Volume 5 / Number 2 / April 2008 / $4.95

From May 12 to 18, 2008 Be Smart Week www.betiresmart.ca PM 40014105 NO, WE’RE NOT KIDDING. ONCE YOU TRY THE NEW CORGHI ARTIGLIO 50, YOU WON’T WANT TO WORK WITH ANY OTHER MACHINE. HERE’S WHY!

DOES YOUR CURRENT HANDLE WHEELS UP TO 30”? The Corghi Artiglio 50 handles car, 4WD, and light truck wheels from 12” to 30” inches.

DO YOU STRUGGLE WHEN REPLACING LOW PROFILE & RUN FLAT ? The Corghi Artiglio 50 easily handles low profile and run flat tires and only requires ONE operator.

HAVE YOU EVER DAMAGED EXPENSIVE, SPECIALTY WHEELS? The Corghi Artiglio 50 eliminates the use of conventional bead breakers and tire levers to easily and safely handle expensive alloys.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY? The Corghi Artiglio 50 is 50% faster than other tire changers thanks to its new single arm and dual rotation speed.

DO YOU HAVE DIFFICULTY MANIPULATING HEAVY WHEEL/TIRE ASSEMBLIES? The Corghi Artiglio 50 is ergonomically designed, is user friendly, and includes an automatic lifting cradle for heavy tire/wheel assemblies.

ARTIGLIO 50 0th anniversaryanniversary33

Importer of CORGHI products in Canada

Regional Distributors Montréal . . . . . 800-663-0814. Winnipeg . . . . . 204-953-6644. Calgary ...... 403-287-3021. Ottawa ...... 800-663-0814. Saskatoon . . . . . 306-242-6080. Vancouver . . . . . 888-240-1481. Toronto ...... 800-268-7432. Edmonton . . . . . 888-458-8055. Kelowna . . . . . 888-303-6830. Contents April 2008

Be Tire Smart Week – May 12-18, 2008 Skills/Compétences Canada Did You Know? Teaching Consumers, Getting Ready Tires for Old Cars 13 Helping Retailers 20 for the Worlds 36 Are Still Available

Features A RUN-FLAT special 12 Inventory Management 38 Celebrating Its 10th Anniversary Out With the Old 26 A Run-Flat Retrospective The Continental Challenge Run- Basics on Ice Is a Success 13 Be Tire Smart Week – May 12-18, 2008 Teaching Consumers, 28 Continental 40 Product Evolution Helping Retailers An OEM Complete Introduces a New Run-Flat Solution Generation of the X-Ice 14 BC’s Return to Retailer Program Giving Consumers a 30 Pirelli 43 Winter Tires Chance to Recycle A Run-Flat Product Bridgestone Makes a Point Portfolio The New Brunswick Lung Association 46 Carlisle Tire: A Market Leader in OTR Tires Better Tires Means Better 31 Goodyear Doubling Sales in Air Quality A World Leader in Only Ten Years Run-Flat Tires 15 Learning by Demonstration Be Tire Smart Videos: Available to Retailers for Consumers

Regulars

Editorial 4 Commercial Tire 22, 23, 24 Wheels 34, 35 Proper Pressure A Unique Market DT Wheel: Prime Performance Protect Your Customer’s Interests Specialty Tires Are in Big Demand in a Challenging Market One-stop Shopping for Tires and Wheels Industry News 6, 8, 18, 37, 45 TIA’s Commercial Tire, & Recycling Conference Spring Is Here Tires and Truckers Come Clean Scintillating Wheels New Products 9, 10, 11 Together in Orlando

Goodyear DuraSeal Technology Advertisers 45 for Line-Haul Trucking

April 2008 tn Tire News 3 Editorial Rémy L. Rousseau [email protected]

Publisher Rémy L. Rousseau Proper Pressure Contributing Editors Éric Descarries Jack Kazmierski Jim Kerr Protect Your Jil McIntosh Copy Editor Customer’s Interests Shirley Brown [email protected] Production Olivier Rhême [email protected] Once again this year, we invite you to create awareness among your customers to Valérie St-Cyr [email protected] the benefits of proper by actively participating in the Be Tire Smart Circulation Manager Sylvain Gendron [email protected] campaign, which will take place during the week of May 12. Administration Wendy Allain [email protected] Nancy Belleville [email protected] his period, conducive to increased fuel cost, and remembering the coming Isabelle Ouellet [email protected] numbers of customers going to price hikes, they will be very keen to listen T Advertising summer tires, is the perfect occasion to what you have to say. Nathalie Plouffe for you to hone in on their installation 416-925-5665 [email protected] and sale as well as align, balance and An increase in consumption is closely Luc Champagne rotate their tires following the rough followed by a GHG increase. In Canada, 514-945-1299 winter season. 1.5 million tons of carbon dioxide are un- [email protected] necessarily released into the atmosphere Réjean A. Rousseau Necessary evil for the consumer, but busi- every year due to improper tire mainte- 450-649-9007 [email protected] ness opportunities for you? This goes nance procedures. You’ll be surprised to Subscription without saying. But you can maximize know how many consumers are listening 1 year: $19.95 2 years: $34.95 3 years: $49.95 this opportunity by demonstrating to your and looking for the best ways to protect Published by customers how much you care about their the environment. They’ll appreciate your Publications Rousseau safety. You can, in only a few minutes, involvement. 2938, terrasse Abénaquis Longueuil QC, J4M 2B3 show them that they can take full control T: 450-448-2220 of an elementary, yet crucial task: proper Another point, just as crucial, concerns F: 450-448-1041 [email protected] tire pressure. drivers’ safety. Underinflation brings Tire News Magazine is dedicated to serving the business about inadequate road handling as well interests of the Canadian tire industry. It is published seven Regarding tire maintenance, underin- as a direct impact on acceleration and de- times a year by Publications Rousseau & Associés Inc., a member of AIA Canada. flation is the most common problem in celeration, all the while affecting security Material in Tire News Magazine may not be reproduced in Canada, affecting 70% of the vehicles, half devices such as ABS, antiskid, and stabil- any form without written consent from the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising and of which show some significant damage. ity control systems. disclaims all responsibilities for claims or statements made And yet, following your sound advice, and by its advertisers or independent columnists. All facts, opinions and statements appearing within this publication a good tire pressure gauge, your custom- In a nutshell, you’re saving your custom- are those of the writers and editors themselves, and are ers will soon get into the habit, without ers money, you’re making them aware of in no way to be construed as statements, positions or endorsements by Publications Rousseau & Associés Inc. having to spend any money, to check the environment and you’re contributing Publications Mail Agreement 40014105. Return their tire pressure on a monthly basis, a to their driving safety. Instead of being undelivrable Canadian addresses to Publications procedure which takes but a few minutes seen as simple tire dealers, you could be Rousseau / Circulation Department, 2938 terrasse Abenaquis, suite 110, Longueuil, QC J4M 2B3 of their time. perceived as someone who has their best ISSN 1710-4211 interest at heart by communicating your PRINTED IN CANADA Positive selling points! knowledge and, in the long run, largely The first point to look at is the financial as- increasing your customer base. tn pect, knowing that underinflation brings forth premature wear and an increase in fuel consumption. Proper tire pressure, as an example, represents a fuel saving of two weeks/year. Considering the actual Rémy L. Rousseau

4 Tire News tn April 2008 08BFS115 Pot Cadillac-TireNews 3/20/08 8:03 AM Page 1

Racing-inspired PotenzaTM tires give you the power to make your every maneuver and every move smooth as a pro.

bridgestonetire.ca 1-866-9 GO TIRE tiresafety.com industry NEWS Meet Our Expert Speaker Faculty:

presents: John Maxgay OEM Lead Engineer – TPMS General Motors Dilip Patel Ford NA – TPMS OEM New TireMaster Interface NEW Ford MotorFountain Company Tire Senior Vice ITT 2008 Hiroshi Ida Chassis Design Manager OEM Mitsubishi Motors R&D of NEW Adds QuickBooks ITT 2008 3rd AmericaPresident Inc Retires Todd St. John Intelligent Tire OEM Supervisor, Tire software provider ASA Tire Systems has The third Intelligent Tire Technology Confer- Active Chassis Control NEW Technology Conference DaimlerChysler Victor Underberg OEM announced the release of a new QuickBooks inter- ence is coming up thisExploring month Future TPMS from Technologies April & TPMS 28 to Manager Development Stability Implementation for Smarter and Safer Tire Performance Managing Systems Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems, face for its TireMaster POS software. The new in- 30. It will be held at the Marriott Dearborn Inn AUDI AG April 28 - 30, 2008 Kevin Rohlwing Marriott Dearborn Inn Hotel • Dearborn, Michigan Senior Vice President of Training and Technical Services terface can greatly reduce the number of manual Hotel, Dearborn, MI. Many engineers, managers, Tire Industry Association (TIA) Carl Wacker Featuring In-Depth Presentations, Case Studies, Vice President of Sales & Marketing journal entries necessary, saving time and money. presidents/vice presidentsPerspectives from & Conversations automakers, Such As: tire Schrader Electronics Dr. Urban Forssell • Looking at the European regulations and its impact on President & CEO The utility scans TireMaster POS for each day’s makers, parts companies,the US market and more will be on NIRA Dynamics AB Mark Shaw • Analyzing the current and future development of TPMS in the view of OEMs Senior Systems Engineer sales, accounts receivable, and inventory-receiving hand as speakers at this conference. Freescale Semiconductor • Understanding consumer perceptions of TPMS Will Hu NEW Vice President, Marketing & Sales data, then generates a batch of entries that users • Servicing TPMS in the field North America The event will include in-depth presentations, Shanghai Baolong Industrials • Demonstrating possible solutions for without barriers: battery-less TPMs technologies Hans-Rudolf Hein can export directly to QuickBooks. BMW Group OEM case studies, perspectives, and conversations NEW • Introducing nanotechnologies in the advancement of auto Head of Wheels & Tires Bob Benedict • Discussing the social impact of TPMS in terms of tire Senior R&D Associate “The new QuickBooks interface to TireMaster such as: looking at theinflation European status, safety improvements regulations and oil import and Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co reduction Horst Muenzel • Director Sensor Engineering Understanding how commonality of guidelines/protocols NEW POS is a great tool to manage a shop’s bookkee- its impact on the U.S.for platforms market, will help the serviceall industryabout stan- Robert Bosch GmbH Dr. Stefan Stoelzl • Learning from the pioneers on RFID technology Managing Director ping chores,” says Wayne Croswell, president of dards—making the systemsimplementation and more ROI analysis compatible, Continental Engineering Services GmbH NEW Dr. Gregor Kuchler ASA Tire Systems. “This new interface reduces analyzing the current and future developments Manager, InnovationsLeroy Hawtin, Senior VP of Fountain Tire, an- Continental Corporation NEW Media Partners: please supply logos Pat King labour-intensive data entry and errors that occur of TPMS in the view of the OEs, understanding Global Electronicsnounced Strategist his retirement after 43 years with the Michelin NEW Kulwant Singh with a manual process. Shop owners now can consumer perceptionswww.iqpc.com/us/ of TPMS,xxxxxxxxxxxx battery-less ApplicationEdmonton-based Engineer company. He received a moving Beru AG create bills automatically and easily research tran- TPMS technologies, understanding how commo- tribute at the company’s annual Store Managers’ sactions. This is a big time-saver for our users.” nality of guidelines/protocols for platforms will Convention in February, including a video mon- TireMaster is an integrated point-of-sale and help the service industry, and so much more. tage, speeches, and a live musical performance accounting system that manages transactions, For more information or to register, go to by some of his colleagues. allowing tire dealers to foster customer loyalty, www.iqpc.com/us, phone 1-800-882-8684/ Hawtin started with the company in 1964 at improve customer interaction and sell more pro- 973-256-0211, email [email protected], fax 973- age 18, when he became manager of Provost ducts and services. 256-0205. Fountain Tire in Provost, Alberta. Eight years later he transferred to Fountain Tire’s head of- fice in Edmonton, but returned to Provost 18 months later and became a partner/owner in that operation. He owned and managed stores in three locations over the next twelve years and TOYO Tire Canada’s New President in 1990, sold his interest in store operations and After four years at the helm of TOYO Tire Canada, Hiroshi (Hiro) Hiratsuka has returned to Japan relocated to the head office. where he will assume new duties at TOYO’s Tokyo office. He was recently replaced by Shingo (Matt) During his retirement, Hawtin says he plans to Matsuoka, who joined the TOYO Tire & Rubber Company back in 1977. Matsuoka first came to North do some fishing and hunting, but will mostly just America in 1986 as Marketing director in California before going to Latin America, Australia, and Ja- “take it easy” and spend time with his wife Bev, pan. Matsuoka is now based at TOYO’s new Canadian head office in Richmond, BC. his children, and grandchildren.

