Download - SA Treads June 2016

Vol 2

2 • J

une

2016

Tyrexpo Africa – future hangs in the balance

Fight to restrict sub-standard imports continues

Continental unveils the new SportContact 6

How to sell up while cutting costs

Continental Vision Zero aims for accident-free future

Fo

cu

s o

n T

yr

ex

po

AF

ric

A

Syn

c - 1

071

5 -

Tre

ad S

.A

EMERGENCY TYRE ASSISTANCE DOWN TO AN ART

Tel: +27 11 439 6000, Fax: +27 86 682 7027, e-mail: [email protected] or visit www.bandag.co.za

Breakdowns can leave you dead in the water, but you needn’t be left to the sharks. With Bandag’s Emergency Tyre Assistance (ETA) programme you can be covered throughout South Africa 24/7, 365 days of the year. ETA has one easy to remember toll free number, efficient service, consistent on-road pricing and comprehensive reports. That’s what we do.

10715 - ETA ad - Tread S.A.indd 1 2011/11/08 1:45 PM

Half way through the year and talk turns

to shows and exhibitions. The final

instalment of the Reifen show as we know

it concluded in Essen last week. Closer to

home, Tyrexpo Africa graced our shores

for the sixth time in March of this year.

Suffice it to say that the importance and support for an international show such as Reifen speaks for itself. The global tyre

industry and the tyre manufacturing companies in particular, utilise the platform to launch new designs, compounds and technology, whereas visitors from across the world converge on this tiny town in Germany to keep abreast of new products and developments and to network with key people from different parts of the world. The venue for this popular be-ennial show might be set to change, but its future in terms of the value it is seen to provide is well secured.

Regrettably the same cannot necessarily be said for our own local show – currently the only tyre expo on the continent. With apparent support from the local industry steadily declining, as can be seen from this year’s exhibitor and visitor numbers, we take a microscopic view of the event in this issue, by way of a post-show review on page 7.

And as the primary reason behind the local industry’s reluctance to back the show allegedly is the number of Chinese trading companies that are regularly exhibiting, we pinned down two of TIASA’s key executives to ascertain the extent of the problem these exhibitors are seen to be posing, not only to local tyre producers, but to well established imported brands too. Turn to page 2 for this interview.

The second quarter has been a busy time for Continental Tyre SA. The company has just launched the brand new SportContact 6 which boasts Black Chilli technology for maximum grip in all directions, Force Vectoring for maximum control (a new era in tread pattern development) as well as Aralon350 new Adaptive Hybrid Cape Ply for maximum stability at high speeds of up to 350km/h.

And that’s not all. CTSA is also adopting an innovative and comprehensive approach to automotive safety under the Vision Zero banner, in a bid to reduce and ultimately eliminate vehicle accidents, injuries and fatalities; a global initiative, but one that is especially welcomed in South Africa given the high death toll on our roads.

All this and much more in this, our winter edition. Wrap up warm and happy reading. Until we meet again in the spring.

editor Liana Shaw

reproduction Diane van Noort

printing TYPO – Colour Printing Specialists

Advertising sA Liana Shaw – [email protected]

Advertising eu John Stone – [email protected]

Distribution Media Support Prosource

Contents A note fromthe editor

I n t r o d u c t i o n • 1

publishers Sky Publications cc • PO Box 702, Douglasdale, 2165Tel: 011 658 0011 • Fax: 011 658 0010 • Cell: 082 851 6777

E-mail: [email protected]: www.satreads.co.za • www.satreads.com

Syn

c - 1

071

5 -

Tre

ad S

.A

EMERGENCY TYRE ASSISTANCE DOWN TO AN ART

Tel: +27 11 439 6000, Fax: +27 86 682 7027, e-mail: [email protected] or visit www.bandag.co.za

Breakdowns can leave you dead in the water, but you needn’t be left to the sharks. With Bandag’s Emergency Tyre Assistance (ETA) programme you can be covered throughout South Africa 24/7, 365 days of the year. ETA has one easy to remember toll free number, efficient service, consistent on-road pricing and comprehensive reports. That’s what we do.

10715 - ETA ad - Tread S.A.indd 1 2011/11/08 1:45 PM

one-on-one with TIASA ...........................................................................................2

Focus on Tyrexpo Africa _ Future hangs in the balance ......................................7

industry news Revolutionary technologies sets the trend-setting Continental SportContact 6 apart from the rest ............................... 16 Continental Vision Zero – aiming for an accident-free future ........... 20 New Sava Avant 4Plus and Orjak 4Plus Truck Tyres ......................... 22 A new South African horizon for Van den Ban ................................. 26

Talking Tyres Tyre Forum: Going a step further ..................................................... 29

Distribution news More new stores for Tiger Wheel & Tyre .......................................... 32 More Growth Planned As Supa Quick Turns 30 ............................... 33

World news Record breaking farewell from the Reifen Essen show ..................... 35 Pirelli introduces its new Triathlon TBR range at Reifen 2016 .......... 35 New high speed OTR tyre from Michelin.......................................... 36 Bridgestone wins Infringement Lawsuit ............................................ 36 Marangoni Retread turns 40 ............................................................. 36 A glittering ‘show-stopper’ from Zenises .......................................... 36

Visitwww.satreads.com

to see our

past issues

FIGHT AGAINST SUB-STANDARD

IMPORTS CONTINUESONE ON ONE WITH

TIASA

Our feature story on Tyrexpo Africa raises some important concerns around the topic of sub-standard tyres, otherwise known as ‘cheapies’, being circulated in the market. According to current statistics imported tyres account for more than 50% of total sales in South Africa, but how many of these tyres undergo the right checks and balances befoer entering the country? And what assurance does the consumer have that these tyres are in fact roadworthy?

We caught up with TIASA (Tyre Importers Association of South Africa), executives Pieter Kruger (Chairman) and Alida Mouton for their thoughts on this highly controversial issue.

2 • O n e - o n - O n e

O n e - o n - O n e • 3

What is the status quo currently of sub-standard

tyres being imported, especially those coming in

from China?

PK: It is difficult to say as all tyres need to go through a

homologation process.

How do you believe tyres of dubious quality are

able to infiltrate our market given the homologation

requirement?

PK: It is my opinion that many of these tyres are

homologated with the paperwork already supplied. But that does not

necessarily mean that the tyres arriving are of the same quality as those

tested and furnished with an ‘E’ mark of approval. More worrying still,

scores of tyres arrive in South Africa marked as something else, in order

to avoid paying the import duty.

Do you believe there are sufficient measures in place to limit their

entry into the country?

PK: No, not when tyres are being declared as something completely

different. Which begs the question; ‘how does one control this’? The

only way would be to scan each and every container at the arrival port,

but resources are scarce.

