sa treads march 2015

Vol 2

1 • M

arch

201

5

a set of the newly launched Z tyre to the value of R5 000 courtesy of Tyrecor

Taking the sting out of tyre prices

Stamford Tyres SA heralds in new era

Bandag SA celebrates 10 years of trading

Apollo plant ceases production

GT Radial tyres now available in SA

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ad S

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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

Editor Liana Shaw

Technical consultant Wray Shaw

Reproduction Diane van Noort

Printing TYPO

– Colour Printing Specialists

Distribution Prestige Bulk Mailers

Advertising Liana Shaw

Contents A note fromthe editor

This year, SA TREADS magazine comes

of age, celebrating 21 years of service to

the industry. We, would like to thank our

loyal customers and the industry at large

for the overwhelming support that the

publication continues to receive. In turn,

we pledge to keep on providing you with

the latest and freshest stories making the

rounds, locally and abroad.

Bearing in mind that 76.1% of our demographic is comprised of the end user,

and given spiralling costs which are bound to impact tyre purchase in the months

to come, we are kicking the year off with a close look at factors determining tyre

production costs, most notably, tyre design and technology which is developing

at an accelerated pace.

So what’s in a tyre? Suffice to say, far more than one might think. Tyre technology

has progressed at a staggering rate over the years. What is more, it continues

to evolve, not only in a bid to keep up with new OE requirements and vehicle

designs, but more importantly perhaps, in the quest to provide the motorist with

the ultimate driving experience whilst also optimising safety levels.

The latest product releases to hit the market boast some of the finest technologies

available, the result of extensive R&D on the part of the part of tyre makers

globally. On page 9 we highlight some of the world’s most notable technologies

and how they impact on driving ability, road handling, and road safety, in the

hopes that shedding some light on the superior qualities of tyres on the market

today, might soften the blow of tyre replacement.

Following on the recent sale of Apollo (Dunlop) in Ladysmith, to Sumitomo

Rubber Industries, and our exclusive interview with Riaz Haffejee who will be

spearheading the South African based operation into the future, in this issue,

we take a closer look at another market player closely affiliated to the SRI brand,

Stamford Tyres. Conson Sia, Managing Director of Stamford Tyres SA spells out

the company’s vision, particularly where it involves the Falken brand which is

poised for further growth.

The newly launched Z tyre – brought to you by the Zenesis Group and Tyrecor

– is also about to make its entrance on the domestic market. On the back of an

impressive performance at a recent tyre test in Europe, one lucky reader stands

the chance to experience the new Z tyre for themselves by entering our quarterly

competition on page 36.

All this plus much more in this edition….enjoy!

I n t r o d u c t i o n • 1

Publishers Sky Publications cc

PO Box 702

Douglasdale, 2165

Tel: (011) 658 0011

Fax: (011) 658 0010

Cell: 082 851 6777

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: www.satreads.co.za

one-on-one Stamford tyres – Conson Sia on Falken, marketing goals and working within the china wall ........................................................2

Focus on Technology – Taking the sting out of tyre prices CELEBRATING 125 YEARS OF TYRE INNOVATION ...........................9

Retreading LOCAL IS LEKKER! Celebrating 10 years of success in SA .............. 20

Manufacturing Z Tyre launched in luxury Durban based Apollo plant ceases production ................................. 21

Distribution Treads Unlimited adds leading tyre brand to product line-up ........... 24 Queenstown welcomes a new automotive fitment centre – Tyres & More ............................... 25 Obituary – Mike Nel, founder of Tandem Tyres ................................ 26

Talking Tyres Tyre Forum – The future is still black! ............................................... 27

Goodyear news Goodyear concepts could change the way tyres, cars interact ........ 30

World news China Top Brand Tire Exhibition to open on May 15th in Guangrao Shandong ............................................... 33 Bridgestone wins design lawsuit against two Chinese companies .... 33 Europe develops important new development in rubber research .. 33 Continental opens tech centre in India ............................................. 34 Japanese tyre market to cross US$ 26 billion in 2015 ...................... 34 A night of Techno Accolades ........................................................... 35 Tire Technology Expo 2015 opens with even more exhibitors ......... 35

competition, subscription, Website ................................... 36

Cover Picture: courtesy of Continental

2 • O n e - o n - O n e

sTAMFoRD TYREs – HERALDInG In A nEW ERA

conson sIA on FALKEn, MARKETInG GoALs AnD WoRKInG WITHIn THE cHInA WALL

With the local market still buzzing from the recent sale of the

Dunlop brand, (formerly owned by Apollo Tyres), to Japanese

manufacturing giant Sumitomo Rubber Industries (SRI), we

now examine the effects of this transaction to other market

segments, in particular, affiliate brands and their subsequent

marketing and distribution. Currently ranked the sixth largest

tyre manufacturer globally, SRI has set ambitious goals in

place in what it terms its ‘Vision 2020’, strategies that are

likely to have far reaching effects in the marketplace for both

its customers and business partners alike.

One such business partner is the Falken high

performance passenger tyre brand, marketed in

more than 20 countries by the Singapore-based

Stamford Tyres Corporation Limited which is listed

on the Singapore Stock Exchange. In turn, wholly-

owned subsidiary, Stamford Tyres (Africa) (Pty) Ltd

– established in 1993 – was awarded the agency for

the Falken brand in February 2009. The brand was

officially relaunched into South Africa later that same

year, in October 2009.

And in September 2010, Sumitomo Rubber Industries

acquired a 1.8% stake in Stamford Tyres Corporation,

a move that will ultimately see the brand catapulting its

sales in South Africa on the back of this relationship.

Stamford has further pledged $1.4 million in net

proceeds which are expected to rev up Stamford’s

expansion plans in the lucrative South African market.

POWER UP! Buy 4 of the below Falken passenger or

4x4 tyres (15” or larger) and receive a

Falken Powerbank Multi-charger,

absolutely free!

Terms and conditions apply. The campaign commences on the 1st March 2015 and ends on the 30th April 2015.The gifts will be available while stocks last. The gifts are not redeemable for cash.This promotion only applies to purchases of Falken ZE912, FK453, FK453CC, Wildpeak A/T or Wildpeak H/T tyres.

Buy 4 of the below Falken passenger or

4-in-1 power cable2600 mAh capacity

Charges most smart and cellphonesThe device can be charged from your PC or vehicle

SUMITOMO RUBBER INDUSTRIES, JAPAN

www.stamfordtyres.co.za

4 • O n e - o n - O n e

With this in mind, we caught up with Stamford Tyres

Managing Director, Conson Sia, who provided

further insight into this important market dynamic

and its consequences.

Exciting times indeed for the Falken brand Conson.

How far across Africa does your marketing and

distribution agreement with Sumitomo extend?

We have marketing and distribution rights for the Falken brand in South Africa

and neighbouring countries, as well as in six sub-Sahara countries including

Mauritius.

So I take it the balance of the African continent is supplied and serviced by

Sumitomo directly?

Yes, that is correct. Bear in mind that our two respective companies are

members of what we refer to as the ‘China Wall’, which essentially means

that we share a manufacturing base but operate independently insofar as the

marketing and distribution of our respective brands is concerned. This is to

ensure that the methodologies and philosophies of each company remain

distinct.

Stamford Tyres is solely a marketing and distribution entity and therefore

operates independently in terms of channels of distribution, product

positioning and pricing.

