Announcement of the release of new summer tires Vredestein
Apollo Tyres has announced the release of new premium summer tyres, Vredestein Ultrac+, which have become significantly more durable than the previous generation model, Vredestein Ultrac, while maintaining the same level of comfort and handling on dry and wet surfaces.
The tyre life has been increased thanks to a square five-contact patch and a new tread compound, and internal testing by Apollo has shown that the new product can potentially travel 30% more kilometres compared to the Ultrac, which not only reduces customer expenses but also minimizes the impact on the environment. In addition, rolling resistance has been reduced by 3%, and the tyres will reduce fuel consumption or increase the range of electric vehicles.
The new tyres (in the 225/45 R17 94Y XL size) have been tested by two independent companies, and IFV GmbH assessed their durability, while Applus+ IDIADA evaluated their grip on wet and dry roads, as well as their comfort level.
According to Apollo, to improve ride smoothness, the "deformation zone" of the sidewalls has been increased, while the tread pitch has been optimized for tyres of various diameters and helps reduce noise. Applus+ IDIADA reported after the tests that the Ultrac+ has maintained the high comfort level of the previous generation tyres, both mechanical and acoustic.
The tyre development took place at Apollo's scientific and technical centre in Enschede (Netherlands), and the tread pattern features central ribs with parabolic transverse grooves and was designed to provide quick reactions to driver actions. In addition, a next-generation rubber compound with a high proportion of silica, which enhances the bonding of the rubber, and a multifunctional polymer has been developed to improve the balance between wear resistance and effective braking.
"Our process of developing new tyres is based on a detailed analysis of customer feedback, as well as an assessment of leading market products from competing brands," said Ivo Poulik, Vice President of Commercial Affairs at Apollo Tyres Europe. "In our opinion, the Ultrac model is fully competitive in all key parameters except for durability, which is why it was the main focus of our team of specialists responsible for designing and testing the new Ultrac+ tyres. Vredestein summer tyres have been produced since 1912, and we are very pleased that the capabilities of our latest product have been confirmed in independent tests. We are proud to bring to the market a tyre with the highest level of efficiency and an affordable price."
Vredestein Ultrac+ will be available from January 2025, and the tyres are planned to be produced in 70 sizes with diameters from 15 to 20 inches, making them suitable for a wide range of compact and family cars.