AM: Thankfully, the NRCS is working hard to structure and put in place

the necessary procedures in order to protect the brands that do follow

the rules and regulations.

What would you like to see being done to combat this problem?

PK: I strongly believe we need an Independent Testing Facility to conduct

the relevant tests on random tyre samples, as opposed to checking

the samples ahead of arrival. Only then, will you have a real chance of

identifying and catching offending plants and unscrupulous importers.

Would you say that the number of imported ‘cheapies’ has grown in

recent years?

PK: Yes, up until twelve months ago this was definitely the case.

Currently there are around 449 tyre importers in South Africa (this

number includes the local manufacturers who also import product to

supplement their range), but the past few months have seen a sizeable

decrease in the numbers of tyres being imported, mainly due to the

exchange rate, which at this point, greatly favours the local producers

and makes it extremely difficult for imported products to compete.

But the biggest challenge in my opinion, remains the downward trend in

sales worldwide. In a bid to remain sustainable, this has forced factories

to cut prices in order to dispose of surplus stock.

How big a threat do tyres of inferior quality pose

to local manufacturers and importers of reputable

products alike?

PK: I believe that the dealer trade should be taking

greater responsibility for the products it is selling.

Granted, a lot of this is being driven by the consumer

asking for the cheapest product, but that said, the

dealer should be educating their customers on the

perils of buying some of these tyres which simply do

not perform in terms of mileage and more importantly,

safety.

AM: These cheap no-name brands are a big threat to the market as

typically, there is no long-term commitment or after-sales service.

What can be done to educate the general public on the dangers of

fitting inferior quality tyres to their vehicles?

PK: As I’ve just mentioned, dealers need to take responsibility for the

products they sell. Their customers rely on them to supply them with

a quality product at a reasonable price, but it has become the market

norm to flaunt the cheapest price, just to get the business.

In turn the consumer should also be asking some pertinent

questions, such as: ‘Does the tyre carry a full guarantee? Is the local

supplier large enough to assist in the event of a tyre fault/claim?

Why is this tyre so cheap, and will it last for 40 000kilometres?

AM: I believe a more targeted advertising drive aimed at the consumer

would go a long way towards educating the motorist, however, most

imported brands do not have a sufficient marketing budget to run

proper educational advertising campaigns.

How informed is the South African consumer on the differences

between reputable brands and sub-standard ones, in your view?

PK: Some are extremely brand-driven but the average person has no

clue and relies solely on what he is told by the dealer, or worse still,

insists on buying the cheapest product as that is all they can afford.

AM: I don’t believe the South African consumer is suitably informed.

For example, all Chinese brands are placed inside the ‘Chinese’ box. It

takes years for a good quality brand to step outside of this box and to

be seen as a reputable imported brand.

Do you believe the consumer would be prepared to pay more for a

reputable brand if properly informed?

PK: The irony here is that by buying a sub-standard tyre, the consumer

could in fact be paying double in that if the tyre only delivers 30 percent

❝I strongly believe we need an Independent Testing Facility to conduct the relevant tests

on random tyre samples❞

of its intended tyre life, he will need to replace it much

sooner than if he had purchased a quality brand. The

cost of replacing twice or even three times during the

cycle of a branded tyre works out a lot higher.

And of course, the consumer also needs to be made to

realise that he may well be gambling with his life and

that of his family.

Do you believe the industry as a whole is doing

enough to address this?

PK: Unfortunately, no. Dealers need to start considering the safety

of their customers ahead of selling them a dubious product. Plus, as

mentioned earlier, government needs to set up an Independent Testing

Facility for quality control purposes.

What is TIASA currently doing to protect its members and the

reputation of credible imported products?

PK: TIASA is working closely with the SATMC and SARS with regard

❝I don’t believe the

South African consumer is suitably

informed. ❞

to the importation of tyres. As you can imagine, this

process is ongoing. In addition, our members (importers

of reputable products) sign a Code of Conduct with us

to ensure that no illicit practices are taking place.

Is government receptive to addressing this issue, and

if so, what suggestions are being put forward?

PK: Government is looking to make changes in the

homologation process with which we agree for the

most part, however, over and above these measures,

we believe that imported tyres should be tested on a random basis, and

not along the lines of what is currently being done.

4 • O n e - o n - O n e

When braking counts

The challenge: to transmit the full power of modern high-performance models to the road safely and efficiently. The response: Continental SportContact 6.

Maximum control. The New SportContact™ 6

www.continental.co.za

XM

C16

05

3

AVAILABLE AT:

› Maximum grip: Black Chili compound for

maximum grip in all conditions, ensuring a

supreme driving experience and superior traction

› Maximum control: Innovative force vectoring

controls lateral forces — a new era in tread

pattern development

› Maximum stability: Advanced Aralon350™

Adaptive Hybrid Cap Ply for superior strength

› Maximum approval: Approved for original fitment

by leading vehicle makers globally

Enhanced silica compounds

DEVELOPED BY INDUSTRY EXPERTS FOR PERFORMANCE,

EFFICIENCY AND COMFORT

PERFORMANCE MATTERS TO US

Advanced tyre technology

Innovative tread design & structure

WWW.DAVANTI-TYRES.COM

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR PRODUCTS AND SIZE RANGE, VISIT OUR WEBSITE:

WWW.DAVANTI-TYRES.COM

70024_Davanti_SAfrica_Trade_Advert.indd 1 12/05/2016 17:13

F o c u s o n T y r e x p o A f r i c a • 7

The poor level of support for this year’s Tyrexpo Africa on the part of local industry begs the question, ‘how much value is this bi-ennial show being seen to provide’. With the sixth instalment of the Tyrexpo Africa series now behind us, debate over the merits and objectives of the show for our market is ongoing with some questioning the validity and effectiveness of the event and others further suggesting that the investment does not justify the end result.

Of rising concern for the local sector is the increasing presence of unknown

Chinese traders at the show, all hoping to ply their trade to a market that is

already being dubbed as a dumping ground for streams of poor quality brands

from other parts of the world and China in particular.

Chinese traders are seen as a serious risk as they often cannot provide that

essential after-sales service that industry and the South African consumer, has

come to expect of premium brands.

In their defence, show organisers, Singex, a Singapore based company that is

also the host of Tyrexpo Asia, Tyrexpo India and Tyrexpo UK, claims to have

taken the industry’s concerns to heart by limiting the number of Chinese trader

exhibits this time around.

Moreover the organisers say that in a bid to ignite interest in the show

and generate additional traffic, they brought something extra into the mix

this year, with the inclusion of a number of value-add services such as the

TYREXPO AFRICA– FUTURE HANGS IN THE BALANCE

8 • F o c u s o n T y r e x p o A f r i c a

TechTalk Seminar and Tyrexpo Technical Workshop.

