesian rupiah and Chinese yuan – amounts given in euro only. 4) billion won 5) million Indian rupee, 6) million Turkish lira 7) million Russian rouble, 8) million Swedish krone, 9) million Chinese yuan, 10) million Taiwanese dollar, 11) million Czech krone,12) October-September financial year, 13) April-March financial, year, 14) shorter April-December 2012 financial year

54

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TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

Operating profit / EBIT(DA) 2012 Euro Local curr.

Euro

2,789.8

1,727.4

285,9

2,423.0 970,0

2011 Local curr.

191,3

1,945.0 1,248.0

983,3

Annual net income

Euro

2010 Local curr.

1,540.6

166,5

1,695.0 1,368.0

692,0

Euro

2012 Local curr.

1,674.5

171,6

1,571.0 917,0

Euro

2011 Local curr.

930,1

103,0

1,462.0

142,0

183,0

230,7

Euro

2010 Local curr.

915,1

98,9

1,049.0 321,0

-163,0

3,073.4

2,596.9

1,935.2

1,883.5

1,242.2

576,0

780,8

581,9

407,8

393,8

451,6

21,7

-216,0

680,4

69,7

486,7

53,9

440,2

47,6

345,9

35,5

256,5

28,4

198,3

21,4

629,7

912,9

374,6

578,1

380,5

623,6

605,6

879,4

310,8

479,6

282,4

462,8

484,9

49,7

238,5

26,3

252,4

29,5

318,2

32,6

105,2

11,6

119,2

13,9

501,6

644,6

283,5

394,4

296,5

392,9

417,0

535,9

208,0

289,6

251,2

349,8

309,0

397,0

117,0

163,0

142,2

188,4

171,0

220,0

183,0

254,0

87,8

116,3

258,5

180,9

n.v. n/a

247,1

n.v. n/a

113,2

115,1 1,008.5

n/a n.v.

113,5

n.v.n/a

86,9

782,3

115,1

1,008.5

258,5

375,4

125,0

192,9

79,5

130,3

85,2

123,7

-21,7

-33,6

-31,2

-51,1

152,7

15,7

118,7

12,9

112,7

12,2

129,0

13,2

61,7

6,7

4,8

0,5

n.v.n/a

61,3

552,0

62,8

550,3

n.v. n/a 220,8 15,500.0 120,7

n.v. n/a

n.v. n/a

8,331.2

415,0

180,0

11,990.0

168,2 10,200.0

87,2

6,126.0

61,0

4,099.0

68,8

4,401.6

76,9

4,894.2

87,5 5,346.6

82,9

5,723.5

97,3

6,194.2

57,9

3,539.8

380,1

222,2

330,9

308,9

169,7

46,7

379,3

8,4

75,7

22,5

197,4

36,0

292,2

10,1

90,9

24,3

218,1

135,9

174,7

95,0

132,2

23,4

30,9

73,1

94,0

41,8

58,1

-4,5

-5,9

n.v. n/a

n.v. n/a

n.v. n/a

n.v.n/a

43,9

395,1

51,7

453,1

n.v. n/a

n.v. n/a

n.v. n/a

n.v.n/a

50,7

454,0

88,1

791,1

121,8

176,9

68,5

112,3

67,5

101,5

107,9

156,7

73,3

113,1

49,5

81,2

66,4

539,6

64,7

582,3

34,9

305,4

33,6

273,0

33,4

300,8

20,2

181,4

37,6

2,642.9

-3,4

-230,0

17,5 1,119.6

28,9

2,033.0

-4,8

-319,9

9,8

625,5

47,5

385,7

31,9

287,0

30,9

271,0

22,4

128,2

10,6

95,4

13,9

124,8

64,7

4,547.0

31,4

2,096.5

21,2 1,290.9

17,1

1.202,0

2,7

181,2

4,4

264,6

n.v. n/a

n.v.n/a

n.v. n/a 60.0 323,3

10,0

n.v. n/a 139.0

43,4

101,0

31,8

2,815.0

297,6

2,689.0

n/a n.v.

18,1

446,2

23,6

579,8

n.v.n/a

379,8

43,7

1,794.3

23,3

973,1

5,9

n.v. n/a

n.v. n/a

65,6

40.2

93.0

30,9

71,9

27,5

56,7

226,2 2,036.0

236,3

2,057.0

203,4

1,838.0

142,7

1,284.0

18,2

448,1

12,3

302,4

34,7

1,423.9

15,3

640,6

224,1

T&A 6/2013 * Footnote: •Calculated using exchange rates at the end of the reporting period •In euro and local currency where applicable •n/a = not applicable •Omitted figures not reported by manufacturer

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

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55

TYRE RECYCLING

TRA uses Responsible Retailer Scheme to ‘extend reach’ Initiative uses garage association synergies to take Tyre Recovery Association message to a wider audience, demonstrate garage’s responsible used tyre disposal to consumers THE ANNUAL TYRE RECOVERY ASSOCIATION FORUM DAY

ce ificate gives retailers the chan The Responsible Retailer cert for and ers, sum als to con to display their green credenti members to convey their Responsible Recycler Scheme message to retailers

took on a different register in 2013, as president, Mike Wilson and secretary general, Peter Taylor set about launching a programme designed to extend the reach and recognition of the Responsible Recycler Scheme, whose members make up around 80 per cent of waste tyre carriers.

Both men explained and praised the UK’s choice to keep its solution within the free market in contrast to many in Europe run through “onerous legislation”, while also talking of the TRA’s strong links with the government, particularly with the Environment Agency, which was represented on the panel.

However, Taylor’s admission that one of the Association’s weaknesses was that it “has not made as many inroads as we should into… those 10,000 people selling tyres on a regular basis throughout the UK” was the basis for a new point of focus: the way in which the TRA intends to attack this problem.

The Responsible Retailer Certificate of Compliance will be awarded to retailers meeting best practice standards by a member of the Tyre Industry Federation Responsible Recycler Scheme. The TRA says that the new scheme is designed to help garages and retailers not only to manage their used tyre disposal in line with industry standards; the Responsible Retailer Scheme also aims to help compliant businesses communicate their environmentally responsible credentials to customers. Also launched was a new website, which will contain a searchable database of all certified garages for motorists and of local collectors for retailers.

Environment Agency advises statutory code Giving some background information on the requirements on retailers, enforcement campaign officer at the Environment Agency, Paul Keay had some advice for tyre retailers in the form of practical measures they should seek to implement, starting with “having a statutory code of practice as a business”. Explaining that both “preventing others from committing waste offences” and “only passing on waste to authorised persons” were legal requirements, he said that retailers disposing of waste tyres should ask to see carriers’ certificates, and keep a copy to be able to demonstrate to whom the tyres were passed. He also

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TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

TYRE RECYCLING

espoused keeping paperwork confirming the transfer of the waste for two years in the form of a waste transfer note, explaining that this paperwork should be completed before the waste leaves the retailer’s site.

Explaining the EA’s action on waste offences, Keay said that his illegal waste site task forces work with around 1,200 cases in a multi-agency approach. He asked those responsible to pass on anything suspicious when it came to waste carriers, and plead for patience after having done so: the nature of the work the EA does in this area means that multiple intelligence and enforcement partners are doing behind the scenes work to investigate these crimes – a process that sometimes takes time.

Retailers taking part in the scheme will receive certification to be renewed on an annual basis. This demonstrates their commitment to the responsible disposal of tyres, while also publicising the fact of their expenditure on the safe, legal and environmentally friendly measure to motorists. It was commented that this will help retailers to explain – and indeed to sell the benefits of – the fee paid by retail customers for this purpose. Supporting that message, the TRA will provide scheme participants with a range of educational and promotional materials, an e-newsletter and a promotional video.

enhance their standing with the consumer: “As a self-policing scheme – and there aren’t many examples of those in Europe, particularly as large as ours – we’re a waste stream that demonstrates, most years, 100 per cent compliance. We can demonstrate to the customer better value for money.”

Taylor believes that retailers are currently not often making “enough of the RRS”, suggesting that there is much to be gained from doing so. Explain to the customer what it is [and] what they are getting for their money… We’d like retailers to educate their staff in the way that they sell that message. As an industry we don’t always do that very well, and by doing it badly, we are missing an opportunity. It’s not a stealth tax; that just undermines the good in our message. It’s payment for a legitimate service.”

Arguing that the Forum day presented a good opportunity to communicate with “some important supporters”, Taylor Motor Codes’ Tristan Holland

Scheme’s impact on retailers After Keay, Peter Taylor explained how the TIF Responsible Recycler Scheme (RRS) helps retailers fulfil the legal requirements: “Simply by using an RRS audited collector, that is your assurance of legal compliance [and acknowledgement of the duty of care]… it should be a great comfort to anyone who has end of life tyres for disposal.

“What can the RRS deliver for retailers? The first thing it can do is enhance your green credentials… It’s an opportunity to build trust with the consumer.”

Taylor argued the importance of this as tyre retailers continue to seek ways to

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

come to believe in it; and if they believe in it, they’ll convince the customer. It’s a three-pronged attack.”

Taylor encouraged attendees to “tell the story of the RRS, and we’re going to do that with some of the materials available. Be proud of what the industry has achieved: we are the largest best practice scheme in Europe when it comes to tyre recovery. We collect, handle and process more tonnage than any of the managed schemes in Europe, and yet we are a purely voluntary body of people…

“It’s about standards, with dealers and manufacturers and retailers… 80 per cent of people that want to do things right and there’s the other 20 per cent who are not sure whether they do or they don’t. But if we can make it 90:10, we will have achieved a great deal, and in doing that we will have made life a lot easier for our regulators, with their limited resources, to tackle the real rogue elements in our business.”

Moving on to the new scheme, Taylor explained that RRS members will make the Responsible Retailer ‘badge’ available to their tyre retail customers, “who in turn can display it with pride and show it to the motorist and their own retail customers.

“The certificate is in the ownership of our members. Yes it is a TRA certificate, but it is our members themselves who will be handing it out. It is dated; it will be valid for a year. It is nominative, so the supplying TRA member will have his name on it, and the retailer, who is a customer of our member, will have their name on it too. It can be withdrawn at any time, just as it can be rewarded at any time.”

Backing for the scheme explained the need to get influencers in the UK’s “approximately 10,000 viable points of sale in the car tyre business” on-message: “Communication is key… I think it starts at the top, I think it starts with owners. If the owners have the message and they believe in it, then the staff too share that message, and they

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The scheme has already received the backing of some major retail groups. Both Motor Codes, the motor industry’s government supported self-regulatory body, and the Independent Garage Association’s Trust My Garage scheme support it, recognising some best practice synergies between the TRA’s certifica-

57

TYRE RECYCLING

Paul Keay from the Environment Agency

te and their own programmes, while the Environment Agency has been heavily involved in the development of the Responsible Retailer Scheme, according to the TRA. Tristan Holland, account manager at Motor Codes, explained his organisation’s support for the initiative. The body’s provision of “a single online resource from cradle to grave for car care, promoting the same car care transparency and scrutiny across the garage sector” chimes with the TRA’s retailer message.

“It’s the Motor Codes ‘four Rs’: reassurance for the customers that it’s a government-backed trading standards institute code, and it has a recourse mechanism [for motorists and garages to seek advice and guidance about any issues they may have]… what it means for the garages is revenue: we are driving revenue to those garages, because they have the good reputation and they can put up the trading standards approved logo up on display and be proud. With those two things, [Motor Codes] is making the industry a better place.”

Motor Codes is self-regulating too, but with the Trading Standards Institute monitoring its performance. Holland also said it was “championing online review culture [and] focused on reducing consumer detriment… We can successfully say that our approved network of garages performanced £140,000 worth of consumer settlement, not detriment; through the process of advisory and conciliation, we’ve managed to resolve concerns with both parties.

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“We’re actively monitored by an independent compliance assessment panel that’s currently chaired by the outgoing Trading Standards Institute chief executive Ron Gainsford. They monitor what we do and it’s robust, independent and very well respected.”

Holland stressed the standard-setting that Motor Codes does “in areas like advertising, booking work that was carried out, staff and the complaints process, and it’s about the subscribers accepting that code and being proud [enough] to be signed up to the code to say, ‘this is the standard that we are adhering to’.” He also explained that if a “consumer feels that the garages are not adhering to that they have the choice of contacting us on the advisory and conciliation service.” Could this be achieved by the Responsible Retailer Scheme too?

Crucially, the links with Motor Codes will mean the TRA will be able to access some of its base of consumers, as Holland explained: “Today is about an initiative that mirrors what we do at Motor Codes… What we intend to do to support [the RRS] initiative: best practice approach endorsed by a government agencies initiative; promoting the scheme to our 7,450 garages, [which] we’re going to be doing through our newsletters and our online newsletters; we can circulate the ‘Know Your Tyre Collector’ survey to them all; allow them to promote their part in this initiative through their profile pages [a high volume of awareness, given the 150,000 people visiting the Motor Codes website]; also ensuring that all of our staff back in the advi-

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

TYRE RECYCLING

sory and conciliation service are aware of the initiative and will promote it to consumers as well. We now have somewhere we can send callers with regards to this initiative.”

Terry Gibson, of the Independent Garages Association, also offered the support of the Trust My Garage approval scheme for independent garages: “[We] created a brand that consumers can recognise and trust. A main dealer can have a Vauxhall badge above the door; an independent garage has the Trust My Garage shield. We’re delighted to be supporting the Responsible Retailer Scheme.” Well established over the last two years, Trust My Garage has more than 1,600 approved garages and Gibson says it is growing by 10-15 new garages every week. A strict application process applies, and “part of the audit includes a check on [garages’ legal compliance] in terms of all forms of waste disposal.”

This year the IGA intends to take Trust My Garage to consumers: “As a trade body, we’re very good at talking to the trade, since we’re all garage people, but what we need to do is to get that message to the consumer.” Its similarity to the TRA retailer scheme was not lost on Gibson, who pointed out the appetite of consumers for green products, and the understanding of the cost of “responsible recycling”, “but it needs to be explained to them by people they trust. And that’s where we get a connection, between the Responsible Recycler Scheme, the Responsible Retailer Scheme and the Trust My Garage Scheme.

“Our strategy is consistent and it’s considered and we know that in the modern world… reviews of garages and reviews of products and services on-site is all about individual consumers now. It’s all about social media… and this is the way to drive the Responsible Recyclers message – and every other message – to consumers.” Gibson pledged to “take the TRA’s message to our member garages through the Independent Garages Association, [while taking] TyreSafe and the Responsible Retailer message through Trust My Garage.”

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

Business and Energy minister Michael Fallon also offered his support to the new scheme’s launch: “This move encourages greater business transparency and strengthens the joint Government and industry fight against illegal fly-tipping.”

Taylor concluded: “As of now, we’re going to extend our reach, we’re going to promote our story better than we have done, of course we’re going to beef up best practice, and we’re going to do that by promoting the badge, and promoting and generating pride in that badge, and making it something that everyone in the retail tyre business would like to have.”

Demonstrated by the TRA’s Christine Joyce, the website certainly provides an additional commercial incentive for end of life tyre carriers to increase their engagement with tyre retailers, while the synergistic support of Motor Codes and Trust My Garage gives the TRA some powerful allies in delivering the message through peer review culture. And certification for retailers is without doubt a positive step forward in the need to capture the consumer’s attention. The success of Responsible Retailer certification will surely depend upon its implementation, the strength of the auditing and policing of the scheme and whether ultimately it helps Terry Gibson of the Independent the TRA boost participation Garages Association in its Responsible Recycler Scheme beyond the level it has consistently attained. andrew.bogie@tyrepress.com

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59

Autopromotec: 2013 show the largest ever Autopromotec 2013’s organisers lauded the latest Bologna show, which took place in May and described it as “the largest and most international ever” .This is supported by a record-breaking number of exhibitors and the largest exhibition space ever – that is 1,512 exhibitors from 52 countries covering a total exhibition area of 156,000 square metres (20,000 of which outdoors). Visitor numbers were also huge - 102,536 attended in total, of which 83,594 from Italy and 18,942 from abroad.

O

Once again Autopromotec 2013 highlighted the strong international character that, over the last few years, has distinguished it. 39 per cent of the exhibitors come from all over the world (a total of 584 companies), with Germany, China, United States, France and Spain the most represented countries. This figure is even more significant if one considers that there was something like a 7.5 per cent of foreign exhibitors compared to the previous 2011 edition and that there is every reason to believe that this year the record in terms of number of foreign visitors will also be broken.

Exhibitor numbers were clearly good. And, as the organisers are quick to point out, the show remains strongly international. And as far as tyres and wheels are concerned, it is the largest show of its kind excluding Reifen. However, while it is difficult to be empirical about such things there was a definitely a feeling of space as one walked around the show. This could be a result of the credit crunch and the market sensitivity to speeding when cash flow is tight. But the organisers pointed out that they have been relatively successful in battling against this. It could be because of the large amount of space the show occupies across all business areas. It could be because of the extremely long show, which runs the best part of a week and across a weekend. Or it could simply mean that there were proportionally less people in attendance in the tyre and wheel zones.