Our strength … exclusive and private brands Our commitment … quick and no-hassle service!

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• Passenger/Light Truck, TBR, Off-road and Industrial • Free transactional site • Territories available (contact Daniel Dubuc, 514-942-2708 ou [email protected])

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ALL SIZES 13" or 14" 15" or 16" 17" or 18" 19" or 20" 21" or larger $20* $30* $60* $80* $100* $120* per set of 4 per set of 4 per set of 4 per set of 4 per set of 4 per set of 4 See your Yokohama dealer for full details.

*Mail-in rebates on a set of four tires, ending www.Yokohama.ca June 30th, 2008. Some restrictions apply.

50K

Publication: Tire News Trim: 8-1/8" x 10-7/8" Bleed: 8-3/8" x 11-1/8" Live Area: 7-1/8" x 9-7/8" Art Studio: Frank Clarke & Assoc. 416.863.0093 industry NEWS

BFS to Supply the SmarTire Reaches Gold for Tires: Innovative Pontiac G8 Sedan Settlement with Siemens Tire Strategies Control SmarTire Systems, Richmond, BC, has settled Costs its patent infringement lawsuit against Siemens Canada’s Barrick Gold Corp. announced a VDO Automotive Corp., now Continental Auto- 10-year agreement with Yokohama Rubber Co. motive Systems US. of Japan to secure the supply of potentially The terms are confidential, but according to more than US$200 million in tires. SmarTire, Siemens acknowledged the validity A boom in the mining and construction indus- and enforceability of SmarTire’s United States tries has created high demand and tire shorta- Patent No. 5,231,872 in a judgment entered by ges as well as upward pressure on prices as tire the United States District Court for the Eastern manufacturers push to meet orders. Tire demand District of Virginia. has more than doubled since 2004 without a Dave Warkentin, president of SmarTire, said, corresponding increase in production. Some “We are very pleased with this settlement as it companies now buy tires at auction or through validates and strengthens our extensive patent used tire brokers, or purchase lower grade pro- GM selected the Bridgestone Potenza RE050A portfolio. We expect to receive significant financial ducts. Prices range from about US$200 each for ultra-high performance as optional equipment on and non-financial benefits from the settlement, a pickup truck tire to US$60,000 for the largest the Pontiac G8 sedan and as standard fitment including substantial net proceeds after payment loader tire. on the GT version of the rear-wheel-drive perfor- of withholding taxes and litigation-related ex- Under the agreement, Barrick will purchase mance car. According to BFS, the base size will penses. It will have a positive impact and allow us approximately 1,300 off-the-road (OTR) tires a be 245/45R18 while the optional tire will be a to focus on growing our business. We will continue year, beginning in 2009. To meet this demand, 245/40R19. to invest in R&D, seek innovations in tire pressure Yokohama will embark on a US$50 million se- monitoring technologies and vigorously defend cond major expansion in two years of the Ono- our intellectual property rights.” michi plant located in Hiroshima Prefecture, CTNA Sells, Then Japan. Bridgestone Sales, The contract covers five sizes of bias-ply, giant Income Up Leases Back OTR tires, including loader and haul truck si- ’s North America headquarters Bridgestone Corp. had a 55% increase in net zes up to the 40.00-57 profile. Barrick mines site in Charlotte, NC has been sold to a developer income for 2007 to $1.2 billion, sales were $31.5 will receive delivery directly from the Onomichi and will soon be re-born as a business complex. billion for the year—up 13% year over year. The plant and direct-from-manufacturer pricing for sales increases evolved from improved results Patriot Equities—which specializes in the pur- the next decade. in Africa and the Asian-Pacific region (excluding chasing and leasing back of corporate build- Japan). Bridgestone said these were up 24% to ings—has agreed to acquire the tire manufactur- $5.1 billion for the year. North American specific er’s offices and former factory for $29.4 million. results weren’t given. The company also said it A portion of the site has been taken out on a Pirelli Sponsored would likely have at least 50 tire plants by 2009. 10-year lease by CTNA, which will continue its tenancy in a reduced capacity. The company will CIAS for a Day Pirelli Sponsors the Newly now lease and occupy 600,000 sq. ft. of the The second Saturday of the Canadian Inter- Formed Xtreme Touring 1.7 million sq. ft. national Autoshow (CIAS) usually draws the CTNA seems likely to have broken even in largest crowd of auto enthusiasts, and Pirelli Race Series 2007 after being in the red for several years. was at the heart of the action. There was a high Pirelli is now the sponsor of the Canadian XTre- profile tire information displays showing off the me Touring series while still being the title sponsor O.K. Tire Stores latest Pirelli products including the brand new P for the Quebec-based Toyota Pirelli Cup. Pirelli Selects COSTAR Zero and P4 Four Seasons touring tire, plus an selected the RS tire as official tire of both series. O.K. Tire Stores has chosen COSTAR as the opportunity for photos and autographs with the The Italian manufacturer is celebrating its one ERP solution for its Head Office and its nine famous Pirelli Girls. hundredth anniversary in auto racing and its fifth regional warehouses across the country. In addi- “We want drivers to know we build the best with the Pirelli Cup series. tion, COSTAR has been named the Shop Mana- tires for every vehicle. Our tires come factory gement System for all its retail stores. COSTAR equipped on cars built in North America and 2008 Events Calendar is Canada’s leading tire and automotive shop all over the world. As well, we make several May 3...... Autodrome St-Eustache, Quebec management and tire distribution software. COS- different winter tire models all with superior May 24-25...... Sanair, Quebec TAR has strategic alliances with Activant, Mit- performance characteristics, Scorpion tires for June 14-15 . . .Calabogie Motorsports Park, Ontario chell, Wrenchead, Alldata, Tire Guide, and NAPA. light trucks and sport-utes, and the best touring tires anywhere,” noted Anthony Paulozza, Mar- July 12-13...... ICAR, Mirabel, Quebec It thus provides Internet based parts and tire ap- keting manager. August 30-31...... Mosport Park, Ontario plications, availability, pricing, and ordering and September...... TBA industry standard labour guides, fluid capacities, and manufacturer service intervals.

8 Tire News tn April 2008 NEW PRODUCTS

New TPMS Fits All Vehicle Types New Heavy Duty Impact

Hella has come up with a new Tire Pressure The display shows the position of each tire Wrench from CP Monitoring System that is ideal for vehicles plus pressure and temperature for each tire in- This new one-inch drive tool from the Chicago without OE systems or with custom wheels dividually. It can easily be reprogrammed after Pneumatic Blue Tork line combines the functions and upgrades. This technique is a permanent, a tire change/rotation and features bars and of an impact and a torque wrench. The CP7600 fully active, -controlled sys- sections on the tire symbol, allows you to save time, money, and energy by tem for monitoring vehicle tire which change according to achieving a precise and accurate tightening the pressure and temperature. The the amount of air pressure. first time. Ergonomically designed, it is availa- TC-400 system is FMVSS 138 The temperature gauge on ble in four versions depending on your needs, compliant and meets or exceeds the sensor allows the driver and the torque specifications can be preset the same specifications as all to determine the accuracy to fleet requirements from 400-650 ft./lbs. In OE-installed systems. of the readings as the tires addition to its low weight, the CP7600 features The TC-400 system uses high expand and contract from a simple swing bar reaction mechanism for easy tech tire sensor valves in place outside air temperature. alignment and quick operation. www.cp.com of conventional tire valves that transmit the Each tire can be monitored separately by hi- tire’s pressure and temperature by radio to the ghlighting the appropriate tire symbol on the control unit, which forwards the data to the display. The air symbol appears along with a cockpit display. In the event of sudden pres- warning symbol below to indicate a sudden loss sure loss, the control unit triggers an optical of pressure such as a . and acoustic alarm. Additionally, the system The Hella TC-400 system is compatible with also warns of over-inflation and slow loss of Nitrogen-filled tires but is not suitable for use pressure. in heavy-duty applications. For more informa- tion, visit www.hella.com.

Safety is everything

Distributors required throughout Canada. Please contact Chloride Canada Limited – Tel 905-793-8311 – [email protected] NEW PRODUCTS

IronMan Ergonomic New line of CP tools LCD Monitor Holder Wheel Lifting Bar Chicago Pneumatic Technology is evolving fast. Here’s a new has just launched product that will appeal to many—the its cordless tool LCD Monitor Holder/LCD Monitor line, which in- Holder with keyboard. It’s an easy cludes the most and effective way of transforming powerful 1/2’’ your work area. impact wrench, This Rousseau LCD Monitor is and a 3/8’’ mod- compatible with the ma- el that is among the smallest on the market. All jority of current tools can use lithium-ion batteries, and their design LCD monitors. allows one-hand operation. On the photo, from left It can be wall- to right are: Tire service technicians know that lifting large mounted or clipped tire and wheel assemblies can put a lot of extra • CP8335 – 3/8’’, 12V drill, with 15 lb/ft torque onto a multi-purpose stand. Your current monitor stress on their backs, so Ken-Tool developed a new • CP8005 – work light, 10,000 lm output, and keyboard is thus replaced. Both double and wheel lifting tool designed to lighten the load and rotates 160° single arm models allow screens to tilt 30° up/down make the job of changing heavy truck tires easier. • CP8000 – universal charger and the holder can be adjusted easily to ergonomic height of employees. The IronMan Bar has specially designed ends to • CP8738 – 3/8’’, 12V impact wrench easily into one of the wheel openings to allow • CP8748 – 1/2’’, 19,2V or 18V lithium-ion im- Contact Carolyn Cuke at Rousseau Metal, the user to raise the tire and wheel assembly from pact wrench, with 425 lb/ft torque 1-866-463-4270 or email info@rousseaumetal. com. www.rousseaumetal.com laying flat to a standing position. The leverage www.cp.com created by the tool lets technicians easily—and Marangoni Introduces safely—lift heavy, awkward tire and wheel assem- Heavy Duty Tire Sealant blies, reducing the risk of back strain and injury. In This product is formulated for tube and tubeless the Verso addition, the IronMan is extremely useful outside tires. It’s ideal for auto, truck, motorcycles, ATVs, Italian manufacturer Marangoni introduced a in muddy or other conditions when the wheel as- bicycles, farming—the list is endless. AmerSeal new summer performance tire to the Canadian sembly might be wet or slippery and there is the helps maintain constant tire pressures and seals market, the Verso. This tire can be recognized chance that a technician might slip while lifting a most bead and leaks. It is effective from -43°C by its four circumferential grooves, which are wheel. It features specially designed forged ends to over 93°C. The product will not corrode steel, designed to help resist better than that work from either side of the wheel assembly aluminum or chrome rims and you will find that the previous Marangoni Vanto model. Also, the as it lays flat. tires run approximately 25% cooler as it provides Verso has the exclusive CVR (Constant Void Ratio) The IronMan Bar easily helps lift all sizes and a cooling effect. It does not void tire warranty and technology, which optimizes its footprint on the types of small and large heavy truck wheels. stays pH neutral. ground and guarantees a uniform distribution of Standard sizes including 22.5” and 24.5” wheels, pressure on the footprint. This, in turn, should en- It works in high and low pressure tires and high plus European (which have 1” lug holes), Super sure an excellent grip and a significant reduction and low speed tires. On top of that, it has an in- Wide, and even the Super Single (a 340 lb. as- in braking distance. definite shelf life. sembly) size. Marangoni specifies that the Verso uses spe- For more information on AmerSeal, con- Contact your Ken-Tool representative. cial mixtures with FOM-IC technology for better tact NLS Products at 705-738-2321 or go to www.kentool.com grip, performance, and control. Add to that a www.nlsproudcts.ca. most quiet ride and a cap and base technology designed to better absorb uneven road surface. Now Here’s a ‘Different’ Tire! The symmetric design of the treadware should promote uniform wear. The Verso is This is a prototype tire from SweetskinZ. With full-color aimed at the premium/sport graphics and patterns that are reflective at night, this market and is offered at ATV tire represents the future of the industry, not only for a relatively affordable off-road, but for automotive and truck tires as well. If you price. It is available thought customized rims were the end of personalizing your in 28 sizes covering wheels, consider yourself updated. more than 65% of SweetskinZ developed and applied their patented SkinZ the North American technology to bicycle tires, and now have partnered with replacement mar- industry experts to bring their technology to motor vehi- ket. Sizes range cles and more. These new tires will give enthusiasts the from 65 to 50 chance to customize their rides with patterns such as the series for 14- to ‘Rattleback’ that is modeled after a snake’s skin, with 17-inch wheels more designs to follow—the potential is truly limitless. with H, T, V, and www.sweetskinz.com W speed ratings.

