August - Autosphere.ca

Volume 5 / Number 4 / August 2008 / $4.95
Knowledge
Megawheelz
PM 40014105
Is Everything
Param Johl
BRIDGESTONE PUTS TWO
NEW POTENZA TIRES
INTO THE FAST LANE!
This spring marked the debut of two additions to the
already-impressive lineup of racing-inspired Potenza
tires: the all-season Potenza™ G019 Grid™ and the ultrahigh performance Potenza™ RE760 Sport™. As with
every Potenza, Bridgestone engineers have loaded both
tires with the latest technologies including UNI-T®, the
exclusive Bridgestone technology that helps provide wet
and dry traction.
The RE760 Sport has been dubbed a Front Runner
because this ultra-high performance summer tire is out
to compete. Technologies here focus on maximizing wet
grip, increasing road contact, as well as enhancing
handling, response and control to give drivers all
the command they want behind the wheel. And the
attractive price couldn’t have come at a more welcome
time! There are 33 sizes available, from 16˝ up to 20˝.
The G019 Grid features a unique, modern tread
design that looks action-packed and drives the same
way. It’s the ideal tire for sports and passenger cars
as well as compact tuner cars. Drivers are in for
an unexpected surprise at how Veri-Pitch™ helps
minimize road noise and helps make the ride quiet
and comfortable. The 27 available sizes range from
15˝ to 18˝.
SM
BRIDGESTONE FIRESTONE CANADA INC.
5770 HURONTARIO ST., STE. 400
MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO L5R 3G5
BRIDGESTONETIRE.CA
• TIRESAFETY.COM
Contents
August 2008
14
Calendar
Megawheelz: Knowledge Is Everything
Education Is the
Key to Success
34
Inspiring Students in Their Career Choices
Five F1 Reps Share
Their Experience
F e at u r e s
October 2008
Be Car Care Aware - Auto Safety Month
October 29-31
2008 Rubber Recycling Symposium
Four Seasons Hotel, Vancouver, BC
F www.rubberassociation.ca
November 2008
November 4
12
Tech HR
13
Training
16
The Canadian Grand Prix
20
Aiming for the Top…
21
AIA Canada - Canada Night 2008
Ceaser’s Palace, Las Vegas, NV
F Thérèse Santostefano 1-800-808-2920, ext. 225
F [email protected]
F www.aiacanada.com
Break the Tech Shortage
Learn & Apply
Tires Played an Important Role
at the GP
Pirelli Builds the Highest Test
Track in the World
Frisby Tire Becomes an Alliance Tire
Professionals Member
Serving the Ottawa Area
for 88 Years
22
Drifting...
AAPEX
Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Las Vegas, NV, USA
F www.aapexshow.com
24
Training Initiatives: Thinking Outside the Box
November 4-7
28
Special Report – 2009 Winter Tires
29
What’s New for 2009?
November 4-6
SEMA
Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV
F www.semashow.com
It’s a tire war!
Non-traditional Methods Produce
Exceptional Results
32
From Goodyear and Michelin
38
Tire Makers Face a New Challenge
39
Rubber Recycling: Added Value for Yesterday’s Tires
40
April 2008
Breaking Down Barriers
42
Tiny Additions Can Make a Big Difference
43
Fact and Fancy
46
More Than a Simple Pipe
Canadians Are Increasingly
Into Winter Tires
New Tires for Performance Drivers
Europe Wants Quieter Tires
Vancouver Hosts Experts from
Around the World in October
Intelligent Tire Technology Conference
Several Possible Solutions for TPMS
Without Batteries
How RFID Tags Are Changing Tire
Technology Today
Consumer Myths and
Misconceptions about TPMS
The Exhaust System
Spectacular New Winter Tires
R e g u l ars
Editorial 4
Commercial Tires 2008 TDAC Conference
Skid-Steer Tires
An Event for Tire Dealers
As Tough as They Get
Industry News 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
18, 19
45
36, 37
Keep Your Wheels Looking Sharp
Wheel Refinishing
Pros & Cons
Tire Casings
Nanotechnologies
Extended Life, Extended Profits
New Products Wheels
Tire Recycling
26
Advertisers
45
Rubber Summit Is a Success
Looking at Key Issues from
Components to Consumers
August 2008
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Tire News
3
Editorial
Rémy L. Rousseau
[email protected]
Publisher
Rémy L. Rousseau
2008 TDAC Conference
An Event for Tire Dealers
Last July, I had the honour of attending “By the Sea,” the 2008 conference presented
by the Tire Dealer Association of Canada (TDAC) in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
I
t was a tremendous event, and much
interest. But I was in the business long
credit goes to Corey Miller and his
enough to know that running a tire store
crew for the great job they did putting
is more than just opening the doors each
it on. Many sponsors invested a lot
morning and meeting the payroll. If you
of money to support this once
don’t take the time to keep up
every four years event. Many
with what’s happening, you’re
manufacturers and service
going to be left behind.
providers invested in put-
Challenges ahead
ting up exhibit booths for
attendees. The organizers
Conferences like the TDAC
recruited some top quality
event put us in touch with
speakers, including Jacques
our industry. You have to
Demers, former Detroit and
Montreal hockey coach, and
Mario Andretti.
know what’s going on, so that
you can pass that information
along to your customers. You have to be
Copy Editor
Shirley Brown [email protected]
Production
Olivier Rhême [email protected]
Valérie St-Cyr [email protected]
Circulation Manager
Sylvain Gendron [email protected]
Administration
Wendy Allain [email protected]
Nancy Belleville [email protected]
Advertising
Nathalie Plouffe
416-925-5665
[email protected]
Luc Champagne
514-945-1299
[email protected]
Réjean A. Rousseau
450-649-9007
[email protected]
Subscription
1 year: $19.95 2 years: $34.95 3 years: $49.95
Published by
aware of changes in the industry; you
Good sessions
need to be aware of the importance, the
There were several important seminars,
challenges that the tire industry is fac-
including succession planning, risk man-
ing such as shortage of people, TPMS,
agement, TPMS, environmental issues,
succession planning, the change in the
marketing to women, the proliferation of
automobile models, the change in the
tires sizes, and mandatory winter tires
buying habits of consumers (purchasing
in Quebec.
smaller cars/hybrids), the high price of
fuel, and the changing fuels. And you’ve
There were representatives from all
got to be aware of changes that happen
links on the supply chain, including
outside our business but drastically af-
manufacturers, distributors, service
fect us.
providers, and equipment companies.
Publications Rousseau
2938, terrasse Abénaquis
Longueuil QC, J4M 2B3
T: 450-448-2220
F: 450-448-1041
[email protected]
Tire News Magazine is dedicated to serving the business
interests of the Canadian tire industry. It is published seven
times a year by Publications Rousseau & Associés Inc., a
member of AIA Canada.
Material in Tire News Magazine may not be reproduced in
any form without written consent from the publisher. The
publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising and
disclaims all responsibilities for claims or statements made
by its advertisers or independent columnists. All facts,
opinions and statements appearing within this publication
are those of the writers and editors themselves, and are
in no way to be construed as statements, positions or
endorsements by Publications Rousseau & Associés Inc.
Unfortunately, the tire dealers did not
These events are a wonderful chance
show up in great numbers. All the work
to learn from the experts, and from
Publications Mail Agreement 40014105. Return
undelivrable Canadian addresses to Publications
Rousseau / Circulation Department, 2938 terrasse
Abenaquis, suite 110, Longueuil, QC J4M 2B3
involved in putting such a show together
your fellow dealers, your peers, and if
ISSN 1710-4211
for such a limited number of tire deal-
you’re going to run your business ef-
PRINTED IN CANADA
ers must have been very disappointing
fectively, they are a “must”. The next
for the organizers. I know for a fact
TDAC Convention will be in 2012, either
the TDAC Board of Directors and the
in Quebec City or Toronto. I really look
organizing committee put a lot of ef-
forward to seeing you there.
fort into the event. I don’t know why
the dealers didn’t show up in great
numbers—whether they thought they
couldn’t afford the time away, or didn’t
think it was important, or if they had no
4
Contributing Editors
François Charron, Éric Descarries, Jack Kazmierski,
David Lipson, Jil McIntosh, Marie-Josée Rousseau
Tire News
tn
August 2008
Rémy L. Rousseau
tn
JOIN A NETWORK
WITH A PROVEN TRACK RECORD.
ALIGN YOURSELF PERFECTLY.
You know what you want and where you want to go. What you may not know is how Alliance can help you get there.
The Alliance Tire Professionals program allows you to maintain your identity and independence while giving you direct
access to the full line of MICHELIN benefits:
•
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Optimized profitability
Certification training
National accounts
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And to top it all off, there are no franchise or signing fees to pay. This may be your most accurate alignment ever.
Let’s talk and understand each others needs
to find out if we have a perfect alignment.
CALL NICOLAS VINCELLI AT
(450) 978-4520.
You can also contact us by e-mail at
[email protected]
industry
NEWS
By 2010, China’s Auto Parts
Industry Could Reach $115
Billion
In 2007, China witnessed a new record high in
both production and consumption of automobiles,
with auto production and consumption reaching
8.88 million units and 8.79 million units respectively. In turn, this provided a huge endeavour for
the auto parts industry, which rapidly developed
and grew.
According to a report from Research and Markets, China now has about 1,000 parts manufacturers based in industrial parks across the
nation. The key regional clusters or development
zones total 100 parks. That leaves many settings
for export and in 2007 China’s auto parts export
totaled about $20 billion.
Since international auto giants have become
more confident of the quality of parts the Chinese
are manufacturing, sales revenues reached $58
billion in 2006, and now it is estimated that the
value of the amount of auto parts produced will
reach about $115 billion in 2010.
The data in this report are the authoritative
statistics from the China Association of Automobile Manufactures, the Machinery Industry
Association, the China Automotive Technology
and Research Center, the General Administration
of Customs, the State Information Center, and
the National Bureau of Statistics. Data about
some key auto parts producers are from their
financial reports.
For more information visit www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c93674.
Dealer Strategic Planning
Groups Companies for
Success
Dealer Strategic Planning (DSP) has announced a
new strategic concept for tire dealers, DSP-20. The
company uses a peer learning and sharing concept
to help dealers improve their businesses by sharing
ideas with other non-competing dealers.
Each group of 20 dealers meets three times
each year, with the location rotating among the
members’ cities, for a 2-1/2 day session. DSP reviews the financial information on all 20 companies on a confidentiality basis and issues reports
that are used during the meeting to identify keys
to success. Throughout the year, DSP also issues
monthly reports on the group based on financial
information; members can communicate with
each other to find what’s working, how to solve
problems, and how to improve profitability. For
more information, visit www.dsp-20group.com or
6
Tire News
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August 2008
OTDA Reports Successful
Charity Golf Tournament
The Ontario Tire Dealers Association announced
another successful edition of its Annual Fundraiser
and Charity Golf Classic, held at Grey Silo in Waterloo, Ontario on June 11, 2008. Committee Chairman Don Gauthier described it as “our best ever
tournament” and thanked sponsors, volunteers,
and participants for its success.
The OTDA had a goal of raising $40,000 in celebration of the Association’s 40th anniversary, but
the final tally was over $55,000. “This is totally remarkable, but not surprising, considering the extra
effort and support put forth by all,” Gauthier said.
The tournament benefits many local charities;
featured this year were Kids Ability of Waterloo
and the Woodstock Hospital Foundation, which
will now have a new room at the hospital named
for the OTDA due to a generous donation.
Fountain Tire recognized
for safety
In May, Fountain Tire was awarded a rebate
cheque from the Alberta Workers’ Compensation Board for achieving safety excellence in
2007.
Fountain Tire began development of its safety
program in April 2007 primarily in Alberta;
within nine months, the program was developed
and introduced to all 135 locations across Western Canada. Eighty Alberta locations were first
to undergo the Certificate of Recognition (COR)
audit, an essential component of the Partners
in Injury Reduction program which awards premium discounts to employers, and were successfully granted COR status by December 2007.