That said, many of the companies that have previously exhibited at the show were in attendance at the 2013 event albeit incognito without the accompanying stand. And herein lies another possible explanation – the Italian and café business culture. Many of the incognito recent exhibitors, along with other buyers and sales people could be found networking in the mezzanine coffee areas between flooers, which further spread out exhibitors. This combined with a laid back Italian approach made be what this writer experienced on his maiden Autopromotec outing.

And this is not to say that there isn’t much of interest. On the contrary, as the organizing company says, “Autopromotec 2013 increasingly reflected the connotation of trade fairs within a trade fair”. And, based on the successful 2011 edition, this year’s AutopromotecEDU grew to 26 events that cover all areas of relevant interest for the aftermarket and supply chain world.

There is no doubt that this part was particularly well attended, as our detailed coverage later in this section describes.

Additional confirmation of the importance that this event is that AutopromotecEDU 2013 also occupied a large area of Hall 30,

60

Autopromotec is still huge and one of the biggest of its kind in the world. But as far as some sectors are concerned 2013 was a battle to maintain this position

where two big rooms hosted the conferences for five straight days.

Looking forward, the Autopromotec 2013, were clearly conscious – it being the show’s 25th edition – of the event’s long term image. With this in mind it ran a Graphic Design Contest to create the new corporate image for Autopromotec 2015.

The contest, organised in collaboration with Youtool, a company that proposes graphic design as a competitive process. 10 projects by 10 different artists were selected by the Autopromotec staff at the end of the workshop stage of proceedings.

Overall Duccio Campagnoli, president of BolognaFiere, commented: “Autopromotec 2013 was a great success. In the future, the partnership between BolognaFiere and Autopromotec will continue to provide a crucial support to the ‘made in Italy’ and the Italian automotive market. In particular, BolognaFiere will continue to act as an international platform and meeting hub for Asian, European and American market players, as shown by the higher number of foreign operators attending Autopromotec 2013”.

The next edition of Autopromotec will take place at Bologna’s exhibition centre from May 20 to 24, 2015.

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chris.anthony@tyrepress.com

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

AutopromotecEDU offers an international perspective Running alongside the Autopromotec automotive parts exhibition itself, the AutopromotecEDU arena focused on offering an international perspective on current aftermarket trends. The International Automotive Aftermarket Meeting (IAAM13) on Thursday 23 May was something a highlight, presenting international operators and experts focusing on forthcoming trends and developments in both the European several strategic countries such as the BRIC area.

On the Wednesday, AutopromotecEDU hosted “The automotive industry in Turkey, data and trends: perspectives for domestic and international growth”, given by Paolo Beltrami, director of Onemedit, an international network of services and consulting providers for internationalisation.

The presentation focused on economic and demographic data of the country that currently represents Italy’s most important commercial partner in the Mediterranean area. All major international automotive groups have a presence in the country, which they began establishing in 1971. The number of vehicles in circulation is increasing, but still considerably limited and there are only 2,500 workshops, which means there is considerable room for growth.

The local government is supporting the creation of Research & Development centres, with a special focus on the pro-

Pierre Fleck, CEO of Europart Holding, offered his experience of working in Russia

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motion of energy-efficiency technologies. The presentation of these data was followed by testimonials by Turkish OE and spare part manufacturers and distributors, who talked about a very lively and dynamic market which is sure to provide plenty of opportunities to automotive businesses.

This event was followed by a conference titled “Understanding the US automotive aftermarket (an overview on trends, tendencies and opportunities for European manufacturers)”, which focused on the characteristics and trends of the U.S. automotive aftermarket and featured speeches by representatives of many important associations such as the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA), with over 23,000 members including automotive equipment and spare part manufacturers and distributors, and the Tire Industry Association (TIA), with 7,000 members including tyre retailers and dealers.

Arlene Davies and Michael Barrett of AAIA provided a detailed account of the US aftermarket: with over 250 million vehicles in circulation, the US aftermarket has an annual sales turnover of approximately 307 billion dollars and is the third largest industry in the economy of the United States, accounting for 2.1 per cent of the country’s GDP and employing 4 million people. Even during the current economic crisis, the annual growth of this industry is around 3 - 4 per cent. The crisis has led to the ageing of the vehicles in circulation, with positive effects on spare part sales volumes. Overall, representatives said, the industry is likely to experience further growth, as is its European counterpart.

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Roy Littlefield, Executive Vice President of TIA, discussed figures relating to the US tyre market, currently dominated by replacement tyres. In the US the tyre market is said to be transitioning towards products that guarantee better performance from a traditional point of view, but over the next few years it is expected that efficiency will become a key factor. Possible restrictions on retreaded tyres and the potential privatisation of motorways are seen as headwinds facing this market.

A BRIC perspective The last of the international conferences focused on Brazil. The event, titled “The automotive aftermarket in Brazil.

Information on the automotive spare part market: distribution, retail sales and repairs”, featured presentations by representatives of SICAP, Sincopecas ANDAP and Sindirepa, important local associations.

Opened by Giorgio Cometti, president of AICA (Italian Automotive Service Equipment Manufacturers Association) and moderated by Giovanni Roncucci (director of Roncucci&Partners), the conference offered a detailed overview of the industry in the country with the 6th largest economy in the world and the fastest-growing number of vehicles in circulation over the last 10 years. With over 93,000 workshops and 38,000 spare part dealers, the aftermarket industry employs 700,000 people, with a sales turnover of 70 billion R$ and a growth of 7 per cent in 2011. Brazil’s aftermarket industry offers not-to-bemissed opportunities for component and equipment manufacturers as well as for

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vehicle manufacturers, which had the chance to meet at the event and discuss important topics such as the new regulations that will come into force in Brazil over the next few years.

AutopromotecEdu hosts IAAM13 conference Leading European aftermarket trade associations Aica, Anfia, Airp, Clepa, Egea, Feda, Federpneus, Figiefa met at the IAAM13 conference that ran as part of AutopromotecEdu. IAMM13 focused on providing companies and professionals operating in the aftersales business some foresight of trends and developments of the aftermarket sector in Europe and a number of strategic countries, such as BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India and China), threreby offering them the

00s turned out to engage with a range of seminars on different aspects of the aftermarket

Italy’s first conference on remanufacturing As well as a number of other aftermarket-orientated seminars Tyres & Accessories has already reported on, Autopromotec’s AutopromotecEDU plenary track also featured what was purportedly Italy’s first conference on remanufacturing. Entitled, “Excellence in material recycling and the industrial remanufacturing cycle” , the conference was introduced and moderated by Il Sole 24 Ore’s journalist Maurizio Caprino.

He provided an overview on the current state and future perspectives of the remanufacturing industry, with several interesting presentations.

As Fernand J. Weiland, president of APRA Europe (Automotive Parts Remanufacturers Association), explained, while the European remanufacturing market has not yet matched its American counterpart, it is expanding very significantly. Thanks to an ever-increasing demand, remanufacturing offers interesting business opportunities: remanufactured components are less expensive than brand new ones, and are therefore the best choice for car and industrial vehicle maintenance, guaranteeing the same performance as new replacement parts. Remanufactured components are not only cheaper, but also more environmentally friendly. Weiland also described the various phases of the remanufacturing process, listing the many components for cars and industrial vehicles involved: starters and alternators, power steering systems, petrol and diesel injection systems, electronic components, complete engines, turbochargers, brake callipers, drive shafts, clutches, A/C compressors and many more.

According to Stefano Carloni, president of AIRP (Italian Tyre Retreaders Association), the culture of single-use objects is being replaced by a new awareness of the need to

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use resources responsibly. In this context, the remanufacturing industry has a crucial role to play, particularly during the current economic crisis. Remanufacturing is therefore a strategic opportunity for the tyre market, as it offers consumers the possibility to purchase retreaded tyres that are environmentally friendly, safe and less expensive.

The conference ended with presentations by Rossella Risso and Marco Franza, Fiat Industrial Parts & Service Marketing Director EMEA and Fiat Industrial Parts & Service Business Development EMEA respectively. Both speakers explained the reasons that led their company to believe and invest in remanufactured components. These include customer satisfaction, the safeguard of the environment and the reduction of TCO (Total Cost of Ownership), but also a drive to increase the company’s market share, widen its product offer and strengthen the distribution chain. As far as the management of its remanufactured component offer is concerned, the company plans to provide specific support to its partners and customers. cja

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opportunity to find new international channels for their sales and marketing activities.

With BRIC countries now boasting important car manufacturers, the theme was that it has never been so important to understand and interact with these markets. Joseph Frank, the former aftermarket director at CLEPA, an association gathering the main spare part and component manufacturers of the European automotive industry, acted as moderator.

In his opening speech, Giorgio Cometti, president of AICA (Italian Garage Equipment Manufacturers Association) emphasised the strategic importance of the event, which provided equipment manufacturers with new business opportunities. This was followed by Frank’s speech titled “The political Framework for the European Automotive Industry and CARS 2020”, which outlined future European policies for the automotive industry.

François Passaga, president of GIPA – the firm specialised in aftermarket surveys with 25 offices all over the world,

including in BRIC countries – then took the floor with a presentation titled “Brazilian Aftermarket trends”.

According to Passaga’s detailed account of the aftermarket in the important South-American country, the number of vehicles in circulation, most of which are of the “flex-fuel” type, is constantly increasing, and so is the demand for maintenance services in the workshop – with clear benefits for all players in the aftermarket.

The second half of the morning started with a presentation by Pierre Fleck, CEO of Europart Holding, European leader in the distribution of truck and bus spare parts. Fleck discussed his postsales experience in Russia, focusing on successful strategies as well as on the mistakes that must be avoided when approaching such a highly-structured market. The CEO suggested that the key to business success in the Russian market is having a local partner which could help understand local sales dynamics.

The morning event ended with two speeches on China and India, respectively by Wayne Xing of CBU China, publi-

shing house and business intelligence firm headquartered in Beijing, and Les Parfitt of multinational business consulting firm TMG Advisory India. As Xing outlined, China currently represents the largest automotive market in a developing country, which is likely to be heavily affected in the future by the dramatic traffic and pollution levels characterising the Asian country. The speaker provided a number of suggestions on how to operate locally, suggesting the importance of collaborating with the Government in industrial and commercial projects. Finally, the presentation on India focused on local production, on the industrial districts where car manufacturing is more developed and on how the component industry is benefiting from the growth of the car market. The vast majority of workshops in India are independent, even though their number is decreasing in favour of OEMs. Parfitt concluded his talk by emphasising the growing demand for aftermarket services. chris.anthony@tyrepress.com

Wegmann launches Perfect Equipment brand Wegmann Automotive – the world market leader for wheel balancing weights – took the opportunity presented by Autopromotec to launch its Perfect Equipment brand into the European markets. Perfect Equipment brings with it over 75 years of experience and known in the North American market as the largest US brand manufacturer of wheel weights.

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For the European market, Perfect Equipment is represented with a customized product portfolio adapted to the local market and offers guaranteed quality for the best results. According to the company, this means a clearly structured product assortment supports businesses in their daily work. Besides wheel weights, the European product line also includes valves, tools and other wheel accessories.

“With the introduction of new brands and new products, we constantly strive to create an added value for the workshop,” says Thorsten Thom, managing director of Wegmann automotive.

“Therefore, it was important to us that we exclusively offer the Perfect Equipment brand of universal weights to provide a solution for most rims and thus cover all the needs of our customers.” All common valve types and wheel accessories are also available under the Perfect Equipment brand. They are also reportedly being offered at a “very attractive pricing” by Wegmann. cja

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A Perfect Equipment branded coated weight

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Vipal gives Nova Prata factory an export focus Retreading materials supplier launches two new treads BRAZILIAN RETREAD MATERIALS MANUFACTURER, Vipal used Autopromotec as the platform to announce that it is re-purposing one of its Brazilian production plants. At the same time the firm launched a couple of new treads.The 25th edition of the show coincides with the fact that Vipal itself turns 40 this year, making it something of a multi-celebration for the company.

All in all the export factory strategy is expected to contribuPerhaps the most important news for European and other export markets is the Brazilian company’s decision to repurpose te to Vipal’s strong showing in key markets such as Spain, one of its three manufacturing sites to focus exclusively on pro- Bosnia, Croatia, the UK and Portugal, where the company ducts destined for international exports. “This is an important reports that it already has a 15 – 25 per cent market shares, decision that Vipal is taking regarding the foreign market. Thus, taking into account Vipal and Ruzi brands.

Vipal supplies over 90 countries across all continents, with we will be able to provide all the required structure to serve with excellence over 90 countries around the world," said Plinio de its main markets being Europe, Latin America and the United Luca, Vipal's sales and marketing director say before the show. States. To meet the specific needs of each location, which range While in-depth details of how Vipal plans to repurpose its from technical requirements to cultural, geographical, and legismanufacturing operation are not year available, speaking to Tyres lative differences, the company invests in developing particular & Accessories, Vipal Europe manager Alessandro Bottesini products for better performance in different regions. “In additiCampos shed more light on the move. According to Campos, it on, we also have our own authorized retreaders, permanent regional teams, and distribution cenis the company’s production facility in the city of Nova Prata in the south of Brazil (also known as factory number two) that will ters in strategic locations to provide full support to international take on the export role: “Until this decision, we had in the three customers,” company representatives said in a statement issufactories a mixed production of a couple of products used in ed before Autopromotec.

Nowadays, Vipal has Distribution Centers in Spain, Germany, domestic market and export because some patterns are used in Slovenia, Australia, the United both the domestic export marStates (one in Florida and one in kets.” The point that because of Virginia), Mexico and Colombia, this internal logistics were rebesides three plants in Brazil. Vipal latively difficult as different proalso has branches in 8 locations: ducts from different factories had Spain, Germany, Slovenia, Australia, to be brought together in order to the United States, Mexico, fill export containers. And when Argentina, Chile, Colombia and you consider that the factories in Vipal Overseas (Sub-Saharan Africa Nova Prata and Feira de Santana and Asia). are some 3000 kilometres, you can see why this is a challenge and why a dedicated export New products factory makes sense.

According to the company, One key release Autompromotec Nova Prata outputs around 3000 Vipal was celebrating its 40th as well as the launch of two new products was the VT160 precured tread, tons a month in pre-cured treads. at the 25th Autopromotec, but the main news was the dedication of the which is especially designed to company’s so-called “number two” factory as an export centre While the concept has been optimize the traction of heavy vehialready, the process of turning the manufacturing sites focus cles in the snow. Manufactured to have greater durability under solely to the export market cannot simply happen overnight and stringent conditions, this tread stands out for its grip potential by all accounts it will therefore be a step by step process. The on roads with snow and/or ice. Besides that, it is designed to be fact that all patterns sold exclusively in the foreign market are self cleaning. already produced in Nova Prata makes this process a lot easier Also new is the VT520, suitable for use in severe conditions and is likely to be one reason why this particular plant was on paved or unpaved highways. The tread is designed to be selfselected as the Vipal export production base. As far as the pat- cleaning, which gives the tyre casing greater protection against terns produced for both domestic and foreign markets are con- damage. Ideal applications on short and middle-distance, it has cerned, the company reports that it is duplicating the necessary dual direction of rotation and outstanding traction. moulds right now, but this of course takes time. chris.anthony@tyrepress.com

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Federal launches Formoza AZ-01 FEDERAL LAUNCHED ITS FORMOZA AZ-01, the company’s latest flagship product, in Bologna. In addition the company display a selection of its latest products and technology including the 595RPM which is aimed at super cars, the 595EVO FRF ultra high performance tyre and the Himalaya ICEO studless snow tyre. At the same time the Couragia FX asymmetric SUV was on show. This product, say company representatives is aimed at meeting the so-called 3H demands of luxury SUVs – that is high horse power, high centre of gravity, and Hhgh chassis. At the same time the Couragia XUV A, a new SUV all-season Touring tyre was also exhibited.

Highlighting the international nature of the event, Federal Tyres also hosted a seminar designed to foster relations and trade exchanges between Federal and its distributors from around the world. According to the company, the occasion also provided a strong platform to officially launch Federal’s newest Formoza AZ01 touring product. During its launch Federal aimed to communicate why this tyre is the best combination of performance, comfort, security and efficiency designed to target European markets. Meanwhile, Federal reports that its sales and marketing representatives were on hand to “communicate directly the value and benefits achieved by replacing them with pleasure.”

Federal’s new Autopromotec stand

Commenting on Federal’s Autopromotec appearance, Geoffrey Chang, manager of marketing department at Federal Corp. said: ”Autopromotec is a grand and growing industry event, and also a great opportunity to meet many international visitors out there to expand and develop new networks, as it is a key part of the company’s global growth strategy.” cja

Marangoni shows latest products at Autopromotec Marangoni Group once again shared a large stand at Autopromotec, probably the largest in the dedicated retreading section of hall 22.

With regard to retreading, which accounts for most of the group’s business in the Italian market, Marangoni announced that important new additions have been made to the Marix range of retreads. These includinged the MD National Grip 3 for regional heavy transport, and upgraded compounds mainly in the Energeco line for long distance applications. For the earthmoving sector, the MDT Recaflex pattern, available in size 27.00X49 for heavy-duty dumpers has been added. Other products on display include patterns for 4x4s, SUVs and vans, representing a wide range that has been

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expanded even further.

