Apollo Tyres’ EnduTrax range selected as original equipment for IVECO trucks
IVECO, a brand of the IVECO Group that designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of light, medium and heavy commercial vehicles, off-road trucks and special vehicles for off-road applications, has selected the Apollo Tyres EnduTrax tyre as original equipment (OE) for its Way truck ranges. The partnership marks Apollo Tyres’ first OE agreement in the truck and bus sector; a key focus of its medium-term strategy in Europe.
The supply agreement commences this month and follows rigorous testing of the EnduTrax by IVECO during 2022. Produced at Apollo Tyres’ Gyöngyöshalász plant in Hungary, three different EnduTrax tyres in five dimensions will now be supplied to IVECO, all for 22.5-inch wheels: 13R22.5 EnduTrax MA, 13R22.5 EnduTrax MD, 315/80R22.5 EnduTrax MA, 315/80R22.5 EnduTrax MD, 385/65R22.5 EnduTrax MA HD.
Each product in the EnduTrax family is suited to a variety of applications, from large trucks to off-road tippers, and is specifically designed for use across tough terrain. It features an advanced compound which delivers 11% more cut and chip resistance than a standard Apollo regional all-wheel tyre, providing reliability over demanding surfaces such as rubble and steep gradients. The tyre also has 14% extra cushioning between the tread and belt, which affords a higher resistance to chipping and stone drilling, while rubber contact has been improved by 5% to enhance tread rigidity and offer more mileage. As a result, the tyre’s tread remains effective for longer, reducing the chance of a cut which could develop into a larger tear and impact grip and overall performance.
The tyre has enhanced retreadability, thanks to a durable and optimised ply casing – a key requirement for many customers. Even rates of wear across the tread pattern is facilitated by a wide contact area, which affords uniform pressure distribution. The reinforced casing also contributes to high levels of durability, which far exceeds the European regulatory requirement.
John Nikhil Joy, Cluster Director Europe – Truck & Bus Tyres, Apollo Tyres, said: “We’re very proud to partner with one of the most important commercial vehicle manufacturers in Europe, supplying our impressive range of EnduTrax tyres and assisting the business with our established European service and aftersales teams. I would like to thank Giuseppe Roberto Russo [Apollo Tyres’ OE Manager Europe, Truck & Bus Tyres] for his efforts, which have been instrumental in securing this exciting commercial agreement. We look forward to building a strong relationship with IVECO and supporting additional projects going forward.”
Yves Pouliquen, Group Head of Sales and Marketing at Apollo Tyres, said: “Today marks the beginning of a significant journey with IVECO, which is the culmination of years of dedicated effort from the entire Apollo TBR team. Our primary objective is to establish our brand and products as a crucial asset for top manufacturers of trucks, buses and trailers in Europe, and by extension, for fleets across the market. Our exceptional service, cutting-edge product technology, and state-of-the-art plant in Europe have earned us the trust of the market, allowing us to compete with premium brands and disrupt the status quo, all while striving to create unparalleled value for our partners.”