What is more, they managed to secure support from local government with

a presence from the Gauteng Growth & Development Agency (GGDA), in

a bid to show their commitment to creating an environment conducive for

investment in the country.

Sadly however, visitor numbers which were reported to be 1 800 people from

58 countries, did not necessarily translate into the desired outcome.

“We were hoping for more international clients as well as clients from

neighbouring states, but unfortunately, they did not materialise,” claimed Glen

Brothers of O’Green Metaforge. With over 100-million’s worth of tyres and

rims held across a network of five warehouses in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape

Town, Bloemfontein and Port Elizabeth, coupled with R35-million ploughed

into the construction of their Gauteng warehouse, Brothers said that O’Green

Metaforge is certainly no ‘knock and drop’ tyre importer, and that their offering

ranks highly on the international market.

He said: “Chinese tyre offerings have come a long way by way of polishing

their credentials, with independently owned O’Green in particular, relying

totally on its own resources to grow and develop its brand, thereby avoiding

cut-throat pricing trends. It’s a Chinese tyre, but it’s not a cheap Chinese tyre,”

he observed.

Founded a decade ago, the operation supplies a comprehensive range of

rims and tyres for the agricultural, industrial, OTR, commercial and passenger

sectors.

Brothers further stated: “Whilst we did manage to raise brand awareness

for our product and service offering to the few clients who made it to show,

and were able to benefit from the media coverage on hand, we believe the

investment we made in securing exhibition space could have been used a lot

more productively in other advertising streams and promotions.”

He added: “With the Chinese trading companies pushing for more business

in an already over supplied and saturated market, it only makes it harder for

those that are established to compete on the face of impossibly low margins.”

The organisers confirmed that the ratio of Chinese exhibitors to ‘Others’ was at

55%, but they added that they made a concerted effort to keep Chinese trading

companies to a minimum in light of the local industry’s concerns.

Notwithstanding, out of a total of 99 exhibiting companies, only 10 were South

African based, a statistic that clearly demonstrates that the show is losing

ground with domestic players.

Offered Hedley Judd, Association Director of the TDAFA: “The concern from

WHERE DID THE VISITORS COME FROM? Top 10 African Countries

South Africa • Zimbabwe • Botswana • Mozambique • Zambia • Namibia • Swaziland • Nigeria • Tanzania

• Kenya

Top 10 Participating

CountriesSouth Africa • P.R. China

• India • Singapore • United Arab Emirates •

Zimbabwe • Italy • Botswana • Mozambique

NOBODY UNDERSTANDSTERRAIN LIKE WE DO.

Proudly South African, Tandem Tyres is a major supplier of passenger, SUV/LCV, truck, agricultural, industrial and OTR tyres with distribution channels throughout South Africa, Africa and beyond. We market and import a range of high quality KNOWN and OWNED brand tyres, and pride ourselves on exceptional service, uncompromising efficiencies and affordability, making us your complete tyre solution.

PASSENGER SUV/LCV TRUCK AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRIAL GRADER EARTH MOVER

www.tandemtyres.co.za | tel. 031 765 2650 | fax. 031 765 2695

W&Y

832_

01

832_01_TREAD_MAG_TANDEM_FP.indd 1 2016/02/26 11:03 AM

O n e - o n - O n e • 1 1

a local business perspective would be the plethora of brands already available

and to further dilute this with additional offerings in a market the size of ours

does not seem a logical approach, based upon the singular premise of ‘scale of

economy’, wherein with our local production, we need every unit possible to

keep our plants efficient and economical.

“Furthermore, the aspect of homologation of tyres remains a factor of concern

for any ‘new importer’ of tyres or importer of ‘new tyres’ for that matter,” he

said, “where any new pattern, size, or brand requires full accreditation from

NRCS before being allowed into South Africa for commercial purposes, and

import permit to be issued by ITAC.”

He added: “The point of interest is that there is no provision for the

importation of used tyres (passenger) for resale, the only import permit

allowance being for the purposes of retreading alone. ITAC have issued

a stern warning that any abuse of import permits as far as tyres are

concerned will be followed up on from every angle, to bring perpetrators to

book. The penalty for importing used tyres and selling them directly would

be a breach of an import permit and can attract a fine of R500 000 or ten

years in prison, or both, if convicted. This complements the ‘Road Safety’

concerns in South Africa.”

Judd further questioned the location of the show, suggesting an alternative

venue could well result in greater support for the event.

“The show location is not ideally suited to inbound travellers from around South

Africa, being located in Sandton. A venue closer to OR Tambo International

Airport would be more conducive to attendance, in my opinion, with arterial

roads feeding into the general area.”

WHAT WERE VISITORS LOOKING FOR?

1 2 • F o c u s o n T y r e x p o A f r i c a

Conversely, and despite some of the concerns being raised, certain

international exhibitors who supported the show for the first time offered a

different take on the event.

Cyril Versteeg, van den Ban’s Commercial Manager – one of the leading

and most successful tyre wholesaling companies in Europe said: “Following

the show we are now in advanced negotiations with various South African

companies with our long term objective being to appoint distributors

throughout the entire African tyre market.

“Undoubtedly, Tyrexpo Africa is the right show for us to tap into for our new

plans,” he claimed.

Van den Ban are a multi-brand distributor offering an extensive range of major

and quality brands for all segments of the market and also produce their own

private label – Novex – which is manufactured by Maxxis (see more on vdBan

on page 26)

Peter Cross, Commercial Manager for Oak Tyres in the UK agreed, stating that

the show was useful for their company and that they were confident that they

would be able to forge new and long-lasting partnerships in Africa as a result

of attending.

“It was useful for us to make new contacts in a new market and to spread the

message of our product. Davanti has been meticulously planned to enable our

partners to yield exceptional returns on the brand, and so finding the right

partner to fit the brand is essential in the roll-out of our global sales, strategy,”

he said.

He added that the show offered them the ability to meet a wide range of different

types of customers from different countries in a relatively short space of time

and afforded them the opportunity to conduct in-depth discussions with these

players ahead of making that all-important decision of ‘who to partner with’.

Recently introduced into market in 2015, Davanti is being described as a new

premium tyre brand especially aimed at a growing SUV market. Developed

using a combination of 3D computerised simulation, track testing and the

company’s in-house testing laboratory, the UK-based brand has already

amassed impressive EU label results in light of its wet-grip performance and

low noise ratings.

Singapore based Global Tap Pte Ltd was yet another progressive international

TRADE VISITORS’ PURPOSE OF VISIT

Only one company can give youTotal Tyre Management

Visit www.bridgestonecommercial.co.za for more info. Call: 011 387 2000.