Backed by the strength of its Ringtread System, Marangoni Retreading Systems recently released a new line of rings called Ringtread Blackline. The new range comprises nine new tread patterns, mainly designed for the long-distance and regional segments, however without neglecting passenger transport and quarry-construction site applications.

Marangoni Car Tyres, the group’s division that manufactures and markets new tyres for passenger cars, vans and SUVs, all of which are appropriately made in Italy, presented its range of UHP tyres,

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including the M-Power summer tyre designed to highlight the performance features of supercars and sports cars, as well as the Meteo HP, a high performance winter tyre for continental European climates.

Finally, Marangoni exhibited its latest show car, the Toyota GT 86-R Marangoni Eco Explorer, promoted as “the quintessence of elegance, fashion and sport, but also environmental-friendliness” The car is fitted with the experimental version of “M-Power EvoRed” and a special set of flame-red 19-inch tyres. cja

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AUTOPROMOTEC PREVIEW

Infinity debuts new Eco passenger car tyres Autopromotec 2013 saw Infinity Tyres, which has been a regular part of the Italian show during the last decade, officially launch its brand new passenger tyres – the Ecopioneer, Enviro and Ecovantage.

According to the company, the Ecopioneer is a designed for small city and commuter cars in 13 and 14 inch dimensions. Meanwhile the Enviro, Infinity’s new premium SUV tyre, is designed for performance-focused 4x4 driving. The final part of the launch trio is the Ecovantage, which itself is said to represent a new tyre range designed for today’s commercial vehicles.

While these three models received something of preview at the recently held Pneu Expo show in Lyon, as well as at Madrid’s Motortec Automechanika Ibérica, stepped much closer to the market at Autopromotec. In fact, according

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Infinity representatives, these are now production-approved by Infinity’s technical team, and will be available in the market during summer 2013.

Jorge Crespo, Infinity’s European general manager, reported that early indications of the market’s reception of the new products are good: “The initial feedback we’ve had on these three models has been really positive. Infinit y launched the Ecopioneer, It’s been a lot of hard work and invest- The Enviro model is pictured. Enviro and Ecovantage. ment to develop these three brand new tyre programmes and, in addition to rior results across all performance criteEcomax and Ecosis, this means that our ria. It also demonstrates our continued partners now have a completely new commitment to the Infinity brand”. cja Infinity passenger tyre range with supe-

Westlake launches RP28 “family” car tyre WestlakeTyres, the leading brand produced by Hangzhou Zhongce, recently officially launched its new RP28 passenger tyre range. With the introduction of RP28 in over 50 dimensions, Hangzhou Zhongce reports that it is determined to emphasise Westlake as a growing force in the European tyre market.

The new RP28 tyre range covers a wide variety of popular dimensions from 175/65TR14 up to 225/55VR16 and incorporates the latest developments in compound technology to improve traction in both wet and dry conditions. As the main focus of the range is aimed at ‘family’ vehicles, there is also increased emphasis on enhancing comfort and noise thus improving the total driving experience.

With the launch taking place at Autopromotec, Westlake also used the Bologna show to preview the new SU317 and SU318 models - designed to address the growing popularity in the SUV vehicle segment, which will soon be available in over 40 dimensions ranging from 16 to 20 inch applications. In addition, there was also a preview of the brand new SA37 high performance tyre range currently planned for launch during the latter months of 2013.

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During the Bologna Show, Surender Kandhari, CEO of the Al Dobowi Group and distributor of the brand in several key European markets, hosted a gala dinner for Westlake’s customers and partners at the Hotel Majestic Già Baglioni.

Nick Zhou, international While the brightly coloured Westlake stand was difficult to miss in sales manager at Hangzhou general, the particular focus was on the launch of the RP28 family car-orientated tyre Zhongce, declared the company’s intention to continue a rapid pace up. The already extensive range will gain of product development so that even more strength with these new intro“Westlake is recognised as an excellent ductions in the second half of 2013. On product - one which the European market top of this, Hangzhou Zhongce’s continued growth in the truck and bus tyre segis now really starting to notice”.

Nigel Hampson, head of business ment with an annual production in this development for Al Dobowi, commented: segment of over 10 million tyres now “Autopromotec is a great location to dis- positions the company as a true global play Westlake’s impressive product line tyre force”. cja

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Lassa launches Snoways 3 Kenda-sponsored Ivan Basso Lassa Tyres presented its latest winter tyre, the attends Autopromotec Snoways 3 at Autopromotec. In addition Lassa showcased 21 different models, which are marketed and sold in more than 60 countries.

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Despite the launch, the main focus of Lassa stand was the flagship Phenoma UHP tyre, which is said to be a popular choice in sport and prestige segment for upper class automobiles and tuning vehicles. The Competus H/P, Impetus REVO and Greenways, Lassa’s eco-friendly passenger tyre line, were also on-show.

“Autopromotec is a must-attend trade exhibition for Lassa Tyres as it provides an invaluable opportunity to showcase our wide range of consumer and commercial tyres to such a concentrated audience as well as working together with our partners with a view to the next winter season. Therefore we have decided to launch our new winter tyre, Snoways 3 in Italy, one of our key growth markets in Europe”, stated Halit ensoy, director of Lassa international sales and marketing. cja

World Champion Italian cyclist Ivan Basso was at the Kenda Tyres booth at Autopromotec on 24 May. Between 10:00 and 12 noon the cycling star signed autographs and met with fans.The tyre conection is that Kenda tyres is currently the official tyre sponsor of the Cannondale Pro Cycling team based in Milan, Italy.

Cannondale Pro Cycling (formerly known as LiquigasCannondale Pro Cycling) is one of the top cycling teams in the world featuring top riders such as Peter Sagan and Ivan Basso.

Kenda has been producing tyres for various applications including cycle tyres since 1962. cja

Tech celebrates loyalty in Bologna DURING AUTOPROMOTEC WEEK Tech Europe honoured the contribution of a number of loyal distributors who had reached milestones in terms of service and distribution. Plaques were presented by Gary Armstrong (senior vice-president global sales and marketing at Tech International), Martin Blakey (vicepresident sales and marketing, Europe) and Walter van Loon (vice-president sales and training, Benelux) to the following distributors: • Tech Plus Ltd, Ireland - 20 year award, accepted by Brian O'Neill • Cetix, Slovenia - 20 year award, accepted by Tomaz Plavcak & Jaka Gros • Ou Mafa, Estonia - 20 year award, accepted by Rain Riisimäe • Amanda, Lithuania - 15 year award, accepted by Virgilijus Sakavi ius • Colmec, Poland - 15 year award, accepted by Jaroslaw Towianski • Young Automotive, UK - 10 year award, accepted by Daren Young & Carl Young • Boab, Sweden - 5 year award, accepted

by Borje Ottosson Tech Plus Ltd’s Brian O'Neill received a 20 year award on behalf of his company

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Further highlights for Tech at Autopromotec 2013 included the launch of the innovative, new MultiSensor for TPMS and collaboration with some of the world's leading automotive suppliers, including Gaither Tool, PCL Air Technology, Rubberhog and Checkpoint Safety.

Tech International receives E-Star export award

Meanwhile in the US, acting Secretary of Commerce Rebecca Blank presented the EStar award, which is the highest recognition a US company can receive for continued superior performance in increasing or promoting the Tech Europe thanked each distributor for their expansion of exports. The award was presenservice and on-going loyalty to the Tech brand in ted on 20 May at a ceremony at the Europe, adding: “We sincerely look forward to Department of Commerce. Dan Layne, presimany more years of future cooperation.” dent of Tech International, and Nikki Layne,

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AUTOPROMOTEC PREVIEW

board member, attended the ceremony.

Tech International, based in Johnstown, Ohio, is the world leader in manufacturing tyre repair materials and chemical products. Tech is one of only two companies ever to have been awarded the president’s E-Star award twice. Tech was honoured in 1981 with the “E” Award and then in 1987 with the EStar award. In her prepared remarks, Dr Rebecca Blank mentioned this achievement.

The President’s E-Star Award, which was authorized by the Secretary of Commerce on August 4, 1969, affords continuing recognition of noteworthy export promotion efforts. During World War II, more than 4,000 “E Pennants” were presented to war plants in recognition of production excellence. The famous flag with the big “E” emblazoned on it became a badge of patriotism in action.

President Kennedy revived the World War II “E” symbol of excellence to honor

and provide recognition to America’s exporters.

The President’s “E” Award was created by Executive Order of the President on December 5, 1961, to afford suitable recognition to persons, firms, or organizations which contribute significantly in the effort to increase United States exports. cja

Remog adopts new larger stand at Autopromotec Remog Spa invested in a new, larger show stand for the Autopromotec 2013 exhibition, the company said it had arranged the new stand in order to meet customers and demonstrate the latest balancing weights to any interested parties.

According to the company, the main innovation brought to this event were the 60 gram zinc and steel adhesive weights, which come in different colours in order to serve the nascent market for coloured alloy wheels that has long been established in countries such as Germany and the Netherlands and which is now spreading in other countries.

Remog SpA been able to boast of ISO TS certification since 2012. This accreditation is said to allow the company to directly approach the original equipment market. According to company representatives, this in itself will help the firm meet customer demands as it follows “lots requests” received by its equipment factories for quality balancing weights.

In addition Remog reports that it will also launch a new updated website shortly, featuring the latest technology as a means of offering an extra service to the

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dealers. Remog says this will be based on modern design techniques and will allow customers to easily navigate it and find all the information and new products as well as the company’s newsletter. cja

The new, larger Remog stand

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17 Douglas Road, Kingston Upon Thames, Surrey KT1 3PX, U.K. Tel_ +44-7919-222-837 Fax_ +44-208-546-9948 E-mail_ london@nexentire.co.kr

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WHEEL ALIGNERS AND LIFTING EQUIPMENT

Stop driving sideways Wheel alignment offers attractive profit margins MOST MOTORISTS give little thought to whether their vehicle has correctly aligned wheels of not, and for this very reason wheel misalignment is one of the most common defects found on vehicles in the UK. Each year, countless drivers unknowingly and needlessly throw away money through excessive tyre wear and fuel consumption. And all it takes to avoid this is a procedure than can be performed in a matter of minutes…

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Tyres & Accessories asked Pro-Align’s Kathryn Beaurain how many vehicles the alignment specialist estimates have misaligned wheels, and the answer she gave was much higher than anticipated.

“In 2008, Pro-Align undertook its own alignment research, which was audited by Continental tyres.

This showed that 90 per cent of cars measured had misalignment, 77 per cent had front toe or steering wheel alignment and 45 per cent has rear tow or thrust line errors.”

In reply to our question as to whether these figures are representative of Britain’s car parc, Beaurain assures us that the vehicles participating in the research were completely chosen at random.

“They were just cars driven in off the street,” she commented, adding that the vehicles varied in make and model, and were driven by a whole range

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of people, including students, business executives and retirees.

So why do as many as nine out ten cars have misaligned wheels? The key reason is that misalignment, like tyre pressure, remains out of sight – and out of mind. “In the majority of cases, drivers fail to detect misalignment before there is some tyre wear,” comments Kathryn Beaurain. “Yet other than tyre wear, there are signs that a motorists can looked out for; when driving on a straight flat road, the vehicle pulling to the left or the right or the steering wheel is crooked.”

The Pro-Align PR & Marketing manager shares that the most obvious cause of misalignment – and the one everyone associates with the need to have an alignment inspection – is when a vehicle suffers dramatic misalignment through hitting a pot hole, a

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WHEEL ALIGNERS AND LIFTING EQUIPMENT

kerb or other accident damage. “But there are other factors that are less well known,” she points out. “Every day driving and gradual wear and tear on suspension parts will slowly alter the alignment, and this is why it is not always noticed.

Another, and perhaps more concerning, factor is if the vehicle has been wrongly adjusted previously, through not following wheel alignment procedure as set out by the motor manufacturer for that vehicle’s specific model.”

According to the Department for Transport, misalignment on an hgv tractor unit of 0.5 degrees can reduce tyre life by 50 per cent, while misalignment of one degree can increase fuel consumption by up to five per cent. Estimates for passenger cars place the increase in fuel consumption through misalignment at around three per cent, and Kathryn Beaurain reports figures given by alignment equipment manufacturer Hunter; these state that a car driven 12,000 miles in a year will effectively drag its tyres sideways for more than 68 miles by the end of that year if its toe alignment is as little as 0.34 degrees out of specification.

Given its penchant for destroying tyres and elevating fuel bills, alignment should therefore be afforded the same attention as tyre pressure. Or, in other words, it ought to be periodically checked and not left until a noticeable problem emerges. Pro-Align’s recommendation is for a full four wheel alignment every 1215,000 miles or once a year, unless the vehicle has hit a kerb or pothole, had new tyres fitted, the steering and suspension

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components replaced, or if the checks, brake and battery tests. “It identivehicle has been involved in any fies other servicing opportunities for workshops.” form of collision or accident.

Cost is a naturally a factor garages must consider when looking at installing The latest developments alignment equipment, and Beaurain says Historically, undertaking a wheel there are several things someone wishing alignment has been time consu- to branch out into alignment should keep ming and ultimately not a cost in mind. She says lower cost or budget effective service solution. equipment may work, but in general However, Beaurain says that with terms it will work significantly more advances in software technology, slowly and with poor quality printouts. the latest imaging aligners have “Poor printouts mean poor up sell. If you transformed alignment into a only intend to do the occasional job this “rapid, easy and accurate service might be fine,” she observes. Wheel alignment is a highly profitable service – to not only provide but to actively sell.

“With speed and the efficiencies this according to Kathryn Beaurain, a profit level of wheel alignment equipment margin of around 80 per cent can be offers, it is opening new doors to service expected – and therefore businesses providers,” she continues. “The word in should consider focusing on obtaining the market place is ‘speculative wheel alignment equipment that will alignments’ - a business opportunity to generate the maximum return for their diagnose within seconds if a car has a size of workshop.

“With regards budget don’t get hung misalignment problem and enable the retail tyre centre to upsell further adjust- up on the final equipment costs,” Beaurain recommends. “Even if intending ments where necessary.”

Kathryn Beaurain shares that quick to purchase it outright, consider a cost per diagnosis is being made even quicker with day. If a top end aligner was to cost say the advent of a ‘drive through’ solution; £16 per day (based on a five-year lease she gives the example of Hunter’s Quick deal) one alignment and you are covering Check, which delivers results in under a your costs, everything over and above minute. “It really means those tyre shops that is profit.” She adds that those interesand fast fit centres with high vehicle ted in Hunter products can use a calculathroughput can take a preliminary ‘snap tor on Pro-Align’s website to gain a better shot’ alignment reading, before the custo- idea of potential revenue. mer has finished booking their car in. This stephen.goodchild@tyrepress.com is a proactive way to maximise the revenue of the main aligner for revenue generating full wheel alignment and adjustment work.”

What about the future? Beaurain opines that ‘speculation’ and ‘quick diagnosis’ will take on a greater emphasis for businesses and be used as a means to maximise revenue potential. “But no doubt, wheel alignment manufacturers won’t stop there,” she adds. The latest from her own company – Hunter’s abovementioned ‘Quick Check Inspection’ concept – was launched into Europe at Autopromotec 2013 and combines preliminary rapid alignment diagnosis with tread depth and tyre pressure

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WHEEL ALIGNERS AND LIFTING EQUIPMENT

Hunter – the ultimate business partner IN RECENT YEARS, professional four wheel alignment has become a vital and valuable service for an increasing number of tyre shops and workshops. With potential profit margins far in excess of those available from areas such as brakes or tyres, alignment has helped many businesses expand despite the ongoing tough economic climate. However, some businesses’ alignment bays operate at full capacity and these firms are now faced with a new challenge – how to increase their alignment capacity even further in order to propel this highly profitable stream of the business to an even more significant position.

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To meet this challenge, award-winning equipment manufacturer Hunter has developed two alignment systems to help workshops overcome this challenge. Both have been developed in the user-centric manner Hunter equipment operators have become accustomed to, making them incredibly easy and efficient for workshop technicians to operate. Indeed, Pro-Align, the sole UK supplier of the Hunter wheel serving range, shares that users have already described the systems as their best equipment investments ever.

With numerous prestigious awards under its belt, the HawkEye Elite TD is Hunter’s top of the range imaging alignment system. Thanks to an eye-watering array of integrated advanced software tools such as its tools and kits database and ExpressAlign, which help to streamline the alignment process, the Elite TD can conduct a full 14 point, four wheel alignment check in just 90 seconds. What’s more, through use of its patented integrated adaptor and target design this rapid diagnosis includes the critical rolling compensation operation with just one simple roll forward.

The system also features an extensive database containing the exact geometry settings specified by all of the world’s major motor manufacturers, ensuring cars can be returned to their original settings in a fast and efficient manner. “With its amazing speed capabilities, the Elite TD really has helped workshops take their alignment business to a whole new level,” explains Pro-Align managing director Paul The Hunter RX45 Beaurain. “Historically, is Pro-Align’s top of the taking alignment rearange lifting product dings with some sys-

tems was time consuming and inefficient meaning only a few cars could be measured each day.