Certain tyre sizes sell more competitively than others and this is where the

‘China Wall’ can be of great benefit in that it promotes entrepreneurship and

allows each brand to find its niche. This arrangement, although somewhat

unorthodox for this market, has worked well in many countries.

Why would Sumitomo elicit the services of a company like Stamford Tyres?

For one, SRI acquired the Falken brand in order to be able to have market

presence in world regions where they do not have access to the Dunlop brand.

As such, Falken is better known in the European and US markets, where it has

been selling successfully for a number of years now.

In addition, SRI, now the second largest tyre maker in Japan after Bridgestone,

recognises the importance of sound marketing entities such as Stamford Tyres,

which frees up their time and allows them to focus on manufacturing, its core

business.

So how is Falken distributed in your area of operation?

Mainly through around 500 dealers, most of whom are independents.

We also have two dedicated Falken concept stores in the country, one in

Kempton Park, Johannesburg and the other in Phoenix, Durban, which are also

going a long way towards raising awareness for the brand.

What is your strategy in terms of discounting?

We abide by a uniform pricing structure across our entire dealer base. We don’t

subscribe to discounting as we believe this practice is disruptive to the market

and in violation of our Business Model.

As professional marketing agents, we have significant costs to carry by way

of import duties, distribution, warehousing and the like.

What is your current vision in terms of growth?

As you well know, the Japanese are extremely well organised and orderly

in all aspects of business which means that our growth is managed and

controlled annually by an allocation basis. Our mandate is to execute

according to this annual allocation. That being said, our allocation is slowly

growing thanks to SRI’s ‘Vision 2020’ which is currently being implemented

worldwide.

Would you care to elaborate on the ‘Vision 2020’?

SRI’s ‘Vision 2020’ growth strategy is expected to see the firm’s sales

approach US$15 billion by 2020. To achieve its goals, management

has established three initiatives aimed at driving growth: NEXT Market

Expansion; NEXT Technology Revolution; and NEXT Category Innovation.

In addition, to evaluating the feasibility of establishing production in

Russia and India, SRI has disclosed investments totalling $1 billion plus

for its Brazil, China, Thailand and Turkey capacities and the South African

acquisition.

The company is aiming to have 18 overseas manufacturing locations by

2020, up from 11 currently, along with 31 national sales companies, up

from 24.

And of course another priority of ‘Vision 2020’ is to ensure long-term

sustainable returns to shareholders.

So does this mean that Falken would be manufactured locally at the

Sumitomo plant in Ladysmith?

It depends on how quickly the local plant can streamline its production. In

time this may well be a possibility, but for now we will continue to import

Falken. We will further focus our efforts on establishing the brand in the

market, and differentiating it from the plethora of imports entering our

borders.

Falken has the performance edge as it is targeted for the EU and US market.

What is more, it is quickly securing and growing its OE presence, currently

original fitment on Volkswagen, Nissan, and various Suzuki models.

Negotiations are currently in place with other leading vehicle makers as

well to extend OE presence further.

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although I am pleased to say that this is beginning to change. Initially, we

were incorrectly regarded as traders and many also thought that Falken

was coming in from China but thankfully, market perceptions are gradually

shifting.

Describe your short to mid-term vision for the company.

First and foremost, and especially with SRI now actively operating in South

Africa, we are aiming for calculated growth and greater profitability.

At the outset, the Rand was strong. Now margins are being squeezed, the

barriers of import have gone up and so have the costs. Distribution requires

considerable working capital which in our case is sourced directly from our

mother company in Singapore.

In the mid-to-long term, and of course depending on our footprint, we are

striving to build our own premises in keeping with the company’s Business

Model throughout the world.

Interestingly, the Falken Business Model in particular, is largely aimed at the

younger generation which is why Falken is being featured on programmes such

as Fast and Furious and making its debut on play station and computer games.

conson Tiu sia – Managing DirectorConson relinquished his

appointment as Group Chief

Financial Officer of Stamford Tyres

Corporation Limited, holding

company listed in Singapore Stock

Exchange, in October 2013 to

focus on spearheading the growth

and development of the South

Africa operations. He remains as

Management Team member and Senior Vice President of the Group.

Conson is a Director of Stamford Tyres (Africa) (Pty) Ltd since June

2003 and was appointed as Managing Director in March 2013. He is

also the President Director of PT Stamford Tyres Distributor Indonesia,

a distributor of Falken, Nexen, Sumo and Maxam in Indonesia.

Conson is a Director of Falken Tyre India Private Limited, a joint

venture distribution company formed in August 2012 with Sumitomo

Rubber Industries.

Conson began his career with Stamford Tyres in 1993, heading

the Group’s operation in the Philippines and was the Group Chief

Financial Officer from 2001 to 2013. Prior to joining Stamford Tyres,

he was with Ernst & Young (Philippines) from 1988 to 1992. He holds

a Bachelor of Science in Commerce from the University of Santo

Tomas, Philippines and is a Certified Public Accountant.

Of course, establishing a brand takes time. We are professional distributors,

not traders, and we need the market to understand this. Our reputation is

very important to us.

Dealers in South Africa are understandably weary of so-called ‘fly-by-

nights’ who operate on a ‘knock and drop’ basis with little recourse. Again,

we do not fall into this category, something which we hope to entrench

by way of our marketing campaigns and of course, now, via the massive

presence of Sumitomo in this country. SRI is a world class producer and

their entry into this market will greatly assist us in raising brand awareness.

Speaking of recourse and reputation what is your current claim rate on

Falken and how are manufacturing claims dealt with?

Our claim rate is very low, but in the event of a claim, we settle it directly

with the dealer, before settling the matter with our supplier.

What are your plans for marketing Falken outside of SA?

Although we are represented in these regions, we need more tailor-made

product for this market. Currently, our products are designed for the

Asian, EU or US markets, but this is certainly a vision for SRI, which when it

eventually kicks in, will enable us to effectively extend our footprint.

What about the commercial segment? Does Stamford Tyres Africa still

service this sector through the Firenza and Sumo brands?

Yes, although the commercial segment forms the smallest portion of our

business currently. Again, our commercial range – boasting heavier tyres

and wider treads – is specifically designed for first world markets, and is

specifically aimed at operators who are looking to get retreadability out of

their casings. The current market dynamic is restrictive in nature by virtue

of so many cheaper imports that are flooding the playing field.

Overseas, our Group is heavily involved in fleet management, something

which again, we hope to develop in this market as well. Of course in order

to do that we first need to build a team of technical people, or alternatively

tie up with companies that have this in place, in the interests of growing

market share.

At this point in time we are capitalising on our core skill – building a

professional and efficient distribution centre.

Do you cater for the earthmover market at all?

We do. We offer the Maxam and Sumo range, engineered in Europe, but

the biggest challenge we face is convincing customers to try the range as

they have the incorrect perception that they are cheapies coming in from

China.

What would you say are the biggest challenges your business faces?

The fluctuation of the Rand continues to present the biggest challenge.

Second to that would be finding suitably qualified people to join our ranks

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F o c u s o n T e c h n o l o g y • 9

Taking the sting out of tyre prices

cELEBRATInG 125 YEARs oF

TYRE InnoVATIonHaving spent the greater part of working

life in the tyre industry I am virtually

accosted by friends and family when

it’s time for their next tyre purchase.