• National Dealer Network • New Tyres • Retreaded Tyres • 24-Hour Roadside Assistance • On-Site Service • Mobile Truck Wheel Alignment • Technical Services • Tyre MaximizerTM

• Tyre Leasing • Casing Confi dence Pledge

Making sense of your fl eet’s costs is seldom simple. The variables tend to creep up and catch you unawares. How would you like a range of services, that are customised to fi t your fl eet needs?

Total Tyre Management from Bridgestone Commercial is designed to achieve lower costs per kilometre, higher overall mileages and management services that’ll help lower your fl eet’s costs.

DW

F/B

SC9

00

5

F o c u s o n T y r e x p o A f r i c a • 1 5

tyre wholesaler making their first appearance at the show, their primary

objective being to introduce and promote their private brand, Gremax, in

South Africa and the African continent and in the hopes of appointing suitable

distributors in as many African countries as possible.

“The show was highly successful for us in furthering our profile in South Africa.

Global Tap is still in its infancy stage, so for us, attendance at the show was well

worth the effort,” said Daniel Eng, Export Director.

Conson Sia, MD of Stamford Tyres South Africa concurred: “The show was

an essential development in Stamford’s growing presence within the South

African tyre and wheel market,” he said.

But Pieter Kruger, TIASA Chairman, did not share their enthusiasm. He said:

“As to whether Tyrexpo Africa can add real value is difficult to say as some of

our members might agree that it has. Personally, I do not think so. The show

has never achieved what it was intended to achieve.”

TRADE VISITORS’ BUSINESS SECTOR

As far as the way forward is concerned Hedley Judd went on to suggest that

as an expo the show could be better used as a platform for the education

and improvement of processes and the facilitation of efficiencies in the tyre

fitment arena.

“Although this would take time to gain traction (pun intended), I believe this

type of format would be far more beneficial to the “local” attendees in the

future,” he concluded.

And according to Alida Mouton of CFP Tyres and Executive Member of

TIASA, if compared to other international shows, the only way Tyrexpo

Africa will be successful in the long run will be if the local manufacturers

come to recognise and support it.

She said: “This will definitely provide the show with greater substance whilst

also attracting the support and participation of larger imported brands.”

1 6 • I n d u s t r y N e w s

Revolutionary technologies sets the trend-setting Continental SportContact 6 apart from the rest

The South African motoring press recently converged on Zwartkops Raceway in Gauteng to experience the purported advantages of the new SportContact 6 over its predecessor. Motoring journalists put the new tyre to the test via a gruelling series of activities that test wet weather performance, drive comfort and above all, road safety. SA TREADS was there.

As the new range-topper in Continental’s ultra-high performance (UHP)

passenger car tyre range, the SportContact 6 boasts an array of advanced

technologies that deliver maximum handling, grip, control and stability in all

types of driving conditions.

Rated to a maximum speed of 350 km/h, the SportContact 6 employs

three key technologies that push the performance boundaries of the UHP

segment, and represent significant gains over its predecessor – the highly

rated ContiSportContact 5P.

Black Chili Compound

The innovative Black Chili tyre compound was originally introduced in

conjunction with the ContiSportContact 5P, and achieved exceptional all-round

grip in all directions.

This technology uses an ingeniously engineered micro-flexibility compound

that allows the microscopic roughness and irregularities of the road surface

to penetrate the rubber and mesh with the tyre, generating micro-level

interlocking between the road and the tyre. This ensures exceptional all-round

grip with short braking distances, optimal acceleration and safe cornering – on

both wet and dry roads.

New to the SportContact 6, the structures of Black Chili compound now

employ fleeting atomic bonds, known as the Atomic Force Compatabilisers, in

the contact area between the tyre and asphalt. These serve as strong adhesive

forces, acting like nanoscopic suction pads that connect the tyre to the road

surface with functional quick-release, resulting in maximum grip at all times.

I n d u s t r y N e w s • 1 7

Force Vectoring

The Continental SportContact 6 introduces a new era in tread pattern

development. The pioneering Force Vectoring technology features different

tread elements on the inside, centre and outside of the tyre to deliver

maximum transmission and control of the tyre’s lateral forces.

The solid Centre Responsive Rib Design uses reinforced shaped centre

ribs and an inner shoulder that allow for maximised stress resistance when

cornering, where the lateral forces from the outside of the tyre are larger

than from the inside.

To enhance the transmission of these forces, the centre rib design

incorporates improved bracing with asymmetric flank angles and chamfered

edges. Additionally, concave long grooves produce a broad rib base,

providing more rigid stabilisation for maximum lateral force transmission.

An Advanced Macro Block Design is used on the outer shoulder of the

SportContact 6. It contains large shoulder blocks connected to interlinked

elements in a second row of tread blocks – which together create a larger

macro block unit. This enables the tread blocks to provide mutual support

during fast cornering, contributing to maximum cornering stability at the

limit.

Aralon 350

Overall tyre stability is further aided through the use of a new synthetic

reinforcing material specially designed for the SportContact 6.

Aralon 350 uses two strands of high-strength aramid and one strand

of flexible nylon, which are tightly wound together, combining the

oppositional behaviour of two different materials in one yarn. It is located

beneath the tread as a jointless Adaptive High Speed Cap Ply which acts like

an additional steel belt, above the regular angled belt and lateral casing ply.

This allows the construction as a whole to adapt flexibly to varying stability

requirements – in particular the enormous centrifugal forces acting on the

tyre at very high speeds – thus resulting in unprecedented high-speed

stability and safety.

uHp Tread Wear indicator

Incorporated in the advanced design of the SportContact 6 is an

innovative new multi-stage ultra-high performance tread wear indicator

(TWI), specifically developed for Continental’s latest offering.

The new UHP TWI makes it easy for the driver to identify when the

remaining tyre tread depth reaches 3,0 mm. Continental recommends

replacing tyres at this point in order to provide continued safety in wet

conditions, especially in terms of aquaplaning resistance.

A further TWI marker is set at 1,6 mm remaining tread depth, indicating

that the tyre must be replaced.

Although legal tread depth limit for South Africa is 1,0 mm across the

entire width of the tyre, wet grip is severely compromised at this level, as

the tyre simply isn’t able to channel water away from the tread surface.

Accordingly, this results in a far greater risk of aquaplaning, reduced

cornering grip and traction, as well as longer braking distances in wet

conditions.

Outstanding performance

Our first-hand driving experience on this new tyre confirms that it does

indeed provide significant improvements in handling, stability and wear

resistance.

Compared to its predecessor, steering precision has improved by 14

percent, along with an 11 percent increase in dry handling.

High-speed performance sees a 10 percent improvement, while wear and

noise levels have both seen a 7 percent gain. Race track grip, which is

the most punishing environment for any road tyre, has been enhanced

by 4 percent.

And despite the exceptional top-end performance characteristics on the

new SportContact 6, it matches the proven capabilities of the previous

model in aquaplaning and wet braking, thus achieving a new level of all-

round capability.

