Gone are the days when tyres were simply circular structures of rubber, which formed an integral part of the function of a car. Now, tyres enhance the engineering and performance of the car itself, improve safety and make driving easy and pleasurable.

Tyre giant Goodyear’s latest innovation in tyre technology, a concept tyre dubbed the Triple Tube, promises to set a precedent in the motor industry following in the footsteps of and actively enhancing existing intelligent vehicular technology which uses its surroundings to make for a safer and more enjoyable drive.

The tyres consciously adapt to road conditions, inflating and deflating according to the surface and the condition of the road they are placed on.

So how do they work?

The name ‘Triple Tube’ is a giveaway as to the anatomy of the tyre itself.  It has three so-called ‘positions’ or modes and is comprised of three chambers and a main chamber. These three chambers are positioned next to each other under the tread of the tyre – 2 on each side and one in the middle. An internal pump allows the air to be moved from the main chamber to one or more of the three chambers, thus creating a different shape and firmness to the tyre with each position. Each of these three chambers represents a different position for an individual road type or condition.

The Eco/Safety Position enables better braking as it gives each tyre a wider surface area with which to adhere to the road, flooding every chamber with air. The Sporty Position allows the tyre to adapt a conical shape which makes for better magnetism to the road surface in hot or dry conditions, and the self-explanatory Wet Safety Position helps to prevent aquaplaning and skidding in dangerous wet conditions.

This clever technology also increases tyre longevity, as if one chamber suffers a puncture, the others are able to provide more air to keep it going for longer. The safety implications of this significant step forward are huge along with the improved performance benefits for petrol-heads – the substantial number of accidents caused by skidding tyres in wet conditions could be dramatically reduced, whilst high-end super cars could be set to experience a fantastic new frontier in driving technology.

Although these tyres at present are just prototype concepts, Goodyear has indicated that it will continue to fund experimentation into this game-changing new technology – along with others which will revolutionise the way we drive forever and increase the role which tyres have to play in the overall driving experience and function. If you’re interested in Goodyear Triple Tube tyres, then be sure to get the best price in your area, by visiting www.tyrequote.com

With the advent of the modern motor industry, leading car manufacturers including the popular Mercedes-Benz have rolled out brand-specific parts and other accessories to be used exclusively on their cars. This includes tyres, and recently, there have been concerns raised about this supposed ‘customization’ of tyres and other factors revolving around it. Whether or not these original markings, that are usually inscribed on brand specific tyres, have any considerable influence on their suitability for use, is no longer a subject of speculation. In case you’re wondering whether using a non “M.O” marked tyre in your Mercedes is going to affect the performance or safety of the vehicle, then this short but detailed look into this subject might just clear the air.

What does MO stand for?

‘M.O’ which stands for Mercedes Original, is a trademark logo inscribed on tyres that this giant car manufacturer assembles to be used specifically with it’s branded vehicles. Not long ago, Bridgestone ( A UK-based tyre and independent tyre and auto care company) introduced a luxury line of M.O – Mercedes Only tyres to be used by luxury car brands including the Volkswagen Passat, BMW and Audi A4. These tyres have been solely made to optimise the luxurious comfort and performance of these cars while still maintaining high standards of safety and durability. So this raises the questions; Does it pay to invest in MO marked tyres for my vehicle of is it just some sort of branding hype? Is it permissible by law to replace MO tyres with non-MO tyres? What are some of the added advantages of riding on MO tyres?

The benefits of MO tyres

Truly speaking, there are some proven profits of using an MO marked tyre as compared to conventional tyres this includes;

• Optimised car stability and balance: The MO marked tyres are designed exclusively for the use with the vehicle’s suspension system and enhanced tread patterns to offer more control and better handling of the car.
• Reduced driving noise levels: The tyres are manufactured to fit specifically the car’s body’s and weight dimensions. This results in the vehicle’s mass been better proportionally distributed and a noise-free ride.
• Increased steering responsiveness: The MO marked tyres integrate a unique and intelligent design that includes a longitudinal rib that runs along the tyres’ groove to allow precise directional steering when driving.