“Companies with a safety focus will award
their business to like-minded organizations that
share that focus,” said Rick Ball, owner-manager
of Fountain Tire Calgary Northside. “COR status
invites that consideration and gains Fountain
Tire an advantage in securing their business.”
TIA Announces Training
Program Schedule
The Tire Industry Association (TIA) has announced its 2008 Fall dates for the Automotive
Tire Service (ATS) and Commercial Tire Service
(CTS) Certified Instructor Programs. Students who
successfully complete the program may return to
their companies and train other employees in
Technician or Instructor classes.
The programs combine in-depth classroom
instruction with hands-on education. The CTS
program meets the requirements laid out by
OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.177, while the ATS
program covers every aspect of passenger and
light truck service, including lifting, balancing,
mounting and demounting.
Classes are in Baltimore, Maryland in October
for ATS and December for CTS, and in Denver, Colorado in October for ATS and September for CTS. For
dates and information, visit www.tireindustry.org or
call 1-800-876-8372, ext 107.
Janice Robertson, HR Specialist—Safety & Associate
Relations (Fountain Tire); Warren Powell, Owner/
Manager—Edmonton Southridge (Fountain Tire);
Michael Sands, Owner/Manager—Edmonton
Downtown (Fountain Tire); Dieter Brunsch, VP
Customer Services & Risk Management—WCB;
Mike Beggs, Owner/Manager—High River (Fountain
Tire); Rick Ball, Owner/Manager—Calgary Northside
(Fountain Tire); Doug Kirk, Owner/Manager—
Edmonton Northgate (Fountain Tire); Brian Innes,
Owner/Manager—Calgary MacLeod Trail (Fountain
Tire); Brent Hesje, CEO (Fountain Tire); and Karey
Spenst, VP Human Resources (Fountain Tire)
CAA Supports the Survivor Fund
Photo: The Federal Bridge
Corporation Limited
Each year in North America, as many as 100 tow truck operators
are killed while assisting motorists in distress. At the 2008 AAA/CAA
Automotive Services Conference, Canadian Automobile Association
(CAA) Clubs donated $2,250 to the International Towing & Recovery
Hall of Fame Survivor Trust Fund, whose purpose is to help the bereaved families. In order to help reduce the number of fatalities, the CAA
strongly encourages all drivers to slow down and move over when
they see a vehicle at the roadside with the emergency lights on.
industry
NEWS
Foster Apprenticeship
The department of Human Resources and
Social Development Canada announced it will
award financial aid to the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum (CAF) in order to promote learning as a benchmark for efficient training and
development of an educated and skilled labour
force. The Federal Government will grant the CAF
$1.37 million, which will mainly be used not only
to make employers aware of the advantages of
apprenticeship and existing resources, but also
to identify the obstacles to apprenticeship access
and their potential solutions. www.hrsdc.gc.ca/
en/home.shtml
National Scrappage
Program
The National Vehicle Scrappage Program is now
officially in force. Delivered by the Clean Air Foundation with $92 million in Federal Government
funding over a four-year period, the program will
provide incentives to those who scrap their vehicle
built in 1995 or earlier. The object of this initiative
is to foster public transportation and get rid of
vehicles that consume more fuel and have a pollution rate up to 19 times higher than more recent
models. www.ec.gc.ca/cleanair-airpur
Continental
ContiSportContact Vmax
Tires Establish 409 km/h
Record
Continental Tire’s ContiSportContact Vmax ultra-high performance tire set a new speed record
thanks to Jan Fatthauer of the Porsche Tuners 9ff
team, who drove his GT9 Porsche to a speed of
409 km/h (254 mph) on the Papenburg Test Track
in Germany. It’s also a new record for the streetlegal 987-horsepower car. This is the first time the
Vmax exceeds the 400 km/h mark. The previous
record was 393 km/h set by the Bimoto Audi TT
at the same track. Note that the Vmax is actually
“only” approved for speeds up to 360 km/h, but
was given a special clearance for the record attempt. The Vmax is specially designed for today’s
ultra-fast sports cars with such powerful engines
that even many racing cars cannot reach.
This Porsche went 409 km/h on Continental
ContiSportContact Vmax tires.
8
Tire News
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August 2008
Super Singles Now Legal
From Coast to Coast
Millions of Tire Valve
Stems Recalled
Last June, the Council of Ministers Responsible
for Transportation and Highway Safety approved the widespread use across Canada of the
new generation of wide single truck tires. The
amendments came from Canada’s Memorandum
of Understanding on Vehicle Weights and Dimensions, which redefines the weight limits and track
width requirements for new generation wide base
single tires. The requirements are now consistent
with U.S. regulations. The new rules apply to tires
utilized on drive axles of 445 mm or more. The
new weight allowance specifies that loads should
not exceed 7,700 kg for single-axle trucks and
15,400 kg for tandem-axle groups. To permit
trailers to be safely retrofitted with such tires, the
minimum track requirement of 2.5 m has been reduced to 2.3 m for trailers built in 2007 or earlier.
The rules are in effect for all Canadian provinces
except for three regional exceptions, roads in the
Northwest Territories, roads in Newfoundland and
Labrador, and roads in New Brunswick, depending on their highway classification.
Millions of tire valve stems made in China are
being recalled in the U.S. because they could
crack and lose air. Last June, Tech International
from Johnston, Ohio, a supplier of tire repair
materials and importer of tire valve stems, voluntarily recalled 6 million TR413 snap-in tire valve
stems made by a Chinese firm, Shanghai Baolong
Industries, between July and November 2006. According to Tech International, the rubber portion
of the stem could crack and leak air thus causing
a tire failure. This is the second major recall as it
follows the NHTSA May 15 announcement of an
evaluation of up to 30 million TR400 Series snapin tire valve stems made by Topseal, a subsidiary
of Shanghai Baolong for American distributor Dill
Air Controls Products.
Yokohama Participates in
the Launch of the Mitsubishi
Lancer Evolution MR
The Lancer Evolution MR is probably the most
exciting car ever produced by Mitsubishi. Mitsubishi Canada launched this special model at Le
Circuit Mont-Tremblant last June and Yokohama
Canada participated in the event. The Japanese
manufacturer had sent Brad Sherwin, Marketing
Communication manager, and Adrian Leu, Technical Services manager, to explain how the Yokohama ADVAN A13C tire played a big role in the
new Evolution MR’s road handling characteristics.
The A13C in its 245/40R18 fitment was specially
designed for the Evolution MR as many other
ADVAN tires were for the Bentley Continental GT,
the Bentley Flying Spur, the Lexus GS, the Porsche
911 and Carrera 4, the Audi A8, and the Lotus
Elise who all trust the ADVAN as OE fitment.
Brad Sherwin (l.) and Adrian Leu represented Yokohama
at the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR Canadian launch.
Ford Chooses the Goodyear
Assurance ComforTread for
Its Flex
The 2009 Ford Flex has arrived at local Ford
dealerships. This much anticipated vehicle is
now available riding on Goodyear ComforTred
P235/60R18 tires, a premium product made with
a special cushion layer to help provide a smooth,
comfortable, and quiet ride.
The new Ford Flex rides on
Goodyear Assurance ComfortTred tires.
Price Increases,
Even for AG Tires
Oil price increases have a big impact on tire
pricing. Most major tire producers have already
announced that their pricings have to follow the
world trend—increases in consumer pricing is
unavoidable. One of the latest announcements
was made by Michelin; the company had to hike
up its Michelin, BFGoodrich, and Kleber brand
Agriculturak and Compct Line tires and tubes sold
in North America. These increases resultant of
raw material, energy and transportation costs will
range between 6 and 36%.
Pirelli Looking at Conti
Truck Tire Division?
Latest reports indicate that Italian tire maker
Pirelli has expressed some interest in acquiring
German Continental AG’s truck tire division. According to German newspaper Handelsblatt, Pirelli
Chairman Marco Tronchetti Provera has said that
the company is looking at all attractive targets. At
the same time, the newspaper reports that Continental has not ruled out selling its truck tire unit
because its margins are not what was expected.
But these were just preliminary talks and any sale
is not expected in the short term. Pirelli does not
sell truck tires in Canada, but Continental does.
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Yokohama Tire Corp Settles
Agreement Regarding
Patent Infringement
Yokohama Tire Corporation and The Yokohama
Rubber Company have reached a final agreement
with the Hangzhou Zhongce Rubber Co. concerning a design patent infringement. Consequently,
Hangzhou has agreed to destroy the manufacturing molds and remaining inventory of its Westlake H280 tires. Yangzhou has also agreed to pay
Yokohama a cash settlement. Yokohama claimed
that Yangzhou had copied its tire tread design
patent that protected some of its best-selling
brands, including the Geolandar A/T+H.
Kumho Tires on
the New Focus
The 2009 Ford Focus will be available with the
all-season high-performance Kumho Solus KH16
tires as original equipment. The Rancho Cucamonga California-based unit of Kumho Tire from South
Korea announced it will supply about 200,000
tires to Ford Motor Co. in size 215/45R17. Kumho
supplies tires to all Big Three American car makers, Ford, GM, and Chrysler. Globally, Volkswagen, Daimler, Mitsubishi, Hyundai, and Kia are all
Kumho customers.
That’s the number of locations we have coast to coast, making us
the largest independent tire retailer in Canada. There’s plenty of
reason for that. Our owners are shareholders, which means they not
only benefit from a large buying network but they also get support,
business training and an inventory tailored to their needs. Not to
mention the shared profits in a multi-million dollar business.
To find out if OK Tire is right for you,
call the Franchise Department at
1-800-663-1749 or visit oktire.com
TM
The OK Tire mark is a trademark of OK Tire Stores Inc.
The 2009 Ford Focus will have Kumho tires.
OKT-383 TireNewsAd-01.indd 1
1/29/08 3:06:27 PM
August 2008
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Tire News
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industry
NEWS
Russian Manufacturers
Sibur and Amtel Merge
Last June, Sibur Holding and Amtel-Vredestein
agreed to merge their tire businesses and Sibur
Holding will manage the operations. Pending
a final agreement, Sibur Holding will have 70
percent of the group and 60.5 percent of AmtelVredestein enlarged share capital. This entity
should generate up to $1.8 billion in sales from
tires made at six plants in Russia and one in the
Netherlands. Amtel sells products under the Vredestein, Amtel, and Maolya brands, while Silbur
Holding sells tires under the Cordiant brand and
truck tires under the Tyrex brand.
More Cooper HP
and SUV Sizes
Cooper Tire announced in July that it has expanded its range of high-performance and SUV
tires. The Cooper Zeon XSTA all season sport truck
tire is now available in 15- and 16-inch H-rated
sizes and 17-, 18- , 22-, and 24-inch V-rated
sizes. The Cooper Zeon XST is also available in
295/30R22 XL for top end SUVs and crossovers.
As far as Cooper Zeon 2XS ultra-high performance
products are concerned, there is the 205/55R15
V-rated version available for the Toyota Celica and
a 195/55R15 V-rated tire for cars like the Honda
Fit and the Kia Rio. The Discoverer S/T line of tires
now includes the 205/80R16 and 205/70R15
with outline white letter T-rated products in North
America. Finally, the Cooper Discoverer ATR
with white outline script is now available in the
LT275/65R18/C size.
Do Not Encourage
Overinflating
There is a new belief going on that overinflating
tires by a few pounds over the recommended car
manufacturer’s ratings will improve fuel mileage.
According to the Rubber Manufacturers Association,
this practice can make the tires more susceptible to
road hazard damage and result in premature wear
to the centre part of the tread. Keeping tires properly inflated can improve fuel economy by two to
three percent according to the U.S. Department of
Energy. The AAA (American Auto Association) also
recommends that motorists check their owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations. Tires
should be inflated only to the pressure specified by
the vehicle manufacturer (markings in the door jamb
should indicate pressure to use front and rear) and
not to what is listed on the sidewall of the tire.