3232-DS-PointS-Value Structure Double Page Spread.indd 1 2016/03/03 4:51 PM


In other industry news, Continental has adopted an innovative and

comprehensive approach to automotive safety under the Vision Zero

banner, which aims to reduce and ultimately eliminate vehicle accidents,

injuries and fatalities.

The initiative is allegedly driven by the Continental Group’s leading

status as one of the world’s largest tyre and automotive safety systems

manufacturers.

htt

p://

ww

w.w

om

eno

nw

hee

ls.c

o.za

/tip

/10

-inte

rest

ing

-ro

ad-a

ccid

ent-f

acts

/

Vision Zero:

The long way to zero road deaths

500600700800900

10001100

Jan Feb AprMar May Jun Jul Aug OctSep Nov Dec

December

Accident rates

are highest in

this month

23,6%75,5%

9%

9%

26%

24%

15%

10%

7%10-19

0-9

20-29

60+

30-39

40-49

50-59

Total % of

fatalities per

age group

Males

have a

higher

accident rate

compared

to women

Month

DayTime

Vehiclesinvolved in accidents

11%

8%

9%

10%

18%

25%

19%

Mon

Tues

Thurs

Wed

Fri

Sat

Sun

Accident

rates are

highest on

weekends

Most fatal crashes

occur

betweenPM

Many victims are

pedestrians,

often under the

incluence of

alcohol or drugs

Our situation in South Africa

Accident avoiding driving – innovatively powered by Continental.Vision Zero

Creating the safest

and most reliable

tyres.

TyreAutomotive

Driver

Knowledge, attitude

and awareness

through professional

driver‘s education, for

example.

Our contribution

Holistic state-of-the-

art expertise from

brake pedal to tyre.

Infrastructure

Improving driving

conditions by

consulting with

communities

and infrastructure

planners.

Did you know?

Motorists are

involved in fatal

accidents due to

various human, vehicle

and road factors

13, 000 & 14, 000lives annually in South Africa

Road accidents claim between

6, 649

TAXI

OTHER

1, 003450292309

2, 803

3051, 2261, 348

222

Continental Vision Zero – aiming for an accident-free future

“Vision Zero is Continental’s strategy

to bring an end to traffic fatalities and

injuries,” says Niel Langner, Marketing

Manager for Continental Tyre South

Africa. “It is a long-term global programme

that combines Continental’s various

automotive divisions, along with strategic

partners, to develop solutions that will

reduce and eventually eliminate road

traffic collisions, injuries and fatalities.

“Since seatbelts, airbags, electronic

stability control, tyre pressure

monitoring systems and ABS brakes

became mandatory in Europe, the

total number of road accidents,

injuries and deaths has declined

significantly,” Langner states. “But

we have to take this process further

and make a concerted effort to

address the more than 1,2-million

people that are killed on the world’s

roads every year.”

He adds that the problem is even

more extreme in SA, which has

amongst the world’s highest

number of road fatalities: around

15 000 people lose their lives

in traffic-related incidents

annually.

Networked communications

and automated driving

“Vehicle safety is a

complex interplay between

different factors, including

human, technological and

I n d u s t r y N e w s • 2 1

environmental aspects,” Langner says. “Continental takes all of these

elements into consideration when developing new safety technologies.”

He goes on to say that ContiGuard is one of Continental’s key divisions

that plays a major role in the realisation of accident-free driving. It

integrates all of the car’s active safety systems (such as ABS, ESP,

Blind Spot Detection System, and head-up display) and passive safety

features (active emergency seatbelt control, airbags) with vehicular and

surrounding sensors that provide ongoing and coordinated interaction

related to traffic and the movement of other vehicles.

“The networking of multiple advanced driver assistance systems will

pave the way for the evolutionary path towards automated driving,

a core technology that Continental has been developing under the

ContiGuard banner,” Langner explains.

Automated driving is envisaged as a key future development that will

contribute to improved road safety. Continental recently launched

2025AD.com, a public and independent website promoting a global

conversation on all aspects of automated driving and future mobility.

Aside from eventually automating the driving process, networked

communications will promote car-to-car interaction to actively inform

and assist drivers to avoiding collisions, claims the company, thereby

providing insight into a future without collisions and resulting injuries

or deaths.

In addition, according to Langner, ‘Tyre education and awareness is at

the forefront of the company’s campaign in SA, as there is a significant

lack of understanding regarding the critical role that tyres play in overall

driving safety.’


Sava is launching the new Sava Avant 4Plus steer tyre and Orjak 4Plus

drive tyre. These European on-road quality truck tyres feature the

latest generation tread designs. The new Sava 4Plus tyres offer cost-

conscious fleet operators further benefits including improved mileage

of up to 10% when compared to their predecessors and a wider range

of sizes.

Seven sizes are available in the Sava Avant 4Plus steer tyre range

including one new size. The tread profile of the Avant 4Plus gives an

optimal footprint to ensure even wear and high mileage. A further

feature of the new tyres is that the widest sizes 385/55R22.5 and

385/65R22.5 now have six ribs giving more flexibility than the previous

five-rib design. This too improves wear characteristics. The new Sava

Avant 4Plus steer tyres are more robust and offer a mileage increase of

up to 10%2 compared to their predecessors.

The new Orjak 4Plus drive tyre range comprises five sizes and has

a tread pattern that with increased tread depth improves mileage.

Enhancements to the shoulder area of the tyres improve handling and

stability. Like the Avant 4Plus tyres, the Orjak 4Plus offer up to 10%

higher mileage3 compared to the predecessor.

The new sava truck tyres will be available

progressively from June 2016 in the

following sizes.

Sava Avant 4Plus steer: 315/80R22.5, 295/80R22.5,

315/70R22.5 385/55R22.5 (new size),

315/60R22.5, 295/60R22.5 and 385/65R22.5.

Sava Orjak 4Plus drive: 315/80R22.5, 295/80R22.5,

315/60R22.5, 315/70R22.5 and 295/60R22.5.

The new Sava Avant 4Plus steer tyre and Orjak

4Plus drive tyre complement the 385/65R22.5 and

385/55R22.5 Sava Cargo 4.

The Sava tyres supplied to the South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa

market are produced at the Izmit Plant in Turkey, Wittlich Plant located

in Germany and Debica Plant located in Poland. These Plant facilities

have state of the art equipment and the latest manufacturing technology.

Goodyear has been at the forefront of tyre innovation for more than

a century striving for new and better ways to enhance its products.

Goodyear is offering value back on performance and a line extension

addressing market demand at the right value to its customers.