Despite the numerous profits attached to using M.O marked tyres, at times, it may not be possible to replace your worn out tyres with these original branded tyres due to availability and costs constraints. In such an event, you may replace the tyres with non-MO branded versions but it’s worth getting a quote from tyrequote.com to find get the best deal on M.O tyres in your local area. Nevertheless, it’s important to point out that the vehicle insurance may be invalidated if, in case of an accident, the use of these non-manufacturer-approved tyres, is cited as a contributory factor.

There are, nowadays, increasing numbers of drivers looking for and buying tyres on the Internet, whereas numbers were negligible until fairly recently.  The last five years has seen an unprecedented explosion in online shopping of all types, but most especially in the field of tyre buying.  The UK appears to be leading the charge in this area, with a doubling in numbers of people preferring to buy tyres online only, in the space of one twelve month period; and other European countries are not far behind.  Recent surveys have shown that some 45% (approximately) of motorists are making tyre purchases online and this figure is expected to continue rising, particularly amongst younger motorists, who are at the forefront of most advances with the use of technology.  It is not just men either, female drivers are just as likely to research, and buy their tyres online.

Why buy tyres online?
It is said that the main factors driving this increase are price, choice and convenience.  Online companies are not restricted to nine to five working hours.  The convenience of being able to compare tyres and prices quickly and easily from the comfort of one’s own home, at any time day or night and 365 days a year, is a big attraction.  Drivers are feeling increasingly satisfied with the online buying experience because of the discounts and vast choice of tyre brands available and this is reflected in the numbers willing to repeat the experience of buying tyres online.  Added to this are things such as improvements in customer service and technical assistance, which can only give an encouraging boost to Internet tyre retailers.

Comparing prices is a big attraction
Many of the biggest names in tyre retailing have also seen the advantages to be had through selling online by reaching more customers and so increasing sales.  It is possible to compare different tyre brands and prices in order to get the best deal, in the same way that you can use comparison websites for such things such as insurance and utilities.  The internet has certainly provided a more level playing field which enables smaller companies to compete with the big boys more fairly and the bigger names will now offer tyres more cheaply or will sometimes price-match.
When you look at the obvious advantages of researching and buying tyres online it is hard to see why anyone should go to the trouble of actually going to a tyre shop at all, considering the inconvenience and the limitations in choice. Simply visit tyrequote.com, and all your options will be easily visible, allowing you to make the best choice for your car.

In an ever competitive market its vital that tyre manufacturers ensure that they are doing their very best to meet market trends and attract new customers. Recent years have seen a growth in SUV and 4 X 4 vehicles on the road which means many brands are having to adapt to supply and demand.

Hankook are staying right on trend having developed a new high performance tyre specifically for SUV’s which is due for release this Spring (2013).

Titled the Dynapro HP2, it is designed specifically to reduce road noise and meets requirements for rolling resistance. SUV’s are designed for comfort and the HP2 adds to this by reducing road noise by up to four percent compared with its predecessor thanks to a new tread design by allowing kerfs to be extended into the sidewall. All this means that overall comfort is enhanced  leaving drivers to concentrate on the road.

Driving safety has been addressed particularly well with the development of the HP2, both the directional control and wet grip performance have been improved thanks to silica grip technology. Hankook have been clever to ensure that the HP2 is both suitable for luxury SUV’s along with smaller popular compact models.

]]> http://www.tyrequote.com/blog/2013/03/24/hankooks-high-performance/feed/ 0 http://www.tyrequote.com/blog/2012/12/03/focus-apollo-tyres-aims-top-10-tyre-manufacturer/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=focus-apollo-tyres-aims-top-10-tyre-manufacturer http://www.tyrequote.com/blog/2012/12/03/focus-apollo-tyres-aims-top-10-tyre-manufacturer/#comments Mon, 03 Dec 2012 02:00:02 +0000 media@tyrequote.com http://www.tyrequote.com/blog/?p=519

Ever heard of Apollo tyres? Well get set to know who they are, because this tyre manufacturer is aiming to become a top 10 global tyre manufacturer by 2016.