Often they seek advice on brand, size or

overall performance, but most frequently,

they require a sounding board for their

resentment over the seemingly high costs

involved. In their view tyre replacement is

a necessary evil that must be endured in

order to keep those wheels rolling.

Commonly described as a grudge purchase, they may not realise is that

pricing is not determined purely by inflation and rising manufacturing costs,

but more importantly perhaps, by the technology that is constantly developing

and evolving to provide greater levels of safety, better economy and overall

performance.

Tyre design and manufacturing have come a long way since the 19th Century

when the likes of Michelin and Goodyear– the first tyre companies to officially

emerge following the wake of the Industrial Revolution – released their original

products into the market.

Michelin pioneers the futureMichelin in particular, has an impressive

pioneering history and has played a

fundamental role in the world of transport.

Since its transformation, from a manufacturer

of rubber for children’s toy balls, to one of

the most iconic tyre companies in the world,

Michelin has blazed a trail of innovation

and ingenuity that has shaped the modern

transport landscape.

Two French brothers – Andre and Edouard

Michelin – took over the family business,

with the intention of modernising the way

people moved. Little did they realise that for

the next 125 years, Michelin would be a leader in the industry, and shape the

history of the tyre.

1 0 • F o c u s o n T e c h n o l o g y

Their story begins with a bicycle tyre. A cyclist came to them to fix a tyre, and

after many initial failures, they realised they needed to create a tyre that wasn’t

glued to the rim, so it could be fixed quickly and easily.

The result of their labour was a patent, in 1891, for the world’s first detachable

pneumatic tyre. They used these to enter a long-distance race, which they won,

bringing worldwide attention to their new tyres. Four years later they adapted

the design for motor cars, and placed them on the L’éclair, which – compared

to previous tyres – felt like you were driving on air.

One of Michelin’s most iconic designs was the Michelin X, now known as the

‘radial’ tyre. It was developed in 1946, as the first steel belt tyre in the world.

Its ply cord was at a 90 degree angle from the wheel rim, and the casing was

strengthened by a belt of steel fabric around the tyre’s circumference. It was

safer, longer-wearing and more fuel efficient, a major milestone in the industry.

Since the turn of the century they have not slowed down, with their list of

accomplishments now including: the Tweel, hub and spokes made of a flexible

material that can bend and return to its original shape; the Protek Max (an inner

tube that seals after a puncture); and MEMS, an electronic monitoring system

that allowing users to check tyre pressure and temperature in real time.

Other breakthroughs included the development of carbon black which

increased tyre lifespan fivefold and also gave tyres their colour, the ‘Sole’ tyre

that had a leather ply and was studded with metal rivets to improve grip as well

as a tyre with a built-in tube (the precursor to the tubeless tyre), which Michelin

patented. In 1923 came the ‘Confort’ – the first low pressure balloon tyre with

a pressure of 2.5 bar and which lasted 15 000km. This was followed by the

‘Super-Confort’ with an air pressure level of 1.5 bar, which lasted 30 000km

and later by the ‘Stop’ tyre which had sipes – latitudinal cuts – to increase

traction on slippery roads.

For the next four decades Michelin regularly produced major innovations that

improved the longevity of tyres and made vehicles safer and more comfortable

to drive.

As an influential global company they were also the first, in 1992, to develop

eco-friendly tyres. Silica was added to the rubber compound to create the

‘Green’ tyre (Michelin MXN) which was more energy efficient, safer and longer

wearing.

Arguably the key factors in Michelin’s success as a leading,

global tyre brand have been the company’s relentless

commitment to Research and Development.

Goodyear’s enduring legacySimilarly Frank Seiberling founded Goodyear in

1898 together with 13 associates and a product line

of bicycle and carriage tyres, horseshoe pads and

poker chips. Automobile tyres were added in 1900,

but the industry standards at the time were little more

than oversized bicycle tyres. Unsatisfied with the

performance, company leaders decided to design a better tyre, thus creating

the enduring legacy of continuous improvement and innovation.

Today, more than 100 years later, Goodyear attributes its success to its

constant drive to innovate. To date, Goodyear has amassed a total of 677

patents including 129 in the USA.

Recent innovations include Goodyear’s Air Maintenance Technology (AMT),

which enables tyres to remain inflated at the optimum pressure without the

need for any external pumps, electronics or driver intervention, as well as the

use of soybean oil in tyres which can potentially increase tread life by 10%

whilst also reducing the use of petroleum-based oil during manufacturing by

up to 7 millions gallons each year. In addition, during testing at Goodyear’s tyre

plant in Lawton, Oklahoma, it was discovered that rubber compounds made

with soybean oil blend more easily with the silica used in building tyres thereby

improving plant efficiency and reducing energy consumption and greenhouse

gas emissions.

Furthermore, Goodyear and DuPont Industrial Biosciences are working

together to develop Biolsoprene, a revolutionary bio-based alternative for

petroleum-derived isoprene that can be used for the production of synthetic

rubber. The development is expected to help reduce the tyre industry’s

dependence on oil-derived products.

Another notable innovation comes in the form of Radio-Frequency Identification

(RFID) Technology, which is a tiny one-centimetre chip built into the tyre on the

assembly line. Instead of manually identifying a tyre by its sidewall markings,

the use of RFID Technology allows each tyre to be quickly identified by a

scanner with that information accurately and electronically recorded, thereby

saving fleet owners time savings as one of the main benefits.

Today, with the emergence of third world producers who now number in

the thousands, the consumer is spoilt for choice. According to Global Tire

Company Rankings 2014, the top ten tyre manufacturers were (1) Bridgestone,

(2) Michelin,(3) Goodyear, (4) Continental A.G.,(5) Pirelli, (6) Sumitomo

Rubber Industries, (7) Hankook, (8) Yokohama,(9)Maxxis and (10) Zhongce

Rubber Group.

F o c u s o n T e c h n o l o g y • 1 3

Bridgestone introduces ground-breaking Runflat Tyre TechnologyJapanese manufacturing giant Bridgestone was not only quick to follow on the

steps of their European pioneering tyre makers, (the company ranks number

one in terms of sales and tyre market presence globally), but in recent years,

it has been responsible for its own share of technological breakthroughs in

the market, most notably, Run-Flat Technology (RFT), which the company first

pioneered in 1987 on the Porsche 959, and which today, is being adopted by

more and more manufacturers.

RFT tyres enable you to safely continue your journey at reduced speed to the

next service point – up to a limited distance – even in the event of sudden

tyre pressure loss. Moreover, it eliminates the need to carry a spare tyre, thus

reducing weight, increasing fuel economy and offering the driver additional

boot space.

In 2009 Bridgestone even took the RFT tyre to the next level with the launch of

its new generation Run-Flat Technology tyres, which now offer ride comfort and

handling that is indiscernible from conventional tyres.

What is more, they developed new ‘Cooling Fin’ technology

that expands the vehicle application potential of run-flat

tyres, enabling the driver to travel up to a specified distance

at a specified speed (80km at 80kmph) following a loss of air

pressure.

The challenge facing runflat technology was to devise a way

to minimise the heat caused by deformation of the sidewall

when driving on a sidewall-reinforced type runflat tyre that has

lost air. ‘Cooling Fin’ technology is a new paradigm that uses

disturbances in the airflow created by protrusions on the surface

of the tyre sidewall – that face in towards the centre of the wheel

– to cool the tyre sidewall.