10 Tire News tn April 2008

Improved Version of Michelin’s Regional Truck Tire Michelin Americas Truck Tires unveiled an im- proved version of its all-position ZXE regional tire at the Technology and Maintenance Council’s meetings held in Florida last February. It is now called the ZXE2 and Michelin claims it has a 15% increase in overall tread life, an optimized tire profile incor- porating Michelin’s tech- nology, a four-groove design to protect it from irregular wear, a ÅÅ Å«Å Å 6% wider tread area for better handling and maneuverability, an enhanced chip and cut resistant compound for all load ranges, and a 5% reduction in for better fuel economy.    The XZE2 is available in sizes 11R22.5, 275/80R22.5, 11R24.5, and 275/80R24.5. The original ZXE tire will remain available through the end ofhese the year. seminars will be open to all T Pirelli dealers, both tire and car deal- ers,”Yokohama says Anthony Introduced Paulozza, Marketing Two managerNew Truck for Pirelli Tires Tire. “Anyone who sells PirelliYokohama products introduced can attend.” two new truck tires at the Technology & Maintenance Council’s meet- ingsFeatures, held in benefits Florida last and February, characteristics the 103ZRT and the 501ZAT, both part of the Althoughmanufacturer’s full details eco-friendly, were notultra-high-tech available atZ. pressenvironment time, theline seminarsof commercial will products.be held Accordingin major tocities John includCooney,- ingYokohama’s Montreal, director Quebec of com- mercial sales, the 103ZR has City, Toronto, Calgary a compound, tread design, and casing Vancouver, construction and thatwill be available in English will deliver longer treadware There are plenty of reasons we have grown to become Canada’s largest orand French. low rolling They resistance. will beIts independent tire retailer. Our owners are shareholders, which means conductedcasing can predict “by changesan out in- they not only benefit from a large buying network but they also get tire shape that occur over the side presenter who is well- support, business training and an inventory tailored to their needs. wear of the tire. The 103ZR also known in the automotive Not to mention the shared profits in a multi-million dollar business with includes rock ejector platforms 260 stores coast-to-coast. industry,”that keep stones Paulozza and debris says, out “andof the possiblygrooves. The one 103ZR of ourwith Northa 23/32-inch American tread depth training will be managers.”offered in seven sizes. As for the 501ZA, this should be, according To find out if OK Tire is right for you, to Cooney, an excellent choice for on- The training sessions will focus on the call the Franchise Department at and off-highway use. Its extended casing should 1-800-663-1749 or visit oktire.com features,make it perfect benefits, for cement and and characteristics dump trucks. Inof addition, it features a special compound for longer the company’s key product lines, including TM The OK Tire mark is a trademark of OK Tire Stores Inc. summer,mileage and all-season chip resistance and and SUV more tires, stone ejectplus- ors. The 501ZA will be offered in two sizes. Pirelli technology and the advancement

OKT-383 TireNewsAd-02.indd 1 1/29/08 3:06:00 PM April 2008 tn Tire News 11 Jack Kazmierski [email protected] Inventory Management Out With the Old

The right inventory management software can place you above and beyond the competition. Although you might be comfortable with the systems you’ve been using for years, there are many good reasons to consider an upgrade.

and president of Costar. “Most inven- cally and minimize the amount of stock tory systems don’t contend with size as it you need, you’re limiting your inventory relates to tires, or product groupings or costs. In other words, think of it as a ‘just categories that cover all-season vs. winter in time’ scenario as opposed to the ages vs. performance tires.” gone by system when inventory was key. f you’ve been in business long enough That’s how you drive profitability to the I to remember the days of typewriters, Generic software solutions also don’t take business.” liquid paper, and carbon paper, you’ve no into account different categories of tires doubt witnessed first-hand the tremen- (passenger, light truck, medium truck, off- dous difference the PC has made. The road), or road ratings, speed indexes,etc. “There’s a difference between ubiquitous computer has dramatically generic off-the-shelf packages improved the way we do business, and will The right software will instantly tell you no doubt continue to do so in the foresee- what the OEM tires are on your cus- and ones that have been designed able future. tomer’s vehicle and what tires will fit that vehicle. The software will also give you the specifically for the vertical market The PC is common today. In fact, it’s dif- load index, torque settings, tire pressure, of tires.” – Bill Colman ficult, if not impossible to find a company and other details quickly. “That will help that doesn’t have at least one PC running you see which tires you should be selling some or all parts of their business. And for that vehicle,” Colman says. Just in time is all about having the right just as the early adopters of computer information at your fingertips. “At the click technology gained an edge over the com- The ability to extrapolate that data is of a mouse you can see what your supplier petition back in the days of the typewriter, another benefit. You will see right away if has in terms of tires and parts, what the today the software you choose to run your you have that fitment on stock, and if not, availability is, what your cost is, and what business with is what makes all the dif- where you can get it. the suggested selling price is,” Colman ference. says. “And if you know you can get it de- Just in time livered within a certain amount of time, all Inventory management software In this day and age it’s important to be you do is just push a button and order it.” Although most tire shops now use com- able to place orders with suppliers elec- puter software to help with day-to-day tronically, and the right software will let This way of doing business takes a bit of ordering, billing, and selling, there’s no you do that. “You can tie the retail system getting used to. “It takes a different ap- denying the benefits of running a business over the Internet with the wholesalers so proach and a bit of business discipline,” with inventory management software spe- that you can immediately check stock and Colman says. But with so many benefits, cifically designed for the tire industry. pricing, and be able to order it online,” it only makes sense to say goodbye to Colman says. the methods you used back in the days of “There’s a difference between generic the typewriter and to take advantage of off-the-shelf packages and ones that have Inventory is your most important asset. modern computing power with the help of been designed specifically for the vertical “Inventory costs money and in this day the right inventory management software market of tires,” says Bill Colman, founder and age, if you can do things electroni- solutions. tn

12 Tire News tn April 2008 Be Tire Smart Week – May 12-18, 2008 Jil McIntosh [email protected] Teaching Consumers, Helping Retailers

With its rollout on May 12 this year, the Be Tire Smart week is once again expected to see over 1,000 tire retailers participating. This important campaign, presented by the Rubber Association of Canada (RAC) in association with Natural Resources Canada’s Office of Energy Efficiency, is intended to raise consumer awareness of the importance of tire maintenance and safety.

ts slogan of “Be Tire Smart, Play your ers back in the door. They’ll check the tires Campaign tools I PART” focuses on four key aspects of for free, inspect them, and properly inflate Campaign tools include the brochures Did tire safety—Pressure, Alignment, Rotation, them. It’s an after-sales service and the You Know and Riding On Air, the RAC’s and Tread, hence the name—and teaches customer knows the dealer is taking care Web site (at www.betiresmart.ca), nation- consumers how and when to pay attention of them.” al and local advertising, and the support to their tires. Outreach is through brochures, of both retailers and outside associations. videos, free tire clinics, and media exposure. 40 million impressions Paquette says that last year, the Be Tire “Some tire retailers have picked up the Tire retailers benefit Smart campaign measured over 40 mil- ball and run with it all year long,” Paquette “We provide the materials and do the lion “impressions”—a marketing term says. “They’re not only doing this for the media campaign, and then the tire retail- that shows a message has reached a week, they’re making it part of their mar- ers benefit from all the attention dur- consumer’s eyes. “We’ve jumped in leaps keting strategy. They’re hosting tire clinics ing that particular week and are able to and bounds,” he says. “It was a big success and other events in the summer. As this piggyback on it,” says Gilles Paquette, when we had 16 million impressions three continues, it becomes sustainable. That’s Communications Manager of RAC. “Many years ago. The momentum has really our focus, to try to take this campaign to of them will hold customer appreciation picked up and we’re seeing some benefits that level. We’re going to utilize it to its full events and tire clinics to get their custom- of that increased participation.” potential and have people run with it.” tn

April 2008 tn Tire News 13 Be Tire Smart Week – May 12-18, 2008

Jil McIntosh [email protected] BC’s Return to Retailer Program Giving Consumers a Chance to Recycle The Be Tire Smart campaign helps consumers keep their tires longer, but eventually, even the best-maintained tire will wear out. That’s when Tire Stewardship BC (TSBC) steps in.

C’s recycling programs have been Reaping the benefit are about 200 landfills and transfer sta- B very successful in diverting tires There are 2,100 retailers in the province, tions in BC that take tires, and they want from landfills, but there are still tires lurk- and TSBC has an initial target of 400 in to get out of the business. This is going to ing in garages and backyards that need the program, with plans to increase the save public dollars by significantly reduc- to be collected. Concurrent with Be Tire number so that consumers virtually any- ing the costs of handling scrap tires in Smart week, TSBC is launching its new where in British Columbia can drop off a the landfills and transfer stations.” With Return to Retailer program. maximum of four passenger or light truck 400 retailers initially planned to come tires at no charge. The tie-in with Be Tire on board, the program also offers twice A voluntary basis Smart highlights both programs, and re- as many drop-off points for consumers “The program is intended to provide an tailers also reap the benefit of a consumer as before. outlet for people to take tires back to through the door, where there’s a chance a retailer, rather than to a landfill site,” he could become a customer. “Partnering with Be Tire Smart is the says Mike Hennessy, executive director right thing to do, because we’re sharing of TSBC. “Retailers are agreeing on a vol- Saving public dollars the cost of getting the message out,” untary basis to take back those tires for Thanks to BC’s disposal fee program, Hennessy says. “Be Tire Smart extends recycling.” these tires have already had a levy paid the tire’s life, and TSBC is there for its end on them, Hennessy says. “Currently there of life.” tn The New Brunswick Lung Association Better Tires Means Better Air Quality One of the benefits of properly-inflated tires is better fuel efficiency, and that translates into fewer emissions. That was all the New Brunswick Lung Association needed to know when it came on board with the Be Tire Smart campaign.

“ eople ask me why the Lung Canada, which provided brochures and holds clinics for this captive audience, P Association has anything to do information to help set up tire clinics. using a tire and compressor to show with cars,” says Arthur Thomson, the people how to check pressure, and giving Association’s director of program devel- “The first year, (the clinics) were held any- them a free tire gauge. Participants are opment. “Our mandate has always been where they would have us,” Thomson says. also asked to sign a pledge to check their to improve respiratory health, and while “We’ve done them in gas stations, malls, tires regularly, which Thomson says is a traditionally we look at tobacco and lung and lunch-and-learns where we go to a proven method of ensuring that people disease, over the last ten to fifteen years workplace during the lunch hour and do follow through. we’ve been looking at indoor and outdoor a demonstration with the staff. We’re now air quality as well. Anything we can do to entering our third year.” Setting priorities improve fuel efficiency will cut down on “If you were to prioritize, you’d prefer to emissions.” A captive audience see people walking or riding bikes, then This year, the Association is focusing transit, then cars, but it’s just a reality in A willing partner on branches of Service New Brunswick, our lives and with our climate that people The Association looked for project part- which abandoned lineups in favour of a need cars,” Thomson says. “If we can help ners to help deliver its message and found take-a-number system that left people people drive most efficiently, then we’ll all a willing ally in the Rubber Association of free to wander around. The Association be better off for it.” tn

14 Tire News tn April 2008 Jil McIntosh [email protected] Learning by Demonstration Be Tire Smart Videos: Available to Retailers for Consumers One of the realities of learning new behaviour is that no matter how much you read about how to perform a procedure, it’s preferable to see it demonstrated. That’s the plan behind a new series of videos that will be presented for the Be Tire Smart Week campaign.

he videos, currently in development, T look at tire pressure, , and balance, alignment and rotation, and are meant for a consumer audience.

