Tyre News

Cooper Dealer Joins Fight Against Human Trafficking in Africa
Bridgestone Motorsport Confirms Official Tyre Supplier Status From 2008
Honours for Elfyn Evans on Wales Rally GB
Proposed Environmental Labelling Scheme for Tyres Poses Safety Issues
Bridgestone Europe Announces Price Increases
Drivers Unprepared for Emergencies, says Halfords
Bridgestone Training Remains a Flat-Out Success
Avon Celebrates 23 Rallycross Titles - In Just One Year!
Hankook Tire Continues 'Tune it! Safe'- Partnership with VDAT in 2008
Bridgestone UK Launches Courtesy Car Scheme
Coach Tyres from Continental to be Used During Euro 2008

Cooper Dealer Joins Fight Against Human Trafficking in Africa

Cooper Tire & Rubber Company European dealer, Sinton Tyres, is playing an important role in humanitarian efforts by joining forces with an expedition that delivered five 4x4 vehicles to Sierra Leone in the fight against modern-day slavery.

The Hull Freedom Trail group drove the quintet of Mitsubishi L200s from Hull to the town's twin town of Freetown, capital of Sierra Leone, and delivered them to four aid agencies working in the city with the child victims of human trafficking. The mission celebrated the 200th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in the UK, a movement spearheaded by Hull native, William Wilberforce. UK Cooper dealer Sinton Tyres donated Cooper's rugged Discoverer STTs, which were fitted to the L200s to help them cross the difficult terrain the expedition faced on its 5,180-mile journey.

"The asphalt roads pretty much ran out in Guinea," explained expedition leader, Jonathan Richards. "On the dirt and mud tracks, the tyres were superb - we endured hours and hours of potholes and ruts - while on the asphalt, there was very little noise and they inspired great confidence.

"Ironically, some of the harshest terrain we faced was actually in Freetown, where there are huge ruts that carry the rain away. This is where the vehicles will actually be used." The aid agencies will use the L200s to transport children who have been affected. Some are reunited with their parents, while others are transported to foster families or orphanages.

Bridgestone Motorsport Confirms Official Tyre Supplier Status From 2008

Bridgestone Motorsport has confirmed that it will commence a three-year contract with the Federation Internationale de L'Automobile (FIA) from 1 January 2008 which will see Bridgestone become Official Tyre Supplier to the FIA Formula One World Championship. The three-year contract is the result of a successful tender process with the sport's governing body, which was held in 2006 and will cover the 2008, 2009 and 2010 seasons.

Bridgestone was also the only tyre supplier in Formula One during the closely-fought and thrilling 2007 season in which Kimi Raikkonen and the Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro team took both the drivers'and the constructors' championship titles on Bridgestone Potenza tyres. The opening round of the 2008 FIA Formula One World Championship will take place at the Albert Park circuit in Melbourne, Australia from 14-16 March 2008.

Honours for Elfyn Evans on Wales Rally GB

Rising Welsh rally star Elfyn Evans exceeded all expectations on Wales Rally GB recently, winning his class in the Hankook Fiesta. The 18 year old son of former British Rally Champion Gwyndaf Evans produced one of the most impressive drives of the three day rally - the Cardiff-based finale to the World Rally Championship. The youngster wowed the rallying world finishing the event 42nd overall - a massive climb from his start number of 118, and an indication of his potential in the future.

Hankook Motorsports manager Mike Patterson said the tyre giant was delighted with the outstanding success of the youngster. "Last year we supported Gwyndaf in the Mitsubishi Evo Challenge which he won outright and we are thrilled to have supported Elfyn in his stunning drive on Wales Rally GB.''

Proposed Environmental Labelling Scheme for Tyres Poses Safety Issues

EU plans to bring an environmental labeling scheme for tyres could be putting people's safety at risk, warns leading tyre manufacturer Continental. The scheme, which forms part of the EU's drive to reduce CO2 emissions and noise pollution from road traffic, aims to identify those tyres considered to be the most energy-efficient and label them appropriately.

The most efficient tyres would be classed as those with particularly low rolling resistance, in other words, those which roll easily down the road and minimizing the amount of energy which is given out as heat. The lower the resistance, the easier it is to move the car along the road, therefore reducing fuel consumption.

Sounds like a sensible idea? Not according to Continental Tyres, which warns that tyres focused only on low rolling resistance would be significantly worse at braking on wet roads. Comments Peter Robb from Continental:

"Quite simply, a low rolling resistance tyre isn't necessarily a safe tyre and we want to make sure that manufacturers do not think they can get away with supplying tyres deemed to be energy efficient, yet which pose a potential safety threat to motorists.

"We believe that braking properties should be part of the assessment and classified with a corresponding label. Good tyres must combine low rolling resistance and good braking properties. Anything else would be a clear step backwards in terms of road safety, which would not only affect car drivers, but also pedestrians - particularly children - and cyclists.