This advancement allows the development of runflat tyres for

certain SUVs, CUVs, minivans and large passenger cars where

the high tyre cross-section causes a significant amount of

heat to be generated on the sidewall when driving with low air

pressure.

In addition, Bridgestone launched DriveGuard, a new range of runflat

tyres aimed at vehicles which are not supplied with runflat tyres from

the factory. DriveGuard is built on the technology of Bridgestone’s

existing RFT runflat tyres but features a lighter-weight construction

than previous runflat tyres and includes new technologies which allow

it to run cooler and more durable. If a DriveGuard tyre is punctured, a

maximum speed of 80km/h can be maintained for a distance of up to

80km. Moreover, the Controlled Contact footprint distributes the tyre

load more evenly to offer better wear characteristics, while the silica-

based tread compound coupled with an asymmetrical tread pattern,

give the tyre improved roadholding characteristics under both wet and

dry conditions.

In 2011, Bridgestone announced the development of their new Non-

Pneumatic (Airless) concept tyre that could prove to be a viable and more

environmentally friendly alternative to conventional tyres in the future.

With a unique structure of spokes stretching along the inner sides of the

tyres supporting the weight of the vehicle, there is no need to periodically

refill the tyres with air, meaning that not only do the tyres require less

maintenance, but punctures are a thing of the past. In addition, the spoke

structure within the tyre is made from reusable thermoplastic resin and

along with the rubber in the tread portion, the materials used in the tyres

are 100 percent recyclable, thereby setting a new standard in terms of

environmental friendliness, safety and comfort.

Bridgestone further claims that the company is pursuing this

technological development with the aim of achieving a ‘cradle to cradle’

process that proactively maximises the cyclical use of resources from

worn tyres into new tyres and the use of recyclable resources.

1 4 • F o c u s o n T e c h n o l o g y

nanoPro-Tech – another first from BridgestoneNanoPro-Tech is another exciting innovation from Bridgestone, a technology

which draws out the characteristics required to control the microstructure

of materials through molecular design. The technology was announced in

2006. The first use of NanoPro-Tech was for the Bridgestone Blizzak REV02 in

September 2006 (a passenger tyre for use in snow conditions and therefore

not available in SA). The next use was in the Bridgestone Ecopia M891 II –

a fuel efficient tyre for trucks and buses – released in March 2007, and this

was duly followed by the Bridgestone Ecopia EP100 for the passenger market,

which was introduced in October 2007. In October 2013, the latest version of

the NanoPro-Tech technology (being Ecopia compound II), became available

in South Africa when it was applied to the passenger tyre range Ecopia EP200,

launched at that time.

continental launches low rolling resistance tyres for electric carsWith the environment uppermost on everyone’s mind, Continental A.G. has

debuted two tyres specifically designed for electric vehicles and hybrids,

thereby placing them in the position to be able to supply manufacturers of

electric vehicles with tyres that can theoretically extend the range of their

models by up to six percent – an argument that can help persuade drivers of

the benefits of electric mobility.

Both of these special low rolling resistance tyres are said to deliver impressive

performance on both wet and dry roads and the Conti.eContact for hybrids

enables these cars to cover long stretches in electric mode, which not only

benefits the environment, but also cuts operating costs.

“Although the market for electric and hybrid vehicles remains small in South

Africa, it is becoming an increasingly important market segment internationally

as the automotive industry strives to achieve lower fuel consumption, emissions

and running costs,” says Niel Langner, Marketing Manager for Continental Tyre

South Africa.

He added that Continental continues to invest in new technologies and to

develop benchmark products such as the Conti.eContact that enhance the

appeal and competitiveness of the electric and hybrid mobility, and provide a

tangible benefit for the consumer and the environment.

Continental first to test car tyres made from Taraxagum dandelion rubber

Continuing along the path of innovation, Continental A.G. is also the first

company to reach an important milestone in its research project for the

industrialisation of dandelion rubber in tyre production.

As part of its recent ContiWinterRoadshow 2014, Continental presented the

first test tyres made from the innovative material that the company is calling

Taraxagum, derived from the botanical name of the dandelion (taraxacum).

“We decided to build winter tyres first, as they contain a particularly high

proportion of natural rubber. Our goal remains to develop tyres based on

dandelion rubber to readiness for series production within the next five to 10

years,” claims Nikolai Setzer, Member of the Executive Board of Continental

responsible for the Tyre Division.

An extremely robust, very high-yield

Russian dandelion has been cultivated

as a result of extensive research carried

out over recent years together with the

Fraunhofer Institute of Molecular Biology

and Applied Ecology (IME), the Julius Kuhn

Institute and the plant breeding company,

Aeskulap.

The research project’s long term goal is

to find an ecologically, economically and

socially viable solution for the increasing

demand for natural rubber which would

ease the pressure on the traditional rubber

tree plantations in the tropics.

Additionally, the aim is to reduce

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

F o c u s o n T e c h n o l o g y • 1 7

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

dependency on natural rubber, which can be subject to severe price

fluctuations on the commodities exchange. Moreover, cultivating

dandelion crops on previously unused land in temperate regions

throughout Europe, which are close to Continental’s European tyre

plants, should reduce the outlay for logistics as well as the burden on

the environment.

Pirelli’ tyre of the future – the cyber TyreAccording to Pirelli, the future of the ‘intelligent tyre’ involves the

development of the most sophisticated electronic systems in particular,

Pirelli’s technology’s latest invention, the Cyber Tyre Lean, which is a

circular shaped device applied to the inner liner of the tyre, which gives

data on tyre pressure, temperature, the average load on the wheel as well

as the number of revolutions. Unique in the world and needing no battery,

it is self-powered, obtaining the necessary energy from the mechanical

vibrations transmitted to the device from the movement of the tyre itself.

In short, the Cyber Tyre which is able to communicate with your vehicle in

a unique previously unimaginable way, will first grace high performance cars

before being made available to small and medium powered cars in a few years’

time.

According to a Pirelli spokesman, this latest development is crucial in

following the logic now common to all systems which aim to improve

safety on the roads.

sumitomo introduces DEcTEs technology for commercial marketSumitomo Rubber SA has just announced a rejuvenation of its Truck Bus Radial

tyre range which now features the latest DECTES (Dunlop Energy Controlled

Technologies) technology in select patterns for the commercial sector.

According to SRSA there are three key components that make DECTES

effective: Square Contact Technology which reduces irregular wear due

to a more uniform and rigid contact patch on the road; S.A. Microparticle

Carbon which enhances binding properties to the polymer allowing for

less heat energy build-up, thereby equating to better mileage and wear

resistance as well as low rolling resistance to reduce fuel consumption;

ECORUT Compound and ECORUT Profile – an advanced tread compound

that is included to reduce energy loss, thus increasing resistance to wear

and reducing rolling resistance; in conjunction with less curvature in the

profile, further reducing energy loss and increasing fuel efficiency.

Are we paying too much?Although we can only highlight a mere few, revolutionary technologies

emanating from the global tyre sector are many and varied. More

important, new tyre makers continue to invest significant sums into R&D

in the quest to improve and perfect their offering to the consumer.

Vehicle manufacturers are evolving at a rapid rate,

and tyre companies are compelled to keep up with

supplying them by way of size, mileage, safety and

road handling, whilst simultaneously operating at a

sustainable level.

But the challenge today extends even beyond that. Across

all manufacturing sectors, the call has been made to find

and begin utilising environmentally friendly methods in their

production, a call which the tyre industry especially, has

taken to heart.