Checking tire pressure “For the tire pressure video, it’s a mom and her kids going out to the driveway,” says Katherine Power, a consultant with Xposure PR, who headed the video project. “On her way out, she notes that it’s a certain date on the calendar and that she needs to measure her tire pressure. The kids jump in the car and she takes her tire pressure gauge out of the glovebox, confirms the tire pressure on the door jamb, measures the tire pressure and notices that one is low. So on her way to where she’s going, she stops The Be Tire Smart videos, which are Importance of maintenance at the gas station and puts some air in her being produced in English and French, Along with the tire pressure video, the tire tires, and then drives away.” will also be available to retailers as a tread video shows the simple “dime test” DVD, for a nominal charge of $20 plus (considered more accurate than the tradi- All three videos show the same family, and GST; these can be played to customers tional penny), the appearance of tires with are done with a voice-over narrator who in a waiting room or used as part of a worn treads, and the importance of having explains each step. In addition to describ- tire clinic. good tread for handling, safety and the ing the action, the narrator also tells the environment. The balance, alignment and viewer the reasons for checking tires, in- “We’re making them as generic as pos- rotation video explains how hitting pot- cluding safety, environmental issues, and sible so anyone can use them,” Power holes or curbs can affect tires and the ve- tire wear. Interspersed with the story are says. “We had to use a garage, but it hicle’s alignment, and explains when and various clips showing what can happen doesn’t look like it’s any one particular why this basic maintenance needs to be when tires aren’t correctly maintained. shop. We also shot in a certain direction done and the benefits obtained from it. and light so that the tire name doesn’t Available online show up. It’s tough to do, but we tried “We’re trying to expose the videos to as The videos will be available for consum- not to show any branding so that any many people as possible,” Power says. ers to watch on the Be Tire Smart Web tire manufacturer or any retail outlet can “It’s too late this year, but next year, the site, which also currently contains a series use the videos.” Rubber Association will show them at of videos produced in cooperation with the auto shows in Toronto, Montreal and Transport Canada and the Automobile The videos were shot at three locations, Vancouver. They’ll also be part of the vari- Protection Agency on the importance of with safety footage done at the Skid ous campaign efforts that they do during winter tires in cold weather. Control School in Oakville, Ontario. Be Tire Smart Week.” tn

April 2008 tn Tire News 15 Be Tire Smart Week – May 12-18, 2008

Register for 2008 Be Tire Smart Week Register for 2006 Be Tire Smart Week www.betiresmart.ca May 12-18, 2008 May 14-20, 2007 Need More Info? FaxFax this this form form to: to: (905) (905) 814-1085814-1085 oror registerregister on-line Questions, concerns or suggestions? We want to hear from you. Name: ______Be Tire Smart – Play Your P.A.R.T. Company name: ______Att: Gilles Paquette 2000 Argentia Road Address: ______Plaza 4, Suite 250 Mississauga, ON L5N 1W1 City: ______Tel: 905-814-1714 Fax: 905-814-1085 Prov: ______Postal Code: ______Email: [email protected] Website: www.betiresmart.ca Phone: ______Fax: ______e-mail address: ______

# of outlets: ______

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MR GILLES PAQUETTE GILLES MR 7005742 industry NEWS

Atlas Tire Wholesale Appointment Pirelli’s New Address On/off Radial by Pirelli Tire (Canada) recently moved both its Bridgestone offices and warehouse. Once at 9800 Trans-Ca- At the Conexpo-Con/Agg 2008 in Las Vegas nada Highway in St-Laurent, Quebec, the offices recently, Bridgestone Firestone North American are now at 1111 Dr.-Frederik-Phillips Blvd (suite Tire announced it is now offering the M775 on/ 506), St-Laurent (Quebec) H4M 2X6. The phone off-highway drive radial—popular with logging number will remain the same. As for the ware- and oil field service fleets in Canada—in the house, Pirelli appointed Pival International, a United States. According to the company, the tire company that specializes in the management delivers superior traction in severe weather or at of value added logistics for tire companies, to highway speeds up to 104 km/h (65 mph). Atlas Tire Wholesale of Mississauga, Ontario manage everything related to the warehousing of The tire features a tread over 1” deep and an announced the appointment of Christopher Chin its tires. Therefore, the new warehouse’s address open shoulder design that digs into soft surfaces to the new post of manager – Marketing & Spe- is: Pival International, 1680 Mgr Langlois Blvd., as well as block sipes to break up pocketed water cial Projects. Valleyfield (Quebec) H4M 2X6. for wet traction, the company said. It seems that In this position, he reports directly to the pre- the M775’s stone rejector platforms also pre- sident and will work closely with other members vents trapped stones from pushing into the tread of the management team to ensure the effective grooves and piercing the four steel belts. The tire and aggressive marketing of all of Atlas Tire Who- is available in sizes of 11R22.5, 12R22.5 and lesale’s products and services. 11R24.5 in “H” load ranges. Among Chin’s new key responsibilities are promotional Web sites, marketing and pricing programs, trade advertising and trade promo- tions, co-op advertising funds, and affiliate dealer programs.

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kumhotire.ca Skills/Compétences Canada Getting Ready for the Worlds

Young Canadians showcase their skills in a National Competition recognizing Trades and Technologies.

cross Canada, young technicians A and high school students are gear- ing up for the 14th annual 2008 Canadian Skills Competition in Calgary, Alberta. From May 25 through May 28, automo- tive and autobody specialists will join approximately 500 other trade specialists competing against their peers to find the best in Canada. This is an exciting time. Not only is this a National competition, the competitors by providing these best but this is a qualifying year for WorldSkills. technicians with the best tools. The winners will become part of Team Canada and represent all of us at the 40th Before arriving at the National Skills in 2009 WorldSkills Competition to be held Calgary, the competitors will have already in Calgary next September. been through other competitions at re- gional and provincial levels. The “scope” of Canada has done well in past WorldSkills the competition is posted on the provin- competitions, with six members of the cial skills website, and gives information 2007 Team Canada winning medals at about dates, locations, safety require- the 2007 WorldSkills in Shizuoka, Japan. ments and the types of tasks participants Eight other Team members were recog- will be expected to do. Autobody competi- nized with a Medallion for Excellence, tors in the past have had to section rocker awarded to individuals who scored 500 panels, straighten a door skin, finish a or higher on the 600 point system. Our plastic panel, or prep and paint a panel. excellent showing is due to Canada’s well Automotive technicians might locate a designed and delivered technical educa- driveability fault in a fuel injection system tion systems and the dedication and skills or perform an electrical system diag- of coaches, mentors and of course the nostics. Tasks may be done on complete participants. vehicles or on bench assemblies specifi- cally set up to challenge the competitor. More than winners Typically, the tasks asked of competitors Skills Canada is much more than just win- are typical of what a skilled technician ners. It is about promoting the trades, would perform in their day to day work. showing the public the craftsmanship Judges keep a close and impartial eye on that young people are developing and at- all task areas to evaluate the competitor’s tracting new people into trade areas with performance. unlimited potential and high personal satisfaction. Industry has long recognized If you are interested in participating or the importance of supporting trades and would like more information on the Skills technical training. Ray Lavender of Snap- Canada competition, check out their web- on Tools, a long time sponsor of compe- site at www.skillscanada.com or each of titions at both Provincial and National the Provincial Skills Canada websites for levels, says their goal is to simply assist regional and provincial competitions. tn

20 Tire News tn April 2008 Jim Kerr List of Provincial [email protected] Competitions and Websites

British Columbia Ontario PEI www.skillscanada.bc.ca www.skillsontario.com www.skillscanada.pe.ca

14th BC Skills Competition Ontario Technological Skills Competition Closed April 16 (OTSC) Tradex, Abbotsford May 5-7 Newfoundland and Labrador RIM Park and Manulife www.skillscanada-nfld.com Alberta Financial Sportsplex, Waterloo www.skillsalberta.com April 4 Quebec College of the North Atlantic, Prince Philip 16th Annual Provincial Skills Competition www.competencesquebec.com Drive (Main Campus), St. John’s May 22-23 Stampede Park, Calgary, Alberta 10e Olympiades québécoises Yukon April 23-26 www.skillsyukon.com Saskatchewan Centre de foires de Québec www.skillscanadasask.com April 4 New Brunswick Skills Centre, Whitehorse Closed www.skillscanada.nb.ca North West Territories Manitoba May 3 www.skillscanadanwt.org www.skillscanada.mb.ca NBCC Saint John April 17 Auto Service Nova Scotia Yellowknife April 10 www.skillsns.ednet.ns.ca Notre Dame Campus, Bldg M Closed Auto Body Repair April 10 Nunavut Jim Kerr is an Automotive Technology Instructor at the Notre Dame Campus, Bldg J www.skillsnunavut.ca Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology in Saskatoon and a freelance automotive journalist Closed covering all aspects of the automotive industry.

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Specialty tires can A Unique Market be very small… …or big, as seen at SEMA. Specialty Tires Are in Big Demand

Tires come in so many shapes and sizes that it is difficult to keep track of every new product that shows up on the market. And that’s only for cars and light trucks! Add to that truck tires, farm tires, construction tires, and specialty tires, which are those unique tires that can range from 4 to 42 inches. They go on everything, from lawn mowers to road graders, including ATVs, trailers, tractors, golf karts, and the list goes on!

n the specialty tire market, one can Good business facturers are providing more and more I notice how big tire manufacturers But is the business still good? Gagnon is smaller tires—the same phenomenon is are involved in the business. But, other very satisfied with the turnout and even happening with OTR tires. Both our ex- than the usual car and truck tire makers, believes that the future seems bright. perts believe that the Asian products they there are other brand names that are She has noted some slowdowns but they offer are of great quality. And the price well recognized—popular brand names come in cycles, as this industry usually advantage is worth mentioning. “The only like Goodyear, Continental, Dunlop, does. Vouligny agrees, though he was difference,” says Gagnon, “is that getting Michelin, and BFGoodrich, mostly for impressed by last year’s increase in sales. them here takes a little more time!” tractor and OTR tires, do business He also noted that some local markets can alongside brands such as Carlisle, Duro, be impacted by laws and governmental Just about every type of specialty tire Maxxis, Kenda, Cheng Shin, Tow Master, decisions. For instance, that fact that mo- seems to be selling well with none of them and King’s Tire. torcycle insurance premiums in Quebec being more significant than any other. recently skyrocketed not only slowed the Sometimes, a market will compensate for You can expect to see many Asian sales of motorcycles and motorcycle tire another. Right now, the farm tire market brands showing up in the picture. Also, replacements, but also ATV replacement seems a little soft but the construction tire according to Danielle Gagnon, of Odessa tire sales. market is rising. Some are slowly picking Canada, a Quebec-based distributor, up, such as the golf cart market, which is many North-American brands are hav- According to Vouligny, there is a lot of very strong in the United States, accord- ing their small and specialty tires made competition between specialty tire dis- ing to George (because golfing is quite an in Asia. As a matter of fact, Georges tributors. But the demand is still there industry there) but it is slowly showing up Vouligny, president of Import Export and growing. Both Gagnon and Vouligny here in Canada. Probec, says that all his products come see the OTR tire sales picking up at a very from Asia. He also pointed out that important pace. Nonetheless, both our experts painted fewer Canadian companies (if there are an optimistic picture of the specialty tire any left) still produce small specialty Asian tires play an important role market in Canada, a market that is worth tires like wheelbarrow units. We mentioned earlier that Asian manu- noting. tn

S207 Drive all-steel radial truck. Wide and deep transversal grooves for greater driving force. Deep tread depth for extended mileage. Reinforced bead construction and durable carcass for excellent retreading rate. Jil McIntosh [email protected] TIA’s Commercial Tire, Retread & Recycling Conference Tires and Truckers Come Together in Orlando

A conference is always an excellent place to learn more about the industry and meet with others within the scope of your business. But what if you could combine it with the people who will ultimately be buying and using your product?

hat was the idea behind the Tire T Industry Association’s (TIA) Commercial Tire, Retread & Recycling Conference (CTRRC), which was held in February in Orlando, Florida. The con- ference was held in conjunction with the annual meeting of the Technology and Maintenance Council (TMC) of the American Trucking Association, giving tire suppliers and tire customers an opportu- nity to meet and share information.

Record attendance “We had record attendance,” said TIA Attendees at the Orlando Convention Center President Peggy Fisher. “Last year we had a little over 200, so we doubled our atten- Center Hotel, included various seminars, and they could also take in the trade show dance, and had a record number of spon- a recycling plant tour and a testing equip- that TMC puts on every year,” Fisher said. sorships from our suppliers. The seminars ment demonstration. Many attendees also “Their fleet customers attend it, and these were very well attended, and were very visited TMC’s exhibition at the Orlando are the people that the tire dealers would strong and innovative.” Convention Center. sell to, and they were able to mingle on the show floor.” Of the 404 registered attendees at Meeting the fleet customers CTRRC, 294 were from the commercial/ “Our plan was that the TIA attendees More than 75 recyclers and industry profes- retread market and 110 were recyclers. could go to TMC’s tire and wheel study sionals took advantage of a tour of the Ridge The three-day event, held at the Rosen group session, which is very innovative, Generating Station in Auburndale, Florida, »

S208 Premium all-steel steer axle radial. Reinforced bead construction and durable carcass for excellent Hercules Medium Truck Tires retreadability. Decoupling groove for extended wear affordable, Reliable Tires Built to Perform and stress relief sipes for all weather traction. Visit www.herculestire.ca Commercial Tires

ing the material to a testing lab for official certification. The tests measure impact at- tenuation of recycled rubber surfaces and artificial turf impact for football, soccer, baseball and multi-purpose fields.

