Page 32 - CTB n4 - 2013/4

PRODUCTS
Continental Expands Range of Premium Trailer Tyres
Michelin Launches X Multi-D for 17.5” Market
Continental is expanding its range of trailer tyres to include a tyre with an increased load index
22.5 with load index 164 is the ideal choice for fleets serving retail chains and food logistics companies who need to deliver all over the country.
While a 275/70 R22.5 dual fitment is usually used for city operations, the new Continental HTR 2 XL in size 385/65 R 22.5 is a super single tyre. The high load- carrying tyre features long service life and reduced rolling resistance. This is reflected in noticeable fuel and cost savings.
The tried and tested premium trailer tyre increases fleet efficiency and lowers overall costs thanks to its sturdiness, long service life, and outstanding retreadability. The HTR 2 XL can be used across the UK and Europe in both regional and urban traffic, as well as in long-distance haulage on motorways. The EU tyre label gives the new trailer tyre a B classification for energy efficiency and a C for braking in wet conditions.
Michelin has announced the launch of a new range of high-grip 17.5” drive axle tyres for medium weight trucks and midi-coaches which are safer, more fuel-efficient, quieter and last longer than the XDE2 tyres they replace. The all- new Michelin X Multi D tyres have been developed at the Michelin Technology Centre in Clermont- Ferrand, France, specifically to ensure end users can focus on their business, having complete peace of mind in their tyre choice.
Available in four sizes – 215/75 R 17.5, 225/75 R 17.5, 235/75 R 17.5 and 245/70 R 17.5 – the
new X Multi D marks Michelin’s response to environmental, economic and regulatory changes which have been introduced since the previous generation Michelin XDE2 tyres were launched in 2005. Michelin designed this drive tyre from the outset to keep 7.5 to 16 tonne commercial vehicles in service year-round on all types of road and in all weather conditions. As a result, the X Multi D is the only truck tyre on the market in these four sizes to give customers the added reassurance of 3PMSF (3 Peak Mountain Snow Flake) certification – awarded following tests in defined snowy conditions, ensuring better handling on snow- covered roads than tyres which are simply labelled M+S (Mud and Snow).
According to Michelin,
extensive pre-launch
testing found the X
Multi D offers 18 per
cent more tyre life
than its predecessor
and 12 per cent
lower rolling
resistance for
improved fuel
consumption.
Full-depth sipes
offer excellent
handling from
the first to the
last kilometre,
whilst new tyre
architecture
delivers a notable -
5dB reduction in
noise.
Guy Heywood,
Commercial Director of
Michelin’s truck tyre
division in the UK and
Republic of Ireland, says:
“Our biggest challenge was designing a tyre which could offer so many improvements, without compromising performance in other areas. One of the most notable achievements has been making these tyres 50 per cent quieter than the previous generation. This is a major technological breakthrough, particularly given the number of vehicles in this sector which are used extensively in urban environments.”
The X Multi D range is manufactured in Michelin’s factory in Karlsruhe, Germany,and is available on the original equipment and replacement markets. Like all Michelin truck tyres they are designed to offer multiple lives in service – firstly being regrooved, before being remanufactured into a Remix tyre, and then regrooved again.
Under EU tyre labelling legislation, the new drive tyres score ‘D’ for rolling resistance, ‘C’ for grip on wet surfaces and produce 69dB of noise (rated one) when rolling.
designed specifically for regional delivery operations. Thanks to its 5 metric tonne load capacity, the Continental HTR 2 XL 385/65 R
Giti Extends Mixed Service Range with New All-Position Tyre
Giti Tire has extended the GT Radial mixed service offering with the launch of the GAM831, a new non-directional, all-position tyre specially developed for on and off road applications.
Available in 295/80R22.5, the tyre has been developed with an extremely robust tread pattern, casing construction and extra
reinforced sidewall to offer maximum performance, even wear and good mileage in the most arduous terrain conditions.
Three extra deep wide longitudinal grooves provide stability and control in wet or muddy conditions. The tyre is also M&S marked indicating excellent all- season traction, while self cleaning properties prevent stone drilling. The GAM831 joins the GT01, GT676, GT686 and GT876 in the company’s mixed service portfolio. Peter Foulkes, Marketing Director Europe - Commercial Tires at Giti Tire, manufacturer of GT Radial, said: “The GAM831 is an important development, not just because of the research and development advancements, but it brings a critical size to the UK market in the steer and trailer positions. Add to this the strong casing construction of the tyre which makes it perfect for retreading, and we have a great value proposition for mixed service operators who are looking to the mid-market for price and performance.”
32 Commercial Tyre Business