However, the Elite TD offers such a swift turnaround it significantly increases capacity and with it, earnings potential.”

And if the productivity gains offered by the Elite TD weren’t enough, workshops can earn even more through wheel alignment by also adding Hunter’s Quick Check system to their armoury.

Quick Check was designed as a preliminary diagnostic system and delivers a six-point result in less than a minute. Available in either a ‘Drive Thru’ or portable ‘Multi Bay’ configuration, the system gives workshops the ability to measure every single car entering the workshop rapidly, as measurements are taken directly on the workshop floor – there is no need to use ramps. By pre-filtering those vehicles that are in most need of a full alignment check, it ensures that the workshop’s main alignment system can be entirely dedicated to revenue generating work.

“The combination of Hunter’s Quick Check and Elite TD systems is a total game changer for workshops,” adds Beaurain. “It’s now completely feasible, efficient and cost effective to make a diagnosis of every car’s alignment settings passing through a workshop. Not only does this open up so many more additional work opportunities, the efficient operation of the systems means that jobs can be carried out quickly and profitably. They really have become the perfect business partner.”

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Giving workshops a vital lift To help workshops take full advantage of professional four wheel alignment servicing, equipment specialist Pro-Align also has a comprehensive range of alignment lifts it says can be used to help maximise alignment efficiency and revenue opportunities. Both scissor and four post alignment lifts are on offer, and Pro-Align comments that the avail-

WHEEL ALIGNERS AND LIFTING EQUIPMENT

The combination of the HawkEye Elite TD and Quick Check helps workshops diagnose many more revenue opportunities

ability of both types ensures its customers have the choice and flexibility to suit a variety of space configurations and budgets.

At the top of the Pro-Align range is the ground-breaking Hunter RX45 premium wheel alignment lift. The utilisation of innovative integrated features such as automatic tyre inflation capability, remote locking of front turn plates and rear slip plates results in minimal trips around the car for the technician and a greater efficiency and productivity for the alignment bay. The RX45 is a key component of ProAlign’s Fully Integrated Alignment (FIA) system which, through the direct communication between alignment console and ramp, streamlines and automates the wheel alignment process.

“Workshops offering four wheel alignment will be only too aware of the high profit potential from the service, so it’s important for them to identify ways to increase their efficiency,” comments Paul Beaurain. “The RX45 is a perfect example of how this can be achieved. With many

labour and time saving features which are all neatly integrated, workshops can speed up wheel alignment processes significantly, ultimately increasing their capacity and throughput, boosting revenues further.”

Pro-Align also offers other scissor lifts as part of its LiftLign range, a range the company says provides practicality as well as a sleek and modern look to any workshop – and are particularly attractive to alignment bays where space is limited.

The alignment lifts can be installed on ground or recessed into the floor for further space utilisation. Scissor lifts are supplied with integral rear slip plates and turning plate recesses and have full level locking capability to allow for full functionality of the aligner.

The LiftLign 6402 scissor lift has a weight capacity of 4,200 kilogrammes and features a 4.6 metre platform whereas the Liftlign SF6502 has a weight capacity of 5,000 kilogrammes and longer platform of 5.1 metres to accommodate the servicing of light commercial vehicles

and other long wheel based models, such as Sprinter vans.

For workshops without any space restrictions or for those particularly focused on a lower-cost investment option, the LiftLign range also includes four-post lifts.

These lifts are also supplied with integrated rear slip plates and turn plate recesses along with automatic level locking capability for added alignment accuracy and safety. The LiftLign 40LT51 has a capacity of 4,000 kilogrammes, a long platform length of 5.1 metres and includes an integral lifting table, giving simultaneous four wheel free capability.

Furthermore, to help workshops make the correct investment decisions in relation to their equipment, Pro-Align offers a full consultancy and installation service for its alignment lifts including workshop CAD drawings, liaison with builders (if required) along with delivery.

Full ongoing support thorough examinations and servicing are provided for the life of the lift. sg

Budget laser aligner joins Liftmaster range Liftmaster Garage Equipment says it has increased its range of wheel alignment equipment with a laser-operated budget range. Two versions are available, one for cars and vans and the other for light commercial vehicles. It has also increased its computer controlled equipment range and now offers three models, one entry-level product and two high-specifi-

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cation units. All these machines are said to be simple to use and possess European vehicle databases.

All these computer controlled machines can be demonstrated in the customer’s workshops and the purchase cost includes operator training and access to Liftmaster’s free helpline. sg

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CV Show launch for latest Supertracker aligner Following on from displaying an initial prototype version of its all new STR 210R four head computerised four wheel aligner at the recent CV Show, alignment specialist Supertracker is now about to introduce this latest edition to its expansive product portfolio.The STR 210R took centre stage at the Supertracker stand during this year’s show.

Continental Europe it does have a rather unusual and successful association with Africa.

For the past five years, Supertracker laser aligners have been operating in Nigeria; the company says its aligners’ presence there is helping the country to get “acquainted with low cost, efficient wheel alignment”. Supertracker’s presence in Nigeria is centred around a growing partnership with Olusegun Aderemi, owner of automotive servicing specialist Segmat.

Mr. Aderemi – who is known locally as 'Prince' as he is an actual prince of his tribal community – has long had a passion for the automotive business and in 2008, whilst visiting the UK, contacted Supertracker to learn more about wheel alignment.

He subsequently enrolled in a Supertracker training course; Prince says he made a return trip to the UK from Nigeria specifically for the course.

Armed with a solid basic knowledge of professional wheel alignment, including the theory behind it, Prince then went back to Nigeria and opened his own garage business. He initially ordered five laser aligners, and in the short space of five years Segmat, in partnership with Total Nigeria Plc, has expanded its business considerably; it now operates 40 garage retail outlets throughout Nigeria and has acquired at least 100 Supertracker aligners in the process. Supertracker shares that the company is today one of the largest and most successful garage chains in the country.

Prince firmly believes he made the right choice with his Supertracker wheel alignment equipment and considers his association with Supertracker to have played a significant role Supertracker's 'princely' connection in his ongoing success. “The aligners are so precise and easy Over the past twenty five years, Supertracker has built up a to operate plus the after-sales service is first class,” he shares. reputation as one of the UK's leading wheel alignment specia- “I have not had to buy hardly any spare parts, which to me lists, and although the company has never expanded into underlines the long term efficiency of Supertracker aligners.”

“Our association with Prince has turned out to be a welPrince with Trevor Lovesy (l) and national sales manager come unexpected bonus for the company and also proves our Birmingham in Show CV recent the Jerry Barker at products meet the requirements of the Nigerian market,” adds Supertracker managing director Trevor Lovesy. “He has done an extremely good job in getting our aligners established over there and also is now acting as a 'Supertracker Ambassador' in other neighbouring African countries. There is now doubt that Supertracker has a growing African Connection...thanks to Prince.” sg “We experienced a lot of interest in the prototype aligner from both our existing and potentially new customers at the show,” shared Supertracker managing director Trevor Lovesy. “We are now completing a few final adjustments to the equipment, which will become available for sale in June.”

The STR210R aligner enters the market as a specialised 'budget level' four wheel aligner and, according to the company, it possesses all the product characteristics customers have come to expect from Supertracker, including ease of operation.

Supertracker expresses confidence that the STR 210R will lead to an “impressive profit margin” within months of being installed. This new compact aligner is fitted with a mobile workstation that has a built-in charger, and important features include a customer and vehicle database, alignment help-screens, Linux operation system, 19-inch colour monitor, full colour printout with before and after readings, high speed BT2 data transmission and precision built compact, cable-free measuring heads.

The STR 210R provides seven measuring options – front toe and camber, rear toe and camber, castor, thrust angle and steering wheel position.

It is also worth noting that the STR210R is exclusively manufactured in the UK, including the sourcing of all components. “Our latest aligner guarantees complete reliability and is further proof of Supertracker's ongoing positive momentum in providing the wheel alignment industry with aligners using all the very latest design technology,” added Lovesy.

Supertracker’s STR 210R

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WHEEL ALIGNERS AND LIFTING EQUIPMENT

Hofmann adds to aligner, lifter ranges in 2013

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Recently, Hofmann introduced the latest generation of its Geoliner series of wheel aligners. Two models, the Geoliner 670 Gen 4 and Geoliner 680 Gen4, were introduced at the start of the year.

Both aligners feature Hofmann’s icon-based Pro 42 software, a ‘one-touch’ programme designed to make the most effective use of the information required by the technician carrying out the alignment procedure.

Both new Gen 4 3D wheel aligners feature HD cameras and new-design compact wheel targets that enable accurate real-time alignment readings and diagnostic data to be produced in less than 90 seconds. In addition, the use of 3D modelling to determine each wheel’s position and diagnose chassis problems eliminates the risk of missing collision damage or mismatched tyres and wheels and allows chassis cradles and A-arms to be easily adjusted.

Hofmann points out that the Geoliner 670 Gen 4 and Geoliner 680 Gen4 are also fully equipped with complete and up-to-date OEM data for virtually every vehicle built over the past 25 years, enabling everything from a Smart car to a longwheelbase van to be accurately diagnosed and aligned. Other standard features include versatile wheel clamps incorporating industry-proven grips to provide secure attachment of the target to each wheel. The patented target positioning procedure covers a wide range of vehicle types without hardware changes and no additional adapters are needed to measure vehicles with custom wheels and tyres. Both machines are also supplied with a 19inch TFT wide screen monitor, a Windows 7 PC and a colour printer.

Europa returns This year, Hofmann has also reintroduced a number of lifts into its line-up. The products, previously known under the Europa name, were reintroduced to complement the current range of electromechanical products manufactured at Hofmann’s European factory. The lift range, which includes both electro-hydraulic and the EML 3000 two-post electro-mechanical lift, is available from all Hofmann distributors.

“We have strived to ensure the range of twopost lifts we offer cover the vast majority of appli-

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cations without adding many different models,” commented Chris Pleass, Hofmann’s national sales manager. “The lifts in our portfolio are all flexible in their capabilities and are designed to meet the needs of the UK market. Among the new products is the return of the EHL 3200 electro-hydraulic two-post lift that’s ideal for most cars and light commercial vehicles up to 3.2 tonnes, is suitable for most floors and is available in both single and three-phase versions. In addition, we’ve also added four and five tonne capacity electro-hydraulic baseless lifts that are ideal for light commercials and long wheel base vans such as the Mercedes Sprinter.”

All Hofmann aligners and two-post lifts are supplied with installation, operator training and a twoyear warranty as standard.

Spring Collection promotion Hofmann’s Spring Collection promotion continues and, depending on stock availability, will be available until this autumn. The promotion features a number of special offers for workshops. First up is the Geolite V3D wheel aligner, which Hofmann says delivers fast and accurate real-time alignment measurements and a profitable revenue stream.

Workshops can now purchase a Geolite V3D for just £8,099, saving £3,400 on the list price of £11,499. The 3D aligner is also available as a twin pack with a four post, four tonne electro-hydraulic lift, with front turn plates and in-fill paddles worth £645 included, for only £14,499, a saving of almost £6,000 on the list price of £20,494. With the UK’s pothole ridden roads causing misalignment on millions of vehicles, Hofmann says its many garages make over £3,000 per month through its 3D wheel alignment technology.

Tyre changing, balancing and MOT packages are also available. All prices exclude VAT. sg

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The Geoliner 680 Gen 4

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Haweka introduces Vamag aligner range With a 15-year track record as a leader in laser wheel alignment for commercial vehicles, Haweka UK is frequently asked to supply wheel alignment systems for passenger cars. In January this year the company, which is also well known for its Haweka range of centring accessories for wheel balancing, began test marketing a 4-wheel 8CCD camera alignment system for cars and vans.

Haweka UK says the project “exceeded expectations” and the company is now partnering with Italian manufacturer Vamag to bring its wheel alignment systems to UK customers. Vamag srl is one of Europe's leading suppliers of high quality car alignment systems and has manufactured garage equipment for over 30 years.

According to Haweka, it identified the need for equipment that offers a step up from laser technology and provides the customer with a printout of results. The Vamag 8CCD equipment, the AM2003BT, fits the bill. And the garage equipment supplier adds that because it can be deployed in any location around the workshop, it does not tie up a lift for wheel alignment. The system has a 15,000-strong vehicle database; Haweka comments that it makes 4-wheel alignment quick, easy and accurate, within an affordable budget.

We are also able to incorporate some useful accessories from the Haweka range,” added Peter Spraggs, Haweka UK's managing director. “For example, many workshops favour the famous Haweka Pro-Clamps, whose spring-loaded nylon feet are specifically designed to avoid scratches on alloy rims. We also offer the Haweka steering wheel level, a handy device to get the steering perfectly aligned before clamping it.

Our mobile technicians are happy to demonstrate the Vamag kit anywhere in the country and offer professional training and back-up." sg

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A step up from laser technology: The Vamag 8-CCD AM2003BT

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Flexibility, affordability promised by latest Forward Lift range US-based automotive lifting equipment manufacturer Forward Lift has expanded its heavy-duty product offering, and for the first time is offering battery-operated mobile column lifts. The new FCH family of mobile column lifts offers 18,000 pounds (8,150kg) of capacity per column in a package it describes as affordable and perfect for independent repair facilities.

The FCH4

“The FCH family of lifts was designed with small- to medium-sized shops in mind,” said Lance Jones, Forward Lift sales and brand manager. “For automotive-focused facilities, the family’s economical price allows you to enter the heavy-duty market with little investment. If you already regularly maintain mediumor heavy-duty trucks, FCH mobile column lifts offer many advantages over the four-post lifts you may be using.”

Versatile mobile column lifts are growing in popularity, the company notes. The fixed forks on FCH lifts fit most truck tyres without the need for adjustment, enabling faster set-up. To further reduce setup time, the FCH family’s three lightweight, quick-connect cables are arranged in a horseshoe shape. One end of the lift is always open, making it easy to pull vehicles in and out. FCH lifts feature an automatic steering system and forklift pockets for effortless moving throughout a shop or across any concrete surface.

With a full charge in its two marine batteries, an FCHseries lift can complete 12 to 14 lifting cycles. Since it is battery powered, there are no other cords to clutter the floor of the service bay. “A heavy-duty mobile column lift opens up a lot of opportunities to increase revenue,” added Jones. “It is versatile, there are no installation costs and the lift takes up very little space when not in use.”

Forward Lift FCH mobile columns can be ordered in sets of four, six and eight columns. Each configuration has been third-party tested by ETL and ALI certified to meet ANSI safety and performance standards. sg

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WHEEL ALIGNERS AND LIFTING EQUIPMENT

An alignment audit in under a minute with John Bean WITH THE NEW JOHN BEAN ALIGNMENT AUDIT SYSTEM, service technicians or advisors can conduct fast and easy wheel alignment audits, and produce complete colour-coded reports in approximately 60 seconds using the system. The easy to read, customer focused reports are promoted as a tool for increasing shop productivity and easing the sales process.

“The John Bean Alignment Audit System significantly improves shop efficiency as any service technician or advisor can perform a fast and easy wheel alignment audit in under a minute,” said Jon LaRue, director, product management for Snap-on Equipment. “The unique colour-coded reports empower service advisors, helping them sell services that might normally go unnoticed.”

The John Bean system uses live, computerised 3D modelling and high-resolution cameras, coupled with an extensive database of vehicle information to provide fast and accurate alignment audits under an

array of working conditions. It works with the recently-introduced AC400 Touchless Alignment Wheel Clamps – a product Snap-on Equipment describes as “fast and easy to use”. The AC400 has a lightweight and durable patented design that Snap-on Equipment says “eliminates the opportunity for wheel damage while offering ease of use and increased productivity.”

The clutch limited-clamping force of the John Bean AC400 Touchless Alignment Wheel Clamp ensures consistent and secure attachment, the manufacturer adds.

With its patented, self-centring design, the John Bean AC400 allows measurement of

cross-diagonal and tyre-rolling radius that helps to reveal collision damage and mismatched tyre sizes. Featuring a drop-tested, lightweight cast magnesium construction, the AC400 eases the weight users have to carry. The AC400 also features a large, comfortable handle which is simple to operate and accommodates gloved hands.

“The John Bean Touchless Alignment Wheel Clamp is unique in the marketplace because it allows the user to securely clamp to the tyre without touching the rim while still giving them accurate and highly repeatable results,” commented LaRue. sg

Promotion ad

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WHEEL ALIGNERS AND LIFTING EQUIPMENT

An alignment audit in under a minute with John Bean WITH THE NEW JOHN BEAN ALIGNMENT AUDIT SYSTEM, service technicians or advisors can conduct fast and easy wheel alignment audits, and produce complete colour-coded reports in approximately 60 seconds using the system. The easy to read, customer focused reports are promoted as a tool for increasing shop productivity and easing the sales process.

“The John Bean Alignment Audit System array of working conditions. It works with significantly improves shop efficiency as the recently-introduced AC400 Touchless any service technician or advisor can per- Alignment Wheel Clamps – a product form a fast and easy wheel alignment audit Snap-on Equipment describes as “fast and in under a minute,” said Jon LaRue, easy to use”. The AC400 has a lightweight director, product management for Snap-on and durable patented design that Snap-on Equipment. “The unique colour-coded Equipment says “eliminates the opportunireports empower service advisors, helping ty for wheel damage while offering ease of them sell services that might normally go use and increased productivity.”