Numerous seminars The numerous seminars included TPMS for commercial truck tires, preventing and handling chamber fires, wheel recondi- Marvin Bozarth presenting the session on tioning, earthmover tire repair and central Improving Envelope Life. Dick Gust moderating the recycling seminar. tire inflation systems. which has full-scale tire processing and en- ergy production operations. Each year, the Of course, a conference can’t be the work plant processes up to 300,000 tons of waste and no play. “Being in Orlando, people and approximately 30,000 tons of tires, came down with their families,” Fisher said. turning these materials into clean energy. “There are the theme parks there, and some made a family vacation out of it.” There was also a demonstration of play- ground and sports surfaces product test- TIA doesn’t hold a trade show of its own at ing, which was coordinated by Denise the event, but for next year, it plans to ex- Kennedy, a member of the Tire and Rubber pand and have more tire, retread and recy- Recycling Advisory Council, and which cling exhibits on the trade show floor, with TIA President Peggy Fisher showed testing in the field prior to send- a pavilion dedicated to tires, Fisher said. tn

industry NEWS

Goodyear DuraSeal Technology for Line-Haul Trucking Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. announced it The technology—already proven in mixed- “Self-sealing technology in trailer tires is relevant, has adapted its revolutionary self-sealing com- service applications like logging, construction, since maintaining the inner tire of a dual-tire setup mercial tire technology for use on long-haul etc.—uses a gel-like, solvent-free compound is different. Trailers are usually the least-maintai- trucks. built into the inner liner of the tire. It consis- ned equipment in a fleet’s operation. In addition, The new Unisteel G316LHT line-haul trailer tently and instantly seals punctures with gel with the industry averaging four trailers for each tire with DuraSeal Technology allows semi- flowing into void areas. tractor, there’s a greater opportunity for DuraSeal trucks to continue to roll after a tire is punctu- “The technology transfer into line-haul truc- to help long-haul fleets improve productivity.” red by road debris (up to 1/4” diameter in the king is significant,” said Steve McClennan, vice The new tire features an all-steel four-belt pac- repairable tread area) which greatly reduces president of Goodyear commercial tire systems. kage, helping to provide a solid foundation for mul- downtime and service calls. The new tire was “DuraSeal in the G316LHT helps reduce fleet tiple . A solid shoulder rib and innovative recently introduced to Canadian and U.S. tire downtime, helps lower a company’s cost of ope- pressure distribution groove help resist shoulder dealers. ration and enhances retreadability. wear.

24 Tire News tn April 2008 Ignite your sales with really hot inventory and sound expertise from the wheel experts at DT Tire and DT Custom Wheel. We have the fi re to pack some heat into your custom wheel and tire sales with hundreds of styles in stock and SEMA certifi ed experts to serve you. We have what you need to succeed. Call us today and ask for your free catalog, or check us out on the web at www.dtwheel.com

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tirenews_ad.indd 1 3/18/08 2:08:50 PM Advertorial

A Run-Flat Retrospective Run-Flat Tire Basics

According to automotive historians, a modest Mini 1275 GT qualifies as being the first vehicleBasics ever to be sold with run-flat tires, sometime in 1974. This pioneering vehicle used the Denovo system, developed by Dunlop, which much like today’s tuner cars, featured ultra-low profile sidewalls and a set of special wheels. From a design and technology standpoint, Goodyear deserves a special place in the run-flat firsts, as in 1978 the company introduced the SST, the tire industry’s first “self-supporting” tire. Despite some success in off-road rally competitions and in the military environment, commercial applications were slow to take off, and excepting the Porsche 959 of the late ‘80s—Dunlop’s Denloc ultra high performance run-flat tires and the 1994 Chevrolet Corvette, the real push forward came in the first years of this century.

oday, run-flats are a common equip- limitations as the standard spares found T ment/option on such luxury automo- in most vehicles. biles as Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW, and there are signs that the technology is From the OEM’s perspective, using a run- penetrating the compact market as well. flat tire option allows for the elimination of the , jack and the related auxilia- Benefits ries, as well as for increased cargo space. The major benefit related to the Run-Flat Technology (RFT), is that it is viewed as a The way it works major safety device—somewhere in the RFT is presently dominated in the market airbag/seatbelt/headrest family. In es- place by the so-called Self-Supporting Run- sence, in the case of a rapid loss of tire Flat tire (SSR), which in essence is a tire pressure/explosion, it enables a driver to with stiffer sidewalls than a conventional maintain control of the vehicle and avoid tire. Bridgestone, a leader in this technol- a devastating outcome, especially at high- ogy over the last decade, has surpassed way-associated higher speeds. Another the 1 million run-flat tires delivered to benefit is that the vehicle can be driven various OEMs for use as original equip- for about 80 km—and in some cases up to ment for their vehicles. The SSR system 150 km—on tires that have no air in them, makes use of a special rubber sidewall re- therefore they can add to the feel of secu- inforcement that allows the tire to carry the rity by eliminating the need to change a tire in either inclement weather or in road- side areas deemed unsafe or hazardous. Traveling speed is cited as another factor, as in the vehicle can be driven at speeds up to 80 km/h, usually a speed compatible with the minimum speed allowed on any major highway. In that respect, run-flats This run-flat special section is a reprint. You will find it in its original, unedited form in the September/October 2007 issue have about the same speed and distance of Automotive Today.

26 Tire News tn April 2008 A RUN-FLAT special

Similarly, Continental uses a ‘safety ring’ as the centrepiece of its ContiSupportRing (CSR) technology, dedicated mostly to the heavier vehicles and SUVs. As well, it has developed it’s own variant of the SSR Basics technology—mostly for sport cars applica- tions.

The Players and the Future The main players in the run-flat mar- ket include: Bridgestone, BFGoodrich, Continental, Goodyear, Pirelli, Dunlop, and Michelin. In North America, some of the OEM’s corresponding brands offer- ing run-flats are: Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, weight of the vehicle while it maintains the Lexus, BMW, Infinity, Nissan, Honda, tire’s physical dimensions following a rapid Acura, Cadillac, Ferrari, Hummer, Audi, related to run-flats, such as harshness. deflation. Self-supporting run-flat tires Mazda, and the list is growing constantly. As a result, softer shock absorbers and a typically weigh an additional 2-3 kg when From an OEM perspective, an incontest- new range of suspension tuning on-board compared with standard tires, but typically able leader in this early adopter market devices are to be expected to complement that weight is compensated by the disap- is BMW, mostly because of the company the new RFT. Also, a run-flat tire typi- pearance of the spare tire and jack. focus on ride quality and driving experi- cally has an average of 20% higher rolling ence. BMW’s wide adoption of the RFT is resistance, in part due to the increased Goodyear’s EMT (Extended Mobility progressing at an ever increasing pace: structural material and mass. Although Technology), like the SSRs, uses reinforced already standard on its Z4 sports car, 5 in some situations this can worsen a ve- sidewalls that also enables the tire to sup- Series, 6 Series, and 3 Series, run-flats are hicle’s fuel efficiency, new developments port its share of vehicle weight without now coming as either standard equipment in the compound and thread technologies compromising its performance. Goodyear or part of an option package for all its are expected to alleviate this problem tires can be mounted on standard wheels, model lines by 2007-08. Ditto for its MINI considerably. Another development is the and accordingly, the company has already and Rolls Royce brands. wide adoption of TPMS (Tire Pressure sold over 4 millions of these tires. Monitor System). A direct result of the fact According to the analysts and the tire that these tires can run out of air without Within the SSR family, Pirelli is also con- makers alike, by 2010 about 10% of all the driver even realizing it, the OEMs are centrating its efforts on a Self Supporting new cars are expected to have run-flats equipping their vehicles with tire-pressure system, based on the use of a new gen- as either standard equipment or an op- monitors to warn the driver if air pressure eration of compounds with a high fatigue tion. The OEMs are constantly working has dropped. tn resistance. together with the tire manufacturers to overcome some of the inherent problems Michelin developed its own technology Market players > called initially PAV (the French acronym Bridgestone RFT (Run-Flat Tire), for Vertical Anchorage Tire). Renamed in Continental CSR (ContiSupportRing) and SSR, 1998 as PAX, the system consists of spe- Dunlop DSST (Dunlop Self-Supporting Technology), cial wheels with patented tire-bead locks Firestone RFT (Run Flat Tire), and an inner support ring to sustain the tire’s shape after it loses air. The main ad- Goodyear EMT (Extended Mobility Technology), vantage of this system is that it allows for Kumho XRP, Michelin ZP (Zero Pressure), a good safety/performance compromise. Pirelli RFT (Run Flat Technology), and Yokohama Run Flat.

April 2008 tn Tire News 27 Advertorial

Continental An OEM Complete Run-Flat Solution

In general terms, Run-Flat technology or RFT, allows the driver to maintain control of a vehicle in motion even in the event of a rapid loss of tire pressure. Also, an RFT tire enables the driver to continue to travel for a short period, avoiding the need to replace the wheel on the side of the road. To achieve these goals, various tire companies have chosen to specialize, concentrating their efforts and resources on developing one single system. Continental is the exception that confirms the rule, as it provides a complete run-flat solution for any of OEM’s system choices.

ith the ContiSupportRing and the does not influence roadability during Since four ContiSupportRings weigh less W Continental SSR, Continental of- normal driving. In the case of a sudden than a standard-size spare wheel, the fers two run-flat systems for different ap- or gradual loss of inflation pressure, the overall vehicle weight can be reduced plications. Whereas the ContiSupportRing ring supports the tire and the vehicle slightly. The CSR is a Continental de- (CSR) has been developed primarily for maintains its maneuverability. Even velopment that has undergone advance heavy passenger cars and SUVs, the without air—and depending on driving development within the framework of Continental SSR (Self-Supporting Run- conditions—the vehicle can then contin- a cooperation with Bridgestone and Flat Tire) is more suited to sport cars ue on its way at a top speed of 80 km/h Yokohama in the area of run-flat sys- fitted with low-profile tires. Both sys- for as far as 200 kilometres. In other tems. It is marketed separately by all tems make it possible to continue on words, one can easily make it to the these companies under a joint logo. despite a tire breakdown and can be next repair shop or tire dealer and the Continental’s ContiSupportRing run-flat used on conventional rims. Aside from vehicle’s operating behavior remains system took third place in the category the run flat tires, ContiSeal Extended sufficiently stable and comfortable. ‘Products made from steel’ in the 2006 Mobility is another system that allows for What’s more, the ContiSupportRing ‘Stahl-Innovationspreis’ competition for a quick resolve of a flat, and in this vein, hinders rim damage when the vehicle innovations in steel. The system won this Continental also carries one further sys- jumps an obstacle or rides over other award as it meets high demands in terms tem, the ContiComfortKit, which likewise irregularities. of design and at the same time offers allows the motorist to continue on her/his extra safety on the road. way in spite of a tire failure—in this case, The ContiSupportRing is offered mainly after stopping briefly. All these solutions for comfort-enhanced passenger cars Continental SSR are available as original equipment and in and for SUVs. The CSR needn’t be re- In the event of a loss of pressure, run- replacement trade. placed when mounting new tires, unless flat tires can still function reliably over a a tire failure has occurred. The system certain distance at a specified top speed. The CSR is a metal ring with a flexible can be used on all conventional rims in To achieve this, the sidewalls of the Self- mount fitted directly onto the rim. CSR combination with all tires. Supporting Run-Flat Tire (SSR) are extra-

28 Tire News tn April 2008 A RUN-FLAT special

rubber-reinforced to absorb the weight sor is operated via the cigarette lighter of the vehicle in the event of a loss of tire outlet. The driver does not come into inflation pressure. contact with the sealant and is ready to set off again just minutes after the The SSR is especially well suited for pas- breakdown occurs. The CCK is offered at senger and sport cars equipped with specialist tire outlets and via the Internet powerful engines and tires with an as- under www.conti-online.com. pect ratio of fifty or less. The tire’s rein- forced sidewall intercepts the weight of ContiSeal Extended Mobility System the vehicle in the event of a tire failure Self-sealing tires are designed to fix and, in many cases, this enables the mo- most tread-area punctures instantly and torist to reach the intended destination permanently. The ContiSeal is a viscous, or at least make it to the nearest tire sticky polymer material added into a shop. Continental SSR tires are available finished standard tire with the exception in summer and winter models. of an extra lining inside the tire under the tread area. These tires first provide Whereas certain systems marketed by a seal around the object when the tire competitors require special wheels, the is punctured and then fill in the hole in run-flat systems from Continental can be the tread when the object is removed. used on conventional wheels. This elimi- It seals penetrating objects in the tread nates the need for investments in special area up to 5 mm diameter—nails, screws wheels and mounting tools throughout and similar items. ContiSeal does not the branch. affect technical and dynamic features of the basic tire, such as load and speed ContiComfortKit CCK index, high speed capability, rolling re- With the ContiComfortKit this leading sistance, etc. ContiSeal has been in use German tire maker is marketing still an- for several years in NA with the Dodge other option of ensuring mobility despite Magnum/300c platform, and sales will Joe Grace, senior manager, Chrysler 300 a tire failure. The system is lightweight— start in Europe in May 2008 as its first and Dodge Magnum, drills home a point to around two kilograms and it functions as presentation was made during Frankfurt journalists during a safety briefing at Chrysler Group headquarters. Grace demonstrates the follows: By means of a small compressor, IAA Fair 09/2007 with a ContiSeal-VW self-sealing tire feature available in the Chrysler the tire is filled with a sealant, restoring equipped car. tn 300 and Dodge Magnum. Tires contain a special tire sealant that fills punctures and minimizes air the normal pressure level. The compres- pressure loss.

