Kronprinz Germany GmbH presented a forged aluminium wheel featuring its new X-TRA POLISH+ (XP+) surface coating, expanding its offering for the European commercial vehicle market. Following the launch of KRONPRINZ Germany GmbH in January 2026, the company introduced forged aluminium wheels in key 22.5-inch sizes across Europe. The existing high-gloss X-TRA POLISH (XP) finish is now complemented by XP+, a sealed and easy-to-clean coating designed to improve durability while maintaining visual appeal.
Surface Coating XP+
The XP+ finish is manufactured using a specialised chemical pre-treatment, followed by a smooth, transparent sealing layer. According to Kronprinz, the mild pre-treatment preserves nearly the full gloss level of freshly polished wheels, resulting in virtually no perceptible loss of shine.
The protective seal, only a few micrometres thick, is designed to ensure secure wheel fastening with minimal settling behaviour. The coating also protects against oxidation and reduces the adhesion of contaminants such as brake dust, improving ease of cleaning and long-term appearance.
“With XP+, we have achieved a true milestone in our development efforts,” said Alexander John, CEO of the Kronprinz Group. “The gloss level of the coated wheels is virtually identical to that of freshly polished wheels, while all durability tests demonstrate market-leading corrosion protection and excellent self-cleaning properties.”
XP+ has undergone external laboratory testing and met all approval criteria with top ratings. In accordance with DIN EN ISO 2409, the cross-cut adhesion test achieved a GT0 rating after 240 hours. Bubble formation testing under DIN EN ISO 4628-2 also recorded a GT0 result after 240 hours. Additionally, the coating achieved a “Best in Class” rating in the filiform corrosion test after 696 hours, outperforming current market benchmarks for forged aluminium commercial vehicle wheels. The market launch of XP+ is planned for the second half of 2026.
Kronprinz forged aluminium wheel range includes sizes 22.5 x 11.75, 22.5 x 9.00 and 22.5 x 8.25. The wheels comply with TÜV requirements, German Federal Motor Transport Authority regulations and European OEM specifications, including EUWA Standards 3.11 and 3.23. Developed in Germany, the wheels are TPMS-compatible and manufactured for improved durability in commercial vehicle applications.
Kronprinz also announced it will be exhibiting its products from 9 to 11 June at The Tire Cologne and from 15 to 20 September at IAA Transportation 2026.