10
Tire News
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August 2008
Continental Tire Canada
Sponsors BMW Driver
Training
Continental Tire Canada has announced its
continuing sponsorship of the BMW Driver
Training in Canada. This year’s fleet includes 13
BMW 335i sedans and seven M3 Coupes, fitted
with ultra-high-performance ContiSportContact
2 tires.
The program offers Canadian drivers an opportunity to learn enhanced driving skills, superior safety, and better understanding of the
vehicle’s capabilities, taught by highly-qualified
BMW instructors. The courses are held in Toronto, Ontario and Mont-Tremblant, Quebec.
“We think this sponsorship works really well
for both sides,” said Guy Hardiman, general
manager of Continental Tire Canada. “At this
event, two Germany-based companies, both
known for their engineering expertise, focus on
the driver’s safety on a very professional and
passionate level, both trusting in the quality of
the other.”
German Tuning Sector
Merger—VDAT Association
Two trade associations—VDAT and VATZ—joined forces to form the new VDAT Association.
The first joint presentation will be at the Automechanika in Frankfurt, Germany on September 16-21.
The German tuning sector now has a single
voice and more members than ever before—including 90% of all renowned tuning companies
plus manufacturers of tires, suspension parts,
silencers, body parts, and wheels.
With a campaign entitled “tune it! safe!”
under the patronage of Federal Minister of
Transport Wolfgang Tiefensee, VDAT intends to
distinguish its members’ products from those
of cheap suppliers and product pirates, in common with Messe Frankfurt’s initiative ‘Messe
Frankfurt against Copying’.
An increasing volume of questionable accessories is being imported into Germany, so
informative campaigns are very important. Tuned vehicles should not only be fun to drive but
safe, too. Working with Germany’s TUV testing
authority, which VDAT has maintained for the
last 20 years, is an important prerequisite.
At Automechanika, the VDAT will make its
presentation on a large stand in Hall 4.1. Visitors will see numerous tuned cars, including
the tuned patrol car of the “tune it! safe!” campaign, which is sure to be an eye catcher. www.
automechanika.messefrankfurt.com
Fountain Tire Acquires Six
Tirecraft Stores
Edmonton-based Fountain Tire Limited recently
acquired six Tirecraft stores, adding to its existing
132 locations across Western Canada.
The purchase by Fountain Tire follows a court
decision, handed down on April 15, which granted
creditor protection to the Tirecraft Group. The
company was placed into receivership in June.
The stores are located in Calgary, Fort McMurray, Olds, Strathmore, and Wainwright in Alberta,
and in Merritt, British Columbia.
Fountain Tire’s CEO, Brent Hesje, said he believes the acquisition will help the company to
achieve its vision of being the best tire dealer in
Canada. “A key component of fulfilling our vision
is growth, and we believe that our ownership system provides great opportunities for managers
who want to go beyond just operating a store.”
Fountain Tire’s business model is based on partnership—managers proven to provide quality customer service are given the opportunity to become
equal partners in their operation, and in some cases,
Fountain Tire managers own their locations entirely.
The company offers Goodyear and Dunlop products
and mechanical services, gives customers the opportunity to earn AIR MILES reward miles on purchases,
and has been named one of the “50 Best Managed
Companies” every year since 1994, the only tire and
auto service provider to achieve the honour.
Chicago Pneumatic’s New
Mini Air Drill
Chicago Pneumatic offers a new drill kit,
which includes a ¼-inch reversible mini air drill
(CP7300R), 13 drill bits, and a blow-molded case.
Compact, lightweight, and durable, this mini air
drill is a perfect tool for drilling, honing, reaming,
or hole sawing, and the bits included feature the
most common sizes for efficient rivets removal.
The kit is available in standard (CP7300RK) or
metric size (CP7300RKM). www.cp.com
TIA Warns Consumers and
Businesses to Brace for
Higher Tire Prices
The Tire Industry Association (TIA) is cautioning
both consumers and businesses around the world
to prepare for higher costs due to price increases
associated with the production and distribution
of tires. The skyrocketing cost of crude oil is not
the only factor associated with this increase; the
cost of natural rubber has also been soaring.
These are the primary raw materials used in the
production of tires.
And, it isn’t just automobile tires that are costing more. Tires for trucks, farm tractors, and
construction equipment are also seeing price increases. Undoubtedly, these costs will be passed
along to consumers.
What can consumers and businesses do to help
soften the blow of higher tire prices? According
Kevin Rohlwing, TIA senior vice president of Training, here are four tips that can help:
• Check air pressure regularly
• Rotate tires as recommended
• If a tire is punctured, be sure
it is properly repaired
• Avoid hard stops and high-speed turns
Toyota Will Offer
Continental and General
Products in Canada
Continental Tire Canada has announced an
expanded relationship with Toyota Canada. As of
September 9, 2008, Toyota Canada’s 239 Toyota and 39 Lexus dealerships across Canada will
offer customers a comprehensive line of Continental and General car and light truck tires.
As part of the new agreement, Toyota Canada
dealers will be able to supply customers with
tires for any Toyota or Lexus product.
“This agreement gives Toyota and Lexus customers access to our catalogue of passenger and
light truck tires, and helps to increase our retail
presence without compromising our existing tire
dealer network,” said Guy Hardiman, general
manager of Continental Tire Canada.
The automobile dealers will work with existing
Continental and General dealers to manage product distribution.
Hercules Performance
Ultra Touring TR / HR / VR
For information on Hercules Tire
visit www.herculestire.ca
Jack Kazmierski
[email protected]
Tech HR
Break the Tech Shortage
If you’re experiencing a tech shortage at your shop, you’re not alone. Addressing the problem requires both
long-term and short-term strategies.
sst… have you heard about the tech
just how exciting and rewarding a career
Finding your techs
shortage? Sure, we all have. But have
as an automotive tech can be. The people
Although cheering on the industry in
you felt it yet? Have you experienced it at
we need to convince are the parents of
general will help curb future shortages, it
your shop? The answer to that question
the students currently contemplating ca-
won’t help you find and hire the techs you
may depend on where you’re located and
reer choices, the guidance councilors and
need now in order to keep your business
the caliber of techs you might be looking
school officials whose job it is to suggest
running and prospering.
to hire at present.
a career path, and the public in general
since that’s where perceptions begin.
Like most economic issues, the tech short-
ages might require shop owners to rethink
age—whether you feel it at present or
The goal should be to explain to naysayers
their employee/employer relationships
not—is a complicated issue that won’t be
that today’s automotive techs are com-
while addressing related issues.
easily rectified. The reasons for the short-
puter literate, mathematically-inclined,
age are numerous and include such fac-
multi-tasking technicians with skills and
For starters, some experts believe that to-
tors as the imminent retirement of Baby
abilities that would easily suit an engineer.
day’s top techs no longer work for you, the
Boomer-aged master techs, the misguided
They could all easily fit into a traditional
employer, so to speak. Instead, A-techs are
perception that “auto mechanics” is a pro-
white-collar environment, but prefer to
more like customers in the sense that you
fession only for those who likely won’t suc-
use their knowledge in the automotive
have to attract them to your business, give
ceed in white-collar positions, the growing
trade. It’s not a matter of choosing be-
them reasons to stay, and keep them happy
complexity of modern vehicles, the lack of
tween a rewarding career or working on
so that they aren’t tempted to quit and find
motivated youth eager to work and study
cars—today’s techs are professionals who
a job with one of your competitors.
hard, etc.
can do both.
Finding solutions
Today’s vehicles are too sophisticated
ee/employer relationship on its head, some
An industry-wide shortage, some experts
and complex to be worked on without
experts believe this is the new reality.
Although that’s putting the whole employ-
say, is inevitable. There will come
a time when the industry
as a whole will experience a hunger for
advanced skills, and modern
“mechanics” spend most
Today’s top techs expect to make a good
of their times analyz-
living, so paying them sub-par wages just
ing data on a com-
won’t do. They also expect to have the right
puter screen—far
tools and equipment at their disposal, as
est, most expe-
removed from
well as access to advanced ongoing train-
rienced levels.
the demeaning
ing… but that’s to be expected in a market
So what can
stereotypical
where the right people are in demand and
we do to curb
‘grease mon-
job opportunities for them abound.
the
key’ persona
techs at the high-
brain
drain?
On a ‘big picture’ level, it is
our responsibility
to promote the industry and let others know
12
Dealing with immediate needs and short-
Tire News
tn
August 2008
of decades
The tech shortage problem will likely take
gone by.
years, if not decades, of effort to address.
Stephanie Hoffman
from B.C. concentrates
on the task of looking
up electronic service
information, a task technicians
perform regularly, at the 13th
Annual Canadian Skills Competition,
held in Saskatchewan in June 2007.
In the meantime, shop owners will have to
change the way they think of their employees and do what it takes to hold on to the
rapidly diminishing number of qualified
men and women. tn
photo: Jim Kerr
P
Jack Kazmierski
[email protected]
Training
Learn & Apply
Eager and willing to learn, your employees may need help to carry through and actually implement what
they learned at seminars and workshops.
T
he old adage, “You can lead a horse
while others will only do so if they fear
to water, but can’t make it drink,”
repercussions.
applies to many things in life and in business. Case in point—corporate train-
Management should decide on the reward
ing. Although you can make sure your
structure, including the type of rewards
employees make it to the classroom,
offered, milestones to be reached, and
take notes, and pay attention, you
a schedule. Some experts recommend
can’t make them apply what they’ve
looking no more than 6 months into
learned once back at work.
the future.
Change is very challenging for hu-
Step 4: Monthly meetings
mans. It almost seems like we’re hard-
To keep employees on track, experts
wired to resist change and to maintain
recommend monthly meetings where
the status quo. So even though the newly
all employees can share their successes
learned skills might be almost guaran-
and failures with the rest of the staff who
teed to make your staff more productive,
attended the same training sessions.
getting everyone to make the necessary
changes can be a challenge.
Common sense
Step 2: Meeting with management
If some are experiencing problems with the
implementation of new ideas or behaviours
After completing the contract, each em-
these monthly meeting will allow them
In a perfect world, common sense would
ployee sits down individually with his or
an opportunity to share their frustrations
be enough to motivate change. If the
her manager in order to go over the de-
with others, pick up some tips and how-to
newly learned skill is superior to the old
tails, make any necessary changes to the
advice, as well as role play (if applicable) in
way of doing things, then common sense
document, and explain to management
order to overcome sticking points.
would dictate that it should be applied.
why certain behaviours should be started,
stopped, or continued.
In the real world, a support network and
ROI
Employee training is expensive and time
regular follow-ups are a must if everyone
This step also solidifies in the employees
consuming. Your key people may be away
is to move ahead and commit to changes.
mind that someone is watching, knows
at a seminar for a day or more incurring
Experts recommend four distinct steps.
what changes the employee should be
hotel and meal expenses as well as the
making, and will be asking questions if
cost of the actual training.
Step 1: Contract
The first step is to have all employees
who attended the training sit down and
and when those changes are not made in
a timely manner.
Moreover, when you factor in the cost of
losing an employee’s services for the time
complete a written contract that specifies
Step 3: Rewards
exactly what they learned and how it will
While step 2 could be likened to “the
the costs begin to double, triple, or worse.
change the way they behave on a day-to-
stick,” step 3 is “the carrot.” This two-
With so much time and money invested in
day basis. The contract should stipulate
pronged approach increases the likeli-
training, it only makes sense that you’d
which behaviours should be continued,
hood that needed changes will be made
want to follow-up afterwards, implement
which ones should be stopped, and which
since some employees are more likely
the above-mentioned steps, and make sure
ones are new and should be implemented.
to make changes if a reward is offered,
to maximize your return on investment. tn
they’re learning and not actually working,
August 2008
tn
Tire News
13
PROFILE
Jil McIntosh [email protected]
Megawheelz: Knowledge Is Everything
Education Is the Key to Success
Knowledge is power, as the saying goes. For Param Johl, knowledge is also success: in only four years, he
has built his Megawheelz store into a strong retail and wholesale company, with knowledge of his product
as the key to this accomplishment.