The clutch limited-clamping force of the unnoticed.”

The John Bean system uses live, com- John Bean AC400 Touchless Alignment puterised 3D modelling and high-resolution Wheel Clamp ensures consistent and cameras, coupled with an extensive data- secure attachment, the manufacturer adds. base of vehicle information to provide fast With its patented, self-centring design, the ProAlign Discoveralignment T&A 190 x 135 FINAL 27/02/2013 08:53 Page 1 Bean AC400 allows measurement of and accurate audits under an John

cross-diagonal and tyre-rolling radius that helps to reveal collision damage and mismatched tyre sizes. Featuring a drop-tested, lightweight cast magnesium construction, the AC400 eases the weight users have to carry. The AC400 also features a large, comfortable handle which is simple to operate and accommodates gloved hands.

“The John Bean Touchless Alignment Wheel Clamp is unique in the marketplace because it allows the user to securely clamp to the tyre without touching the rim while still giving them accurate and highly repeatable results,” commented LaRue. sg

Measure MORE ...

With effortless, rapid measurement and diagnosis times, makes speculative alignment checks on every car a reality.

Adjust MORE ...

More misalignment diagnosis means an increase in adjustments and undercar servicing opportunities.

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Earn Much MORE

97% *of all workshops with the Hunter’s Elite TD aligner are earning much more than they did previously. Most are seeing a leap in alignment productivity, return on investment (some from as little as 3 months) and it’s profit rewards.

* Data taken from telephone poll of Hunter Elite TD retail workshops - Jan 2013

Discover your workshops profit potential the Hunter Wise way: www.pro-align.co.uk/earnmore.

Call us today and make your vision reality!!

0845 269 3008 TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

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07/06/2013 14:00

MOTORSPORT

Formula One teams, Pirelli moving slowly to 2013 tyre compromise After “too many” pit stops at Spanish Grand Prix, the exclusive tyre supplier is trying to hold onto its F1 philosophy with tweaked 2013 constructions; but arguments over controversial tyre tests have not helped matters It is fair to say the past couple of months have been eventful for Pirelli’s Motorsport director, Paul Hembery. In conversation with Detlef Vogt, editor on Tyres & Accessories’ sister magazine Neue Reifenzeitung, he defended Pirelli’s approach to its Formula One tyre specifications – something of an early season ritual during the exclusive tyre supplier’s three-year F1 tenure. Then conditions in Barcelona at the Spanish grand prix clashed with the intended two-three pit stop strategies for which the 2013 P Zero F1 range was developed, and a change of tack became necessary on Hembery’s part – Pirelli would supply new specification rear tyres, with performance pitched somewhere between the 2012 and 2013 tyres and a focus on preventing the occurrences of tread delamination caused by track debris, starting at the Canadian grand prix. This did not satisfy all of the teams, whose consent Pirelli depended upon in order to alter this season’s tyre specifications.

Currently the tyre supplier has agreed to supply the proposed new rear tyres to all teams during Friday practice in Canada, with the intention of integrating the newer tyres into the 2013 range at the British grand prix – subject to the unanimous consent of all F1 teams.

Another difficult situation arose during this process as some teams’ hackles were raised by the revelation during the Monaco grand prix that Mercedes, and earlier in the season Ferrari, had undertaken 1,000km tyre tests with their 2013 cars and drivers. This forced Pirelli to host a conference call, clarifying that these were preliminary tests for 2014’s tyres, with the data for the Italian manufacturer’s eyes only. Pirelli – or any other tyre manufacturer – has yet to sign an agreement beyond 2013, which has led to Hembery warning of the inherent difficulties of developing a tyre to perform as the series desires to an ever-tightening deadline. One leading candidate to replace Pirelli in F1 has already ruled itself out for 2014 as a result of this short development time. If Pirelli is to stay in F1 in 2014, the tyre supplier also gave the first indication of how its current philosophy – explained at length in the following interview – could evolve.

While Red Bull remain on top in both the Constructors’ and Drivers’ Championship, the team remains critical of Pirelli’s 2013 tyres

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MOTORSPORT

“We don’t make concessions to one or two teams” On the eve of the tyre controversy’s major action, Paul Hembery restated Pirelli’s Formula One tyre philosophy in more detail in interview with Tyres & Accessories, addressing concerns raised by certain teams that the 2013 tyres had made tyre management too large a focus of this season, and explained why the company is “not in the sport to be thanked or loved” .

Why are this year’s races this year would be dry tyres the way they are? Who dictated one-stop races!” the performance characteristics they As the previous two should have? seasons have gone on, tyre Paul Hembery: “When we came into the talk has calmed down. Is sport in 2011 it was with a clear brief from this because Pirelli makes the championship promoter and the concessions towards its teams to build tyres that degrade faster criticisers and changes the and thus make sure that there is an ave- way the tyres are, or is it rage of two to three pit stops per race rather because the F1 and car. This request was actually based teams learn how best to on the Canadian Grand Prix 2010 where use the tyres? the tyres provided for more pit stops than usual. The fans and the teams liked it and Paul Hembery: “These are thus the request was born. Also in our the world’s best drivers and third year this brief has not changed. engineers, so as the seaHowever, as Formula One cars develop at son goes on, the teams Paul Hembery an incredible pace, our tyres need to evol- learn more and more how to ve too. This means that for the start of use the tyres in the best possible way for each season we had to develop our tyres their car. It is also important to know that a little more so that there would still be we provide the same tyres and service to two to three pit stops. So this year’s tyres all 11 teams, no exception. Consequently, are a logical evolution from last year’s and we don’t make concessions to one or the year before.” two teams, just because they shout the loudest. We only make changes to our Pirelli has faced criticism at the tyres when we feel that these changes start of each season – not just 2013. Why would improve the way the tyres work for is this? all, not just for one or two, and we have done so this year with the hard comPaul Hembery: “Each team develops a pound which, starting from the Spanish new car for the start of the season. Grand Prix, has a wider temperature opeSometimes these changes are very noti- rating window.” ceable due to a new set of technical reguA well-known German former lations like in 2012, sometimes they are less. But in each case the tyres have to racing driver recently mentioned the develop as well in order to continue to safety aspect in his reasoning and said he give a challenge to the teams and to have feared that F1 tyres at high speed might two to three pit stops. Then, as the sea- literally explode. Is there a point when son goes on the drivers and engineers the criticism becomes personal or unfair? understand our tyres better and how they need to set up the car to get the best Paul Hembery: “Well, we already had results. This point is usually reached by vocal criticism from German drivers in the about half-season and this year won’t be past, but both are Formula One world any different. So, if we had continued to champions and know what they are taluse the same tyres of 2012, many of the king about. In particular, when

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

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Schumacher voiced his criticism about our tyres last year we sat down with him and looked at all sides of the issue. And we came to the conclusion that, even though we respected his opinion, it was a philosophical difference of opinion on the approach. So we could do nothing to help him in particular as the majority of teams and drivers wanted no change.

Regarding the safety aspect that this former racing driver brought up I can assure you that our tyres present no safety issue and since our return to Formula One in 2011 we have not had one single structural tyre failure. Zero! Event Hamilton’s tyre failure in Bahrain which looked quite spectacular was not due to a structural tyre issue but to an external factor, in this case debris on the track.”

Sometimes you hear that the necessity of managing the tyres is in conflict with the common sense racing view that the fastest driver should win. Would this consequently mean that the role of the tyres in F1 has become too important?

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MOTORSPORT

Paul Hembery: “Historically, drivers managed the tyres and the brakes and had to use a gearstick. If drivers can influence the performance, then it is a skill. Great champions like Prost, the ‘professor’, were known for these skills. So are current drivers less able? In the past we very often had races that resembled more a procession than a race. You could watch the start, then literally have your Sunday afternoon nap, wake up and there would be no change in the race order. If this is what people want, no problem. We can produce tyres that last a race or more. And as soon as all teams come to us to say unanimously that they would like tyres that don’t degrade, we’ll do that. However, for now the feedback we get from individual teams is rather not to change anything!”

When a race goes badly, drivers, teams and also commentators put the blame on the tyres. But winning a place on the podium is down to the driver or his car. Do you feel unfairly treated?

Paul Hembery: “We are not in Formula One to be thanked or loved. Formula One is a sport but in the end it is also a business. Pirelli is in Formula One because it suits our business model. Like everywhere else in life, it is impossible to make everybody happy but quite frankly that is not our purpose either. We just concentrate on providing tyres that fulfill the brief and are safe to drive at all times.

Also remember that the winning car had exactly the same tyres as the others.”

There are people who say that negative criticism is still better than not being talked about at all. Is this also true for F1 tyres? One might start to think that Pirelli produces tyres that degrade in order to be talked about.

Paul Hembery: “As I said before, Formula One for us is a business and must therefore make sense from a business point of view. What has usually happened in the past is that people only talked about tyres when there was a serious problem, look at Indianapolis 2005 for example. If you provide tyres that ‘just do

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their job’ nobody will know you are there.

This is not what we wanted. So the brief from the teams to create degrading tyres for us also made sense from a business point of view as it keeps us as a talking point. And as long as there is no safety issue which there isn’t, I’ll repeat that once more, we are happy to provide discussion points for those who say our tyres have spiced up the racing and those who say that drivers can’t race anymore.”

People always say that the development of racing tyres also goes into the development of road car tyres. When looking at the careers of some F1 engineers in recent years you might get the impression that a highly qualified F1 tyre engineer has little to contribute to the development of road car tyres.

Paul Hembery: “I don’t know which engineers you are referring to but I can assure you that the data we get from Formula One benefit our road tyre production.

Today, many industry standards that are common, such as low-profile tyres for example, are the result of innovations that we introduced into motorsport in the past. The low profile tyre is something that we came up with for asphalt rallying in the 1970s. And we look on Formula One as being our very biggest research and development laborat-ory, with all the grand prix circuits that we race on forming the ultimate test track. So it’s clear to see how the sheer extremes that our tyres go through can help us gather information to produce the best road car tyres. We recently launched the P Zero Silver road tyre as well as the Cinturato Blue, which is based on Formula One know-how, and this technology transfer will only increase in the future.”

these get collected again from the teams at the end of the weekend and get recycled at a special recycling facility in the UK. Also, for example in our motorsport factory in Izmit, Turkey, we use advance production processes based on energy and water efficiency and the reduction of dangerous emissions like carbon dioxide.

Pirelli has always been a pioneer in new technology, for example we eliminated aromatic oils from all elements of our tyre production processes long before legislation demanded it. There are many more examples how we respect and protect the environment as a company and Pirelli has been the leading company in the ‘Autoparts and Tyre’ sector of the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index for six consecutive years now.”

Pirelli is clearly positioned as a premium brand. Does the F1 commitment support your colleagues who position Pirelli on cars as standard equipment or for aftermarket sales?

Paul Hembery: “Absolutely, Formula One is a perfect match for us and is a motor in all areas of our activities. We’re the acknowledged world leader in Ultra High Performance tyres, so Formula One fits in perfectly with our sporting philosophy and emphasis on the very highest levels of tyre technology. For all those reasons, we wanted to be involved and we believe that so far we’ve seen a good return on our investment with an increased level of brand recognition.”

Mr Hembery, thank you for your answers and we wish Pirelli, and by extension all of us, an excellent 2013 season.

Obviously environmental characteristics play a more and more important role in tyres now. How does motorsport Spanish grand prix’s contribute to this characteristic and what 79 stops role does the environment play with regards to F1 tyres specifically?

The Spanish grand prix, won in style by home favourite Fernando Alonso (Ferrari), Paul Hembery: “We bring about 1,800 witnessed 79 pit stops as the majority of tyres to each F1 race weekend and all of drivers – including Alonso – opted to take

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MOTORSPORT

four. Pirelli’s strategy remains to produce tyres designed for two or three stops over the course of the race. Kimi Raikkonen (Lotus), who is having arguably the most impressive season so far, was the most successful of the six drivers to remain within these guidelines in Spain, finishing second within 10 seconds of Alonso.

Following the race, Hembery conceded that the tyre supplier would consider changing the tyres on the basis that he considers four stops “too many”.

However, he also said that the Spanish Grand Prix provides “very demanding” conditions for the tyres “because of the unique characteristics of this circuit… which should not be seen again to this extent for the rest of the year. We’ll be looking to make some changes, in time for Silverstone, to make sure that we maintain our target and solve any issues rapidly.”

Once again, Hembery gave a robust defence of Pirelli’s aims – to provide strategic racing options with appropriate tyre degradation – and record in the series.

Only once before have as many pit stops been taken in the current Pirelli era, he said: “in Turkey during our first year in the sport.” He also told the BBC that reducing the degradation of the tyres at this stage would result in comments suggesting that Pirelli was handing the championship to Red Bull.

(l-r) Kimi Raikkonen, Fernando Alonso, Ferrari principal Stefano Domenicali and Felipe Massa formulated the most successful strategies for using Pirelli’s tyres in difficult conditions in Spain

Pirelli seeks compromise after Spain pressure

On the Tuesday after Spain, Pirelli took a rather different line, announcing a “new range” of 2013 tyres for use in Canada on 7-9 June. Hembery said the company aimed “to provide the teams with a new range which mixes the stability of the 2012 tyres and the performance of the current ones… After evaluating data from the first few races this year, we’ve decided to introduce a further evolution as it became clear at the Spanish Grand Prix that the number of pit stops was too high…

“With limited testing time, it’s clear now that our original 2013 tyre range was probably too performance-orientated for the current regulations,” he noted, also explaining the need for more time to test in conditions more akin to those faced during the season.

Hembery concluded that the change was also necessary as a safety measure: “We’ve also taken this step to avoid the delaminations that were caused by Bernie Ecclestone and Pirelli Motorsport director Paul Hembery track debris. It’s important to speak on the Circuit de Catalunya grid point out that these delaminati-

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ons, which occur when the tread comes off, do not compromise the safety of the tyres as the core structure of the tyre is not affected in any way, helping drivers to complete the lap and to change the damaged tyres safely. These delaminations were due to damage from debris that overheated the tread.”

Division and indecision However this decision to make changes to its F1 range was not greeted with the unanimous acceptance from the teams that Pirelli needed to proceed with its plan. Going into the Monaco grand prix, Force India, Lotus and Ferrari stated reservations about the changes: that the knock-on effect of replacing the steel belt with the Kevlar version run in 2012 in the rear tyre would be to reduce the operating temperature of the rear tyres, allowing them to be run longer. It was thought that this would likely favour Red Bull, among other teams.

Force India deputy team principal, Bob Fernley told Autosport.com that he believes Pirelli’s concern is more for protecting its image than for safety. This may not be entirely fair, since Pirelli has made no bones about the fact that it wants to provide performance oriented tyres that

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Pirelli brought its hardest compounds to Spain, yet tyre degradation was particularly high

full details of the 2014 tyre specifications by 1 September. „Things are getting, as far as we can see, extremely serious because the changes next year are so substantial that the sport has to make a rapid decision,“ Hembery said, adding a not entirely veiled threat that Pirelli “won’t be here anyway”.

Hembery remains keen to secure the marketing opportunities of F1 for Pirelli, as well as the development time for the 2014 tyres, as soon as possible. But with few other options (see textbox) – barring the suggestion that a certain Americanowned brand is interested again – it still seems the most likely outcome will be another Pirelli contract, despite the bluster of the last few weeks.

Pirelli reclassifies Canada as ‘test’ for new tyres

Pirelli says its engineers have not used track testing in the development of its proposed new specification 2013 tyres by definition degrade quicker. F1 chief, Bernie Ecclestone defended Pirelli by suggesting that drivers “have to use their brains and start thinking about how to win races.” Ecclestone claimed that “[t]he easiest thing for Pirelli would be to produce tyres that you put on at the first race of the season and take off at the last”, suggesting that Pirelli could counter that it should be credited with helping to make the racing more strategic through higher tyre wear.

“Maybe we won’t be here…”

Monaco was also the moment at which Hembery stressed the urgent need for a new contract to be signed for 2014, when a raft of new regulations will mean the most drastic alterations in car development for many years. He told Reuters that the lack of agreement could create problems, since teams will require the

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Pirelli sought to resolve the 2013 tyre specification issue by announcing that the practice session at the Canadian grand prix would be an opportunity for all teams to test the new tyres, with a view to introducing them fully at Silverstone.

Pirelli underlined its aim “to prevent any instances of the tread detaching itself from the structure“ with the new tyres, claiming that the “performance and wear characteristics… will not be significantly different.”

The decision to test the new tyres in Canada appeared to be a compromise designed to gain the unanimous approval of the teams for the changes. Should any team withhold their approval, Pirelli has another option to introduce the tyres at Silverstone, but not an attractive one. It would need the FIA to demand the change of tyres on safety grounds, which would to some degree undermine the supplier’s insistence that the 2013 tyres were always safe, regardless of their longevity or resistance to delamination.

Ultimately, it seems clear that Pirelli hopes not to step down too far from its F1 goal of providing tyres suitable for strategic battles and “keeping up the spectacle,” which has led to increased overtaking over the duration of its supply deal.