The challenges are not easy but the expectations are high.

So next time, before we are too quick to bemoan what

we are having to fork out for our new set of tyres,

we might spare a thought to what has gone into that

round black piece of rubber we are purchasing. And

remember, your set of wheels is the only safety critical

item connecting your vehicle to the road.

2 0 • R e t r e a d i n g

Bandag Southern Africa (SA)

has just celebrated its tenth

year of trading, as testimony

to what the company

describes, its aim to ‘Set the

Pace’ in the industry.

A little over 10 years ago, the South African

business unit of Bandag Incorporated

underwent a Management Buy-Out (MBO).

“Since then, the company has developed into

a proudly South African business, offering its

customers innovation and tailored solutions”,

said Laurent Colrat, Marketing Director of

Bandag SA. “These locally relevant solutions

are backed by international trends and global

R&D allowing Bandag to deliver on customer

demands.”

He went on to say that from humble beginnings,

innovation remains at the very core of Bandag

SA, innovation that is geared towards meeting

the needs of its franchise network and its

end user customers. This customer centric

focus coupled with faster response times has

seen Bandag SA grow over the past 10 years.

“Boasting consistent year on year sales growth,

Bandag SA is clearly doing the right things”, he

added.

Commented John Laskarides, Managing

Director of Bandag SA: “It starts at the very top!

Our Directors are actively involved in operations

at franchisee as well as fleet level, involving

their staff and creating products and services

all geared towards customer satisfaction. The

non-negotiable focus on product quality and

superior performance is evidenced by no less

than 9 new products being launched over this

10 year period.

“Coupled to this, Bandag’s ability to not only

utilise technology but fully embrace it, has

allowed the company to offer its customers

a unique online suite of tyre management

solutions. Yes, customers can access their

reports online, 24/7/365. What’s more,

Bandag has its very own Android app which

LOCAL IS LEKKER!Celebrating 10 Years

of Success in SA

allows both its fleet department and franchise

network to capture electronic tyre inspections.

This translates into more accurate readings and

more importantly, faster reporting for faster

action!”

Added Colrat: “We are geared towards

providing our customers with a unique and

effective package of value. Bring It On!’

Today, Bandag SA employs more than 170

people and together with its extensive and

professional franchise network, retreads in

excess of 450,000 tyres per annum. This

translates into less casings reaching landfills,

more effective use of our natural resources and

a proudly South African company, helping to

create a sustainable future!

At Bandag’s 2014 dealer conference, an ecstatic

John Laskarides, Managing Director of Bandag

SA commented, ‘Thank you for helping us reach

this milestone… and here’s to many more.’

Mr. Jonathan David (Plant Director), Mr. John Laskarides (Managing Director), Mr. Laurent Colrat (Marketing Director) and Mr. Vijay Padayachy (Non-Executive Director)

❝ It starts at the very top!

Our Directors are actively involved in operations

at franchisee as wel l as fleet level ❞

M a n u f a c t u r i n g • 2 1

Z TYRE LAUNCHED IN LUXURY

A new premium tyre is being launched in three luxury venues across South

Africa during February. The product is called “Z” and represents a new

level of quality and performance for owners of premium vehicles. The new

tyre is being introduced by Zenises and Tyrecor, in the style of what the two

companies describe as a reflection of their ambition for the brand.

Guests from across the tyre industry will be treated to one of three events

to remember, each with a champagne reception and exotic entertainment

such as belly dancing, against the back drop of some of the best hotels in

the country.

The venues include the Hotel Taj in Cape Town, The Emperors Palace in

Johannesburg and the Oysters Box in Durban.

Mr Harjeev Kandhari, CEO of Tyrecor, commented, “We are very excited

about introducing this revolutionary product into the South African

marketplace. The Z tyre represents a new benchmark for premium vehicles.

It enjoys the optimum combination of grip, performance and fuel economy,

and the product range means it is available for all of the top marques. This

sets it apart and above the competition.”

In a recent independent test at the IDIADA facility in Spain, Z beat a top

European OE brand tyre by 13% in the wet braking test. This underlines

the genuine quality of the product. This performance is supported by class

leading grades in the European labeling system”

Z is available in sizes from 15” to 20’’ for cars and 17” to 21” for SUV’s.

one lucky reader stands the chance to win a set of the new Z tyre by

answering our simple competition question on page 36. Enter now via

www.satreads.co.za or on fax number 011 658-0010

DURBAN BASED APOLLO PLANT CEASES PRODUCTIONLocal industry had been anticipating a shift in the tyre manufacturing segment

for some time, with rumours rife that at least one local tyre maker, if not more,

could suffer imminent closure. The rise in imports – now accounting for over

50% of total sales in South Africa – coupled with local economic factors and

labour unrest have all had a heavy toll on the local tyre business in recent years.

Worse still, the challenges faced by local tyre makers show no signs of abating

any time soon.

The only light at the end of a seemingly dark tunnel appears to be the weakening

of the Rand which has impacted on imports, but not enough to counter the

damage already bestowed on the marketplace, suggest industry experts.

As accurately predicted, one of our local truck tyre plants in Durban has had

to shut its doors after more than 80 years in operation. Formerly belonging

to Dunlop Tyres SA and later acquired by Indian-based tyre maker, Apollo

Tyres, Business Rescue Proceedings were initiated in the second quarter of

2014 by the South-African subsidiary with the Rescue Plan being approved in

November 2014, when the Apollo Durban factory officially ceased production.

Commenting on this development, Onkar S Kanwar, Chairman Apollo Tyres

said: We have maintained our profit margins, despite accounting for all charges

related to the rescue plan of our South African subsidiary. “He went on to say

that closure of the plant was prompted by the uncompetitive cost structure in

the South African market, along with the continuous labour unrest and related

issues.

He added: “While we continue with our Trading Operations in South Africa, it

is time for us to move forward and explore newer territories for the next phase

of the organisation’s growth.”

Subsequently, Apollo has confirmed that all dues to Bankers and external

suppliers have been cleared, and that around 600 employees had received

severance packages.

The Apollo and Vredestein brands will remain available to the South African and

sub-Sahara market with the establishment of dedicated premises in Boksburg,

Johannesburg, which is now a fully-fledged importer of both brands.

THE NEW PREMIUM TYRE

www.ztyre.comZ is a new benchmark for premium vehicles. Many high performance tyres are in reality ‘standardised’ tyres produced for sale across the global market. With Z there is no compromise – our tyres are designed in Europe and made for European roads and driving conditions. The optimum combination of grip, performance and fuel economy.

z_420x280_no1.indd 1 02/03/15 16:17

Treads Unlimited adds Leading Tyre Brand to Product Line-Up

Treads Unlimited, a wholesale tyre division of South Africa’s TiAuto Group,

announced that it has added the globally respected GT Radial brand to its

product line-up. The company will distribute a range of models from GT Radial’s

passenger, commercial and 4x4 product lines to local dealers.

GT Radial is a brand of Indonesia’s PT Gajah Tunggal Tbk, a company founded

in 1951 as a manufacturer of bicycle tyres and inner tubes. After expanding

its range to include motorcycle tyres in 1973, in 1981 it diversified into the

manufacture of tyres for passenger and commercial vehicles. In 1993, the

company began producing radial tyres.