T
he store, located in Toronto’s busy
we try to help and guide them, and tell
southwest end, is strictly about
them that if they can expand their budget
wheels and tires, and about making sure
a little more, they’ll get better tires that
that customers get exactly the right pack-
will not only last longer, but fulfill and
ages for their cars.
serve their driving needs.”
Asking the right questions
Bringing his lessons with him
“These days, people have less money to
Johl, 49, started in the business when he was
spend, but if you give them the proper
19, working in a tire store with his uncle in
knowledge, they’ll realize that whatever they
his native Singapore. He eventually started
spend is worthwhile,” Johl
a business importing
says. “There are stores
wheels on his own, and
willing to sell to them,
left it with his sister when
but not able to give them
he immigrated to Canada
what they actually need.
in 1989. But he didn’t
We have knowledge of
leave behind the lessons
fitments, offsets and the
he had learned. “The
industry is very weak on
tire business in Asia is
that kind of information.
more competitive than in
We ask consumers what
Canada,” he says. “There’s
their intentions are for
the cost of living and com-
the package, which sea-
petition, and the market
sons will they be driv-
is very saturated.”
ing in, as these are key
issues. If the vehicle is
It wasn’t easy establish-
driven everyday, or if it’s for long distance
ing himself in his new home, but four and
driving, comfort is also a key question. This
a half years ago, “an opportunity came up,
is where we come in. We educate the driver,
a location was available and the time was
for the kind of driving he or she does, then
right,” he says. “It’s a good location on a
that is what they need.
main street, and we get fairly decent exposure from people driving by in the morning
because consumers are only looking at
14
Tire News
tn
August 2008
and evening going to and from work.”
prices, and not realizing that they may
Fair value for the money
be buying cheap stuff that is not going
He is not worried by the big-box stores,
to help them in the long run. We explain
since most of his business is specialized
to them that this is where the product is
needs, and the majority is on mid-range to
made, the speed rating, the way the tread
high-end vehicles. “We don’t have to beat
is designed for a certain type of driving
prices,” he says. “Affordability is what we
condition. Everybody has a budget, but
offer price-wise. We’re not the cheapest,
photos: Jack Kazmierski
“The knowledge also helps with tires,
but we’re not the most expensive, either.
The consumer knows that he’s getting a
fair value for his money, and it’s a fair exchange of service and price.”
He has seven employees, including his wife
and son, and makes sure that everyone
is well-versed in putting exactly the right
wheel and tire package on each vehicle,
due to SEMA courses. His store is also well
suited to the area’s multicultural blend:
Johl himself speaks five languages, and his
employees add two more.
Wholesale coast to coast
Having doubled the store’s size in the last
two years, he carries an estimated 5,000
wheels in inventory at any given time. As
an importer and distributor, Megawheelz
wholesales wheels to various stores in the
Greater Toronto Area, and sells approximately 3,000 to 5,000 steel wheels to
Param Johl is the owner of Megawheelz
stores across Canada each year, especially
in Alberta and Quebec. “We carry three
of advertising on our own, and we were
period of time, but Johl never had any
wheel lines, and we import another five
generating our own sales because we are
doubts, especially with his firm belief in
or six lines from suppliers,” Johl says.
more of a performance wheels and tire
knowing the product and making sure that
“We can get more or less whatever the
package store.
everyone else in the store does as well.
smaller brands, especially the big chrome
“The first years were tough, and we had to
“One of my employees, Wayne, who has
wheels from the U.S. that a customer has
put a lot of money into advertising. Word-
been in the industry for over 35 years, has
seen on a website, because it creates a
of-mouth is our greatest advertising. You
great knowledge and experience. When
lot of problems for us. This is because the
lose one customer and you lose ten, but if
we hire new employees, we give them a
customer doesn’t know the product, and
you please ten, you get one extra. We’ve
chance to learn from our knowledge, but
you end up getting stuck with a problem
definitely done that; the word has spread
we also learn from them too. Without our
created by the supplier.”
around. From a crew of two, we now have
employees, we would be nowhere.
customer wants. We try not to get into
Dealing directly
eight in four years.
“I have always been in the business of
Originally under the Tirecraft banner, he
“We have plans to expand, and will take
importing and distributing, and have had
now deals directly with manufacturers.
the opportunities as they come along.
that experience and history behind me.
“They (tire manufacturers) have seen our
Meanwhile, we are always on the lookout
The knowledge has always been there. I
success in four years, and have automati-
for the future.”
have the enthusiasm and the interest in
cally offered us direct purchasing possi-
this area, but have always wanted to learn
bility,” he says. “We’re now getting our
Never any doubts
products directly, and it’s working out very
It may be hard to believe that such suc-
is a learning channel. The rest is history in
well. Even under Tirecraft, we did a lot
cess could be achieved in such a short
the making.” tn
more. Knowledge is everything. Every day
snapshot
Name
Address
Email
Megawheelz Inc.
1075 Queensway East,
Units 12 & 12A
Mississauga, Ontario L4Y 4C8
[email protected]
Phone
905-279-9292
Fax
905-279-7819
Website
Founded in
Size
10,000
Continental, BFGoodrich,
General, Hankook,
Brands
Pirelli, Toyo,
Yokohama, Michelin
www.megawheelz.com
2004
August 2008
tn
Tire News
15
Éric Descarries
[email protected]
The Canadian Grand Prix
Tires Played an Important
Role at the GP
It can be said that the Canadian Grand Prix, held at Le Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve every June in Montreal, kicks
off racing season in Canada. It is also the most important sporting event in the country. And there would
be no racing without the involvement of tire manufacturers. Racing is a great publicity window for tire
makers, but it is also the ideal venue to try out new technologies, technologies that could very well wind up
I
t would be impossible to talk about
on Le Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve started
Michelin tires, once very popular within
Formula One Racing without mention-
coming apart in the curves! It seems that
the Formula One scene. Also performing
ing Japanese manufacturer Bridgestone.
tire technology has surpassed paving
at the same event was a Porsche Series
Anyone involved in auto racing will tell
technologies!
that also relied upon Michelin tires.
provider for Formula One racing. But
Not the only one
Finally, one of the most popular support
that does not mean that it has to rest on
Actually, Bridgestone was not alone at the
races at the Canadian Grand Prix was
its laurels and just make tires. Formula
Canadian Grand Prix. The three-day event
the Ferrari Challenge featuring F-430
One rules are strict and complicated, so
included a few other racing series and not
street cars. In this case, the Italian auto
Bridgestone has to abide by the rules
all of them relied upon Bridgestone tires.
manufacturer relied upon another Italian
while still coming out with spectacular
This is the case for the Formula BMW
manufacturer for its racing tires, Pirelli. At
tires that must grab the road. Actually,
series, an open-wheel category using mo-
any rate, no matter the tire brand, racing
the Bridgestone grooved tires used in
torcycle engines and which involves young
is always exciting at the Canadian Grand
Formula One are so sticky, the pavement
drivers, tomorrow’s stars. This series uses
Prix. tn
Young Maxime Pelletier (#10) leads another Canadian
driver, Mikael Grenier, in the Formula BMW America race
held during the GP event. All BMWs were on Michelin tires.
Each Formula One team keeps its tires under
wraps between uses. Secrets?
The Bridgestone Formula One tires quickly began tearing
up the pavement, which shows just how sticky they are.
Montreal Canadiens hockey player Patrice Brisebois
finished 13th in the Ferrari Challenge with Pirelli tires.
you that Bridgestone is the only tire
16
Tire News
tn
August 2008
Formula One is still the most popular motorsport
in the world.
photos: Éric Descarries
in production tires.
Commercial Tires
Éric Descarries
[email protected]
Skid-Steer Tires
As Tough as They Get
Skid-steers are used for many purposes, not only as loaders.
Have you ever seen a skid-steer loader in action? Did you ever notice that there is no steering mechanism
on such construction equipment? Indeed, this little marvel has two fixed axles (and no suspension) and to
make it turn, the operator uses a lever that mechanically blocks one or two wheels to manoeuvre the little
machine. Consequently, tires are being used and abused.
W
hat’s amazing with the skid-steer
production. The most common advice,
The centre hub is solid but the “wheel” is
(often called “bobcat” based on
though, is not to mix brands since their
composed of plastic spokes that combine
one of its brand names) is that just about
products might not all be perfectly equiva-
into a treadware to form a complete, almost
anybody can operate one after a few in-
lent. Some of them are pneumatic, while
indestructible wheel and tire combination
structions. That is why so many skid-steers
many more are solid rubber tires with many
that needs no air at all. In its very extensive
are rented daily to small construction com-
holes in them to make them comfortable.
tests, Michelin proved the Tweel not only
panies. Skid-steers seem to be showing up
Remember, the tires are also part of the
outlasted regular skid-steer tires, but also
in many places for many new applications.
vehicle’s suspension.
made the loader much more comfortable
What’s more, many of them are sold as
used equipment to private owners.
The perfect fitment for the Tweel
and even easier and safer to operate.
Remember the Tweel? This was Michelin’s
In an exercise at the Michelin Laurens
Consequently, skid-steer tires are begin-
invention about two years ago to actually
Proving Ground, Tire News had the opportu-
ning to sell more than ever. If your business
replace just about any wheel and tire on the
nity to operate a Tweel-equipped skid-steer
deals with light construction equipment, it
market. Though the project is still being stud-
only to discover that, as badly as we wanted
could be a wise choice to stock up a few of
ied, there was at least one application where
to make it jump like it is so easy to do with
the 10R16.5 and 12R16.5 specialty tires
it seemed most efficient—the skid-steer.
regular skid-steer tires, the Tweel-equipped
which represent the better part of the skidsteer market.
Who makes them?
loader was stable and safe. But the Tweel is
Indeed, Michelin had developed a few units
only a concept. We might not see the Tweel
of skid-steer wheels and tires under the Tweel
for many years, if ever.
system. Michelin thus equipped a Caterpillar
As far as skid-steer replacement tires are
skid-steer loader for specialised journalists to
Maybe the next time one of your customers
concerned, you will find them at your spe-
try. And everyone was amazed.
asks for skid-steer replacement tires, you’ll
have the Tweel to offer. Meanwhile, better
cialty tire distributor. Don’t be surprised
by the funny new brand names showing
The Tweel is more or less a soft plastic
check with your local speciality tire distribu-
up in his catalogue as many foreign manu-
wheel and tire unit designed to replace
tor. He surely has what you need for your
facturers are becoming interested in their
the wheel and the tire at the same time.
customers.
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]
Tire Casings
Extended Life, Extended Profits
Looking after your casings looks after your bottom line.