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Pirelli clarifies testing purpose, new 2013 tyres’ development The F1 tyre debate acquired a new facet during the Monaco grand prix as details emerged of a 1,000km test Pirelli conducted with Mercedes in Barcelona after the Spanish grand prix. While there was some initial thought that Pirelli had acted outside the series’ regulations, the tyre supplier is not currently under investigation by the FIA, though the association’s verdict on the involvement of Mercedes and Ferrari, with whom Pirelli had conducted a similar test earlier in the season, is still pending.

Pirelli quickly rebuffed claims that the test in Spain gave the Mercedes team any unfair sporting advantage over other teams, since the tyres tested were not those that were to be supplied to teams in Canada. Hembery confirmed that the proposed new tyres for 2013 were developed in the laboratory to resolve the delamination issue rather than via track testing. Two development sets will be made available to each team during the first and second practice sessions in Montreal. Pirelli claims that none of its modifications will “affect the duration of the tyres and, consequently, on the number of pit stops during the race”.

Asked whether Pirelli was confident of securing unanimous agreement from the teams on the introduction of the new tyres at Silverstone, Hembery said that “almost all the teams are in agreement about the introduction of the new tyres”, but some wanted the opportunity to test first. The company underlined that the four occurrences of delamination due to track detritus this season had “never put the drivers’ safety at risk, but does risk harming Pirelli’s image. This is why the company decided to intervene.”

Preliminary development of 2014 tyres Hembery gave more details about the true purpose of the 1,000km tests, namely continuing the preliminary development of Pirelli’s potential 2014 tyres.

He said that the company has been allowed to test development tyres with avai-

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2014 F1 season too soon for Hankook While Formula One tyre supplier Pirelli has sought an end to some of the teams’ gripes about its current P Zero tyre specifications, the question of whether it will remain in the series after the expiration of its current contract remains in doubt. A similar list of names to that previously generated in mid-2010 has been circulated, when Bridgestone announced its withdrawal from the series. However, for at least one major player it appears the lack of development time and uncertainty about rule changes in the short to medium term mean that 2014 is too soon to enter the world’s most high-profile motorsport series.

Hankook currently supplies tyres to DTM – Germany’s touring car series – and the Formula Three European Championship, and while it has confirmed its long-term interest in F1, Hankook’s DTM competition engineer told Autosport magazine that it is too late to develop tyres for 2014. Michael Eckert also cited problems in getting testing feedback from current F1 teams – an issue even Pirelli has struggled to combat, given the ongoing controversy surrounding the Mercedes team’s role in the recent 1,000km Barcelona test.

Eckert also told Autosport that uncertainty about F1’s 2014 regulations – right down to the dimensions of the tyres – in addition to the “huge” financial commitment make it difficult to contemplate signing up, despite the marketing incentives and engineering challenges it offers. He made the point that Hankook, which has expanded its motorsport portfolio in recent years, does not necessarily see F1 as a “final destination series”.

Speculation about a potential successor to Pirelli was exacerbated somewhat by Michelin, when its @MichelinTyres Twitter feed retweeted a Facebook poll started by the user @MercAMGF1Fans asking if F1 fans wanted to see the French manufacturer back in the series.

While Michelin went on to say that a comeback was possible – without missing the opportunity to make its evergreen point about tyre brand competition – the company concluded that it “would be up to our management and motorsport department and F1’s bosses to agree on the regulations first”.

Hankook currently supplies the singleandrew.bogie@tyrepress.com seater FIA Formula Three Euro Series lable teams since March 2012, when it wrote to all the F1 teams to inform them of this position. These tests are conducted blind, meaning that only Pirelli can access the data drawn from the laps.

Clearly seeking to squash innuendos and rumours, Hembery said that Pirelli had been “disappointed by some of the coverage [of the tests] in the media and on social networks”. Concerning the testing of development tyres in Spain, Hembery explained that F1’s “very dra-

matic” regulation changes in 2014 mean there is a need for the tyre supplier to use 1,000km tests throughout the season. He also explained that the tests would have specific goals for testing “new concepts” and that information would be collected privately by the tyre manufacturer and treated as confidential industrial development data.

Pirelli said that the FIA had been informed, though the details were confidential, and the manufacturer would continue to follow this procedure, or indeed any new procedure put in place. In the particular instance of the Mercedes test, Hembery said that Pirelli has answered “all of the FIA’s questions” and would continue to “provide total assistance and support” to the association.

Pirelli’s written statement on its contractual limits with the FIA can be found quoted on Tyrepress.com.

Pirelli chose to use Mercedes as a testing partner this time, because it had been the “first team of a few [it was] in contact with that indicated its availability.”

Hembery repeated that there was “no benefit to Mercedes” for helping in the test beyond the potential benefits to all F1 teams that testing 2014 tyres now could bring.

The subject of Pirelli’s potential 2014 tyres’ characteristics was also discussed briefly, should they sign a new contract.

Hembery said that the supplier views 2014 as “a good opportunity to take a step back and let the cars do the talking”, suggesting that a more conservative specification would be Pirelli’s currently favoured option. It will be interesting to see if this thinking will help to persuade Bernie Ecclestone, who has spoken up regularly in favour of tyres that allow for greater strategic variation, and Formula One to put pen to contract. detlef.vogt@reifenpresse.de/

Nico Rosberg and Mercedes, whose involvement in the 1,000 km test in Barcelona is currently under FIA investigation, won in Monaco

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Pirelli celebrates 50 years of Lamborghini supply It’s now half a century since Pirelli first teamed up with Lamborghini, and celebrations to mark the golden anniversary began with a press conference at the Pirelli Foundation on 7 May, at which Pirelli chief technical officer Maurizio Boiocchi stated “we look forward to another 50 years together with Lamborghini.”The festivities will progress to Lamborghini’s headquarters in Sant’Agata, taking in Forte dei Marmi, Rome and Bologna along the way.

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The relationship began when tractor manufacturer Ferruccio Lamborghini asked Pirelli to provide tyres for his first performance car, the Lamborghini 350GTV. The prototype displayed at the Turin Motor Show in October 1963 was allegedly incomplete – some claim there was no engine under the bonnet – but the Pirelli tyres were unarguably in place; Lamborghini chose the Cinturato HS as standard fitment for this prototype and for the 350 GT production version, which was launched at the Geneva Motor Show the following year. Developed to equip sports cars capable of reaching the 240km/h (150mph) mark, the ‘HS’ designation stood for ‘high speed’, indicating the Cinturato’s ability to cope with the sustained Numerous classic Lamborghini models took to the road to mark the half-century high speeds generated by 1960s supercars.

Between 1986 and 1988, Lamborghini produced the ultimYet Pirelli opines that 1966 was the year that Lamborghini truly came of age, with the introduction of the legendary Miura. ate 4x4: the LM002. For this precursor to the modern range of Tyres for the Miura were added to Pirelli’s range in 1967 – toget- luxury off-road vehicles, Pirelli created the Scorpion range, a her with original equipment for the Lamborghini 350 GT and tyre containing innovative features such as the use of Kevlar in 400 GT – but the latest model benefitted from the newest the casing structure and a new run-flat construction. The generation Cinturato HS tyres: the CN72, in a whopping size LM002 took part in the 1988 Paris-Dakar Rally, marking the 205 VR15. The new tyre introduced a more advanced tread pat- beginning of Lamborghini and Pirelli’s motorsport association. tern compared to the classic Cinturato CA67, featuring a quieter Pirelli says this remains a very strong relationship to this day, and more comfortable design. This was then adopted as origi- and the Italian tyre maker serves as the exclusive supplier of nal equipment by all subsequent Lamborghini models, inclu- the Super Trofeo Lamborghini Blancpain.

In 1990, the Lamborghini Diablo arrived on the scene. Just ding the 1968-released Espada.

When Lamborghini requested a revised ‘Series 70’ tyre for 3,000 examples were built; all of which were equipped with the Miura a couple of years later, with a much lower sidewall to Pirelli tyres. The turn of the century brought the Murcielago improve roadholding, Pirelli introduced the new Cinturato CN73 (2002) and Gallardo (2003) – both of which used P Zero Rosso. in size 225/70 VR 15. This paved the way towards the low pro- A Lamborghini Diablo was the protagonist of Pirelli’s ‘Mission file tyre that would be marketed as the Pirelli P7, chosen by Zero’ film in 2007, starring Hollywood actress Uma Thurman, Lamborghini in 1971 as original equipment for its latest model: and it was the Diablo again that also launched Pirelli’s Winter the epic Countach, a vehicle that arguably defined the 70s Sottozero II in 2008, with a spectacular display through the snow of Zermatt. supercar.

Bringing this story up to date, Pirelli says its technology and It was a Lamborghini once more that launched another new Pirelli product in 1988. The Countach ‘Anniversary’ edition – safety is still an integral part of Lamborghini’s offering, with the introduced to mark Lamborghini’s 25th birthday – was among new Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster using a bespoke P Zero tyre. the first supercars to use the new Pirelli P Zero family of tyres. All four existing examples of the Veneno, created to celebrate Pirelli points out that its relationship with and Lamborghini Lamborghini’s 50th birthday, are fitted with specially-developed is not just a technical one. Lamborghini cars often star in Pirelli’s Pirelli tyres that bear a distinctive red logo inspired by the P advertising. The Lamborghini Countach Anniversary, for exam- Zero Formula One tyres.

And the next chapter? Pirelli says its engineers and their ple, was used in a series of Pirelli advertising campaigns throughout America and Southeast Asia, while the Miura was counterparts at Lamborghini are already writing it. sg the centrepiece of a 1970 advert for Pirelli original equipment.

The advert succinctly stated: “The Miura chose Pirelli Cinturato.”

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OE run-flats now on par with conventional tyres – test RUN-FLAT TYRES HAVE OFTEN BEEN BLASTED for the inferior comfort they deliver, however a recent European test gives hope that puncture avoidance may no longer equal a harsh ride. German motoring organisation ADAC and Austria’s ÖAMTC put four Bridgestone run-flats to the test, and found one to offer comparable ride comfort and fuel consumption to an equivalent standard tyre.

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Referring to its inaugural run-flat tyre test in 2002, which it claims was the first such test performed anywhere in the world, the ADAC reported “marked deficits in comfort and fuel consumption”. Returning to run-flats in 2013, the ADAC and ÖAMTC put Bridgestone’s ER300 RFT Ecopia, ER300 RFT, S001 RFT and LM32 RFT up against comparable standard tyres; the motoring organisations noticed that since the 2002 test the “weaknesses of the run-flat system seem to have been remedied”.

Tests were carried out using a BMW 1-series with size 205/55 R16 H tyres and V/W3 and a Golf VI with tyre size 225/45 R17 W4.

Bridgestone’s latest generation original equipment tyre, the ER300 RFT Ecopia, was deemed comparable to the equivalent standard tyre in four of the five tested areas – dry and wet handling, comfort and fuel consumption. In terms of the latter two parameters, the ER300 RFT showed improvement over the previous generation BMW OE tyre, the ER300 RFT. The older model performed better in wet performance testing, however. The replacement market S001 RFT and winter LM32 RFT both delivered comparable fuel consumption to their respective standard equivalents, while comfort was inferior. The winter tyre was also shown to have comparable braking and traction qualities in ice and snow, plus comparable snow handling. All tyres performed significantly better than standard tyres in the breakdown running capability parameter.

“In comparison to conventional tyres, the externally indistinguishable reinforced sidewall run-flats now have equal performance, while the previous generation performs relatively poorly in terms of comfort and (fuel) consumption,” states the ADAC test

Run-flats versus

Source: ADAC Motorwelt

BMW offers run-flat technology

for all models

report. “The improvement in run-flat performance primarily results from the ambitious specifications set out by the vehicle manufacturer. Comfort performance still needs to improve for replacement market and winter tyres, however.”

José Enrique Gonzalez, Bridgestone Europe’s director of consumer marketing, describes the importance of run-flat tyres for Bridgestone as follows: “Tyres with run-flat technology are very important for the company but even more so for the end-user.

These ADAC and ÖAMTC tests clearly show that enormous progress has been made versus the original RFT tyres from the late nineties: not only in terms of comfort but almost in all performance areas. Consequently, our latest tyre with run-flat technology performs as well as a convenconventional tyres tional tyre. This was also translated in an increase in sales, both in the original equipment and replacement markets. In original equipment BMW and Mercedes are the main car manufacturers who apply RFT tyres with our latest technology. Regarding the replacement market, this tyre concept has become increasingly popular which translates in a sales increase of 39 per cent over the last three years (2009 to 2012). We believe that for the next five years, the market for tyres with run-flat technology will Tyres & Accessories 6/2013 continue to grow by 23 per cent.” sg

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Study shows soil compaction superiority of IF tyres A French study has demonstrated the effectiveness of Improved Flexion (IF) tyres at reducing soil compaction compared to a set of caterpillar tread tracks. The study, organised by the French National Research Institute of Science and Technology for Environment and Agriculture (IRSTEA), measured the soil compac-

On soft ground, the combine harvester fitted with the three small caterpillar tread tracks increased the hardness of the ground by 55 per cent compared to the control area. When fitted with IF 900mm tyres inflated to 1.4 bar, the harvester increased ground hardness by only 46 per cent, or nine per cent less than the tracked machine.

“The objective of the study was to measure the difference in compaction between the two technologies,” commented Mike Lawton, commercial director of Michelin’s Agriculture division.

“Farmers and contractors are under increasing pressure to increase crop yields year after year and so they want to make sure they are using a mobility solution that offers the lowest compaction rates.”

On hard ground, tests showed the caterpillar tracks exerted uneven pressure on the ground, with peaks reaching levels up to two times higher than those obtained with IF tyres, which distributed the load evenly over its entire footprint.

The combine harvester fitted with 900mm IF tyres, inflated to 1.4 bar, evenly spread the pressure exerted on the ground, calculated at slightly over 4 bar.

With caterpillar tread tracks, the combine harvester exerted uneven pressure on the ground, with peaks (corresponding to the impact of the rollers) approaching 9 bar, or twice the pressure exerted by the tyres.

“The study concluded that the caterpillar tread’s uneven load distribution and the extra pressure on the ground, compared to the IF tyres, did not give it an

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tion rates on a 3.5 hectare plot of farmland after a loaded combine harvester fitted with three different mobility options – a set of Michelin CerexBib 800mm IF tyres, a set of CerexBib 900mm IF tyres and a set of three 760mm roller caterpillar tread tracks – passed over it.

advantage in terms of soil compaction,” Lawton added.

Michelin says the key to achieving this performance is its patented Ultraflex technology; it says the CerexBib is the only commercially available harvester tyre that can work at a pressure of less than 2 bar. This is around 30 per cent less Michelin’s CerexBib is the only commercially available harvester tyre than than conventional tyres. can work below 2 bar The IRSTEA is backed by an annual budget of 115 million euros The Institute’s goal is to be the European and has 1,750 employees, including 700 leader in environmental research, as well engineers and researchers and 250 as an important scientific centre to supdoctoral students, who work in 19 port public policy making. sg research units spread across nine sites.

Comparative ground pressure

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Falken launches all-season Michelin aircraft tyre app range cleared for takeoff The Euroall Season AS200

Falken Tyre Europe has added the first all-season tyre to its portfolio. The Euroall Season AS200, which will be available from July in 27 dimensions, is described as a product that “offers improved traction on dry, wet and even snowy roads without compromising on comfort” along with “significantly reduced tyre rolling noise and shorter braking distances.”

The Euroall Season AS200 has been specifically tailored to the “complex requirements of the European market,” says Falken. The tyre features four wide and deep longitudinal grooves for dispersing high volumes of water and offset lateral grooves that direct water away from the tyre. The all-new rubber compound contains extra silica plus a high proportion of styrene groups – Falken says this gives “exceptional wet handling.” In addition, the AS200 has a built-in anti-ageing mechanism in which an anti-ageing agent permeates continuously from the lower reservoir tread to the outer tread, thus protecting the running surface from aging and aggressive environmental influences throughout the life of the tyre.

"The Euroall Season AS200 is our first all-year-round tyre, and is ideal for all regions," explains Markus Bögner, sales director Germany at Falken Tyre Europe GmbH. "In developing the rubber compound, Falken focused on finding the perfect balance between outstanding wet and dry handling and high mileage – preferably throughout all possible driving conditions and weathers."

The sidewall of the AS200 also features both the M&S label and snowflake symbol. sg

Michelin Aircraft Tire has introduced a mobile application for aircraft mechanics, private pilots, airlines, military operators and others who have an interest in or use for aircraft tyres.

The app will draw upon Michelin’s expertise in this field and aims to serve and educate customers on how to better maintain their Michelin tyres, to maximise tyre performance and minimise costs.

The application provides quick and easy access to the Michelin Aircraft Tire Care & Service Manual, a reference guide that provides knowledge on how to effectively maintain aircraft tyres, maximise tyre life, and reduce total cost of ownership. Users will find information specifically about Michelin’s aircraft tyres and tubes and be able to access a fitment guide that determines the correct Michelin products that are approved for each specific airframe. A Tire Wear Guide provides photographs and descriptions of the most common wear conditions for quick and easy reference.