"Stricter, clearer labeling that classifies grip on wet surfaces must also be introduced. The current ECE 117 regulation requires a braking distance on wet surfaces, which can only be viewed as a minimum requirement. New, really clear labeling would have the advantage that car drivers would then really have a choice. At the same time, it would warn against fitting tyres with poor driving properties. Such labeling would be our minimum requirement in terms of consumer information".

The demands of environmental legislation are likely to create the biggest challenges the tyre industry has ever faced and Continental has invested heavily in R&D to ensure they remain at the forefront of performance and safety.

Bridgestone Europe Announces Price Increases

Bridgestone Europe NV/SA has announced that it will increase prices on all of its tyre brands and categories. The increases are between 3% and 5% for tyres for passenger car, 4X4 and light commercial vehicles, and 5% and 10% for all other tyres, and are scheduled to take effect from February 1st 2008.

According to Michihiro Suzuki, Director, Sales Administration of Bridgestone Europe, "The increase in the cost in oil-based raw materials, natural rubber and energy has continued even beyond our expectations and stays at a historically high level. While we are doing our utmost in various aspects of our activities such as improving productivity and streamlining logistics, we have to recover some of those costs by this price increase".

Drivers Unprepared for Emergencies, says Halfords

Around 70% of drivers are unprepared for an emergency, according to the latest survey commissioned by Halfords. When questioned about items kept in the car, many motorists admitted they did not carry essential equipment such as jump leads and a tool kit. Other simple items such as tow ropes, high viz jackets, and warning triangles were also low down on the list of things drivers keep in their cars for emergencies, despite many admitting to being caught out in the past.

The research also showed that while ice scrapers (68%), maps (58%) and mobile phones (55%) were the most common 'emergency' items for drivers to carry in their car, some never leave home on a journey without their music, a drink, toilet roll or even a toothbrush!

Alan Rennie, Auto Manager, Halfords, said: "Many people still fail to prepare for even the simplest situation caused by a change in the weather, possibly because they feel we don't have the winters that we used to. However this is a little short sighted, as extreme and changeable weather is now increasingly common in the UK.

"Motorists need to be prepared, and the good news is this is quite simple to do. A basic emergency breakdown kit can be put together easily and can be kept ready in the boot of your car for an emergency, meaning that drivers can go back to not forgetting their toothbrush!" concluded Rennie.

Graham Bowskill, spokesperson for the Highways Agency said: "Having a breakdown kit in your car before you set off can make all the difference in an emergency situation.

"In winter, it's also worth making sure you have some warm clothes in the car, even if it's mild before you set off. You should also always make sure you check conditions before you set out so you can change or delay your journey if necessary."

Halfords has joined forces with the Highways Agency to help drivers be prepared over the winter months, putting together the following top five tips for winter motoring:

1) See and be seen - Whatever happens with the weather this winter, darker nights and shorter days are guaranteed! Check your lights are working and consider carrying a spare bulb kit. Keeping your screenwash topped up and your windscreen clean is also important.

2) Prepare your vehicle - Simple but regular maintenance on your car can make the difference between getting home and getting stranded. No matter what the age of your car, checking items like your battery, wiper blades and tyres for general wear and tear is vital.

3) Prepare for an emergency - Put together an emergency kit for your boot. A torch, a high viz vest, stout shoes and a blanket are all good additional items to an emergency breakdown kit. And take something in the car to eat and drink in case you break down or get stuck.

4) Change your driving style to suit the conditions - Think about the road ahead. Ice, snow, heavy rain and even winter sun can be hazardous when driving. Drive conservatively and be prepared for the unexpected.

5) Keep an eye on the weather - Avoid travelling if severe weather has been forecast. If you are already on the road, watch for any change in conditions and plan ahead.

Bridgestone Training Remains a Flat-Out Success

Bridgestone UK is celebrating another year of growth for its Run-Flat Certificate Programme, with more than 370 dealerships now accredited by the manufacturer as specialist run-flat centres. That figure has risen by an impressive 15 per cent during 2007, with the number of certified outlets set to smash the 400 barrier in early 2008.

"The continued success of our Run-Flat Certificate Programme underlines Bridgestone's commitment to educate tyre dealers and technicians about the evolving run-flat technology," said Andy Dingley, senior analyst for Bridgestone UK. "Bridgestone Corporation invests a huge amount in manufacturing cutting-edge run-flats like the Dueler H/P Sport RFT, so it is essential we back this up with a framework that ensures our expert knowledge is transferred to the shop floor. And with a growing number of manufacturers fitting run-flats as original equipment, which drives demand in the replacement market, that is now the case more than ever."

The Run-Flat Certificate Programme involves specialist trainers from Bridgestone attending the delegates' site to lead sessions. The training comprises practical hands-on demonstrations and written tests to ensure proficiency, coupled with an assessment of equipment to gauge its suitability for fitting run-flat tyres. One of the key elements of the programme is repairing run-flats, and how to assess whether a damaged tyre can be safely repaired and remounted. Bridgestone recently introduced new guidelines in this area, advising technicians to follow a comprehensive step-by-step assessment process to ensure the correct advice is given in relation to its RFT range.