April 2008 tn Tire News 29 Advertorial

Pirelli A Run-Flat Product Portfolio For some time, the car world has been increasingly directing its attention and investments towards a tire capable of ensuring performance and safety even in the event of a complete loss of air pressure, to the point that the tire literally “runs flat.” Mechanisms and patents have alternated, involving the most important manufacturers with development of various solutions, which have then fallen into decline.

he Self-Supporting Run-Flat resists. Scorpion Zero Asimmetrico T In fact, it is progressing, conquering Developed for the most powerful light a growing market share. Pirelli has whole- trucks and SUVs, the Scorpion Zero heartedly married the maximum needs and Asimmetrico increases the safety margins performance of the car from as far back and enhances your driving pleasure. The as the 1970s, when it developed its 17” excellent level of grip provides great direc- Scorpion BK for the extreme Lamborghini tionality and immediate response when LM002 off road vehicle. Today, this technol- cornering. It features a new asymmetric ogy has been optimized step by step, always tread design with full and compact exter- with an eye towards vehicles and SUVs of nal shoulder blocks for superior handling, high and super-high performance, which P Zero Nero M+S as well as low acoustic noise, high preci- are Pirelli’s natural preserve for original P Zero Nero M+S is the ultimate all sea- sion at high speeds, and excellent grip equipment on a world scale. This high-tech son low profile tire designed for the High when braking achieved with the solid cen- solution is also made possible thanks to Performance market. Tread Pattern: vari- tre rib and the unique “Z” tread design. the MIRS robotized system; an absolute able angle grooves ensure higher me- Original run-flat equipment on Jeep Grand Pirelli exclusive, a production process, which chanical grip, while a newly-developed Cherokee SRT8, European version. is entrusted entirely to computers—but compound improves grip in wet and dry always under the final control of man—and conditions. Additionally, optimized pitch Winter Sottozero the guarantee of an end result of maximum sequence and a continuous circumfer- By no means compromised by winter perfection and reliability. One of the tire ential element ensure superior acoustic road conditions, this tire’s sporting char- types produced by MIRS, in which Pirelli comfort. Asymmetric all-season design, acter is enhanced by various structural is making significant investment in Europe manufactured for North America. features that confer levels of performance and the United States, is the Run-Flat, which Original run-flat equipment on Volvo S80 and V70, not normally associated with a winter is constantly manufactured using this sys- Audi TT and TT roadster. tire. Performance highlights: high-speed tem. Various Pirelli product lines offer sizes stability, precise turn-in and efficient grip in run-flat versions—from high performance Eufori@ under braking, through corners and under summer tires, all-season tires, to winter and The reinforced-sidewall method, the most acceleration. Pirelli’s newest winter tire, SUV tires. common and what Pirelli has chosen for features longitudinal sipes which ensure a the Eufori@, minimizes the un-sprung better lateral grip, converging geometry, P Zero weight increase, and although this tire trap on longitudinal grooves, and double P Zero is the latest addition to Pirelli’s does not require a special rim, it is recom- directional design ensuring for better UHP family. Twenty years on, P Zero is mended in order to obtain the optimum snow traction and braking. still a point of reference in the ultra high service life. The use of a sidewall made It is already homologated as winter run-flat on performance market. As its tread pattern from new compounds with lower modulus BMW 3 Series. goes, the new high-grip compound with and fatigue resistance allows the tire to nano-composites is the perfect solution support the car’s load in case of air loss. Pirelli Self-Supporting Run-Flat tires can for enhanced driving stability and sensi- The external Ply-Lines Radii designed be identified by the RUN-FLAT inscription tive steering control. Also, three wide lon- for comfort in normal inflated conditions on the tire sidewall. Pirelli certifies that gitudinal grooves ensure high aquaplaning also provide good handling levels in a flat after pressure loss, self-supporting run- resistance, while the s-shaped sipes are condition. flat tires can continue to run for 80 km designed to reduce rolling noise. Original run-flat equipment on BMW, (50 miles) at a maximum speed of 80km/h Original run-flat equipment on the new MINI. MINI, Cadillac. (50 mph). tn

30 Tire News tn April 2008 A RUN-FLAT special

Goodyear A World Leader in Run-Flat Tires

One of the best-known pioneering tire companies behind the run-flat segment is The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. In 1934, Goodyear introduced the Lifeguard safety inner tube, designed to deflate progressively, which was recognized as the beginning of the run-flat tire era. More than 70 years later, the company is still at the forefront of technical innovation, and it is currently involved in more than 100 active run-flat projects. More than 4 million Goodyear run-flat tires have been used successfully on the road since their entry in the market more than a dozen years ago, giving Goodyear more run-flat tire fitments than any other tire manufacturer.

s standard equipment on the According to the company, a real key to A Chevrolet Corvette, Jeep Grand moving run-flat applications from the Cherokee SRT8, Cadillac SLR, MINI high performance car to the family sedan Cooper, various BMW models and other is “matching the science to customer ex- cars, Goodyear EMT (Extended Mobility pectations.” Technology) tires are capable of running When talking about automakers’ consid- for limited miles at 80 km/h with zero Goodyear’s commitment to run-flat tires erations for future run-flats, Goodyear is inflation pressure. for standard wheels could fulfill consumer again delivering: demands as expressed in past J.D. Power When introduced as exclusive original and Associates consumer surveys. The > The Goodyear run-flat tires’ capability equipment on the 1994-96 Corvette, study of vehicle buyers revealed a high goes beyond safety and convenience Goodyear’s Eagle GS-C EMT tire ushered demand for emerging safety features, by enabling automakers to remove in a new era in , as it such as run-flat tires. the spare tire and jack from the trunk was the first run-flat to operate effectively for weight-savings, to develop more on affordable standard wheels. The J.D. Power and Associates’ aerodynamic designs and incorporate Automotive Emerging Technologies Study additional cargo space. has shown that 85% of consumers sur- veyed indicated they wanted run-flat tires > Ride comfort on run-flats continues on their next new vehicle. to be improved. Run-flats, which have stiffer, reinforced sidewalls to support Tires that continue to run even when flat the vehicle without inflation pressure, are nothing new. They’ve been touted in can produce a firmer ride, particularly various forms for many years. The differ- in tires with taller sidewalls like those ence with the current crop of Goodyear used on family sedans. A plush ride is EMTs is that they go beyond prototypes, less of an issue on performance tires, and they fit on standard wheels. which already have short sidewalls and fit cars with firm suspensions. One of the keys of Goodyear’s success is that the exciting and promising outlook > Tire pressure warning systems are re- for run-flat tires has to be balanced with quired. The handling, ride and lateral believable customer expectations. Much stability performance of vehicles riding of the future success of run-flats also will on tires without air is so impressive be determined by acceptance of the tires that a tire pressure warning system is in original equipment applications. mandatory to alert the driver. tn

April 2008 tn Tire News 31      $         

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AT30 bridgestone.indd 2 9/21/07 4:02:26 PM

This ad created by Dentsu America JOB No: DIAD36646_alt-B Title: Run-Flat Revised copy Client: Bridgestone Publication: Generic Color: 4/C Issue: September & October Size: Screen: Bleed: 8 3/4"x11 1/4" Trim: 8" x10 1/2" Live: 7" x 10" The sudden thumpity-thump of a fl at tire is as unnerving as it is inconvenient, and interrupting your journey to put on a spare is sure to defl ate the enthusiasm for any trip. Run-Flat tires are an increasingly popular advance in tire technology that allow drivers to continue to a safe location and avoid the hazard of changing tires by the roadside.

BRIDGESTONE’S SELF SUPPORTING RUN-FLAT TIRES (RFTs) These advanced and durable tires support the vehicle’s weight when a tire goes fl at due to puncture or slow leak. Instead of the jarring pull of a sudden fl at, drivers with RFTs feel little-to-no difference, and can more easily maintain control in the absence of tire pressure.

REINFORCED RUBBER STRENGTH AND SUPPORT HEAT RESISTENCE RFTs utilize thicker sidewalls and Bridgestone engineers designed Friction from traveling at high stronger, reinforced rubber that wider than normal bands of steel speeds slowly wears away at a tire’s provides a consistent driving experience wire (known as beads) that assist in tread and weakens the underlying even if a tire is punctured. keeping the rim attached to the tire rubber. Bridgestone RFTs incorporate in the event of a severe puncture heat-resistant rubber to maximize occurring at a high speed. the lifespan of the tires.

Driving on RFTs after tire pressure is lost feels so similar to driving on fully infl ated tires that a tire pressure monitoring system is required to notify drivers that a puncture or leak has occurred.

Vehicles with Bridgestone Run-Flat tires can travel up to 80 kilometres at a spee d of up to 80 kilometres per hour, providing sufficient ra nge to find a convenient location to replace a tire. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT WWW.BRIDGESTONETIRE.COM.

AT31 bridgestone.indd 2 9/21/07 3:59:06 PM Wheels Jil McIntosh [email protected]

DT Wheel: Prime Performance in a Challenging Market One-stop Shopping for Tires and Wheels

If you have a tire, you need a wheel. That’s the theory behind DT Wheel in Edmonton, Alberta, formed two and a half years ago as a subsidiary of the 12-year-old DT Tire.

“ e always were into wheels, even Innovative designs W after just a few years in the tire Jensen also tries to ensure that DT Wheel business, and branching off was a natural carries innovative designs that can’t be progression,” says Bruce Jensen, perfor- found at other tire and wheel shops, and mance products manager for both DT he’s relentless in his quest for new prod- Tire and DT Wheel. “Tires and wheels go ucts. He visits SEMA each year and pores together like a nice suit and a nice pair over print and online magazines, looking of shoes.” not just at the wheels, but also at custom suspensions, seeing what car owners The business, which is strictly wholesale, are doing and figuring out what wheels services some 1,200 to 1,500 custom- will work with them. Generally there’s a Bruce Jensen is performance ers, primarily in Western Canada. These six-month gap between what’s hot in the products manager for DT Wheel. include car dealerships, retail tire shops, U.S. and its arrival date in Canada, and specialty stores, and customizing shops. Jensen wants to be sure that he’s ready here from Vancouver, but we can get it to when each new fad crosses the border. our customers in two hours. Sourcing special needs “We carry BMF, Rev, Evulve, Tenzo, Demoda, Unique market challenges “We also have a new purchaser on board Moz, Speedy RPM, and Falken, and we also He’s also keenly aware of his market and and now we can place our orders more have access to MHT and American Racing its unique challenges. The company’s frequently. Every week now we have our as well,” Jensen says. “But if there’s some- proximity to Alberta’s oil sands means orders from California, whereas before thing special that the customer wants, we’ll that many products have to be available we were doing it every second or third do our best to try to source it.” immediately, perhaps more so than in week, and it was too much of a wait for any other part of Canada. “Maybe 30 the customer. In our neck of the woods The five employees on the order desk to 40 percent of our wheels are impulse we get more trucks than cars. We do handle calls for both companies, and buys, and we’re trying to target that,” alloy wheels in spring and steel wheels Jensen says that that is part of the firm’s he says. “A lot of our customers are only for winter, and we try to stock everything success. “All of our order desk is confi- in town for a couple of days from Fort that’s popular. dent with both, so if you want informa- McMurray, and they’ve got huge pay- tion on a wheel, you don’t have to wait for cheques and a new truck and they want “One-stop shopping is our big thing. that person to come in,” Jensen says. “If to customize it. We have some national Wheels and tires go together. We’ve been there’s something that’s really specialty, competitors that will sell in our territory, doing tires really well for the last few though, that comes to me. I’m SEMA cer- but we have the advantage of being local. years, and we’re trying to get up there tified for wheel and tire fitment.” It could take two days for them to get it with wheels as well.” tn

34 Tire News tn April 2008 Éric Descarries [email protected] Spring Is Here Clean Scintillating Wheels

Spring is here. Your customers will soon begin switching from their winter wheels and tires to their summer sets. Some of them will even buy brand new custom wheels. Obviously, you know a lot about their tires and can give them caretaking tips. But what about the wheels? Yes, you can be of professional help too, mostly if you have all the cleaning products to keep those wheels scintillating.