Now, 22 years later, the GT Radial brand is positioned within the top

10 largest tyre manfuacturers in the world and more than 50 million GT

Radial tyres are manufactured each year, in seven different plants and sold

in almost 100 countries. More than 600 engineers work in five hi-tech

research and development facilities to ensure GT Radial tyres remain at

the cutting edge of technology and deliver on the brand’s promise of value,

quality and safety. French Tyre manufacturer, Michelin, owns 10% equity

of GT Radial in Indonesia.

Among the tyres that Treads Unlimited will distribute to the local market are

some of GT Radial’s most popular and trusted models. A look at some of these

models follows.

Passenger tyres

Champiro SX2 is an extreme high performance tyre available in sizes 15 to

18-inch, with a speed rating of V-W and is suitable for both track and street

use. The tyre features a dual block design for improved stability and grip,

and a gradient step design to reduce noise and heat generation. Its advanced

silica tread compound increases traction in wet and dry weather, while wide

circumferential grooves dramatically reduce the risk of aquaplaning.

Champiro HPY is another ultra-high performance tyre that comes in sizes 17

to 20-inch, with a speed rating of H-Y. The tyre’s asymmetrical tread pattern

delivers superb cornering ability and reduces noise. Four wide longitudinal

grooves for efficient water evacuation prevent aquaplaning, while the silica

tread compound further improves grip in wet conditions.

The Champiro Eco offers all around comfort and performance and is available

in sizes 13 to 16-inch, with a speed rating of S-H. Its symmetrical three-groove

construction offers superb safety and stability and prevents aquaplaning.

Wave-shaped sipes effectively reduce noise, while the tyre’s new inner liner

formula maintains air pressure for longer, reducing fuel consumption and CO2

emissions.

Champiro BAX2 is another great all-rounder that comes in sizes 14 to 16-

inch with a speed rating of H-V. The tyre has an asymmetrical tread design

for excellent cornering and stability, and a silent ride. BAX2’s new Full Silica

2 4 • D i s t r i b u t i o n

D i s t r i b u t i o n • 2 5

compound decreases rolling resistance and improves wet handling, assisted by

wide circumferential grooves that optimise water evacuation.

commercial tyres

The Maxmiler Pro is a new generation commercial tyre for light trucks and vans,

whose reinforced casing construction offers improved wear and durability for

heavy usage on all road surfaces. Available in sizes 12 to 16-inch, with speed

ratings from R-H, it features a flat tread contour to increase road contact surface

and therefore handling, while a special tread pattern offers a silent drive –

increasing driver comfort and reducing environmental impact.

4x4 tyres

The Savero A/T Plus is an all terrain tyre that comes in sizes 15 to 17-inch,

with speed ratings of S-H. A special block tread design with multiple sipes

enhances off-road traction, delivers superior handling, extended tread life and

quiet running. The tyre’s open shoulder design with wide grooves moreover

minimizes aquaplaning and enhances grip in the wet.

The Savero M/T is a mud terrain tyre that comes in sizes 15 and 16-inch and

has a Q speed rating. The advanced tread compound on this durable tyre offers

superior performance on off-road terrain and the wide lug angle grooves on the

shoulder provide excellent traction on muddy surfaces.

The Savero Komodo is a particularly popular model that fares extremely well

in the toughest off-road conditions. It comes in sizes 15 and 16-inch and a

Q speed rating. Komodo’s aggressive open rock crawling pattern yields

exceptional rock driving capabilities, while its long open lateral groove delivers

extra firm rock grip. A zigzag shoulder block aids traction on uneven, rocky

surfaces and protection ribs prevent damage from sharp stones. Komodo

claws and protection bumps prevent and protect the sidewall from damage

from stones and rocks.

Dealers who wish to explore the GT Radial range in greater depth can visit the

website www.treadsunlimited.co.za or call Treads Unlimited on 011 256 4087.

Queenstown Welcomes a New Automotive Fitment Centre – Tyres & More

A new Tyres & More automotive fitment centre has opened in

Queenstown at 8 Council Crescent. A member of the TiAuto

Group, a spokesman for the company said that the chain is rapidly

expanding its nationwide footprint, and gaining traction with its

promise to take care of motorists’ automotive needs with quality

products and service at affordable price points.

Franchisee Wimpie Botha is owner of this new Tyres & More. He

commented: “We are excited to bring Tyres & More to Queenstown

and are eager to introduce motorists to the brand and our fast-

becoming-legendary, hassle-free service.

“My staff and I look forward to demonstrating to customers just

how well we are able to meet their automotive needs, now and in

the future.”

For consumers who are not yet familiar with Tyres & More,

the automotive fitment centre does tyres, wheels, balancing,

alignment, batteries, brakes, shocks, “agri tyres,” tow bars and

more; and does them at better than usual prices, with better than

average service; so that you can get on with the business of doing

more of the things that really matter to you.

Tyres & More Queenstown has four fitment bays and one

alignment bay, all manned by skilled technicians. In addition to

the aforementioned services, the fitment centre also sells and fits

wiper blades and offers nitrogen inflation for tyres.

continued on page 26

Back Row – Wimpie Botha, Elrika de Bruin, Shaun Aylwin, Karen Schloesser, Willie BothaMiddle Row – Emely NdaraFront Row – Quinton Langhein, Shorn Mentoor, Cecil Nocanda

2 6 • D i s t r i b u t i o n

from page 25

“To fully appreciate the Tyres & More offering, you must experience it firsthand,” explained

Marketing Manager, Natashé Taljaard, “Staff members approach each customer interaction

with the understanding that in all likelihood you want to be anywhere else but here, taking

care of your car. So the agreement is that we’ll get on with it quickly, efficiently and get it right

the first time, so you can be on your way to do the things you really care about.”

For more information on Tyres & More Queenstown, call the store on 045 838 1675 or head

over there and check it out for yourself. If you’re strapped for cash, you can also apply in-

store or online for Xpress Credit, because a tight budget should never get in the way of your

safety on the road.

Visit the website www.tyresandmore.com for information on current promotions, special

offers, and to learn more about the brand. If you are interested in owning your own Tyres

& More fitment centre, the website also offers information on franchising opportunities and

benefits, and the option to inquire online.

Queenstown Welcomes a New Automotive Fitment Centre – Tyres & More OBITUARY

Mike Nel, founder of Tandem Tyres

in Durban, passed away tragically and

unexpectedly on 21 December 2014.

‘Go big, or go home’ was the motto Mike

lived by, a mantra which infiltrated every

aspect of his life, from his relationship with

his immediate family to his approach to

business and his work colleagues. He was

a driven businessman that accomplished

more than most do in a lifetime.

He is survived by his wife, Andrea, plus

three small children. Our thoughts and

prayers go out to his family, friends and

colleagues.

Rest in peace Mike. You were an inspiring

mentor to all who knew you. Your legacy

will live on….

T a l k i n g T y r e s • 2 7

TYRE FoRu M

Tyres as we know them are still going to be around for decades

to come. But how will the modern tyre evolve and integrate more

completely with rapidly developing vehicle technologies?

By Colin Mileman

The future is still

black!To Tweel or not to Tweel – is that really a question? Let’s face it, the

modern tyre is around to stay, and isn’t going to be wiped out by some

ground-breaking new alternative any time soon.

While we’re all too aware of the increasing pressure on natural resources

– and natural rubber in particular – and have to develop innovative

solutions that improve the sustainability of the environment, there’s

also the need to sustain a massive global industry that churns out many

millions of tyres a year to support a burgeoning automotive sector.