"By making the sessions practical and hands-on we encourage participants to take the lead and gain a better understanding of the technology," added Andy. "The training goes beyond reading leaflets or watching a training DVD, which ultimately benefits the customer."

For more information about Bridgestone's Run-Flat Certificate Programme, and other training programmes run by the company, telephone 0808 1800 800 or visit the Bridgestone web site.

Avon Celebrates 23 Rallycross Titles - In Just One Year!

Avon Tyres, a brand manufactured by Cooper Tire & Rubber Company Europe recognised for its impressive history and heritage of innovation, is celebrating as racers using the manufacturer's rubber have won an incredible 23 rallycross titles across Europe in 2007. One of the toughest forms of competition for tyres, rallycross requires manufacturers to prepare a compound that not only copes with racing on both gravel and asphalt, but also enables cars with as much as 500bhp to accelerate from 0-60mph in just 2.4 seconds.

In the world's premier series, the FIA European Rallycross Championship, Lars Larsson, Kenneth Hansen and Andreas Eriksson took the top three Division 1 places on Avon tyres, while Michael de Keersmacher and Jos Sterkens took the Division 1A and Supercup titles respectively.

Beyond that, in every national championship where competitors had an open tyre choice, Avon proved itself as a winner. A string of national titles came in countries from Finland to the Czech Republic, Belgium to Estonia. And, thanks to the manufacturer's ability to supply tyres to any type of car, the titles came across all categories - not just the top classes.

"We're incredibly proud of our record in rallycross," said Roger Everson, Sales & Marketing Manager for Avon Motorsport. "The fact that competitors from championships that use a sole tyre supplier were consistently coming to us for their rubber at open races like the Rallycross Superprix proved that we were the tyre everyone wanted to use."

Hankook Tire Continues 'Tune it! Safe'- Partnership with VDAT in 2008

Hankook Tire will continue to support the 'Tune it! Safe!'-campaign of German automobile tuners association VDAT (Verband Deutscher Automobil Tuner e.v.) for the 3rd consecutive year as the exclusive premium partner.

At the Essen Motor Show 2007, Hankook Tire Executive Vice-President and COO for Europe Seung-Do Jin together with professor Bodo Buschmann, President of Brabus and chairman of the VDAT-committee, signed the contract extension for 2008. The campaign promotes the safe tuning of automobiles and is supported by the German government as well as economic institutions, professional organizations and authorities.

Germany's minister of Transport Mr. Wolfgang Tiefensee represents the patron of 'Tune it! Safe!'. In addition to that, the support provided by Hankook Tire allows for a strong public presence of all campaign activities, like the campaign-typical tuned special police-car, and its various outlets for disseminating information.

"The 'Tune it! Safe!'-campaign is very important for us. With the continuation of our engagement we want to further support the valuable activities for more road safety also in the tuning-segment", comments Seung-Do Jin on the reasons for supporting the campaign.

Bridgestone UK Launches Courtesy Car Scheme

Tyre dealerships across the country are taking advantage of a new lease car scheme launched by Bridgestone UK. The initiative allows members of Bridgestone's First Stop network of independent tyre dealerships to have free use of a brand-new Toyota Aygo over a two-year period. Each vehicle will carry the dealer logo, along with Bridgestone and First Stop branding.

Coach Tyres from Continental to be Used During Euro 2008

Coaches will once again be a preferred means of transport at UEFA EURO 2008. Sixteen team coaches will be fitted with Continental's dedicated HSL1 'Special Edition' tyres, which are quiet, comfortable and ensure the lowest fuel consumption.

The technical implementation of the 'Special Edition' tyre is based on the HSL1 for the steer axle. Small, stylised footballs and the unmistakable yellow Continental logo give the 295/80 R 22.5 HSL1 Special Edition tyre its distinctive look. The tyre's specially developed tread pattern means a low rolling noise, whilst also ensuring even contact with the road surface. As the only link between the vehicle and the road, the tyre has an extremely important role to play in daily traffic.

Just as they did at the 2006 FIFA World CupTM, Continental coach tyres will ensure that at UEFA EURO 2008TM the world's best football players arrive safely and in comfort at their match venues. For fleet operators, the HSL1 tyre from Continental has another benefit - its rolling resistance is particularly low, so it helps save on fuel.

"We had very positive feedback from the drivers of the eight team coaches fitted with Continental tyres for the FIFA Confederations Cup back in 2005" commented Gunnar Duvenhorst, marketing communications manager in Continental's commercial vehicle tyre division.

"The result of this positive response is that after having fitted the 32 team coaches with the HSL1 or HSR1 for the 2006 FIFA World CupTM, now all 16 team coaches being used for UEFA EURO 2008TM will also be equipped with them." In addition, Continental tyres will be used for the VIP coaches at UEFA.