“We recognise that most aircraft service professionals conduct their work out in the field and information that is critical to an airplane’s performance or safety might be difficult to access,” said Karl Remec, director of marketing, Michelin Aircraft Tire. “This new tool puts all the information they would need, right in the palm of their hands. As an innovation leader, Michelin is very excited to offer this first of its kind application from an aviation tire manufacturing company.”

The application also includes a tool to locate the most convenient place to purchase Michelin aircraft tyres. Additionally, numerous brochures that explain the benefits of Michelin aircraft tyres are available.

This first of its kind application is now available for free for tablet and mobile phones at both the Apple store and Google Play. sg

Bridgestone introduces Bandag M788(E) all-season coach tread

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Bridgestone Europe has released a new Bandag brand all-season coach and bus tread, a product claimed to offer “impressive mileage performance with [the] same tread depth and lighter to equal weight than its predecessor.”

The M788 (E) features the typical Bandag ECL curved section, which the tyre maker says provides the finished product with an appearance “virtually indistinguishable from a new tyre.” The M+S M788 (E) tread pattern is designed to offer winter traction when newly fitted while being quiet enough for all-year usage. It features an M speed rating (130 km/h or 81 mph) and is primarily designed with regional usage in mind, however Bridgestone says it is also suited for

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highway and city bus applications. The tread compound is described as low use, while sipe design is said to offer excellent durability.

“With the new Bandag M788(E), we offer to Bandag dealers an exceptional product, exceeding the technical requirements for this demanding application, and increasing their chances for success within this segment” says Harald Van Ooteghem, senior manager Marketing Planning Commercial Business Unit, Bridgestone Europe.

Bandag M788(E) treads are available in various widths, allowing for retreading of the most common casing sizes used within this segment. sg

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INTERNATIONAL TYRE MARKET

Buffing blade issue: B&J Rocket ends legal dispute Out of court settlement – “Most technologically advanced facility” AFTER TWO AND A HALF YEARS, the dispute between B&J Rocket and its former US steel supplier regarding low-grade and falsely-certified steel is over. In a press statement, the Swiss buffing and retreading products specialist says than an out of court settlement was reached in April. “The American supplier had delivered several coil rolls to the B&J factory in early 2010,” writes the company. “Among which a batch that consisted of low-grade steel, but – accompanied by false certificates – was declared as being of a high quality. Based on these certificates the parameters for the production of buffing blades were adjusted as usual, and unknowingly the inferior quality steel was utilised as well. However, after receiving blades made from this steel, customers soon recognised that these did not achieve the long life times they were used to from B&J.”

B

B&J Rocket’s quality assurance staff ana- very expensive and unconventional tests lysed the faulty blades. The Quality - during a normal production process Assurance of B&J Rocket analysed the then quickly revealed the actual cause: faulty blades immediately. However, the the steel quality, especially the micro occasional complaints received at that structure of the utilised steel, did not corpoint in time showed no technically respond with the usually trustworthy cerdetectable defects during internally con- tificates and were distinctly inferior.” B&J ducted tests that examined, for instance, responded immediately and informed all the degree of hardness and geometry. potentially involved customers of the pro“Consequently, all production processes blem. As it was not a clearly identifiable were checked and analysed. Wherever batch of faulty steel “but a mixture of low there was a possible influence on the life grade and high quality steel, the tracking time of the blades the processes were of blades produced with flawed steel optimised. Several additional sensors and turned out to be extremely tedious and checking mechanisms were to adjust or difficult.” Nevertheless, B&J Rocket check miscellaneous parameters during managed to withdraw almost 100 per the manufacturing process more precise- cent of the defect buffing blades and ly in order to better maintain a consistent replaced them with fault-free ones.

The related damage was negotiated quality,” B&J Rocket elaborates.

“However, it soon became apparent that despite these extensive measures the problem could not be eliminated – in fact, it appeared with increasing frequency.”

Therefore, further B&J Rocket’s dispute over defective buffing blades has now been settexternal test were conled out of court; the important retreading accessory was produced ducted on the buffing blaunder the assumption that a supplier had delivered high-grade steel des in question. “These

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According to B&J Rocket managing director Andreas Müller, the quality problems caused by the low-grade and falsely-certified steel also had a positive effect: “We now have the most technologically advanced facility for the production of buffing blades”

in a two and a half year long litigation with the steel supplier, which led to the out-of-court settlement. “We are relieved and happy that we can finally close this case,” B&J Rocket managing director Andreas Müller, told Tyres & Accessories.

“Looking back, the whole story also had a positive angle. A complete and intensive recheck was conducted on the entire production plant, resulting in considerable improvements along the line. We now have the most technologically advanced facility for the production of buffing blades and can guarantee an even more consistent and therefore better quality of our blades – all for the benefit of our customers,” Müller adds.

Müller further comments that “in these difficult times the great many customers and partners worldwide have maintained their loyalty for B&J. “I wish to express my sincere thanks to our customers for their trust in the excellent quality of our products.” arno.borchers@reifenpresse.de/sg

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

INTERNATIONAL TYRE MARKET

Bladder facility added to Lanxess’ growing presence in Brazil Lanxess’ Rhein Chemie business unit has opened a new production facility at its Porto Feliz site in Brazil.The facility produces ‘Rhenoshape’ high-performance curing bladders for use in tyre manufacture and has an annual capacity of approximately 170,000 bladders. Rhein Chemie says the plant employs state-of-the-art production technology incorporating the latest developments in bladder technology. The new plant will be joined by a further new facility next year; this will manufacture ‘Rhenogran’ pre-dispersed polymer-bound rubber additives and have an annual capacity of 1,800 tonnes. Altogether, Lanxess is investing around 10 million euros at the Porto Feliz site and creating up to 60 new jobs.

“Brazil is the sixth largest economy in the world, and it is the biggest and most important market in South America for Rhein Chemie,” said Dr. Anno Borkowsky, CEO and president of Rhein Chemie Rheinau GmbH, during the plant’s inauguration ceremony. “Thus, it is only natural that we are so focused on supplying sophisticated, high-tech products to the Brazilian automotive and tyre industries.

Our customers place a high value on their ability to source Rhenoshape curing bladders locally, from our offices here in Brazil. And so it made perfect sense for us to erect the production facility.”

Tyre manufacturers are increasingly outsourcing bladder production as it is more cost-effective for them to concentrate on their core business. Rhein Chemie says bladder manufacture is a focus for the company and states it is “consistently working to achieve new breakthroughs in bladder technology” to ensure its bladders “deliver a corresponding level of quality and performance.”

The company says Rhenoshape bladders have a much longer service life in part due to their high level of uniformity. “In other words, depending on the tyre factory and type of tyre, they can produce up to three times more tyres,” the company elaborates in a statement. “In addition to possible better productivity, the greatly improved thermal conductivity of the bladder compound and other factors boost the quality of the tyre, thus increasing safety and reducing rolling resistance.”

Rhein Chemie entered the bladder market less than two and a half years ago

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

The new facility in Porto Feliz, Brazil can produce up to 170,000 bladders a year

with the acquisition of Argentine company Darmex. It has already expanded its bladder production capacity in Argentina.

The purchase of US firm Tire Curing Bladders last year added further bladder sizes to Rhein Chemie’s portfolio, including sizes used for truck and earthmover tyres and bladders for tyre building machines.

“Rhein Chemie is now the largest independent bladder manufacturer in the world,” added Dr. Borkowsky. “We also provide our customers with the added convenience of one-stop shopping, as we are able to supply release agents, bladder coatings and tyre tread marking inks from a single source. And when we look forward at the prospects for our markets in the years to come, we are very optimistic indeed.”

ally launched at the 2013 BrazilianGerman Economic Meeting in Sao Paulo

by Brazil’s president Dilma Rouseff and German president Joachim Gauck. The “Year of Germany in Brazil” is expected to grow ties between the two countries, boost cooperation and encourage joint initiatives.

“With this investment in Brazil, the world's sixth largest economy, we reaffirm our focus on the emerging markets,” stated Lanxess board member Rainier van Roessel. “We want to share in the positive development of the automotive and tyre industries in Latin America.”

Brazil is one of Lanxess’ fastest-growing markets. The country accounted for less than one per cent of the German chemical manufacturer’s global sales in 2005 but now accounts for roughly ten per cent of the global total. Lanxess became one of the largest chemical compa"Year of Germany in Brazil" nies in Brazil following its acquisition of The plant’s opening on 13 May coincided Petroflex in 2008, and now employs with the start of the "Year of Germany in roughly 1,100 workers at seven sites.

Brazil", a government-level initiative officisg

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INTERNATIONAL TYRE MARKET

Yokohama Mexico opens its doors

YTMX MD, Gary Nash

T&A with Gary Nash, president of Yokohama Tire Mexico YokohamaTire Corporation’s (YTC) new YokohamaTire Mexico (YTMX) subsidiary officially began importing consumer, commercial and off-the-road (OTR) tyres in Mexico on 1 May. Incorporated in Silao, Guanajuato, Mexico, according to the company,YTMX is squarely positioned to give YTC long-term strategic advantages. With this in mind YTMX’s president, Gary Nash, answered questions about what those advantages are, the long-term vision for the company and the positive impact dealers can expect.

Is Yokohama planning to produce ny. In the future, we plan to supply those factories from YTMX. We also work clotyres in Mexico? sely with the service divisions of car Gary Nash: There will be no manufactu- manufacturers in Mexico such as ring in Mexico at this time. Everything Chrysler. Anyone who has purchased a else in the supply chain will function just vehicle in Mexico with Yokohama tyres on it is now going to have more reliable plalike YTC in the US. ces to find and replace a tyre.

So you’ll source tyres from YTC’s So you’ll ship OE tyres to YTMX? plant in Salem, Virginia, as well as from Japan and other overseas facilities?

Gary Nash: Initially, we will focus on OE Gary Nash: Correct. We will support our replacement tyres to make sure custodealer network with whatever is neces- mers that purchase a new vehicle equipped with Yokohama tyres receive good sary to grow their business in Mexico. service and can find replacement tyres as Which market in Mexico – com- needed. mercial, consumer or OTR – looks more What was the reason to finally put promising for Yokohama in the near futua stake in the ground in Mexico and re? establish a subsidiary?

Gary Nash: Because Mexico has many mine sites and lots of natural resources, Gary Nash: It’s the fastest-growing marwe’ve done extremely well in the OTR ket in North America. It’s the fifth largest segment by selling giant earthmoving country, 12th largest economy in the tyres. However, I also see a great future world and has the second highest GDP in for our commercial truck tire line-up, and Latin America. It has the largest bus fleet consumers in Mexico like high-perfor- globally, the eighth largest truck populatimance products. In short, we’ve got the on and the seventh largest truck market. tyres people in Mexico want and are buy- Overall, it offers more potential growth ing, so now we’re going to establish new than the U.S. in all three tyre categodealers who can sell and service the pro- ries… ducts for us.

What is YTC’s history in Mexico What does YTMX do for and what is the strategic plan going forYokohama’s presence in the OE market in ward?

Mexico?

Gary Nash: In 2008 we were chosen by Gary Nash: It’s going to give us the abili- our parent company, YRC (The Yokohama ty to improve supply directly to the OEMs Rubber Co., Ltd.), to take over the distriand to improve service to the end consu- bution of Yokohama products in Mexico. mer. We currently supply tyres to OE Since 2009, we’ve been signing quite a factories in Mexico from our US compa- few reputable dealers throughout the

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country. YTMX is the extension of our ongoing efforts to grow our presence there.

Our strategic plan includes setting up a full-fledged sales, marketing and distribution operation. We’ll start by establishing a corporate office where we will hire a general manager locally, sales manager and others who will be supported by the YTC headquarters in the US until we can get fully staffed.

On 1 May YTMX officially began importing in Mexico and billing our dealers in pesos.

Since you’re based in Fullerton, California, how much traveling to Mexico will you do?

Gary Nash: My plan is to be president of YTMX and executive advisor to the OTR group in the US I don’t want to give up my passion for off-the-road tyres so I’ll be committing time to be both in the US and Mexico.

Is the distribution system in Mexico similar to the US? What have been the challenges getting the new subsidiary rolling?

Gary Nash: There haven’t been many challenges at all. We have had to set up systems to accommodate business processes and transactions, but we have been working on those for years. In fact, because we were already doing business in Mexico even before the subsidiary, we have gained market experience that’s made setting up YTMX that much easier. cja

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

INTERNATIONAL TYRE MARKET

Goodyear sells NZ service network GoodyearTire & Rubber’s New Zealand unit, Goodyear & DunlopTyres, intends to sell its retail tyre and automotive service centre chain.The company is selling its 52 Beaurepaires outlets in New Zealand to local company Beau Ideal Ltd for an undisclosed amount.The deal is expected to close by the end of the month, the company said.

The centres and their 180 employees will shift to Beau Ideal, owned by TyreLine Distributors' founder Grant Rushbrooke. Beau Ideal will also assume ownership of Goodyear's local retail marketing and licensing programmes.

Beau Ideal indicates it plans to continue operating and expanding Beaurepairs in New Zealand.

"We will continue to sell, distribute and offer through our wholesale distribution network the same outstanding consumer tyres for cars, 4WDs and light trucks, as well as commercial tyres for trucks and buses," said Goodyear’s New Zealand sales and marketing director Campbell Gough. In a statement, the company also said: “The decision comes after a lengthy review of business strategy and a decision to focus the New Zealand business of marketing and wholesaling tyres, and improving services to tyre dealers and aviation customers.”

Goodyear’s New Zealand unit posted a 2011 loss of NZ$9.3 million (£5.0 million) against sales of $154 million (£82.7 million), according to its latest financial statements.

Last June, the company announced that it would shift emphasis on consumer tyre sales to "enhance cost competitiveness and ensure longterm value and success.” Last year Goodyear also sold its Beaurepaires commercial tyre service business. sg

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

Phillip White Tyres

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INTERNATIONAL TYRE MARKET

Goodyear sells NZ service network GoodyearTire & Rubber’s New Zealand unit, Goodyear & DunlopTyres, intends to sell its retail tyre and automotive service centre chain.The company is selling its 52 Beaurepaires outlets in New Zealand to local company Beau Ideal Ltd for an undisclosed amount.The deal is expected to close by the end of the month, the company said.

The centres and their 180 employees will shift to Beau Ideal, owned by TyreLine Distributors' founder Grant Rushbrooke. Beau Ideal will also assume ownership of Goodyear's local retail marketing and licensing programmes.

Beau Ideal indicates it plans to continue operating and expanding Beaurepairs in New Zealand.

"We will continue to sell, distribute and offer through our wholesale distribution network the same outstanding consumer tyres for cars, 4WDs and light trucks, as well as commercial tyres for trucks and buses," said Goodyear’s New Zealand sales and marketing director Campbell Gough. In a statement, the company also said: “The decision comes after a lengthy review of business strategy and a decision to focus the New Zealand business of marketing and wholesaling tyres, and improving services to tyre dealers and aviation customers.”

Goodyear’s New Zealand unit posted a 2011 loss of NZ$9.3 million (£5.0 million) against sales of $154 million (£82.7 million), according to its latest financial statements.

Last June, the company announced that it would shift emphasis on consumer tyre sales to "enhance cost competitiveness and ensure longterm value and success.” Last year Goodyear also sold its Beaurepaires commercial tyre service business. sg

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

Phillip White Tyres

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Conti appoints new China head As of 1 August 2013, Continental’s Chinese activities will be overseen by Executive Board member Dr. Ralf Cramer. The incumbent head of the company’s Chassis & Safety division will take up the Shanghai-based position in order to “strengthen” Continental’s organisation for “sustained fast and profitable growth in China.” His successor within the Chassis & Safety division will be appointed at a later date.

“It is our strategic goal to increase the share of corporate sales on the Asian market from 18 per cent at present to more than 30 per cent over time,” explained Continental CEO Dr. Elmar Degenhart.

“Here, our growth engine is China, which today is already the largest manufacturer and market for automobiles. By 2020, China Dr. Ralf Cramer will be the world’s largest market for premium automobiles.

Nowhere in the world will the demand for individual mobility and industrial goods be growing stronger than there. This is why Ralf Cramer will focus his full attention on our challenges in this market. In doing so, we want to strengthen our local organisation and position ourselves to benefit from fast, profitable und lasting growth in this important market.”

“I am looking forward to the challenge of helping to shape the future of one of the most important growth markets for individual mobility,” added Ralf Cramer.

“We see great opportunities for our full range of products and services in China in particular. The booming demand for safe, eco-friendly and comfortable mobility is

driving innovative development of products tailored to the local market and the local culture. The share of applications developed locally will thus increase significantly in the years ahead. Over time, more than eight out of ten of our new applications are expected to be developed locally.

“An essential factor for success is close customer relations. For some time now, this has prompted us to gear our organisation in China in this direction, and we shall continue to work on this,” added Cramer, who in his new role will build on many years of experience with Asian cultures.

All Conti divisions growing in China Within China, the number of automotive manufacturing plants is expected to increase from 120 today to 142 by 2015.

Chinese vehicle manufacturers are behind half of these plants. Unlike South Korea and Japan, the market breakdown among manufacturers is very fragmented, with the two largest manufacturers controlling 20 per cent of the market.