Appollo tyres have set their sights high

The relatively unknown tyre manufacturer is currently the worlds 15th largest tyre manufacturer with annual consolidated revenues reaching just above $2.5billion in 2011. The Indian based company was founded in 1976, and has since enjoyed prominent success in its native country as well as Europe and Africa adding to revenue, however they have now set themselves the tall order of becoming entering the top 10 in the worlds list of tyre manufacturers.

Apollo tyres will invest over one billion USD in global expansion over the next five years in order to expand their global footprint. The first stage of development will be shifting their research and development headquarters from India to Holland as well as setting up a marketing office in the UK.

At present the top manufacturers are are Bridgestone, Michelin and Goodyear, followed up by Continental and Pirelli at fourth and fifth positions. It seems like App0llo have some stiff competition if they are to fulfill their target, however they seem to believe that it is entirely possible.

Apollo Tyres Vice-Chairman and Managing Director Neeraj Kanwar said,”With the strategy that we have put in place in terms of capacity expansion, scaling up R&D and marketing, we are confident that we will achieve the target.”

So lately we have been advising motorists the importance of checking tyre pressure especially during the winter months. There are many easy ways to check your tyre pressure, and here we talk you through the easiest, quickest and safest ways in which to do so.

Make sure you are not running low this winter.

Most people visit their local petrol station when checking tyre pressure, but a foot pump version can be purchased for a few pounds, and digital versions start from only £5 making them great long time investments, and saving you the regular journey to the petrol station.

Below is our step by step guide on how to check you tyre pressure, all it needs is a few moments out of your day to make sure you are safe.

1. Find your correct pressure levels

Every car has their own tyre pressure levels which are in accordance with manufacturer guidelines. Never attempt to guess your tyre pressure as each vehicle is different and require different levels of pressure. Recommended levels can be found on the inner section of a car door or in the manufacturers handbook. Our App will also tell you your correct tyre pressure. 

2. Locate valve

Every tyre has an insert where you can insert the gauge to check current pressure. Remove the cap and keep it safe whilst you check the pressure levels. Attach the pump to the valve and follow valve instructions on how to measure the pressure.

3. Check pressure

Take the reading from the gauge and determine if this is within correct levels. If it is not, match the recommended levels to the tyre pressure.

4. Repeat the process

Repeat this process on all three tyres. Make sure you check tyre pressure regularly and before any long journey.

Italian tyre giant Pirelli have today revealed their plans to manufacture tyres that come fitted with electronic sensors designed specifically for heavy goods vehicles and buses. It is an announcement which could have the potential to change the future evolution of tyres.

The new sensors will allow drivers to monitor tyres real-time condition as well as the geographical position of their vehicles. The intelligent system will allow users to be warned when tyre pressure is incorrect or too low, paving the way for a new way of driving. By monitoring tyre pressure in real-time it will not only increase safety but improve general fuel consumption, increase a tyre lifespan and increase vehicle productivity.

Pirelli revealed they have been carrying out testing of the tyres since April. Working in a very simple way, an electronic sensor is mounted on the inside of the tyre to collect data, such as pressure and temperature, and relay it to back to the driver of the vehicle in real-time via a control unit that’s fitted in the vehicle.

Pirelli have not yet reveled if the tyres will be introduced to the general car tyre market.

]]> http://www.tyrequote.com/blog/2012/11/14/pirelli-reveal-tyres-electronic-sensors/feed/ 0 http://www.tyrequote.com/blog/2012/11/09/ntda-83rd-annual-dinner-update-time-bang-drum/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=ntda-83rd-annual-dinner-update-time-bang-drum http://www.tyrequote.com/blog/2012/11/09/ntda-83rd-annual-dinner-update-time-bang-drum/#comments Fri, 09 Nov 2012 13:30:53 +0000 media@tyrequote.com http://www.tyrequote.com/blog/?p=422

During the 83rd annual NTDA dinner, chairman Stephen Callow spoke out against part worn tyres, the impact EU tyre labeling will have on the industry and thoughts on the MOT proposal being scrapped.