Y
ou don’t have to be told the impor-
they need to be tested with a gauge. And
to remove and replace separate valve caps,
tance of keeping costs down, especial-
while tire gauges may look alike, they don’t
it’s estimated that the chore of checking a
ly in these days of rampant prices. Making
necessarily all perform the same way.
tractor-trailer rig can drop by 20 minutes to
everything last longer is critical to the prof-
Gauges should be calibrated regularly, as
about seven. Although they cost more than
itable operation of your business, and that
it’s not unusual for an older, well-used gauge
conventional valve caps, “time is money,”
includes your tires.
to be off by as much as 10 psi or more.
and their ease of use will probably make
Tire casings are built to last, but like any
Once the air is in the tires, it’s essential
wear item, they have their limitations, and
that it stays inside. One method is to fill
these can be accelerated by lack of main-
with nitrogen instead of compressed air;
Watch for scrubbing
tenance. Look after your tire casings, and
nitrogen-filled tires retain their inflation
Another important aspect of tire casing life is
they’ll help look after your bottom line.
longer, and also run cooler, which in turn
avoiding scrubbing. Hitting curbs during city
increases tire life.
deliveries can damage the sidewall, which will
drivers or fleet managers more likely to
The single most important factor is proper
check the pressure on a regular basis.
ruin the tire. Mismatching duals will also cut
inflation. Experts say that running your
Valve caps: essential allies
tires underinflated by 30% will also de-
Valve caps are also essential, and there are
the taller tire have to carry more of the load,
crease the lifespan of the casing by that
several choices on the market. Plastic caps
but the smaller tire will scrub and drag along
same amount. A low tire will cost you more
are the least expensive, but they’re also low-
the pavement, and so both tires will be af-
in fuel, which is a major concern in itself; the
est on the scale, and a poor choice for the
fected. Matching the tires accurately means
tendency of an under-inflated tire to pick up
high pressure used in truck tires. Metal caps
ensuring both are the same outside diameter
road debris also adds to the possibility of
won’t crack or split, and they contain a rub-
and, just as importantly, ensuring that both
early failure due to damage.
ber sealing gasket that isn’t always found
are inflated to the correct pressure.
Thumping them isn’t enough
There are several things to remember when
down drastically on casing life; not only will
on plastic caps. Always keep some spares in
the truck, since it’s easy to accidently drop a
Proper tire pressure, correct alignment,
cap and much harder to find it.
timely rotation and matched tires don’t
seem like high-tech methods; in fact, they’re
checking inflation. Number one, of course,
is to do it regularly. That’s a huge job when
Even better is a double-seal flow-through
time-consuming and monotonous tasks. But
you’ve got a compound filled with trucks, so
valve cap, which stays closed until you use a
combined, they can increase the lifespan of
keeping tabs on them as they’re checked is
pressure gauge or air chuck. Air can get in,
your tire casings by as much as 30%— and
important. Thumping the tires isn’t enough;
but dirt and water can’t. Without the need
that’s time and money well-spent. tn
S208
Premium all-steel steer axle radial. Reinforced bead
construction and durable carcass for excellent
retreadability. Decoupling groove for extended wear
and stress relief sipes for all weather traction.
Hercules Medium Truck Tires
Affordable, Reliable Tires Built to Perform
Visit www.herculestire.ca
Éric Descarries
[email protected]
Aiming for the Top…
Pirelli Builds the Highest
Test Track in the World
How does a tire manufacturer introduce a new winter tire… in summer? There aren’t that many places in the
world where a new winter tire can be launched during the warm season. In the past, Tire News was invited to
the South of Argentina for such an event—it is winter in June in that part of the world, and Pirelli had thought it
would have been a great venue for such an exercise. That was for the then-new Sottozero winter tire.
T
his time, Pirelli wanted to launch an
evolution of its Sottozero. Argentina
was almost out of the question. New
Zealand could have been interesting, but
close to home, only four hours by car
north of Milan, Italy where Pirellli has
its headquarters, is the world famous
Matterhorn, a high peak in the Swiss Alps
Tire testing on June 2 in the snow?
Problem is… how to get the cars up there?
opted to skylift, using a husky helicop-
This was quite a challenge for Pirelli and,
ter. Consequently, a dozen or so vehicles
as President Francesco Gori said, Pirelli
shod with new Sottozero Serie II were
loves to tackle a challenge. So, the Italians
hoisted to the top at some 3,800 metres,
simply chose to build temporary testing
one by one: Alfa Romeos, Mercedes-
tracks at the highest reachable point
Benz, Volkswagen, even Porsches and a
where a ski station lies.
Lamborghini Gallardo.
photos: Éric Descarries and Pirelli
where there is always snow!
Hoisting a Lamborghini by helicopter?
More snow than expected
When time came for the automotive jour-
Nonetheless, the tests were impressive
nalists to try the new Sottozero Serie II,
and everyone attending made it safely
they were also supposed to climb by he-
back to Zermatt at the foot of the moun-
licopter. But the fog and the snow made
tains. As far as bringing the cars back
Pirelli change its plans. They all had to use
down… you guessed it—Pirelli had to wait
gondolas and snow crawlers to reach the
for better days.
tn
testing fields—where a snow storm was in
full swing!
Pirelli hoisted cars to the top of the mountain by helicopter.
Fortunately, most drivers had the opportunity to try the new tire, mostly on
20
Another problem: there is no road leading
smaller European cars. Some rides were
to that point, which is reachable only by
given in the Porsche but the Lambo had
gondola and snow crawlers. Well, noth-
to stay put… there was too much snow for
ing stops Pirelli. The manufacturer simply
the low slung AWD supercar!
Tire News
tn
August 2008
Pirelli had brought a Lamborghini along…
but there was too much snow!
Jil McIntosh
[email protected]
Frisby Tire Becomes an Alliance
Tire Professionals Member
Serving the Ottawa
Area for 88 Years
Effective June 1, 2008, a new name made its appearance under Michelin’s Alliance Tire Professionals
network. Frisby Tire Company, with 5 stores in the
Ottawa area, is now a member.
“
T
he program gives me access to the Michelin products and
to some other products that are exclusive to Alliance deal-
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 tire changer handle
up to 30” wheels?
The Corghi Artiglio 50 takes car, 4WD, and light truck
wheels from 12” right up to 30”.
Do you have problems changing Low Profile & Run
Flat tires?
The Corghi Artiglio 50 easily handles these and only
requires one person to work the machine.
Do you find that you damage wheel rims?
The Corghi Artiglio 50 does not require tire levers and
handles expensive alloys with kid gloves (i.e. no scratches
or marks).
ers,” said Don Frisby, president of Frisby Tire. “I’m buying at a
better price.”
The Frisby name is well known to tire customers in the Ottawa area; the company was originally known as “Frisby the
Vulcanizer” when Don Frisby’s great-uncle
George Frisby founded it in 1920 on a dirt
road in the downtown area of the nation’s
capital. The company is still in family hands,
Don Frisby and Bertrand Gariépy,
director of Sales – Eastern
Canada for Michelin
now in the third generation, owned by Don
Would you like to speed up the amount of time it
takes to change tires?
The Corghi Artiglio 50 is 50% faster than ordinary tire
changers thanks to the new single arm bead breaker. Faster
turnaround means increased productivity.
Do you find it an effort to change
more difficult tires?
The Corghi Artiglio 50 saves your back by mounting the
wheel via a special lifting cradle automatic operation.
Frisby, his mother, and two brothers.
Premier partnership program
The Michelin Alliance Tire Professionals network is a premier
manufacturer-sponsored partnership program that aims to further relations with independent dealers, offering a wide range of
value-added services, sales incentives, and advertising programs,
but which still allows dealers the opportunity to focus on manag-
ARTIGLIO 50
ing and growing their own businesses. “A few years ago, it was tailored to smaller mom-and-pop stores,” Frisby said. “Now there’s a
trend for some of the larger dealers like us to join them.”
While Frisby continues his own advertising and the cooperative
30
th
marketing that he has always done with Michelin, he also takes
advantage of some of the company’s community-based initiatives.
y
ann iversar
Being part of a family that has successfully marketed tires for 88
years, Frisby understands the importance of building his business through such programs, which he then backs up with his
service and merchandise. “We’ve been with Michelin since the
Importer of CORGHI products in Canada
early 1970s,” he said. “Having been with them for over 35 years
says something, and what comes to my mind is that it’s a good,
Regional Distributors
solid product.” tn
Montréal . .
Toronto . . .
Winnipeg . .
Saskatoon .
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
800-663-0814
800-268-7432
204-953-6644
306-242-6080
Edmonton .
Calgary . . .
Vancouver .
Kelowna . . .
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888-458-8055
403-287-3021
888-240-1481
888-303-6830
8 and this
Drift Mania is back in 200
is sponsored
time, the Canadian season
ost a natural
by BFGoodrich tires, alm
orsport.
brand for this kind of mot
six
of
ts
sis
The full season con
at the
nts
competitions with two eve
r Montreal,
Autodrome St-Eustache nea
Montmagny
two more at l’Autodrome
at Downsview
one
y,
close to Quebec Cit
and the last
a,
Park in the Toronto are
y in Edmonton
one at the Castrol Racewa
Alberta.
I
t seems that drifting is a sport that
has caught on more in Quebec than
anywhere else in Canada (at any rate,
Quebecers are avid motorsport fans,
no matter the formula!), but what really matters is that tire companies are
also participating actively in the sport…
actually to a point where we could call
it a Tire War! Seen at St-Eustache were
major players such as General Tire with
its impressive team including legendary
driver Marcos Santos, and BFGoodrich,
photos: Éric Descarries
which not only sponsors the series but
also a team of two Pontiac GTOs, one
driven by Ryan Lanteigne, the other
by the only woman running as a regular competitor in the series, Tanya
Bourbonnais. Among other big names
are Korean manufacturers Hankook
The Hankook team was present at the second Drift Mania competition.
and Kumho, whose driver, Carl Nadeau
is a strong competitor, Japanese manufacturers Yokohama, Toyo, and Falken,
and Italian Marangoni.
Last June 29, the Drift Mania Canadian
Championship made its second stop of
the season at l’Autodrome St-Eustache.
Here is a post card of the action at
l’Autodrome.
tn
Porsche
ar looking
This peculi
res was
rangoni ti
running Ma
engine!
a Chevy V8
powered by
Wrong way!
22
Tire News
tn
August 2008
Éric Descarries
[email protected]
The BFGoodrich stand
was very popular.
only
.) is the
bonnais (l
is
e
Sh
Tanya Bour
ion.
e competit
’s
woman in th
ch
ri
od
with BFGo
seen here
ato.
Maria Mand
The BFGoodrich team uses American Pontiac GTOs.
Carl Nadeau is
Kumho’s star driver.
Three stunt bikers
were also part of
the show.
Castrol Canada had a big stand at
Drift Mania, where it showed its
modified Saturn Sky.
Falken tire were used by this
competitor.
BFGoodrich’s
balloon was having
trouble coping with
the wind!
Our strength … exclusive and private brands
Our commitment … quick and no-hassle service!
More than 200,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space...
in Montréal, Sherbrooke, Moncton, St. John’s, and Toronto
• Passenger/Light Truck, TBR, Off-road and Industrial
• Free transactional site
• Territories available (contact Denis Monette, 514-457-0155 or [email protected])
21500 Transcanadienne I Baie D’Urfé, QC H9X 4B7 I 1-800-364-9466
www.cdatire.com
The driver of this
unsponsored older
Toyota Corolla was
spectacular!
Jil McIntosh
[email protected]
Training Initiatives: Thinking Outside the Box
Non-traditional Methods Produce
Exceptional Results
Training is a huge part of every company’s budget, and naturally, you want it to be well-spent. But
sometimes there’s a better way than traditional learning; alternative methods can often be more effective, as
employees learn new ways to increase productivity. Below are three that use unconventional methods with
exceptional results.
Eagle’s Flight: Service excellence
Le Chevauthier: Lessons Without Words
Eagle’s Flight, in Guelph, Ontario, provides
Most training programs teach employees
Le Chevauthier teaches clients how to
what it calls “experiential learning,” but with
how to interact with other people. Le
communicate with a partner who cannot
a twist. While the premise is similar to being
Chevauthier, in La Présentation, Quebec,
talk. After academic lessons, it’s out to
stranded in the wilderness and working to-
teaches by matching clients with horses.
the horses, where each participant leads
a horse within a group of four people.
gether, it all happens in one room, in the
space of a couple of hours.