In 2012, Continental generated sales of some €6 billion in Asia. Sales in China amounted to almost €2.7 billion. For years the company has been recording growth rates in China twice as high as for the market as a whole. Continental reports experiencing sustained growth in China, with its three Automotive Group divisions – Chassis & Safety, Powertrain and Interior – contributing to that growth. With the start of ABS production in 1994, Continental was one of the first global suppliers present there. Currently, main sales drivers are solutions and systems for the key topics of active and passive safety, energy-efficient drives and information management. These include, for example, technologies for hybrid drives, emobility and connectivity as well as sensors, brake systems, transmission electronics, diesel-injection systems, safety telematics and instrument clusters.

For roughly two years now, Continental’s Tires division has operated a tyre plant in Hefei with an annual capacity of four million passenger car and light commercial vehicle (less than six tons) tyres. ContiTech has been in China for more than 30 years with its solutions for a broad range of applications in the automotive sector as well as in the mining industries and other industrial branches. sg

Al Dobowi makes Edwards European marketing manager The Al Dobowi Group has appointed Tom Edwards to the position of European marketing manager. Previously export sales manager at Cooper Tire, managing customer relationships across Scandinavia, Benelux and the Mediterranean, Edwards has ten years of sales and marketing experience.

Edwards graduated with a BA in Retail Management in 2002 and entered the tyre industry shortly afterwards in a UK focussed marketing role. Al Dobowi says his knowledge of the industry and its European customer base will further strengthen its team as

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they continue to develop their brands across Europe.

Tom Edwards commented: “The Al Dobowi Group is well positioned to compete within the European tyre market. The level of investment in new products, and the continued focus on wor-

king closely with their partners on promotional initiatives means this is an exciting time for the company. I very much look forward to working with my new colleagues and customers in developing our marketing strategies throughout Europe.” akb

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Al Dobowi’s new European marketing manager, Tom Edwards

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

Vittorio Malacalza resigns from Pirelli board

Rollier appointed chairman of Michelin’s Supervisory Board

Vittorio Malacalza resigned from Pirelli & C. SpA on 10 May, stepping down from the position of deputy chairman and member of the board and prompting a clarification from the company’s corporate headquarters in Milan.

At last Friday’s Michelin Annual Shareholders Meeting in Clermont-Ferrand, France, a dividend of €2.40 per share, with a reinvestment option, was approved. The dividend will be paid in cash or reinvested in shares on 24 June 2013.

Vittorio Malacalza indirectly owns 7 per cent of Pirelli shares via the company’s 26 per cent share in Camfin. Tyres & Accessories understands that Malacalza does not own or control any Pirelli shares directly. And with this in mind the present situation must be seen in light of the ongoing – and highly complex – ownership/power dynamics at the top of Pirelli. Whether he jumped or was pushed the net results would seem to be in line with what a Financial Times report described as “an effort to shorten the chain of command at the group” a little over six months ago.

Making his resignation, Malacalza said: “…I had noted that the formation of entrepreneurial decisions of importance in the life of the Company takes place in ways that do not allow me to make my contribution, as for example recently happened regarding the choices that were made with regard to Prelios”.

However, the Milan headquarters obviously see things differently and, in taking stock of this statement, wished to clarify Malacalza’s role in proceedings. According to an official statement on the subject that spent more time clarifying this point that it did confirming the departure of a board member, the Pirelli board unanimously approved the operation of asset reinforcement and industrial re-launch of Prelios S.p.A. at a meeting on 28 February 2013.

Pirelli further explained that ahead of that meeting (on 23 February 2013) documents including an executive summary of the operation for the re-modulation of the financial debt connected to the industrial re-launch of Prelios along with an opinion of the Committee for Operations and an “Assessment letter” from Barclays as well as slides illustrating the operation were made available to the now ex-board member.

Citing other occasions where Malacaza didn’t speak out against the changes being made to Prelios, Pirelli summarized the situations like this: “it should be underlined that all the operations reviewed by the Board of Directors at meetings in which Mr. Malacalza took part were approved unanimously.” cja

The meeting, chaired by managing general partner and chief executive officer Jean-Dominique Senard, also saw the approval of several new Supervisory Board members following a decision to amend Michelin’s bylaws concerning member duration in order to stagger the terms. New Supervisory Board members include Anne-Sophie de La Bigne and JeanPierre Duprieu, whose three-year terms will expire at the Annual Shareholders Meeting called to approve the 2015 financial statements, and Olivier Bazil and Michel Rollier, who will serve for four-year terms until the Annual Shareholders Meeting called to approve the 2016 financial statements. The 17 May meeting also re-elected Barbara Dalibard and Louis Gallois for two-year terms. The Supervisory Board appointed Michel Rollier as its chairman. He replaces Éric Bourdais de Charbonnière, who chaired Michelin’s Supervisory Board since 2000.

Finally, shareholders authorised a share buyback program at a maximum purchase price per share of €100 and a reduction in the share capital by cancelling the shares purchased under the programme.

Marc Henry, Michelin’s chief financial officer and a member of the Group Executive Committee, reviewed the 2012 results. In sluggish markets, Michelin delivered was it describes as “strong earnings”, with more than €1 billion in free cash flow, €2,423 million in operating income before nonrecurring items, up 25 per cent, and a two-point increase in operating margin to 11.3 per cent of net sales. Henry also confirmed Michelin’s objectives for 2013. In a market environment that is weak in mature regions and expanding in the new markets, Michelin expects to report stable operating income before non-recurring items, a more than ten per cent return on capital employed and positive free cash flow.

Prior to answering questions from shareholders, JeanDominique Senard presented his strategic vision for the Group. “Michelin is a winning company because it knows how to place customers at the heart of its strategy and initiatives, to make innovation one of its strategic priorities and to manage its operations both efficiently and responsibly.” sg

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

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Maxxis appoints online content developer MAXXIS INTERNATIONAL

HAS APPOINTED Jas Ghata-Aura to the

new position of online content developer. Maxxis says the appointment forms part of its heightening focus on digital communications. The tyre manufacturer, driven by the belief that online and social media platforms are fast becoming the most effective ways Maxxis International online content developer, of communicating directly with conJas Ghata-Aura sumers, has emphasised new media channels in growing its brand already and boasts a strong existing following on its social media channels as a result. It is hoped Ghata-Aura’s appointment will help to strengthen and build Maxxis’ presence, which in turn will give more existing and potential customers the opportunity to interact with the brand and its assets on a daily basis.

Ghata-Aura’s previous experience includes building websites, running social media campaigns, search engine optimisation, and graphic design. Maxxis says these experiences will

help him to raise the brand’s profile and diversify the demographics of consumers buying its products.

The challenge of engaging a typically young audience with a tyre manufacturer is no mean feat, as Ghata-Aura confirms: “I am hoping to build on Maxxis’ ever-growing presence throughout the UK by raising its profile through many various channels, focusing mainly on social media. Building brand value in a company that makes something many consider to be a distress purchase will not be simple, but with the British Drift Championship, Motorsport events, and Maxxis Babes sponsorship I certainly feel I have all the tools I need to raise the profile with a diverse audience through things like Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.”

The new online content manager will report directly to Maxxis UK marketing manager Amy Colbourne. Colbourne says: “Jas’s introduction has come at a crucial point in the company’s development. We need to widen Maxxis’ outreach and due to the competitive online market, and the investment Maxxis is making in the growth of its marketing department will enable us to build brand awareness and ensure Maxxis remains one of the top ten manufacturers in the world.” akb

Giti adds Scottish area Michiel Kramer appointed marketing communications manager at Apollo sales manager Giti Tire (UK) has appointed Craig Tominey as Area Sales Manager (ASM) Scotland as the company continues to add staff to its commercial tyre sales team. Tominey joins from BSUK Limited where he held the position of ASM from 2006, before which he spent five years selling commercial Craig Tominey vehicles for Arnold Clark.

“I have been based in central Scotland for over seven years and built up good contacts at dealer and fleet levels,” said Tominey. “With GT Radial’s great mix of products and price points supported by GT Assist, the CV roadside service assistance programme, I have everything in place to make a real impact.”

Tony McHugh, sales and marketing director at Giti Tire UK, manufacturer of GT Radial, added: “Craig’s employment emphasises the clear commitment of the company to continue to grow our market share in the UK, his market knowledge is exceptional and he is a very welcome addition to the sales team." cja

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Vredestein

Michiel Kramer (34) was appointed manager of marketing communications and product management at Apollo Vredestein BV on 1 May 2013. He replaces Bandi Vaczi, who has been promoted to head of global marketing communications at Apollo Tyres Ltd. Kramer will lead the teams responsible for Apollo and Vredestein products and brands in Bandi Vaczi Michiel Kramer Europe and North America.

Kramer has been working at Vredestein for more than eight years. He began as market development manager in the US in 2005 and after that (in September 2009), worked as area export manager in the Export division with responsibility for the East European markets where Apollo Vredestein has no dedicated offices. Kramer was also product manager for the highend concept Premium Styling by Vredestein.

Meanwhile his predecessor Bandi Vaczi (36) has been promoted to head of global marketing communications. For six years, Vaczi was in charge of the marketing communications department, where he was responsible for the marketing and communications at corporate and product level for all products and the brands Vredestein, Maloya and Apollo. In his new role, Vaczi will be responsible for marketing communications for all brands in the portfolio of Apollo Tyres Ltd, i.e., Apollo, Vredestein and Dunlop (in 32 African countries). cja

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TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

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SHEFFIELD ST., OFF LANCASHIRE HILL, STOCKPORT, SK4 1RL

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Advertisers Index B Bridgestone 43 C Continental 41 Cooper Tire 35 D Dunlop Inside Front Cover E Event 26 F Federal 33 G Giti Tyre 61 Giti Tyre Truck 11 Grouptyre 17 H Hankook 37 I Infinity 63 K Kumho 45 M Matador 19 Maxxis 31 Michelin 39 N Nankang 29 Nexen 69 P Philip White Tyres 95 Pirelli Front Cover Primewell 21 Pro-Align 81 R Remog Spa 51 S Shandong Linglong 73 Stamford Tyre 25 Stapleton’s 9 T TYM international 7 V/W Vipal 67 Westlake 65 Y/Z Yokohama Back Cover Zafco 5

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Abrasives www.olivercorp.com

Associations www.btmauk.com www.etrma.org www.itdn.org.uk www.itma-europe.com www.ntda.co.uk www.tireindustry.org www.tyrerecovery.org.uk www.tyresafe.org

Breakdown Services www.itdn.org.uk

Earthmover Wheels www.kirkbytyres.co.uk

E-Commerce www.etyres.co.uk www.oddballtyres.co.uk

Exhausts/Silencers www.cesuk.com www.klarius.eu

Exhibitions www.autopromotec.it www.citexpo.com.cn www.eci-international.com www.maxima-expo.ru www.rubbere.com www.semashow.com www.theaftermarketshow.com

Fleet Management Systems www.advancedidcorp.com www.pneu-logic.co.uk

102

Importers/Wholesalers www.tym-international.com

Industrial Tyres www.solideal.com

Lifting Equipment www.jiglift.com www.ecolift.cn

Locking Wheel Nuts www.dynomec.co.uk

Materials/Accessories www.gogommasrl.it

Miscellaneous www.traxjh.com

Motorcycle Tyre Wholesalers www.cambriantyres.co.uk www.worldofbiketyres.com

Recycling Machinery www.btrgroup.co.uk www.mmhrecsys.com www.systems4recycling.com

Retreading/Recycling/Disposal www.credenv.com www.cmshredders.com www.dmetyres.co.uk www.environment-agency.gov.uk/tyrewatch www.kraiburg-retreading.com retreading.marangoni.com www.sapphirerecovery.co.uk www.treadsdirect.com www.watts-rubber.com

Software www.mamsoft.co.uk/tyres

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TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

WEB DIRECTORY

Testing Services www.dunloptyretesting.co.uk

Truck Tyre Retreading www.bandvulc.co.uk

Truck Wheels www.kirkbytyres.co.uk

Tyre Compounds www.vipal.com.br

Tyre Computer Software www.teamsystems.co.uk

Tyre Distributors/Wholesalers www.aeolus-tyres.eu www.bitsuk.co.uk www.blackcircles.com www.bridgestone.eu/truckpoint www.dalytyres.com www.cooperbros.co.uk www.deldo.com www.deklokbanden.com www.dessimpson.co.uk www.euro-tyre.com www.fieldens.co.uk www.fulda.co.uk www.glanworthtyres.com www.gold-spark.com www.goodyear.co.uk www.gripenwheels.com www.grouptyre.co.uk www.gt-tires.com www.haemmerling.de www.herculesinternational.com www.heuver.com www.internationaltyres.com www.inter-sprint.nl

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

www.kenda.com.tw www.kingdavidtyres.co.uk www.kirkbytyres.co.uk www.kumho-euro.com www.lassa-europe.com www.lexanitire.com www.lctyres.ie www.lytire.com www.magnatyres.com www.maitechtire.com www.marangoni.com www.mastercrafttyres.co.uk www.matador.sk www.midlandmobiletyres.co.uk www.micheldever.co.uk www.mickeythompson.co.uk www.mrftyres.com www.nankang.com.tw www.nete.co.uk www.nexentire.co.kr www.northwesttyres.com www.pirelli.co.uk www.sd-international.cn www.sentaida-international.com www.silverstone.com.my www.sintontyres.co.uk www.southam-tyres.co.uk www.starco.com www.stapletons-tyres.co.uk The fast and direct way to your homepage: Web Directory in Tyre & Accessories & the Link section in www.tyrepress.com To appear in thisWebsite Directory for 12 months – which will include hyperlinked entries on the Tyres & Accessories website – please contact: info@tyrepress.com

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WEB DIRECTORY

www.techkingtires.com www.toyo.co.uk www.treadwayscorp.com www.trelleborg.com www.tribatyre.com www.tyreandwheels.com www.tyres-bernaerts.com www.tyrespot.co.uk www.uniroyaltruck.co.uk www.viking.co.uk www.vredestein.com www.yokohama.co.uk

Tyre Exporters www.china-tyre.com

Tyre Manufacturers www.bkt-tires.com www.bridgestone.eu/truckpoint www.conti-online.co.uk www.coopertire.com www.dunloptyres.co.uk www.eptyres.com www.hankooktire.eu www.mitas-tyres.com

Tyre Moulds www.jwinc.co.kr

Tyre Repair/Inflation www.airbosstyre.com www.harvieprema.co.uk www.monaflex.com www.schrader-valves.co.uk www.smartronics.co.uk www.punctureproof.com www.uniflate.com

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Vintage Tyres www.grouptyre.co.uk www.longstonetyres.co.uk www.northhantstyres.com www.vintagetyres.com www.vredestein.com

Wheels www.afan-tyres.co.uk www.alcar.co.uk www.elitedirect.com www.imagewheels.co.uk www.mswuk.com www.overfinch.com www.performancealloys.com www.tsw-wheels.co.uk www.trelleborg.com/wheelsystems-uk

Wheel Balancers/Accessories www.dionys-hofmann.com www.haweka.com

Workshop Equipment www.agequipment.co.uk www.bateman-sellarc.co.uk www.beissbarth.co.uk www.butler.it www.cosengautomotive.com www.innotecworld.com www.pro-align.co.uk www.reinheimer-stitcher-roller.com www.sunbornsolutions.com www.supertracker.com www.tip-top.co.uk www.tsissg.com www.tyre-equipment.co.uk www.wheelalignmentuk.com

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TYRES & ACCESSORIES 5/2013

PREVIEW First published in June 1946, T&A is distributed in the second week of every month by: Tyre Industry Publications Ltd. Unit I, Magnolia Centre Telford Road, Clacton-on-Sea Essex CO 15 4LP, England Telephone: +44 (0)1255 222233 Editorial: +44 (0) 1782 214224 Fax: +44 (0)1255 222234 e-mail: info@tyrepress.com Internet: www.tyrepress.com Correspondence and advertising material should be sent to the above address.

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In Our Next Issue A brief look forward at a few of the articles appearing in next month‘s T&A.

I Tyre manufacturing I As part of our comprehensive industry coverage, next month our tyre manufacturing feature looks at everything involved in tyre production, from raw materials to the equipment involved in tyre making.

Check back in July for further details.

I TAFF Awards preview I The winners of last year’s NTDA Tyre & Fast Fit Awards included Continental Tyre Group (tyre manufacturer of the year), B.I.T.S. (tyre wholesaler of the year), PANG UK (tyre and aftermarket equipment supplier of the year), Michelin (industry advertising campaign and product innovation), Sapphire Energy Recovery (environmental award) and ATS Euromaster Brighton West (tyre centre of the year).

This year’s crop of nominees also includes a strong list of worthies – check our July TAFF Awards previews for full details of the 2013 Awards finalists.

I Batteries I The battery is unarguably becoming an ever more important vehicle component and the demands placed upon it also show no sign of abating. The July issue of Tyres & Accessories gets energised about this topic in its battery feature.

Tyre Industry Publications Ltd. can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributors, manufacturers or advertisers

TYRES & ACCESSORIES 6/2013

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