It’s simply too expensive and impractical to wipe the slate clean and flip a

switch to start rolling out something different, such as Michelin’s clever

Tweel. And Continental’s dandelion-based rubber is a nifty idea but is

probably a long way off from hitting mainstream volume production.

In the case of an off-the-charts proposal such as the Tweel, such a

radical shift will go down like a lead balloon with a motoring public that

has a well-entrenched perception of what a tyre should be, etched into

their psyche over the past 130 years since Karl Benz trundled out of his

factory with the first ‘Motorwagen’ in 1885.

So where to from here? I think the biggest opportunities and challenges

facing the tyre manufacturers are two-fold.

Firstly, the issue of scrap tyres continues to haunt the industry, locally

and internationally. Despite underlying backlash and a shaky start,

projects like REDISA have the potential to start making headway in

channelling its estimates of 60-million existing waste tyres lying around

South Africa and a further 11-million-odd added every year more

effectively.

We can only hope that what REDISA preaches is actually being put into

practice, that it is effectively dealing with the problem and turning this

waste into workable and profitable new products – and creating new

jobs along the way as promised.

But on its own, even the best planned and executed recycling initiatives

won’t be able to take more than a nibble out of the Everest-sized pile of

rubber that simply continues growing.

More importantly than figuring out ways of handling the problematic tail-

2 8 • 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.

end of the product life cycle, the industry needs to

urgently come up with solutions that are built into

the tyre from the start. We need a comprehensive

cradle-to-grave mechanism that addresses the

issue on all levels.

We need to design, develop and produce tyres that

are capable of being recycled from the outset. Once

they’ve reached the useable limits they should be

delivered to dedicated facilities that break the tyres

down, separate the individual components, turn

them into a practical form and return them to the

beginning of the manufacturing cycle once again.

And therein lies a constant supply of recycled

materials put straight back into the mix.

To some extent it is being done in the truck tyre

sector, as recycled rubber is increasingly being used for retreading.

But it has to be incorporated on a far wider scale and become a

fundamental, non-negotiable component of the tyre manufacturing

process for passenger, light and heavy commercial, OTR and other

specialist applications.

PLT is obviously the most sensitive with the strictest quality constraints,

particularly for the OE market and far more so than a retread applied to

a truck tyre casing. But it’s a massive problem that demands an urgent

and workable solution in the shortest possible timeframe.

The second primary opportunity that exists for tyres is to become fully

integrated into the modern automobile’s technology and telematics

systems. We see tyre pressure monitoring increasingly offered as

standard, both on vehicles equipped with run-flat tyres and those with

normal rubber.

But as the technology becomes more compact, exponentially more

capable and much cheaper too, tyre monitoring and information

systems surely have the potential to provide a much broader spectrum

of useful data for the driver.

What about microchip-equipped tyres that relay a wide range of useful

information to the car’s on-board display?

We all know that the overwhelming majority of

motorists rarely take much notice of their tyres.

But if a brake or oil warning light shows up they’re

on the phone immediately or driving directly to the

closest dealer.

So what about a fully featured tyre information

system that doesn’t only indicate a drop or variance

in pressures, but can create a warning for excessive

temperatures (typically linked to incorrect pressure

anyway) or detects uneven wear early on due to

wheel alignment issues?

Imagine a tyre information system that alerts the

driver about the tread depth reaching the ideal

2 mm limit, and then providing increasingly regular reminders as it

approaches the 1,6 mm depth of the built-in tread wear indicators.

Thereafter the driver would receive a persistent warning message or

light along the lines of a car’s service indicator that continually reminds

them of the need to get the tyres checked and replaced.

It’s the next step to tyres being factored into the overall roadworthiness,

running condition and safety of the vehicle, and involves the driver to

a far greater extent than simply kicking the tyres once every couple of

months and guessing if they’re ok. This kind of system puts it right in

their line of sight and front of mind every time they’re behind the wheel.

Obviously the research, development and eventually the implementation

of this technology will take time and cost a packet. But as the industry

ventures on a critical path towards expanded networked mobility and

multifaceted vehicle and traffic information systems that improve traffic

flow and attempt to reduce the number of accidents, it’s a path well

worth venturing down.

After all, tyres are the most important safety feature on any vehicle – so

let’s build them into the overall safety arsenal and give them the priority

they desperately deserve!

❝

Let’s face it, the

modern tyre is around

to stay, and isn’t going

to be wiped out by

some ground-breaking

new alternative any

time soon.

❞

1 • O n e - o n - O n e

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

Today we are surrounded by Smart TV’s, Smartphones, Smart Apps

and even Smart Kids we call Millennials… At the touch of a button

we warm our food, switch on the air-conditioning or use navigation

systems to guide us. Technology has made it possible for us to work

SMARTER. And technology also makes it possible for us to be smart

about managing the tyres in our fleets.

As early as the 1990s Bandag

embraced advances in information

technology. We brought you

stand alone tyre management,

tyre inspection and scrap tyre

analysis software. Our database

now holds information of more

than 350,000 scrap tyres. With

the advances in technology,

Bandag is at the forefront,

embracing these new

technologies and today

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.

offers a fully integrated online solution comprising of ProTurbo,

ProOosta, ProWheel and ProTracker. These are all used to manage and

maintain the tyres of fleets across Southern Africa, with the information

available, at your fingertips!

Being early adopters of digital inspection tools, Bandag and its

franchisees are embracing the use of Smartphones and Tablets. Bandag

is now utilising an Android App with Bluetooth probes to collect tyre

inspection information that is uploaded to its web services at the push

of a button. This translates into quicker reporting with more accurate

information.

Because sitting still is not part of Bandag’s DNA, there are even more

exciting and innovative developments to come. These developments

and new tools don’t mean you lose the physical need to work with

your hands or that our technical staff become tech junkies… quite the

contrary in fact. Rather, it enhances their ability to offer a modern

solution to a modern transporter and goes to support an old adage –

don’t work hard, work SMARTER!

At your finger tips

B a n d a g N e w s • 2 9

3 0 • G o o d y e a r N e w s

Visionary tyre technologies

showcased at Geneva Motor Show

created by heat in the tire and by flexing

as the tire rolls. The materials used would

optimize the tire’s electricity generation

capabilities as well as its rolling resistance.

As demand for electric cars grows, this

technology has the potential to significantly

contribute to the solution of future mobility

challenges.

The company’s Triple Tube concept tyre can

adjust its inflation pressure to changing road

conditions to offer the driver new levels of

performance and versatility. This technology

could be used by autonomous cars

in the future by allowing the tyre to

prepare the shape it needs before it

enters a curve.

This tyre relies on an internal

pump that moves air from the

main air chamber to the three

individual air chambers.The tyre

Geneva, Switzerland, March 3, 2014 – The ideas behind

two concepts displayed by The Goodyear Tyre & Rubber

Company at the Geneva Motor Show could change

the way tyres and cars interact in the future.

Goodyear’s market researchers constantly

challenge the company’s engineers and scientists

to innovate tyre solutions that not only respond

to consumer needs but also help manage future

societal mobility challenges.