“The horse, this noble animal, so impressive due to its size and impetuousness, is
“We choose the ones that best suit each
“This isn’t a typical training activity where
motivated by the instinct of fear, just like
person’s temperament, as per our evalu-
you’re role-playing,” says Sabrina Geldart, man-
a human being,” says Diane Authier. “He
ation,” Authier says. “During the entire
ager of Consumer Products at Eagle’s Flight.
will be either sympathetic, empathetic,
walk, they will face numerous situations
“You are who you are, and with the information
unpleasant, or apathetic. Our workshops
relating to their attitudes and the chal-
given, you have to figure out how you will be
allow participants to accurately identify
lenges they will encounter within their
successful and meet your goal.”
their own strengths and weaknesses in
work groups. All this, while establishing
order to use them effectively by assigning
a zone of rapport and trust with this
In one experience, participants must imagine
the right person in the right place. There
horse which becomes, for the duration
racing across the desert to find gold in the
are no bad horses; they’re simply not all
of the exercise, the reflection of the per-
face of adversity. Once the mission is accom-
in the right stable.”
son walking by his side.”
plished, the trainers explain the lesson. “We
know exactly what you’ll learn, because it’s
embedded into the program,” Geldart says.
Pit Instruction & Training: Shaving Seconds
“You got seven gold bars, what does that
Car racing is the ultimate in teamwork,
based on skills that helped real pit crews to
mean for your productivity?”
as a pit crew jumps over the wall, fuels
pare five seconds off each pit stop—a huge
the car, and changes the tires, all in thir-
increment in racing that might translate
Training sessions are geared to specific needs.
teen seconds. Pit Instruction & Training
into hours over a day’s work in a shop.
“We have a two-day course that talks about
in Mooresville, North Carolina not only
the difference between customer service and
trains real pit crews, but also teaches
Combining the excitement of racing with
service excellence,” Geldart says. “There’s
teamwork to those who will only ever
lessons, the program starts in the class-
what we think of as customer service, answer-
watch racing on television.
room and then moves to the pit, where
ing phones, dealing with customers politely,
and then there’s service excellence, where
The company’s “Lean Performance U” pro-
communication, work standardization, ef-
you go in and change the mindset of the em-
gram teaches how to get the job done while
ficiency, and preparation. The program is
ployee, going beyond to how you think about
reducing waste, time and cost, and improv-
effective enough that United Airlines has
your job and the customer.”
ing quality and value to the customer. It’s
used it to help train its ground crews. tn
Le Chevauthier: www.chevauthier.com
Pit Instruction & Training: www.5off5on.com
Eagle’s Flight: www.eaglesflight.com
24
clients face a variety of challenges to learn
Tire News
tn
August 2008
WINTER’S BEST FRIENDS
WINTER REBATES
50 - 210 SOTTOZERO/SNOWSPORT
$30 - WINTER CARVING/EDGE
$40 - SCORPION ICE & SNOW
$
CONSUMER MAIL-IN REBATES VALID WITH THE PURCHASE OF 4 TIRES FROM SEPTEMBER 1st TO DECEMBER 31st, 2008.
Tire Recycling
Jil McIntosh
[email protected]
Rubber Summit Is a Success
Looking at Key Issues from
Components to Consumers
With all indications that times are going to get worse before they get better, the Rubber Association of
Canada (RAC) decided it was time to take action. Last May, for the first time, it combined its Executive
Seminar with a Rubber Summit, inviting everyone involved with the rubber industry, at any level, to the event
at Niagara-on-the-Lake in Ontario.
“
T
he next three years is forecasted to be
Canadian dollar against the U.S. currency,
difficult for manufacturing in Canada,
the use of carbon credits, and the rise of
and especially our industry,” said Gilles
biofuels. “It actually opened the eyes of
Paquette, Communications manager for
some, especially the smaller manufactur-
the RAC. “This will affect us directly, so we
ers,” Paquette says. “Instead of a bird’s-eye
thought it would be appropriate and ben-
view, it gives them an eagle’s-eye view,
eficial to host the summit. Every two years,
where it focused on more than just what
RAC hosts its Executive Seminar, inviting
you can see around you and is tangible, to
executives from its membership to come in
focusing on things that affect our industry,
and discuss a specific issue.
part of a global market. It put people in
“This year, we decided to change it with
other components, to the outlook for the
tune with what’s going on outside the four
the Rubber Summit, which would be open
North American automotive market, in a
walls of their establishment.”
to the manufacturing industry and anyone
presentation by industry analyst Dennis
who supplies to the rubber industry, includ-
DesRosiers, which helped to give some
Forecasting Markets
ing petroleum, chemical companies, and
insight into how much demand there will
Speakers included representatives of rub-
manufacturing.”
be for tires and other automotive products,
ber, chemical, fibre and steel companies,
both at the OEM and replacement levels.
as well as the Ontario Ministry of Economic
The RAC then took it a step further, using
Development and Trade; the luncheon
Held as a day-long event during the four-
the information gleaned from the Rubber
speaker was Faith Goodman, vice-presi-
day Executive Seminar, the Rubber Summit
Summit to further its discussion at the re-
dent of the Canadian Petroleum Products
drew 61 participants, who heard nine semi-
mainder of the Executive Seminar.
Institute, who spoke about oil prices and
International participation
nars and a luncheon speaker. While most
26
such as chemicals and supplies, which are
ral rubber, carbon black, steel, fibre and
how they are forecast.
participants were from Canada and the
New factors to consider
northern United States, overseas countries
Speakers looked at a number of factors
The summit was considered so successful
such as Belgium were also represented.
that will affect the industry in the near
that Paquette said the RAC plans to host
future; many of them haven’t really been
a similar event in the future. “This is the
No industry operates in a bubble, espe-
considered very heavily before, such as
first time we’ve done something like this,”
cially one that reaches so far from sup-
the effects of weather patterns on natural
he said. “Usually it’s only an Executive
plier to consumer as rubber does, and
rubber plantations, new centres of demand
Seminar, but it went well and we were
the summit looked at both ends of the
for all products and supplies such as China
pleased, and I can see us repeating this in
scale, from suppliers of synthetic and natu-
and India, the relative strength of the
the next two years again.”
Tire News
tn
August 2008
tn
POTENZA G019 GRID All Season Performance
�
�
�
�
�
�
�
Silica to boost wet grip
Wider footprint to improve cornering
Advanced directional tread pattern for rapid water evacuation
Sophisticated and sporty looks
Veri-pitch design for a quiet ride
Uni-T Technology
80,000 Kilometer Treadwear Limited Warranty
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[email protected]
www.tiredistribution.com
SPECIAL REPORT
Éric Descarries [email protected]
Canadians Are Increasingly
Into Winter Tires
There was a time when they were known only as “snow grips.” Nowadays, there is so much technology and
work involved in them that they are properly identified as “winter tires.” Some companies even call them
“tires for the cold.” In the past, the province of Quebec was the biggest consumer of winter tires because of
all the snow it received year after year. But since, tire manufacturers have “massaged” the product to the
point it performs better on cold pavement or ice than before. And that is a Pan-Canadian affair!
A
ccording to the Rubber Association
the numerous snow storms that hit that
turers are developing “pure” summer tires,
of Canada, winter tire sales have
province last winter. Alberta, Manitoba,
most of them performance oriented, and
increased from 24% of the market in
and Saskatchewan are not known to be
proper winter tires to replace them during
2002 to 32% in 2007. The total sales in
big winter tire buyers. But most recently,
the cold season. Yes, there still are quite
2007 were of 6.3 million winter tires. The
the advantages of the latest winter tire
a lot of all-season tires on the market and
RAC indicates that winter tire sales have
technologies have caught up with many
some of them could be adequate in winter
increased by an average of 6% per year,
motorists. Since 2002, winter tire sales in
where the season is not as bad. But re-
while total tire market sales have gained
Alberta have climbed from 10% to 15%,
member that the Rubber Manufacturers
an average of 0.9% per year. Broken
but Manitoba and Saskatchewan have
Association has declared that the com-
down into categories, the general type
been through more important increases,
pounds used in all-season tires lose a lot
of tire went through sales that increased
climbing from respectively 8% and 7%
of their suppleness at 7 degrees Celsius,
by 4%. But light-duty truck tires saw an
to 16%!
which is 46 degrees Fahrenheit. And there
increase of 22%, high-performance winter
are not many places in Canada which are
tires were up 9%, and P-metric light truck
More new products to come
tires saw their sales increase by 16%, all
Canadians are opening up to the idea of
in the last five years.
winter tires. More and more tire manufac-
us d’hiver par rapport
de pneus
Not (%)
only in Quebec
Consequently, winter tire sales have grown
a lot, but not only in2002
Quebec, as many
people might have thought. According
to the RAC, 63% of 2007
Quebec tire sales
are winter tires. It was 53% in 2002.
Newfoundland is next with 46%, followed by New Brunswick with 41%, and
Winter tire sales against total tire sales (%)
75%
2002
61%
53%
65%
2007
55%
46%
45%
41%
38% 31%
31%
45%
Nova Scotia with 38%. Also in the East,
PEI comes 32%
in fifth with 31%, followed by
24%
regularly warmer than that in winter… tn
British Columbia with 25% (an increase
25%
14%
20%
14%
since 2002 when winter tires represent-
32%
24%
31%
29%
35%
25%
14%
20%
14%
25%
ed only 14% of its market). Ontario is
16%16%
15% 8% 7%
10%
slowly becoming increasingly aware of the
15%
10%
16%16%
8% 7%
15%
Source:
Rubber Association of Canada
benefits of winter tires with its numbers
climbing from 14% to 20%. It could be
ON
AB
ion
outchouc
28
even
more
in 2008, mostly because of
MB
SK
CA
Tire News
tn
August 2008
5%
QC
NFLD
NS
NB
PEI
BC
ON
AB
MB
SK
CA
2009 WINTER TIRES
What’s New for 2009?
Spectacular New Winter Tires
Ever since its beginnings, Tire News has published information on just about everything that was manufactured in the winter tire segment—this year is no exception. And, as in the past, we will be treating the coming
season with as much respect and detail as possible. Actually, winter tires have become one of the most important purchases for many Canadian motorists, especially in Quebec where a new law makes winter tires
mandatory during the cold season. Does this mean that other Canadian provinces will do the same…?
Every year, many tire manufacturers introduce one of a few new winter tires. Technological advances are
helping them design and produce some of the most sophisticated products ever offered on the market. Prices
have increased as expected, since the price of oil has recently skyrocketed. But, nonetheless, many motorists
want what’s best not only for their ride but also for their own protection and that of their passengers. They
will ask for the newest and best winter tires possible. Here are some of the star products they will find at
their tire dealer this fall.
Winter Sottozero Serie II
In 2004, Pirelli came out with its Winter Sottozero highperformance line of winter tires. This winter, Pirelli is bringing back the Winter Sottozero tire but in a new improved
package, the Serie II. Developed to be environmentally
friendly, the new Winter Sottozero Serie II is recognizable
by its asymmetric tread pattern with two different designs.
The inner section is made with a rigid compound for wet
and dry pavement. The outer section is more specifically
designed for snow and ice with widely spaced blocks that increase winter performance. Sipes are designed into “brick”
patterns that stabilize the movement of the blocks under
pressure. In addition, Pirelli uses Temperature Dynamic
photo: Éric Descarries
Compound, which adjusts to the temperature. The inner
section uses a stiffer formula while the outer section features a softer compound.
The new Pirelli Winter Sottozero Serie II will be offered in
36 sizes to begin with—they will range from 16- to 20-inch
rims in the 65 to 30 ratios and H, V, and W speed ratings,
many with the “Extra Load” mention. Tire News had the
opportunity to try the tires in the snow last June in the
The new Pirelli Winter Sottozero Serie II is targeted at performance
cars but can be used on high-end sedans also.
Swiss Alps.
