|
Product News
Cooper LaunchesDiscoverer
S/T Maxx Extreme Off-Road Tyres.
Cooper
Tires says it is setting a new benchmark in 4x4 driving in
extreme conditions with the launch of the Discoverer S/T MAXX
off-road tyre.
The new compound and tread succeeds the popular
Discoverer STT, which had become the rubber of choice for
global adventurers thanks to its ability to handle conditions
from the icy cold of Siberia to the rocky deserts of Africa.
The new product will immediately have its first serious test,
as the rugged tyres will be fitted to the Toyota Land Cruiser
150 of legendary Spanish racer, Xavier Foj, in the 2012 Dakar
Rally.
Acknowledged as the world’s toughest motorsport
endurance challenge, the Dakar takes competitors through 9000km
of car-breaking terrain in Argentina, Chile and Peru. Foj
will run on Cooper tyres for the third year running, ahead
of the S/T MAXX’s full European launch in February.
Cooper’s proven, class-leading ArmorTek3 construction
gives the new Discoverer S/T MAXX strong durability by delivering
strength to the sidewall and tread area. A uniquely-angled
ply construction helps to absorb and disperse impact forces
that could otherwise cause damage when travelling in harsh
off-road conditions.
The large tread area provides superior grip
and the alternating rib pattern helps with the discharge of
loose stones, while the design also allows for the fitment
of studs for extreme icy conditions. The Discoverer S/T MAXX’s
design also provides good ride quality on the road, delivering
comfort and confidence in equal measure.
Nigel Hampson, sales and marketing director
of Cooper Tire Europe, said of the company’s new offering:
“Our Discoverer range already features some of the most respected
4x4 tyres and the S/T MAXX adds to this. It really gives off-road
enthusiasts what they want – superb grip in extreme conditions
as well as strong durability and a predictable, comfortable
ride when on the road.” The Discoverer S/T MAXX is M+S rated
and available in sizes ranging from 16 to 18 inch. (Dec 23,
2011)
Conti.eContact The Ultimate
Tyre for Electric Vehicles
With
an estimated 2.8 million electric vehicles registered worldwide
by 2020, the new Conti.eContact introduces pioneering tyre
dimensions for this growing market.
Over the next 40 years CO2 budget per inhabitant
in the UK will be substantially reduced. This creates a clear
need and incentive to produce more fuel-efficient tyres that
complement new vehicle design. Continental aims to lead this
development of automotive megatrends with the introduction
of Conti.eContact.
Developed in co-operation with Europe's leading
car manufacturers, Conti.eContact introduces new tyre dimensions
with a larger outer diameter, such as 195/55R20 instead of
a traditional 205/55R16. This concept results in substantially
reduced rolling resistance.
A more flexible sidewall of the tyre helps result
in less energy loss when deflecting or rebounding. Continental's
tyre engineers had to start with a new approach to the Conti.eContact
whilst still ensuring that the tyre excelled at wet braking.
Wide circumferential grooves, optimised tread depth, a flat
contour and smooth off-shoulder design result in an extremely
efficient and durable tyre for the electric vehicle market.
The Renault Twizzy will be the first car launched
with Conti.eContact tyres. Additional implementation projects
with original equipment manufacturers will see continued market
expansion in 2012.
Conti.eContact winter tyres will also be introduced
in 2013, helping to develop all year availability within this
developing market.
Unique sidewall lettering will also feature
on the tyre. The logo 'BLUECO' is aimed at connoting a series
of innovative tyre technologies especially designed for the
needs of electric vehicles.
The Conti.eContact will initially be a niche
product in the UK, but a growing charge infrastructure for
electric vehicles and government incentives are likely to
aid uptake and a move away from traditional petrol and diesel
engines. The Conti.eContact will be available in sizes 125/80R13
and 145/40R13 from next year. (Dec 6, 2011)

|