About sava

Sava is a leading brand in Goodyear’s product

portfolio and is one of the best known tyre brands

in Central and South-East Europe. The brand name

originates from Slovenia, where Goodyear has a

large manufacturing facility, and offers a wide range

of commercial vehicle and passenger car tyres. Sava

tyres are sold throughout Europe and exported to

other parts of the world. When buying Sava branded

tyres, customers acquire European quality products

driven by Goodyear technology.

Sava launches new Avant 4Plus and Orjak 4Plus Truck Tyres

With the reliability you get from Bandag, your fleet can take on anything. www.bandag.co.za

8182 Bandag Strip Ad.indd 3 5/15/08 4:39:38 PM

With Bandag, you don’t have to be a tyre expert. You just have to know one! Bandag specialises in the manufacture of retreads and best-in-class after sales service. That’s what we do!

For more information please contact Bandag on 011 439 6000 or visit the website at www.bandag.co.za.

P r o m o t i o n • 2 3

DASHBOARD VIEW:

REDISA’S ACHIEVEMENTS:

2 067 3 219 227 143 077DEALERS SERVICED JOBS CREATED SMMES CREATED

*AS AT END APRIL 2016

TONNES PROCESSED

AN ECONOMYCREATED ENTIRELYFROM WASTEREDISA continually creates positive futures for businesses, people and the environment by driving a circular economy that will help redesign, reinvent and reuse the products we consume. Our first-of-its-kind plan and revolutionary systems are making meaningful contributions to our society – creating jobs, opportunities and brighter futures for all. The potential for our future? Endless.

JOIN THE JOURNEY | www.redisa.org.za | /wasteintoworth | @wasteintoworth | +27 87 35-REUSE (73873)

SA_Treads.indd 1 2016/06/03 12:17 PM


Having successfully exhibited at Tyrexpo Africa

2016 in Johannesburg in March where the

company took their very first venture into

the South African tyre market. Netherlands

based Van Den Ban Autobanden B.V. (VDB)

are confident of expanding their impressive

company profile throughout South Africa and in

due course the entire African Continent.

SA Treads spoke exclusively with Cyril Versteeg,

VDB’s Commercial Manager who states that

as one of the leading and most successful

tyre wholesalers in Europe the company has

now started to focus on Southern Africa.

Cyril adds, “Following the show we are now

in advanced negotiations with various South

African companies and our long term objective

is to appoint distributors throughout the entire

African tyre market.”

Strongly supported by a state-of-the-art,

technologically advanced tyre distribution

centre in Hellevoetsluis, near Rotterdam and with

a continuous stock of around 1.5 million tyres

A new South African horizon for Van den Ban

and an annual sales performance of 6 million

tyres, VDB are a multi-brand distributor offering

an extremely wide and extensive range of major

and quality brands covering the passenger car,

high performance, winter, all season, 4x4/SUV,

light truck, trailer, caravan and truck tyre market

sectors. VDB is also covering a complete range

of economy and budget brands. In the economy

range VDB is distributing in a lot of European

countries brands including Federal, Silverstone

and Sava whilst in the budget segment VDB has

a very extensive range, including brands such

as Hifly and Gripmax (4x4/SUV) which have

created a lot of popularity throughout Europe.

Also a private label called Novex (produced by

Maxxis) belongs to the assortment of VDB. The

Novex brand is VDB’s flagship brand and was

exhibited at Tyrexpo Africa 2016. It incorporates

a very comprehensive range of over 200 size

options including 101 summer in 5 patterns,

57 winter and 54 all-season patterns in both

passenger and light truck sectors. Cyril confirms

that our dealer network in Europe is growing

and with the fantastic Novex Super Speed

A2 pattern we cover the high end of the PCR

market.

Finally, in keeping with VDB’s ongoing

commitment to consistently responding to

new market developments around the world

as a unique ‘Total Tyre Supplier’. The company

will be introducing a new private label brand in

the budget segment at the Reifen Show which

incorporates summer, winter and all-season

tyres in a total of almost 200 size options.

Cyril Versteeg concludes: “We are proud of

the fact that we cover two segments with

our private labels; Novex in the premium

budget segment/mid segment and our new

private label in the budget segment therefore

underlining our commitment as ‘your Total

Tyre Supplier!”

For further information on the complete VDB

product portfolio and services visit www.

vandenban.nl

OTR RADIALS

FOR ORDERS & INFORMATIONContact: Ken Martin or Marlin Pillay

Tel: 031 764 6451 | Ken: 083 387 8403 | Marlin: 071 880 9247 | Fax: 086 558 8382 Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

Exclusive Distributor for RSA, Lesotho, Swaziland and Botswana

OnLy AvAILABLE fROm

Transafrica Tyre & Wheel

l Suitable for all OTR Machines

l Full size range in 25” to 35”

‘E’ and ‘L’ type Radials

l Robust Steel Belted Radial

construction

l Abrasion resistant tread

compound

l Steelbelt reinforced tread area

l Modern tread patterns

l Global quality standard

l Manufacturer Warranty

= Low Cost Per Hour

TESTED & PROVEN

TrenTyre is the largest commercial tyre fitment network in the country. Our outlets stand ready and waiting to help. So you can take confidence in the fact that whenever you need us, wherever you are, we’re right behind you.

We’reright behind youwherever you are.24/7.

At your service

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

23203 Trentyre Mag Ad FA.pdf 1 2015/08/13 9:08 AM

T a l k i n g T y r e s • 2 9

Motorists, and consumers in general, are being hit exceptionally hard

financially due to a multitude of factors, starting out with deplorable situation

regarding exchange rates. Political turmoil is just one of the factors driving

our currency down, while soaring inflation is rubbing salt into the wound.

As the South African economy teeters ever-closer towards zero growth

for 2016 (now expected to be just 0.5% for the year), government insists

on playing Russian roulette with dubious political appointments, ill-judged

economic decisions, pervasive in-fighting and a culture of corruption.

Inevitably, this means the country’s consumers and taxpayers are ultimately

paying the price.

Tyre Foru M

Going a step further…

Disposable income is being stretched to the absolute limit, and more

people are not only struggling, but failing, to make ends meet while jobs are

being shed at an alarming rate – as the 26.7% unemployment level for the

first quarter of 2016 shows.

While this paints a depressing picture of our current predicament, it

is encouraging to see business leaders engaging with government –

or, more accurately, those in power are finally taking cognisance of

the views, opinions and advice from the leaders of hugely successful

multinational corporations. But we still have a long and tumultuous road

to travel …

Everyone is feeling the pressure of doing more with less money in the current economic climate. So how can the industry up-sell tyres when the focus is entirely on cutting costs?

By Colin Mileman

3 0 • T a l k i n g T y r e s

Colin Mileman is a freelance motoring journalist, photographer and advanced driving specialist with over 17

years of experience in this field. As a former editor of Topcar and Topbike magazines, he’s as enthusiastic

about cars and bikes as they come, and has extensive knowledge of all motoring-related matters, including

the topic of tyres, having run the annual and highly regarded Topcar tyre tests for several years.