ll wheels are not the same. Tools A Consequently, they will require dif- It is becoming difficult to clean modern ferent products. When ordering cleaning wheels because of their very elaborate products from your distributor, be sure you designs. Consequently, there are a num- understand which product goes ber of different brushes and with each type of wheel. For cleaning tools that you can example, you should know that offer to your customers. There you must use acid-free clean- are even polishing balls avail- ing products for billet wheels. able that can be used with Also, remind your customers not a power tool to help obtain to use the products on wheels that special “show shine.” that are still warm because heat Polishing cloths are also easy accelerates chemical reactions to use tools that might be at- that leave stains when the wheel tractive to customers. Here is dries out. These stains can be another useful tip. You know difficult to eliminate. those gloves worn by your Beautiful wheels need technicians? Well, there are good care products. Cleaning products and waxes similar gloves that can be sold Try to stock a wide array of cleaning prod- to your customers if they want to pol- ucts that represent many needs. Also, offer ish their wheels without getting their the appropriate waxes for chrome or scin- hands dirty! tillating wheels. Chrome wheels are very vulnerable to road damages. This is where Accessories waxes can protect the finish. There aren’t that many accessories you can offer your customers that will fit their Some customers might want to retouch wheels. Nonetheless, new chrome lug the finish of their wheels. This is where nuts might be the easiest ones. Indeed, you should have established contacts with with time, nuts get damaged by sockets professional wheel refinishers. In the case and other tools. Why not offer new lug of do-it-yourself customers, you can always nuts to your customers? You could also promote specific refinishing products that offer them custom made tire carrying can remove scratches or give back a little bags when they bring their winter wheels

tn photo: Éric Descarries photo: shine to slightly damaged wheels. and tires back home! Éric Descarries [email protected]

Did You Know? Tires for Old Cars Are Still Available

In case you hadn’t noticed, owning and collecting vintage automobiles, and even trucks, is now a very important business in America. Many experts explain the latest popularity boost for this hobby by the need for baby-boomers to own the cars and trucks they always dreamed of when they were young.

onsequently, there are quite a lot C of old cars back on the road again. In the past, most car collectors wouldn’t drive their cars very often on the roads. But nowadays, “old” cars are vehicles from the fifties, sixties, and even the seventies. These cars were built to be driven at fast speeds on highways. Also, modern collec- tors believe their vehicles were meant to be driven and not necessarily stored— therefore, they want newer and safer tires. So the demand is growing everyday and old car tires have become an interesting business.

Two major suppliers For a long time, the old car tire business

was aimed at only a handful of collectors. Éric Descarries Photo: But with the hobby gaining so much popu- Tires for antique cars are not that hard to find! larity, not only has the demand increased, but customers have begun asking for the were bought from the original makers or that vintage tires are a good business and best quality possible. These days, the reproduced by smaller companies who that many car collectors who like to drive better part of the market is dominated also make the tires for Coker, Universal, their prized possession on public roads do by two American suppliers, Coker Tires and other suppliers. not hesitate to buy radial versions of the in California and Universal Vintage Tire reproductions. in Pennsylvania. When reached by phone, Canadian distributors both companies confirmed that the busi- When browsing on the Internet, we dis- We also learned that truck and military ness was booming. covered that Universal has at least one tires are available but, in some cases, a distributor in Canada, Sylmar Auto Ville customer might have to wait a few weeks Whether it is Coker or Universal, both in Hawkesbury, Ontario, while Coker had before his special order reaches the dis- suppliers can usually provide just about five: George Moir Antique Auto in Stony tributor. Among the brands offered, other any brand of tires from the past. The Plain, Alberta; Queensway Tire in Simcoe, than the BFGoodrich and Firestone, are most popular brands are BFGoodrich and Ontario; Vintage Tire Supply in Surrey, brands such as Universal, Coker, Lester, Firestone, but Coker’s own brand, the BC; J.G. Marchand & Sons in Val Morin, American Classic, U.S. Royal, Goodyear, Coker Classic, is also quite in demand. We Quebec; and Pneus Robert Bernard in and even rare European sizes made by were told by people at Universal Vintage Granby, Quebec. We spoke to Patrick Vredestein, Dunlop, Avon, or even Pirelli. Tire that most of the older tires are repro- Duriez, who deals with the product at It is a totally different world worth explor- ductions of the original products. Molds Pneus Robert Bernard, and he agreed ing! tn

36 Tire News tn April 2008 industry NEWS

Feds Support Increase of Availability of Green E85 to Canadians—GM GM Canada welcomed the federal budget measures announced to help increase the avail- ability of green E85 ethanol bio-fuel at fuel sta- tions across Canada. GM now offers 12 different E85 Ethanol flexible fuel model choices (vehicles that can seamlessly run on fuel containing up to 85% ethanol or regular gasoline). CO2 emis- sions from vehicles using E85 Ethanol Bio-fuels are 47-55% lower than using regular gasoline. “This is good news for consumers interested in new, affordable green fueling alternatives that can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” said David Paterson, vice president corporate and environmental activities for GM Canada. “We applaud these steps to help expand the availability of E85 in Canada because it offers another very practical and affordable way for Canadian drivers to literally cut their net vehicle

CO2 emissions in half.” “Canada’s independent fuel retailers have been very interested in exploring opportunities to provide their customers with new E85 fuel op- tions. These measures will assist them to move in the direction of other leading ethanol jurisdic- tions that have achieved much wider access to renewable E85 Ethanol Bio-Fuel at competitive prices”, said Jane Savage, president/CEO of the Canadian Independent Petroleum Marketers Association. Ethanol is a renewable fuel that provides ex- cellent vehicle performance with significantly lower lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions than gasoline. E85 biofuel is now widely available in Brazil, Sweden and increasingly across the US. For more info, contact GM Canada, Patty Faith 905-644-2728, or the Canadian Independent Petroleum Marketers Association, Jane Savage 416-691-9292. gm.ca/gm/english/corporate/ green-by-design/vehicles/ethanol

New Carrus-NAPA Partnership A new partnership between Carrus Technol- ogies and NAPA Canada now allows install- ers using Carrus software to access the bilin- gual Napa PROLink Web site to order spare parts. Once on the Internet, they can access Hercules Performance NAPA electronic catalog, get their predeter- mined cost and send their parts order online. Ultra Touring TR / HR / VR www.carrustechnologies.com Pour de l’information sur les pneus Hercules, visitez le www.herculestire.ca Éric Descarries [email protected]

Celebrating Its 10th Anniversary The Continental Challenge on Ice Is a Success

This was the tenth year in a row that the city of Sherbrooke, QC held its annual Challenge on Ice. And it was once again a big success, thanks to the efforts of its main sponsor, Continental.

acing on ice requires special vehicles R and most cars competing in the Open class were all-wheel driven. There were also quite a few European teams that came to Sherbrooke for the event. The special race cars required special tires, which were provid- ed by Continental, namely the IceContact3, a studded ice racing tire that is designed and built solely for this type of competition.

The Challenge on Ice also attracted more than 150 local Continental dealers and quite a crowd. Included in the program were motor- bike and ATV races. President Dany Sevigny promises even more action for next year! tn

The weekend overall winners were the Stievenart brothers driving a modified Fiat Punto. : É ric D escarries p h otos :

Québec driver Yves Legris drove his own specially modified mid-engined Citroën. A sharp ice sculpture greeted race fans.

38 Tire News tn April 2008 Local dealer Relais Pneu et Mécanique handled the tire changing chores.

Continental people from Quebec greeted many guests and dealers: Michel Massé, Regional manager, Manon Guay, Credit manager, and Phil O’Hara, Customer and Product Service. : É ric D escarries p h otos :

Continental provided these special studded racing tires. There were also ATV races. Éric Descarries [email protected] Product Evolution Michelin Introduces a New Generation of the X-Ice

Winter is one unpredictable season—it can be cold and dry, or warm and snowy, or even wet! One can never tell when it will begin or when it will end...and this goes for the whole country! This is why French tire manufacturer Michelin chose mid-February to introduce a new generation of its popular X-Ice winter tire, the X-Ice Xi2.

efore actually testing the tire on the film of water in icy surface, absorb it, and characteristics of the new X-Ice Xi2 with B icy circuit of Mecaglisse, a perfor- stock the water in a micro-pump way before lower rolling resistance. But what customers mance track in Mont-Tremblant, Quebec releasing it. The V-shaped directional tread are asking for in a winter tire, other than its that is covered with ice and snow in win- pattern also helps water evacuation and snow and ice capabilities, is a longer wear ter, Normand Latrémouille, winter cat- that improves hydroplaning resistance. To life. This is where Michelin put in a lot of egory manager for Michelin North America help traction in the snow, there are small energy so that, according to Latrémouille, (Canada), explained how the company engi- paddles within the middle groove for trac- the Michelin X-Ice Xi2 will last up to 75% neers developed an advanced technology of tion and braking in deep snow. The same longer than its leading competitor. tread blocks that works with FleX-Ice, a rub- goes with the lug shoulders that have edges ber silica-based compound that helps give that bite in deep snow. Finally, small knobs The Michelin X-Ice Xi2 will be available better braking power. On a dry surface, the within the block edges get in contact and for fall 2008 in 42 sizes ranging from 13- tread block has a structure that allows for contribute to lateral rigidity. to 18-inch rim diameters with a T-rated little distortion at the point of contact with speed index. These dimensions will cover the road. What the engineers were looking Durability more than 90% of the Canadian winter for was a better way to break the infamous Latrémouille also pointed out the Green X market for cars and minivans. tn

Michelin had provided journalists and customers with Volvo S40s equipped not only with the new X-Ice Xi2, but also with competitive products.

Tony Mougios, director of Normand Latrémouille, winter Marketing, greeted many tire manager for Michelin, international journalists at explained the X-Ice Xi2 Mont-Tremblant to introduce technology to journalists Michelin used the Mecaglisse facilities This is the new Michelin X-Ice Xi2 winter tire, the new X-Ice Xi2. and guests. to introduce its new tire. which will be on sale next fall. : É ric D escarries p h otos :

40 Tire News tn April 2008

Tire Dealers Association of Canada "By the Sea": 2008 National Convention Registration Form Halifax, Nova Scotia July 16-20, 2008 FAX COMPLETED REGISTRATION TO: (902)425-0550 or register on-line at www.atda.ca General Information

By registering for "By the Sea 2008", I hereby understand, acknowledge and agree to the following: All registrations include: Meetings Opening Breakfast Keynote Speaker Seminars Luncheons / Lunch Stations Welcome Reception Closing Ceremonies Trade Show Leaders Breakfast Awards Dinner Farewell Breakfast Full payment is due upon registration Accommodations, travel arrangements, seminars and booths are handled through additional forms Early bird registration discount available until April 30, 2008 Full refunds are available if cancellation is received by May 31, 2008 Cancellations received after May 31, 2008 will not be eligible for a refund An alternative participant may replace the original registrant Please notify in registration information of any food requirements or sensitivities Delegate Information

Company:

Delegate Name: Last Name First Name Middle Special Meal? Address: Street City Province Postal Phone: Fax:

Email: Website:

Other Delegates at Same Company and Same Address

Delegate Name: Last Name First Name Middle Special Meal? Delegate Name: Last Name First Name Middle Special Meal? Delegate Name: Last Name First Name Middle Special Meal? Delegate Name: Last Name First Name Middle Special Meal?

Registration Fees

Total Number of Delegates X $250.00 each (for registrations received by April 30, 2008) =

Total Number of Delegates X $300.00 each (for registrations received on or after May 1, 2008) =

Additional Closing Ceremonies Gala Tickets for Saturday Night X $75.00 each =

Sub - Total

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Payment Method *Make cheques payable to Maritime Travel Please indicate method of payment: VISA MASTERCARD CHEQUE* MONEY ORDER

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42 Tire News tn April 2008 Éric Descarries [email protected]

Winter Tires Bridgestone Makes a Point

Bridgestone makes some of the best winter tires on the market—its newest Blizzak WS60 is a good example of its advanced technology. However, February might have been a little late in the season to promote such a tire...but that wasn’t the point to be made at a recent Bridgestone event.

he manufacturer had an important T message to get across. According to Bridgestone, it’s time that some data and general knowledge about winter tires be updated, since the latest technologies make newer winter tires more perform- ing than ever, a notion that Transport Canada, represented at the event by Nigel Mortimer, wants to promote.