Callow focused on three main areas during his speech at the Hilton Hotel, Deansgate with his primary focus being on part worn tyre sales and the fact it was “frightening and unacceptable”. Despite part worn tyre legislation being clear and concise  the key problem is that many retailers are simply ignoring regulations when it comes to selling part worn tyres which leaves the consumer in the dark. More and more surveys are taking part across the UK, with Trading Standards leading the pack, these surveys are uncovering alarming results Callow reported, with over 90% of part worns that were surveyed, being illegal.  Callow said that “we must bang the drum”, and encourage the media to help share the story of part worn tyres in the industry in order to warn motorists of the potential dangers. He went on to say, “The NTDA logo is our badge and it represents that, we as members go to great lengths to maintain standards and to be accountable for our actions, but all too often backstreet lock-up part worn tyre dealers are not [up to this standard].”

He continued that part worn tyre sales is the key issue that needs to be tackled not only by the NTDA but also tyre related organisations within the industry to ensure that the problem does not elevate further.

Callow went on to focus on the issue of EU tyre labeling, noting that despite it being considered as an inconvenience by some, it may in fact have a “silver lining”, noting that; “I am sure that this legislation will give us the opportunity of point of sale dialogue. I believe that, with the right information, the motorist will make the correct choice when purchasing their tyres resulting in a win-win scenario for us and the customer.”

Callow closed of saying that he was glad that the “ridiculous” MOT frequency change proposal that NTDA joined other industry bodies in lobbying against at last year’s dinner, has been scrapped:

“Even the most responsible motorists rely on the MOT for the safety standards of their vehicles, not fully appreciating that the MOT is “only at time of test” and does not guarantee the vehicles road worthiness for 12 months. We are engaged in a major review of the overall test and will ensure that the concerns of our members are put to the proper authorities.”

You can visit the NTDA website for more news here. 

There are some great winter tyres on the market this year, and if you live in rural areas they seem like a worthwhile investment, but with some prices a little steep for some people, are there any viable alternatives to winter tyres?

Winter tyres can improve safety on the road in both cold and snowy conditions, however for a leading brand winter tyre many prices start from around £100, plus the cost of fitting. (TyreQuote.com however can point you in the direction of deals in your local area if you email our team at customerservices@tyrequote.com).

Are there any viable alternatives to winter tyres?

Auto Express recently took to the icy snowy conditions in Sweden to test three cheaper alternatives to winter tyres: snow chains, a spray which claims to increase grip in snow and easy to use socks which claim to give better grip. You can view the results of the tests here. Which do you think fared better?

How prepared are you this winter if things go wrong? Many of us protect our houses with insurance, have boiler breakdown cover and ensure that we wrap up warm against the cold chills that winter can bring. But what happens if you forget to check your tyre pressure this winter, and then you end up with a flat tyre at the roadside? Are you carrying a spare?

Carrying a spare tyre this winter?

So many of us may carry a spare tyre around the waist during the winter months, but when it comes to motoring, its fair to say the majority of us are sincerely lacking in that department. When was the last time you check to even look if your car was carrying a spare, or where abouts it’s actually located?

You may assume that if you are driving a relatively new vehicle that your car is already equipped with a road worthy spare tyre, however this may not be the case. Manufacturers are cutting down on expenditures wherever possible, therefore many new cars come without a spare tyre, leaving you to make sure you are prepared (and foot the bill).

Once you’ve checked if your vehicle has a spare tyre, why not check its condition. Imagine the scenario: stuck in icy weather on the roadside with a flat tyre, and an even more flat spare tyre – it’s not the most ideal way to spend your evening. By investing in even a budget spare tyre you can ensure that you will be on your way again soon.

Oh and when you do get that flat tyre and have a roadworthy spare tyre to compensate…there is no need to thank us!