One of these visionary tyre technologies unveiled by

Goodyear could eliminate the range anxiety motorists

have with electric cars. The company’s futuristic BHO3

concept can create electrical energy to recharge the car’s

batteries. The tire generates electricity through the action of

thermoelectric and piezoelectric materials, which transform the energy

Goodyear Concepts Could Change the Way Tyres, Cars Interact

G o o d y e a r N e w s • 3 1

automatically adjusts to three

different positions based on road

conditions. The Eco/Safety position

offers reduced rolling resistance.

The Sporty position gives drivers

dry handling through an optimized

contact patch. The Wet Traction

position provides high aquaplaning

resistance through a raised tread in

the center of the tyre.

“Societal and environmental trends will

impact the way we drive in the future.

Therefore, it is more important than ever

for us to stay firmly rooted in our market-

back innovation process, which calls on

us to focus on, and anticipate, the rapidly

evolving needs of our customers,” said Joe Zekoski, senior

vice president and chief technical officer.

“Our products will become more integrated with the

vehicle and the consumer, more environmentally

friendly and more versatile by applying the innovative

thinking we are demonstrating with the concepts

showcased at this year’s Geneva Motor Show,” he said.

Although neither of these visionary concept tyres

will hit the market in the near future, concepts such

as these are an essential part of Goodyear’s innovation

strategy, instilling a forward-looking, market-back mindset

in the company’s research and development teams. These

two concept tyres were developed by engineers and scientists

at Goodyear’s Luxembourg Innovation Centre and are designed to

be part of the company’s innovation thought process.

Goodyear Concepts Could Change the Way Tyres, Cars Interact

W o r l d N e w s • 3 3

CHINA TOP BRAND TIRE EXHIBITION TO OPEN ON MAY 15TH IN GUANGRAO SHANDONG

The 6th China (Guangrao) International Rubber Tire & Auto Accessory

Exhibition will be held on May 15th-17th, 2015 in Guangrao International

Expo Center, Shandong Province, China. The expo center is divided into

1 central and 6 independent halls with a 42,000m2 indoor and 20,000m2

outdoor exhibition area, where 3 000 international standard booths can

be set up. 660 exhibitors and 45,000 professional visitors are expected

to attend from home and abroad. The exhibition which is sponsored by

China Council for the Promotion of Int’l Trade and People’s Government

of Shandong Province, is ranked as a top brand exhibition in China.

Main Exhibits will include: tyre products, wheel products, rubber tyre

machinery and equipment, tyre retreading equipment and materials, rubber

raw materials, auto accessory and maintenance equipment, and the like.

The exhibition will also host concurrent events such as a wheel exhibition,

an auto maintenance equipment exhibition as well as a tyre & new rubber

material industry convention.

Guangrao county of Shandong province is the largest tyre industrial base

and the only national export tyre quality safety demonstration area in China.

Not only will the latest products and technologies be showcased, but the

show promise to provide a valuable trading platform.

For more information visit the official website, http://www.chinagr.gov.cn

BRIDGESTONE WINS DESIGN LAWSUIT AGAINST TWO CHINESE COMPANIES

Tokyo – Bridgestone Corporation has announced that it has received a

favourable ruling in its lawsuit regarding infringement of its design rights

against two Chinese companies: JIANXIN RUBBER (FUJIAN) CO., LTD.,

and PT Beststone Rubber Industries Co., Ltd.

In September 2011, the Company filed a lawsuit against JIANXIN and

PT.Beststone in the Zhengzhou Intermediate People’s Court. The suit

articulated how the companies had violated Bridgestone’s design rights by

manufacturing and selling pre-cure treads using a tread pattern for truck

and bus tyres for which the company holds design rights with regard to use

for automobile tyres.

In October 2014, it was ruled that the manufacture and sale of the

aforementioned pre-cure treads constituted an indirect violation of the

Company’s automobile tyre-use design rights. Accordingly, the Zhengzhou

Higher People’s Court ordered the companies to pay damages to the

Company.

EUROPE DEVELOPS IMPORTANT NEW DEVELOPMENT IN RUBBER RESEARCH

It has been announced earlier this week that the LRCCP, DIK and CERISIE

rubber laboratories in France, Germany and Italy respectively have

joined the ERRLAB, an informal network rubber research and testing

facility in rubber.

As a result of this latest development, over 100 highly respected rubber

specialised doctors, engineers and technicians are now committed to the

ERRLAB project whose objective is to share resources and expertise to

provide even better and more technical services to the European rubber

manufacturing industry.

Special emphasis is being placed on attention to small and medium

enterprises in the field of Environment, Health and Safety Studies,

Research and Development, testing and certification. Other national rubber

associations who are supporting the project are the SNCP, (France) WDK,

(Germany), Assogomma (Italy) as well as ETRMA – the European Tyre and

Rubber Manufacturers Association.

3 4 • W o r l d N e w s

CONTINENTAL OPENS TECH CENTRE IN INDIA

Continental, a global automotive supplier, tyre manufacturer and

industry partner, has opened its all-new new technical centre to expand

its R&D capabilities in Bangalore. With a total investment of 12.4 million

Euros and a current headcount of around 1,000 engineers, the new

Technical Centre India (TCI) facility will meet the increasing demand for

engineering and software development skills to support global R&D

projects as well as local customers. Eight state-of-the-art R&D labs will

be housed in the new facility.

Speaking at the inauguration, Helmut Matschi, president of the Interior

Division and Member of the Executive Board of Continental AG, said:

“India’s talent pool is strategic to our growth, globally and in Asia.

Continental has invested significantly in the Tech Centre since its

inception.” He said almost 50 percent of the company’s engineering

activities are related to software.

The company’s R&D outlay in 2013 stood at 1.9 billion euros, which is

5.6 percent of total sales. The new Technical centre in India will drive

up its global R&D activities, he added. “While our engineers in India are

making valuable contributions to the development of advanced technology

for developed markets, Continental is equally excited by the prospect of

growing with the automotive market in the country,” said Matschi.

JAPANESE TYRE MARKET TO CROSS US$ 26 BILLION IN 2015

According to the TechSci Research report, “Japan Tyre Market Forecast

& Opportunities, 2020’’, the tyre market in Japan is estimated to surpass

US$ 26 billion in 2015. Key factors driving the market include consistent

growth in passenger car production and sales, rising automobile fleet

size and emergence of new technologies leading to development of fuel-

efficient and green tyres.

“Due to the superior performance of major tyre companies based in Japan,

Japan’s tyre market is expected to grow significantly during 2015-20. Large

vehicle fleets, new technology and growth in the country’s automotive

industry would be the key factors driving Japan tyre market over the

next five years.”, said Mr. Karan Chechi, Research Director with TechSci

Research, a research based global management consulting firm.

Japanese tyre industry is home to four major global tyre companies -

Bridgestone Corporation, Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Yokohama Rubber

Company and Toyo Tire & Rubber Company. These companies hold a

substantial share in the global automotive market and are among the top

ten tyre companies, globally. Japan is also the third largest car manufacturer,

globally, with various global automobile majors such as Toyota, Honda,

Daihatsu, Nissan and Suzuki operating in the country.

20371 TT Ad SA Treads.fh11 5/29/12 9:45 AM Page 1

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QuEsTIon: In a recent independent test the Z tyre beat a top European oE brand by what

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5013

OFFERED AT:

❯ Optimised rolling resistance for reduced fuel consumption

❯ High braking safety and short braking distances on wet roads

❯ Best handling on wet and dry roads

When braking counts.

For the sake of safety and the environment

ContiEcoContactTM 5

sa treads march 2015

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