The Dunlop brand is entering the Rugged-Terrain segment

Sumitomo Rubber Industries will start selling Dunlop Grandtrek R/T01 tires on the Japanese market from August, which will be the brand's first model in the Rugged-Terrain segment and will feature sidewalls with a distinctive design. On one side, the inscriptions are made in black, and on the other - in white, and buyers can choose which option will be visible when installed on the vehicle.

According to Sumitomo, the novelty is designed for car owners for whom not only driving qualities and tire durability are important, but also their appearance, and both design versions of the sidewalls are based on "natural motifs", while the composition of the rubber mixture and the tire design are designed to improve the balance between characteristics on asphalt and off-road, and special attention was also paid to preventing uneven wear to increase the life of the tires.

Tires in the R/T category are between A/T and M/T products and combine good off-road capabilities, aggressive design, and enhanced construction with improved comfort, including acoustic, when used on paved roads, so, as Sumitomo emphasizes, R/T01 is optimal for both daily use in cities and active outdoor activities.

The tread pattern of the R/T01 is designed for efficient operation in any conditions, and the stepped walls of the blocks prevent their excessive movement, improving stability and handling, while the lamellae enhance grip on wet surfaces, the shoulder mud catchers increase off-road capability, the stone ejectors prevent damage to the carcass, and the optimized tread pitch reduces noise.

The rubber compound uses high-dispersion technical carbon, which has strengthened the bond between the rubber molecules and increased resistance to cuts and wear, as well as improved handling stability. In addition, the combination of three types of polymers has created a balance between wear resistance and performance on dry and wet surfaces, and the uniform distribution of loads in the contact area has also made the tires more durable.

"We will continue to develop the Grandtrek line to meet the needs of SUV and pickup truck owners in any situation - from urban conditions, where increased comfort is required, to harsh off-road conditions," says Sumitomo.

Dunlop Grandtrek R/T01 will be released on the Japanese market in 24 sizes with a diameter from 15 to 20 inches.