The snowflake must not be overused One factor that has to be updated is the snowflake logo that is applied on many all terrain tires. This type of tire can also be classified “Mud and Snow”, but ice Nigel Mortimer, head of recalls for Transport Canada, Safety and Security, thinks that some winter tire also has to be taken into consideration. identifications should be updated. To prove this point, Bridgestone provided participants with two Toyota Camrys, one Soon to be a law in some provinces equipped with its Turanza all season tires, All these efforts tend toward the proposed the other with the latest Blizzak WS60 laws that might be voted in the country, winter tires. In addition, the manufacturer namely in Quebec. Surveys show that had two Toyota 4Runners available, one close to 85% of Quebec cars are equipped with an American brand A/T tire showing with winter tires, but let’s not forget that the snowflake logo (indicating it would be elsewhere in Canada, winter tires (or a winter tire), the other with Bridgestone “tires for the cold”, as they are sometimes Blizzak DMZ3 winter tires. called) can become very helpful on cold pavement. Could it be that other prov- According to Nigel, the tire industry has inces will be thinking about similar laws in greatly evolved over the last ten years. The the future? tn specifications that lead to identifying a tire that would be able to help stopping on ice was 110% compared to a summer or all-season tire. Today, the same standard would climb up to 130 to 140% thanks to new technologies, mostly the one that features porosity in the tread compound that can “suck up” water usually found over the ice.

: É ric D escarries p h otos : Bridgestone used Toyota Camrys for its comparative tests.

industry NEWS

Bridgestone Is the Official tire of NHL, NHLPA, and Hockey Hall of Fame The National Hockey League (NHL) and the National Hockey League Play- AIA Outlook Study Now Available ers’ Association (NHLPA) announced a new global multi-year partnership with The 2007 AIA Outlook Study shows steady growth and opportunity define Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire, LLC (BFNT) and Bridgestone Fire- the automotive aftermarket. stone Canada Inc. (BFCA), for the Bridgestone brand to serve as the “Official Now available, it shows that in the period spanning 2001 to 2006, the Tire of the NHL, NHLPA, and the Hockey Hall of Fame (HHOF)” average annual growth rate was 3,1%, with the average annual cost of repair Part of the agreement says the NHL will grant BFNT and BFCA “rights to the forecasted to jump from $1,044 in 2006 to $1,141 in 2010. Prime aftermar- League’s premier trademarks and provide numerous exclusive promotional ket vehicles that are 6-12 years are expected to reach a decade high of 43% opportunities throughout the NHL season and beyond, including: the Stanley of the fleet. Cup Playoffs, NHL Draft, NHL Award Show, and the 2009 NHL All-Star game.” “The study shows some very encouraging increases in market potential The Bridgestone brand will also be designated as one of four associate spon- for repairs and maintenance in the coming years. It indicates many areas of sors of the international NHL Premiere series. opportunity within our industry and offers some solid insight into the future of According to a Simmons Market Research study, NHL fans are younger, our target markets,” stated Marc Brazeau, AIA president. more educated, more affluent, and access content through digital means There’s a big opportunity to capture some or all of the underperformed more than any other sport. maintenance that exists. DesRosiers Consultants determined that, in 2006, 47.8 million scheduled maintenance jobs were not completed on Canadian ve- hicles, across 7 categories of maintenance. This represents a staggering $2.1 billion in lost aftermarket potential. “AIA’s members and partners have used the Outlook studies to help set the Advertisers direction of their companies,” says Larry Raymond, chair of the Executive Board and Blue Streak-Hygrade Motor Products manager. “The 2007 Study offers hi- www.aiacanada.com AIA Canada 41 ghly relevant, useful information, critical to gauging the future of our industry.” DesRosiers Consultants completed the study and looks at the Canadian http://bridgestone-firestone.ca Bridgestone 5, 32, 33 automotive-related markets. Members can download the free PDF by logging www.cdatire.com Canada Supply & Tire 6 on to their account at www.aiacanada.com and clicking on “Publications.” Non-members can purchase the study for $900 from the e-Store at www.aia- www.carlisletire.ca Carlisle Tire 46 canada.com/product_list.cfm. The study is also available on CD. Safety is everything www.carrus.ca Carrus Technologies 35, 39, 43

www.chloridecanada.com Chloride Canada 9 Distributors required throughout Canada. Please contact Chloride Canada Limited – Tel 905-793-8311 – [email protected] Ignite your sales with really hot inventory and sound expertise from the wheel experts at DT Tire and DT Custom Wheel. We have the fi re to pack some heat into your custom wheel and tire sales with hundreds of styles in stock and SEMA certifi ed experts to serve you. We have what you need to succeed. Yokohama Named OfficialT ire at Sebring www.continentaltire.ca Continental Tire Call us today and ask for17 your free catalog, or check us out on the web at www.dtwheel.com

DT Custom Wheel 1-800-357-8473 Ask for Bruce Jensen or Nelson Lai. Int’l Raceway & Road Atlanta www.costar.ca COSTAR Email [email protected] or [email protected] The official tire for two renowned U.S. racetracks—Sebring International Raceway and Road Atlanta—is now Yokohama Tire Corp. These 3-year agree- www.dttire.ca DT Tire Distribution 25 ments are designed to reinforce Yokohama’s overall commitment to the Ameri- can Le Mans Series (ALMS), where Yokohama currently supports Mazda’s BK Duret & Landry 2 Motorsports P2 team and the Panoz Esperante of Team PTG in GT2. www.herculestire.ca Hercules Tires Yokohama signage will be placed in key areas of both tracks, including the 22, 23, 37 presents crossover bridges and other camera-view areas. Yokohama will also incorpo- www.iqpc.com/us/tiretech ITT 2008 47 rate dealer tie-ins in each local market prior to major events and entertain key

tirenews_ad.indd 1 3/18/08 2:08:50 PM VIP guests through hospitality programs. Exploring Future TPMS Technologies & TPMS www.kumhotire.ca Kumho Tires 19 Implementation for Smarter and Safer Tire Performance April 28 - 30, 2008 Marriott Dearborn Inn Hotel • Dearborn, Michigan

Featuring In-Depth Presentations, Case Studies, Perspectives & This makes Yokohama the official tire at the three largest annual ALMS Conversations Such As: • Looking at the European regulations and its impact on the US market • Analyzing the current and future development of TPMS in the view of OEMs • Understanding consumer perceptions of TPMS • Servicing TPMS in the field www.oktire.com O.K. Tire • Demonstrating possible solutions for direct TPMS without barriers: battery-less events because of their relationship with Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Mon- 11 TPMS technologies • Discussing the social impact of TPMS in terms of tire inflation status, safety improvements and oil import reduction • Understanding how commonality of guidelines/protocols for platforms will help the service industry terey, CA. The season kicked off with the 56th running of 12 Hours of Sebring • Learning from the pioneers on RFID technology implementation and ROI analysis Hear Leading Insights From & Meet Our Expert Speaker Faculty:

• General Motors • Michelin www.odessacanada.com Odessa 18 • Ford Motor Company • Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co • Mitsubishi Motors R&D of America • Beru AG on March 15. It also includes the 11th Petit Le Mans (10 Hours) on October • Chrysler LLC • Robert Bosch GmbH • AUDI AG • Continental Corporation • Tire Industry Association (TIA) • Schrader Electronics • Shanghai Baolong Automotive Corp • NIRA Dynamics AB 4 at Road Atlanta and ends up with the Monterey Sports Car Challenge (4 • Continental Engineering Services GmbH • Freescale Semiconductor www.betiresmart.ca RAC 13-16 1-800-882-8684 | www.iqpc.com/us/tiretech Hours) on October 18 at Mazda Raceway. In total, 26 hours of ALMS racing will be held at these three events. Shad’s R&R 44 Currently, Yokohama is also the official tire at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, which hosts NASCAR Sprint Cup in June and the Indy Racing League in August. www.unipneu.com TIREMAX 48

www.yokohama.ca Yokohama 7

April 2008 tn Tire News 45 Specialty Tire Advertorial Jil McIntosh [email protected]

Carlisle Tire: A Market Leader in OTR Tires Doubling Sales in Only Ten Years

From a simple start supplying tires to Mennonite wagon-makers, Carlisle Canada has grown to manufacturing and supplying OE and replacement OTR tires and wheels to customers from coast to coast.

ased in Waterloo, Ontario, Carlisle have the added value of our strategic loca- U.S. technology in our China facilities. B Canada has some 80 employees tions throughout Canada with our dealer Typically, we have one of our engineers across Canada, with locations in St- network.” from the U.S. at our plant in China at all Pie, Quebec; Winnipeg, Manitoba; and times, so we can control the quality. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Carlisle doesn’t sell directly to consumers; rather, its products go to OE manufactur- “Our prices are competitive to that of our Founded in 1975 ers and are sold as replacement through competitors, but customers know they’re “We were founded in 1975 as Conestoga tire dealer networks and directly to some getting top quality and we can deliver our Tire & Rim, and in September 1997 we retail chains. The company is ISO certi- products very quickly because of our manu- were acquired by Carlisle, based in South fied, which assures customers of quality facturing and stocking levels within Canada.” Carolina,” says Tim Dietz, supply chain standards, Dietz says. “It’s world recogni- manager for Canada on replacement and tion and it lets people know our standards Ten-year anniversary high-speed trailer. “We sell a full range of are in line for some of the larger manufac- Having reached its ten-year anniversary tires and wheels from four-inch right up to turers that require it.” under the Carlisle banner, the company 54-inch industrial tires.” has also doubled its sales, and offers its Strict quality control customers value-packed products backed The company’s product line includes 4- to Much of Carlisle’s stock is produced in the by employees who know every aspect of 15-inch for lawn and garden, 8- to 10-inch U.S., which allows the company to keep the tires and wheels that they sell. Dietz for golf carts, 8- to 12-inch radial and bias strict control on manufacturing quality estimates there is almost 800 years’ ex- ATV lines, 8- to 16-inch trailer tires, 12- to and also get its products to its customers perience among the employees, who are 16.5-inch skid steer lines, 8- to 16-inch in- in timely fashion. “We’re about the only able to answer almost any question about dustrial tires and 9- to 54-inch agricultur- manufacturer of these types of tires and Carlisle’s offerings. al tires, along with tubes and wheels to fit wheels that builds in the U.S.,” Dietz says. each size. All are found on the company’s “We can supply a fast turnaround because “We like to say that our quality is a leader Web site at www.carlisletire.ca. we build in the U.S.; we can produce a amongst all the lawn and garden prod- product in a couple of weeks, compared to ucts, and all of our markets, and that’s “We’re a market leader, because of our six weeks out of an offshore location. because of our U.S. technologies,” Dietz name recognition, the quality, the wide says. “We manufacture them all. We have product knowledge of our employees and “We do build some products in China, to very low return rates with our products. the great range of products available from compete with some of the other products That tells me that our quality is second one single source,” Dietz says. “To that, we on the market, but even then, we use our to none.” tn

46 Tire News tn April 2008 presents

Exploring Future TPMS Technologies & TPMS Implementation for Smarter and Safer Tire Performance April 28 - 30, 2008 Marriott Dearborn Inn Hotel • Dearborn, Michigan

Featuring In-Depth Presentations, Case Studies, Perspectives & Conversations Such As: • Looking at the European regulations and its impact on the US market • Analyzing the current and future development of TPMS in the view of OEMs • Understanding consumer perceptions of TPMS • Servicing TPMS in the field • Demonstrating possible solutions for direct TPMS without barriers: battery-less TPMS technologies • Discussing the social impact of TPMS in terms of tire inflation status, safety improvements and oil import reduction • Understanding how commonality of guidelines/protocols for platforms will help the service industry • Learning from the pioneers on RFID technology implementation and ROI analysis

Hear Leading Insights From & Meet Our Expert Speaker Faculty:

• General Motors • Michelin • Ford Motor Company • Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co • Mitsubishi Motors R&D of America • Beru AG • Chrysler LLC • Robert Bosch GmbH • AUDI AG • Continental Corporation • Tire Industry Association (TIA) • Schrader Electronics • Shanghai Baolong Automotive Corp • NIRA Dynamics AB • Continental Engineering Services GmbH • Freescale Semiconductor

1-800-882-8684 | www.iqpc.com/us/tiretech Share in our drive to succeed GIVE YOUR BUSINESS A BOOST, JOIN THE TIREMAX TEAM

ƒ An outstanding line of products and services Contact us now: ƒ Quick access to our 400,000 sq.ft distribution centre Pierre Germain, Manager, Dealer Operations ƒ Improved profitability Telephone: 450.449.0362 (Montreal area) Toll Free: 1 888 449.3534 ƒ Leading marketing and promotional campaigns [email protected] ƒ Protected territories tiremax.ca

TIREMAX, modeled after the industry-leading UNIPNEU network 133 locations in Québec, New Brunswick and Ontario

DATE CONCEPT. INFOGR. DIR. PROD. # dossier : 1502_00_UNPN_Magazines_Specialises Nom du fichier : Unpn_0002_02a_V1.ai 28/01/2008 MT Format : 8,125 x 10,875 po ÉPREUVE RELECT. C. PROJET CLIENT Impression : cmyk 1a