In the meantime, people are counting their rands and cents a lot more

carefully, and purchasing decisions are being considered and reconsidered

several times over before any money is spent on essential items, never mind

luxuries.

The impact on the motoring industry is clear, with new vehicle sales for

2016 expected to fall by 12% compared to last year. The upside is that the

buying pattern has shifted towards used vehicles, with the likes of WesBank

indicating a 10% increase in used vehicle finance applications.

For the tyre industry, the times are equally challenging. Manufacturers,

importers and dealers across the country will no doubt vouch for the fact the

buy-down trend towards smaller, cheaper vehicles is effectively mirrored in

the tyre segment too.

For many motorists, replacing premium tyres with cheaper alternatives is a

matter of necessity (real or perceived) due to their wallets being bled dry as

the cost of living continues rising. This trend isn’t limited to the budget market

either, as any car park inspection reveals. Even affluent motorists driving

expensive cars are feeling the pinch, and are opting for second or third-tier

products in place of more expensive original equipment rubber.

Or could it be attributed to the all-pervasive ‘grudge purchase’ that has

afflicted the tyre industry for as long as we can remember? Maybe it’s the

simple lack of understanding of the critical role that tyres play in overall

driving safety, and the perception that all tyres are relatively equal.

In reality, it’s a combination of all three. Firstly, disposable incomes are tighter

than ever, making it an easy choice between an expensive tyre and a more

affordable option. Secondly, and inextricably linked to this, very few people

plan and budget for replacement tyres, which means when the hit comes, it’s

a bitter pill to swallow.

Lastly, people genuinely do not comprehend how important tyres are.

Through years of advanced driver training, it’s always amazed me how little

drivers of all ages and levels of experience know about tyres. Most people

remember that the legal tread depth limit is 1 mm, but few really know

why this is the case, or what impact it has on handling, braking and grip –

particularly in the wet.

Ask drivers to guess stopping distances from speeds such as 60 and 120

km/h, and 99% of the time they would all have been wiped out if they were

standing in the road at the predicted point. Do the same exercise with a cheap

tyre in place of a premium tyre, and the scenario becomes even more tragic.

Budget tyres are built to price. They benefit from far less research, development

and testing than a premium tyre, and forego all the fancy materials that give the

more expensive the tyres huge advantage in cornering grip, emergency braking

and outright traction – in one word: safety!

In most cases, the premium tyre will last longer too, as it employs the latest

technologies and tread compounds that improve tyre wear and durability.

Obviously there are exceptions to the rule, and I know of a particular set of

4x4 tyres that managed more than 160 000 km, and still had much more to

offer – but the rock-hard compound made them truly scary to drive on, in both

wet and dry conditions.

Ultimately, buying cheap is likely cost more in the long run, whether it’s in terms

of the replacement cycle of the rubber, or an expensive, possibly even life-

threatening, collision that could have been prevented.

In these heavily constrained times, there needs to be an informed shift in

mindset – and that has to come with a multi-faceted awareness campaign for

the industry and motorists in general in order to change perceptions and habits.

Crucially, however, it will be the primary point of interaction between customers

and retailers that will have the greatest impact.

Successful tyre retailers and fitment centre staff will be those that proactively

advise customers not to purchase on price alone, but rather convince them to

make safety a primary consideration, followed by durability and the total cost

over the entire life of the tyre.

Most tyre manufacturers have access to independent tyre tests from around

the world, and these offer detailed insight into the performance virtues of

competitor tyres across various vehicle segments. Recently cheap tyres have

added to the tests too, and the results are simply shocking. Armed with this

information, the job of selling a quality product versus something cheap, nasty

and potentially deadly, becomes a whole lot easier.

Additionally, manufacturers and retailers that offer some sort of embedded

tyre insurance (preferably standard or at a nominal fee) will earn even greater

support and loyalty by adding further value for money and peace of mind to

the ownership experience.

3 2 • D i s t r i b u t i o n N e w s

SAT-201604.FH11 Wed Mar 02 14:12:39 2016 Page 1

Composite

C M Y CM MY CY CMY K

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��New Stores For Tiger Wheel & Tyre

Tiger Wheel & Tyre has added a new store in Table View to its growing

network, located on the corner of Raats Drive and Briza Road.

The new store, which opened on 9 May under the expert supervision of

store manager, David Harding, boasts a high-tech showroom, comfortable

hospitality area that provides customers with something to take their minds

off business while they wait, as well as skilled technicians to attend to their

vehicle.

Meanwhile, another high-tech store opened on 21 April, in Eastlea, Harare

to cater for the Msasa industry and surrounding residential suburbs.

And like the Group’s other stores, the Eastlea store stocks a complete

range of tyres, among them, Continental, Yokohama, Hankook, Michelin

BFGoodrich, Pirelli, GT Radial, Sumitomo and Tiger Wheel’s own value

brand, Velocity.

D i s t r i b u t i o n N e w s • 3 3

Supa Quick’s 30 birthday year sees

the retail tyre chain having grown

from a single pilot store in 1986

to the biggest tyre franchise chain

in the country, with 257 outlets

countrywide.

More growth is planned, with the

chain aiming to reach in excess of 300

outlets by 2020. This is according to

Supa Quick head, Christo Jansen van

Rensburg, who says that the key to growth is to identify communities which

are under-serviced in terms of quality fitment centers. “When we investigate

a site for a new Supa Quick, we do in-depth research of the surrounding

area to see what options consumers have,” he commented. “There is a risk

in trying to serve too many areas with a single outlet – you end up being too

far from everyone, so we look for locations embedded within a community

or a retail node which is convenient for consumers to visit.”

Jansen van Rensburg said this enabled consumers to choose a fitment centre

on quality and service, not just convenience. “Of course, we hope they’ll

choose us!” He explained that the fitment market evolved constantly, and that

Supa Quick did not just rely on its original proposition of ‘super quick service’.

“Back before Supa Quick started, it could take in excess of two hours for a

fitment centre to fit and balance four tyres. We cut that to less than an hour,

and this kind of service has become the benchmark for the industry, so it is

less of a differentiator than it used to be,” he commented.

A new Supa Quick outlet must be quickly accepted by the community it

serves in order to get on a solid footing, and the chain has turned its attention

to new ways of staying at the head of the market. One of the key benefits has

been the support of Bridgestone SA’s specialists who provide franchisees

with support in a host of areas including training, marketing and financial

management. “A franchisee’ is focused

on making sure the business runs

effectively and customers are happy.

Our support network frees them

from a lot of business development

work,” commented Jansen van

Rensburg. “With Bridgestone’s global

footprint as the world’s largest tyre

maker, franchisees can tap into new

developments in equipment and

fitment almost as they happen. This

provides an essential line of support for the safety-critical work we do on

customers’ vehicles.”