August 2008
tn
Tire News
29
SPECIAL REPORT
Éric Descarries [email protected]
Michelin introduced its X-Ice winter tire only
are small paddles within the middle groove that
a few years ago. But as technology evolves,
give better traction and stopping power in deep
so must winter tires, which is why Michelin
snow. Lugged shoulders have edges that bite in
launched a upgraded version of its famous X-Ice
snow while small knobs within the block edges
tire in Quebec last February, the X-Ice Xi2.
lock up and give better lateral rigidity.
One of the tire engineers’ main concern is to
Michelin is also proud to point out that its new
give the winter tire the best possible grip on ice
X-Ice Xi2 has Green X characteristics that con-
and wet pavement. That is why the French engi-
tribute to lower rolling resistance. Finally, the
neers came up with an advanced technology of
French manufacturer announced a longer wear
tread blocks that work with Flex-Ice, a rubber
life for the X-Ice Xi2. This new winter tire will
silica-based compound that gives better grip
be available in 42 sizes for 13- to 18-inch rim
and braking power. The V-shape in the direc-
diameters and T-rated speed index, enough to
tional tread also helps evacuate water and fight
cover more than 90% of the Canadian market
hydroplaning. As for traction in the snow, there
for cars and minivans.
New studdable truck tires
photo: Éric Descarries
X-Ice Xi2
Michelin has come out with an improved version
of its X-Ice winter tire, the X-Ice Xi2.
Korean tire manufacturer Hankook has gained a lot of popular-
The I’ZEN KW23
ity in the winter tire segment by providing motorists with the
Kumho has also been listening to motorists’ needs and de-
products they were asking for. Here is its 2009 winter tire line
mands. Its latest product is the I’ZEN KW23, a winter tire
up. It begins with the W300, a studless performance tire that
that is aimed at some of the most popular small cars. This
fits most fine automobiles on the market. Last year, Hankook
I’ZEN features a maximized tread contact area with 3-di-
offered 46 sizes of the W300 but for the upcoming winter, there
mensional sipes that are designed to improve traction on
will be 50 of them. The popular studdable W409 winter tire is
snow and ice. Angled grooves minimize slippage on lateral
still on the market with 46 sizes for most popular vehicles on
direction. Among the KW23’s features are zigzag sipes also
the road. Note that the older W440 is now discontinued.
designed to minimize slippage but also to fight uneven wear
caused by excessive movement of blocks by shear stress. The
But the big news this year is the RW07 I-Pike winter tire for
longitudinal straight rib optimizes straight driving stability,
light trucks available in 13 sizes and now accompanied by the
while the channel grooves increase water drainage thanks to
all-new RW11 fully studdable unit available in
the combination of two straight and two angled grooves.
8 sizes for 18-inch wheels and 3 for 20inch wheels, thus answering the needs
of many SUVs and pick-up trucks.
Note the rounded shoulders designed to improve lateral
aquaplaning resistance. It works by making the contact area
larger on wet roads when cornering. Kumho claims it has
Consequently, Hankook has less win-
come up with a new silica formula that is highly dispersible
ter tire sizes than last year on the
to improve abrasion resistance and rolling resistance by rein-
market, 120 against 147. But sizes
forcing bonding power between the rubber and the silica.
and products have been carefully
studied to fulfill the winter needs of
The I’ZEN KW23 is available in nine
about every motorist in Canada.
sizes for 14- to 17-inch wheels in
the 65 to 45 ratios and T, H, and
V speed ratings.
Hankook is launching the Dynapro
I-Pike RW11 studdable winter tire for big
wheels on SUVs and pick-ups.
30
Tire News
tn
August 2008
The new Kumho I’ZEN KW23 is
available in nine sizes.
2009 WINTER TIRES
A new WR G2 winter tire
Finnish tire maker Nokian is finally bringing its
ations. Nokian has thus designed innovative slush
WR G2 winter tire to Canada. This ultra-modern
wedges and polished grooves that thrust heavy
tire will be recognizable by its asymmetrical
slush and water out to prevent aquaplaning.
tread design with the outer part designed for
better handling and stability, while the inner part
In addition, Nokian is proud to announce that
is made for outstanding grip on ice and snow.
its WR G2 is manufactured by using only low
aromatic purified oils, which are environmental-
But what really stands out in this new tire is the
ly friendly, and a new rubber compound made
technology developed by its engineers for safer
from silica and canola oil in order to reduce roll-
driving in slush, one of Canada’s very common situ-
ing resistance and, at the same time, save oil.
Nokian is finally bringing
the WR G2 to Canada.
The new Presa Ice
The Winterforce is back
Maxxis International has obviously noticed Canadian mo-
Firestone is back in the winter tire segment, and has
torists’ needs, including the demand for performing winter
brought the Winterforce and Winterforce UV brands with
tires. Its latest offering is the new Presa Ice, a studless tire
it. Consequently, Firestone is proud to announce that its
featuring an advanced tread compound designed to tackle
Winterforce and Winterforce UV are siped and studdable
both ice and snow. Note the special shoulder design for
(for # 12 studs), with directional computer-modeled tread
snow in straight and lateral traction.
designs to help motorists face snow, ice, and wet pavement. Firestone also guaranties the tires will offer a quiet
Among its many characteristics, Maxxis points out the saw-
and comfortable ride. The Winterforce, designed mostly for
toothed block and high density sipes arrangement to im-
cars, is available in 34 sizes for 13- to 17-inch wheels in
prove grip in snow. Also, there are
saw-toothed groves and ribs for
better stability. What cannot
the 80 to 55 ratios, all with
S-speed rating, while the
Winterforce UV is better
be seen is the jointless spiral-
for light trucks, SUVs,
wrapped nylon cap that gives
and minivans. It is
the tire uniformity and sta-
available in 18 sizes
bility—but what can be seen
for 15- to 17-inch
is the random pitch arrange-
wheels in the 75 to
ment that should produce
65 ratios all with
a very low tire noise. The
S-speed rating.
new Maxxis will be available
for 13- to 16-inch wheels in
the 70 to 55 ratios all with
Q-speed rating.
Maxxis is introducing its
new Presa Ice winter tire.
Firestone is back in the winter tire
segment with the Winterforce and
Winterforce UV (shown here).
August 2008
tn
Tire News
31
Éric Descarries
[email protected]
From Goodyear and Michelin
New Tires for Performance Drivers
The summer is not over yet, and there are still a few months of beautiful weather before winter hits us.
Some parts of Canada will even be blessed with better weather than others, so performance tire sales are
still going on. For that segment of the industry, both Goodyear and Michelin have new interesting products
to offer.
Goodyear Eagle GT
Michelin relaunches the Pilot Sport
The name ring a bell? It should. Goodyear has been using the
If you look at Michelin’s latest iteration of its Pilot Sport A/S Plus,
Eagle GT name for quite a while on its performance tires. But
you might think you have seen this tread pattern before. Actually,
now, Goodyear has a totally new line up of Eagle GT tires that will
you will be right because the Pilot Sport A/S Plus keeps the
replace the former Eagle GT-HR line. This new Eagle GT shares
original design developed for the Sport A/S but the Plus means
some of its compounds with the F-1 All Season tire but is offered
the Michelin engineers have developed not one, not two, but
at a market based pricing since it appeals to a very large group
three new compounds for the tread. And these three compounds
of performance drivers. All in all, Goodyear will be offering 43
combined will give the new Sport A/S Plus a tread life of 45,000
sizes of Eagle GTs covering a vast majority of high-performance
miles (72,500 km)… guaranteed!
segments. The American manufacturer has recently begun a first
production of many basic sizes, while phases two and three of the
The new Pilot Sport A/S Plus will first be available in the 29 most
production are scheduled for August and September.
common sizes for many performance and sporty cars beginning
in September as the remaining 30 sizes (which will replace all the
Goodyear is aiming different types of buyers, including the pas-
sizes of the actual Sport sizes) will be on the market in March
sionate driver who wants an affordable performance tire, the
2009.
younger performance restyler who probably didn’t know about
the original Eagle GT brand, and the unsuspecting performance
shopper who might have never known that his or her vehicle is
also designed for performance tires.
photos: Éric Descarries
The new Eagle GT will be offered in V- and W-speed ratings for
high volume 15- and 16-inch sizes. It will also be available for the
fast growing 17- and 18-inch sizes as well as some of the more
exotic 19-, 20-, and 22-inch sizes!
The new Michelin Pilot Sport A/S Plus will be guaranteed for 45,000 miles (72,500 km).
Bob Toth from Goodyear introduced us to the new Eagle GT.
32
Tire News
tn
August 2008
The three colours represent
the different compounds used
for the tread of the new Pilot
Sport A/S Plus.
Michelin introduces a
replacement tire for Corvettes
Replacement tires for Corvettes
are not easy to find. So Michelin
is introducing a replacement
tire for the latest C5 and C6
Corvettes, including the C6 Z06.
Consequently, there will be a
few P2S ZP (run-flat) tires available from the French manufacturer in the 245/45ZR17 and
245/40ZR18 fitments for C5s,
245/45ZR18 and 285/35ZR19
for the C6, and 285/30ZR19
and 335/25ZR20 for the C6
Z06. Michelin will also offer the
PS A/S ZP all-season tire for
the C5. Tire News had the opportunity to try out these new
products at Michelin’s proving
grounds at Laurens in South
Carolina to discover how well
the replacement
behaved in
Tire News:Layout
1 tire
7/25/2008
extreme situations. tn
12:37 PM
Page 1
Michelin now has replacement tires for C5 and C6 Corvettes.
OTR TIRES & RUBBER TRACKS
MULTI-PURPOSE
BACKHOE
LOADER L3
GRADER
DRIVING PRODUCTIVITY
For more information please contact us at 1-800-361-5441,
[email protected] or visit our website www.solideal.ca.
DURATOUGH RADIAL
François Charron
[email protected]
Inspiring Students in Their Career Choices
Five F1 Reps Share
Their Experience
The Canadian Grand Prix is, without question, one of the most soughtafter events in the country each year, welcoming visitors from all over
the world and current newsmakers of this most popular motor sport.
Executives from Bridgestone, official tire supplier for all F1 racing teams
until 2010, came up with the idea to organize a visit of F1 personalities
at Saint-Henri high school in the Montreal area, the day before the race
at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.
T
Bridgestone’s open house
at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve
welcomed thousands
of visitors during the
Canadian Grand Prix.
Here we see the team of
Pneus Sarrazin admiring
a replica of Michael
Schumacher’s 2005
Ferrari.
he excitement could be felt in the auditorium of the Saint-Henri school, filled with
adolescents seeking guidance in their choice of a future career. In response to
questions from Michel Lacroix, the voice of the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre,
the five guests each described their professional journey, which led them each to flourish among the elite in this unique sport.
From architecture to F1
Silvia Hoffer Frangipane, press agent for AT&T Williams, began by explaining that in
spite of her degree in architecture, she chose a first-time employment in communications with the motorcycle manufacturer Ducati. “Over the years, I took advantage of
the opportunities that came my way, and I must say that I love my work.” She concluded by relating a typical day’s work with her team.
A childhood dream
It was then up to Tonio Liuzzi, test driver for the Force India Team, to share his pas-
Silvia Hoffer Frangipane, Tonio Liuzzi, Steve Clark, Jean-Pierre Raymond, and Gino Rossato,
who had the opportunity to pursue a career in the jet set world of the F1.
34
Tire News
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August 2008
Translated from its original French by Marc-Alain Nantel.
sion for the sport, which began in his early childhood. “I started my career in 1991
Another attraction is the Canadian Grand Prix
Festival held on Crescent street—a cornucopia of
activities swarms the street, the terraces are filled
to the hilt, and everyone seems overjoyed.
Canadian
Grand Prix
A nice opening day for this event of international scope,
where auto racing fans join enthusiastically
in the activities at hand.
Text & photos: Marie-Josée Rousseau [email protected]
Many students questioned the illustrious guests on
their life experience as well as on the ups and downs
linked to their field of expertise.
with karting, then proceeded to Formula
3000 in 2002. I’ve been an F1 test driver for four years, trying out cars before
each race and during the year.”