Another growth driver is the appeal of the outlet itself, and modern Supa

Quick outlets would be unrecognizable to someone used to a typical

tyre outlet from the 1970s or early 1980s. “We have worked very hard

on ensuring the customer is received in a comfortable and appealing

environment,” said Jansen van Rensburg. “The experience must be of a

high standard no matter which outlet a customer visits. After all, a customer

loyal to a particular Supa Quick outlet could be put off the brand altogether

if they visit another one which doesn’t provide the service they are used

to,” he explained.

He also noted that part of development planning for new Supa Quick outlets

is considering businesses in the area. Selected outlets in the Supa Quick

group are nowadays able to provide commercial tyre services alongside

their consumer offerings, and Jansen van Rensburg said this was a key focus

for expansion. “Private individuals have come to demand high quality and

good service in a convenient environment, and we are increasingly siting

startup branches in locations likely to also draw commercial customers who

want the same service,” he added. “Expanding our network has required

new thinking about the way fitment centers should service customers, and

we’re confident we’ve got the right recipe,” he concluded.

More Growth Planned As Supa Quick Turns 30

W o r l d N e w s • 3 5

The very last Reifen Show in its current format took place last week

in Essen, Germany before relocating further south in the country in

Frankfurt in 2018 in a ‘groundbreaking’ move that sees this longstanding

European event link up with the Automechanika Show in September.

This historic show was attended by SA Treads European correspondent

– John Stone who confirms that a new highest total of 675 exhibitors

participated at the event representing 43 countries over 12 halls and

a record breaking 60,000 sq metres. Also rather predictably Germany

was the most represented country followed by China, The Netherlands,

Taiwan, UK and America and it is anticipated that a total of around

22,000 visitors attended the four day show.

John also attended the prestigious 2016 Innovation Awards ceremony

with both Michelin and Bridgestone being named as the dual winners of

the ‘Technology and Products category’, Michelin for its X Line Energy

Tripla A range of commercial tyres and Bridgestone for their recently

introduced Driveguard range.

Whilst in the Service Concepts and Process Optimisation category,

4JET Technologies from Germany were recognised for their Scannect

product which is the first solution in the world designed to equip

tyres with an individual, permanent QR code which can be read by a

Smartphone camera. Winners in the Motor Vehicle Service category

were ASE Corghi from Italy for the development of Uniformity, their first

tyre fitting machine complete with diagnostic functions.

Messe Essen, organisers of the biennial Reifen Show have also stated that

around 90 per cent of visitors to this year’s event have indicated they will

attend the 2018 Reifen/Automechanika show in Frankfurt although John

also reports that the future of the new event is far from certain with many

exhibitors questioning the relocation and partnership of the show in two

years’ time and in particular the fact that it will be staged in September as

opposed to the traditional month of May.

Additional reports will be published in the coming days of specific exhibitors

at the show and their new products. www.satreads.com

RecoRd bReaking faRewell fRom the Reifen essen show

This years Reifen Show

The Innovation Awards Winners

PiRelli intRoduces its new tRiathlon tbR Range at Reifen 2016Milan based Pirelli used their appearance at this year’s Reifen Show to launch

its new tyre range for commercial vehicles – the R:01 Triathlon which has been

designed as a third generation of tyre which replace the current R:01 11 pattern

but also overlap the winter W:01 and long haul H:01 ranges.

The new R:01 range has been specifically produced to recognise the variable needs

of Pirelli customers and the ongoing development of Europe goods transportation.

www.satreads.com

3 6 • W o r l d N e w s

bRidgestone wins infRingement lawsuit

A ruling in favor of Bridgestone

Corp. was upheld in a recent

appeals case, the tiremaker

shared.

In October 2013, Bridgestone

filed a lawsuit against Chinese

tire manufacturer Triangle Tyre

Co. Bridgestone said Triangle

had been manufacturing and

selling tires using a tread

pattern for studless tires that’s

exclusive design rights held by

Bridgestone. In July 2015, a Chinese court found that Triangle

infringed on Bridgestone’s design rights. The court ordered

Triangle to cease producing the tires in question and pay

damages to Bridgestone.

Triangle appealed the court’s decision, but the High People’s

Court in Jilin Province upheld the original in Bridgestone’s

favor.

“Bridgestone is committed to protecting its intellectual

property and will continue to deal with any unauthorized

use or infringement of its patents, trademarks, or any other

intellectual property in a strict manner. With this level of

vigilance, Bridgestone is prioritizing the safety and quality

associated with its products, and maintaining and enhancing

its hard-earned brand value,” the tiremaker said.

www.tirereview.com

new high sPeed otR tyRe fRom michelinFrom their headquarters in France,

Michelin has announced their latest

OTR tyre which has been specifically

designed to cater for underground

mining operations where higher

speed capabilities are required from

loader tyres.

The all-new 18.00 R25 Michelin XSM D2+ Long Cycle L5S tyre is capable

of six kilometres an hour which is a significant improvement on the existing

XSM pattern for this application. www.satreads.com

maRangoni RetRead tuRns 40Marangoni Tread North America is celebrating 40 years of the

Ringtread.

Marangoni introduced the first Ringtread (the splice-less retread)

on April 27, 1976, in Ferentino, Italy. The product combined the

no splice, double contour round shape, and precision control

of dimensions of mold cure technology with precure tread

manufacturing.

The American-made Ringtread was manufactured for the first time

at the Madison Tennessee facility on April 27, 2004. Marangoni

Tread North America has since produced and sold millions of

Ringtreads.

“Today we celebrate 40 years of excellence and although the Ring

of 40 years ago was a quality leap in retread technology, the Ring

of today is even better,” Marangoni Tread North America CEO and

President Bill Sweatman said to the Marangoni team. “Our new

Extreme Performance line is setting new records for reliability,

durability, mileage, traction, fuel economy, appearance and ride.

I would also like to celebrate and recognize all of you for your

continued commitment to manufacturing excellence”

www.tirereview.com

a glitteRing ‘show-stoPPeR’ fRom ZenisesDubai based tyre manufacturer Zenises added a new glamorous edge at

the Reifen Show last week by showcasing the world’s most expensive

tyre which costs a stunning US$ 600,000 for a set of four tyres.

The Z branded 295/35 ZR21 107Y XL tyre was specially manufactured

at the Sentry Tire factory in Qingdao, Shandong Province, China and

incorporates a 24 carat gold and expertly selected diamond stones as its

centrepiece and has already been officially recognised by the Guinness

Book of World Records. www.satreads.com

www.vipal.com | [email protected] | +55 51 3205 3051

vip-0028-16c anuncio reparos.indd 1 20/05/16 16:08

Download - SA Treads June 2016

Top Related