He was followed by Steve Clark, chief
engineer for the Honda team; Jean-Pierre
Raymond, in charge of logistics and safety
for ING Renault; then Gino Rossato from
Laval, coordinator of sponsor services for
Ferrari, who is worthy of being heard.
An imaginative dropout
Gino relates: “I was terrible in school and I
aspired to play for the Montreal Canadien
team one day. However, upon my first visit
to the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in 1991, I
Bridgestone offered an exhibit on tire manufacturing
presented by employees from the Bridgestone Firestone
plant in Joliette.
was smitten. At first, I had the nerve to
offer to run errands for the personnel, and
in 1994 I obtained regular employment.”
He concluded by encouraging the young
people to persevere and complete their
studies in order to prepare for a brighter
future.
tn
PM
Onlookers could enjoy privileged access to the
pits of F1 cars. Around 100,000 racing fans were
present. Visitors watched as the teams were
getting the high-performance cars ready.
Jeremy Smith, public affairs director for Bridgestone
Firestone Canada, handed over a $2,500 cheque to
school principal Sylvain Auger, to foster careers in his
institution.
August 2008
tn
Tire News
35
Wheels
Éric Descarries
[email protected]
Keep Your Wheels Looking Sharp
Wheel Refinishing
Wheels are very vulnerable to road damage, worse even in Eastern Canada where snow, ice, and salt
damage their finish more that road hazards.
W
heels can make or break a car. Why
do you think customizers spend
so much on fancy wheels to make their
creation stand out? In many cases, people
who buy a new vehicle spend more time deciding which wheels they will choose than
the colour of the paint.
There are many products on the market
to clean and maintain fancy wheels. But
wheels are also prone to scratches and/or
damages. Their finish can dull with time,
and driving in snow and sleet will just
worsen the situation. There then comes a
time when the wheels just look bad. They
have lost their shine and the whole vehicle
looks much older than it really is.
If this is the case on some of your customsuggest a refurbishing job on their alloy
Fancy wheels might need refurbishing one day.
wheels. But before you do this, get in touch
aged wheel that might break and cause an
with the best shop in your area.
accident thereafter.
Professionalism first
Slight cracks or broken parts on the lips
Many economy cars and trucks come
You might have to choose between many
can be repaired but conscientious shops
with painted steel wheels. In such a case,
wheel shops close to your own business.
will not go further. But they will go to
the vehicle will probably still bear a good
At any rate, you should first trust some of
high extremes to give alloy wheels their
looking paint with little damage. But badly
the most renowned names. But, in their
original shine and shape. The wheels will
rusted or unpainted wheels will give it a
case, be aware that they might not want
be repaired, polished, and painted to their
very bad look. Those basic looking steel
to do just any job. Highly professional
original lustre and they will carry a valuable
wheels can also be brought back to their
shops will want to evaluate the wheels by
warranty.
original shine and if they are way too
Steel wheels too
rusted to be repaired, a good replacement
themselves first. If a wheel is cracked or
36
and polished to match the original finish.
warped, chances are it will be rejected. Do
On the other hand, if the wheel is too
part could be suggested to your customer
not take it personally. Those shops are very
badly damaged to be repaired, the spe-
just to give his vehicle a much better look.
much concerned by liability and they will
cialty shop will most likely be able to find
And that could make your customer very
not take the risk of repairing a badly dam-
a proper replacement that will be cleaned
happy again.
Tire News
tn
August 2008
tn
photo: Éric Descarries
ers’ vehicles, it might be a good idea to
SEMA Custom Wheel &
Tire Specialist Certification
YOU ASKED FOR IT.
François Charron
[email protected]
Pros & Cons
Nanotechnologies
Nanotechnology is the world of the infinitesimal (one billionth of a
metre). One particle is to a metre what a football is to the earth! A very
recent and promising science for countless industrial, medical, and
aerospatial applications, and others yet to be discovered, it actually
appeared in 1989. Since then, practical applications in the automotive
industry are constantly multiplying.
H
ere are a few among some 300 in
where these micro-particles will end up
existence: lithium-ion batteries—re-
in a few decades when the car is parked
chargeable in 5 minutes, anti-scratch paints,
in the recycling yard? What then will con-
tires made of recyclable silicon carbide
sumers think of you, supplier of these
nanoparticles that double their service life,
miracle products, if they were to discover
and a prospective sales volume of around
a potential danger?
Translated from its original French by Marc-Alain Nantel.
$3 billion in 2014. But… yes, there’s a but!
Regulations and controls
It’s a fact. Business owners, technicians, sales
teams, vehicle dealers and consumers all
benefit from certification. That’s why SEMA
teamed up with ASE, the National Institute for
Automotive Service Excellence, to develop a
world-class certification program exclusively
for custom wheel and tire specialists.
It’s the only nationally recognized program
that measures what you—and your employees—
know about specialty wheel and tire
installation, troubleshooting and repair.
The only professional designation that
recognizes individual achievement on a
national level. Plus a whole lot more.
So what are you waiting for? Start
earning the recognition you deserve.
Become a SEMA Certified Custom
Wheel & Tire Specialist.
SEMA Test Registration:
What You Need to Do
The SEMA Custom Wheel & Tire Specialist Exam
will be conducted on Thursday, November 13, 2008
at more than 700 test centers in the U.S. and Canada.
Eligible candidates must have at least two years
hands-on work experience.
Registration deadline: September 22, 2008.
Some compare the advent of this technology
Until now, nanotechnology remains a new
to the controversy regarding asbestos. They
field of research and application, and its risks
fear the infinitesimal quality of the particles
as well as its benefits, are still subject to tests
that go into the fabrication of the elements—
and evaluations. Throughout Canada, many
tires, paints, electrodes, nanotubes, or oth-
subsidized research centres have the man-
er—can escape into the ambient air and be
date to strengthen innovation in this field
breathed by the organism, or penetrate the
with an economic development approach.
soil or waterways thus contaminating the
These same organizations must also take
environment. Admittedly, to this day, no one
meaningful action in order to promote the
really knows the dangers and consequences
adoption of standards and responsible ad-
linked to this new technology.
ministration when using this technology.
Self-cleaning rims
Research and development
Name
Take for example Chrysler LLC (formerly
Work groups are set up by Federal and
Company
DaimlerChrysler), which recently announced
Provincial Governments to study the ac-
the development of a new type of ‘self-clean-
tual effects of nanoparticles on the envi-
Address
ing’ wheel, composed of a varnish containing
ronment and health. Among the situations
micro-particles of ceramic which protects the
researched are individuals’ exposure to
wheels from scratches, shocks from stones,
various types of nanoparticles (respira-
discolouration, UV rays, and erosion.
tory passages, skin, etc.), and the efficiency
Although the marriage between the lac-
protection against the effects on health
quer and ceramic is theoretically indis-
linked to exposure to various types of
soluble (to play on words), who knows
nanoparticles.
To request a Fall 2008 Custom Wheel & Tire Test
Preparation Guide & Registration Booklet,
complete the form below, and fax it to SEMA,
909/860-0184. Or visit the SEMA website,
www.sema.org/certification. Sign up today for
testing on November 13, 2008!
..................................................................................................................................
Yes, send me ___ copies of the Fall 2008
Custom Wheel & Tire Test Preparation Guide
& Registration Booklet:
evaluation of control methods to ensure
tn
..................................................................................................................................
City
State
ZIP
Phone
Fax
E-mail
Hurry! Registration closes September 22, 2008!
Developed in cooperation with the National
Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.
August 2008
08_Install_Cert_Z5_tirenews_Fall.indd 1
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Tire News
37
7/1/08 9:03:14 AM
Éric Descarries
[email protected]
Tire Makers Face a
New Challenge
Europe Wants
Quieter Tires
The automotive industry has been under fire for quite some time now in Europe. After safety and pollution
matters, here comes the noise concern. Indeed, the European Commission now wants car tires to be quieter
in order to protect citizens from stress-related illness—and unhealthy noise levels are part of those.
A
c c o rd i n g to Au to m o t i ve N ews
Europe, automakers and, particu-
larly, tire makers disagree and oppose
the Commission’s proposal. Both say that
such measures will make quieter tires less
capable of stopping quickly, which would
make driving more dangerous. On the
other side, proponents of quieter tires do
not agree, arguing that the current noises
harm the health of those hearing traffic
Today’s cars and trucks are quieter than
ever, but with a growing traffic volume,
come a directive. Nonetheless, by pushing
overall noise is rising. So, according to the
it, it could happen by the end of 2008.
European Tire and Rubber Manufacturer’s
tire production. On the other hand, as
Association (ETRMA), the noise limits can-
What makes such noise?
not be achieved by the tire industry. The
Tire noise is generated by two factors: the
could be quieter and more energy efficient
demands are too big in cuts of noise and
tire’s tread blocks on the road and the
if they did not have to be strengthened for
rolling resistance to maintain wet-weather
sound of air being expelled by the tread
high maximum speeds of 250 km/h, they
grip and durability. According to Burkhard
sculptures. That is why tire manufacturers
will have to expect some kind of defence
Wies, head of car-tire development for
try to design tire treads with asymmetri-
from the German auto industry that builds
German tire maker Continental, when
cal sculptures. But, more tread grooves,
cars capable of the country’s limit-free
interviewed by Automotive News Europe,
deeper and larger ones and wider tires,
autobahns.
the low rolling resistance and wet grip are
produce more noise no matter how much
the two toughest conflicting objectives.
the manufacturers try to design them oth-
By the way, the EU could exempt winter
erwise. Road texture is another contribu-
tires, studded tires, off-road tires on emer-
Nonetheless, the Forum of European
tor to noise. Apparently, experimental
gency vehicles, and some mud, snow, and
National Highway Laboratories (FEHRL)
surfaces using rubber granules from used
ultra-wide tires but environmental groups
said that almost all car tires made noise
tires could cut noise up to 12 decibels.
oppose exemptions for tire on high-perfor-
below current limits (half were three deci-
38
Will tire noise be under attack in America too?
green groups argue that European tires
mance SUVs.
bels or more lower), allowing the research
America next?
institutes and lobbyists to say that the
David Stafford, COO of Michelin Americas
Note that some European countries have
results from FEHRL prove the industry can
Research Co., told Tire News that such
already enforced laws against noise from
and should do more! But, as expected, the
regulations would be highly improbable
heavy-duty trucks and their engines. It
slow EU legislative process will surely take
in America. Yet, we all know that what is
looks like tire engineers will have more
a year or more for the proposals to be-
done in Europe influences North American
work to do in the coming years!
Tire News
tn
August 2008
tn
photo: Éric Descarries
noise.
Jil McIntosh
[email protected]
Rubber Recycling: Added Value
for Yesterday’s Tires
Vancouver Hosts
Experts from Around
the World in October
We invite you
to Be Tire Smart
and Play Your P.A.R.T.
Order the professional DVD today and
show your customers important tire maintenance while they are visiting your shop.
Help them protect the environment, their
It’s no longer enough to “think green”—all mem-
families and their pocketbooks by making
bers of the tire industry, and the rubber industry in
sure their tires are always properly inflated
general, have to be proactive when it comes to the
end-of-life of its product. To that end, the Rubber
and maintained.
Association of Canada (RAC) will present its 2008
Rubber Recycling Symposium on October 29 to 31 in
Vancouver, B.C.
“
T
he theme of this year’s symposium is ‘Risk and Reward’,”
says Gilles Paquette, Communications manager for the RAC.
“There is a lot of innovation in the technology of recycling tires, a
lot of new products that are coming out, and so there’s a benefit
to anyone in the recycling or rubber industry to attend. We’ll
have experts from all over the world coming to speak on the latest and greatest when it comes to recycling.”
Three-day program
The three-day program includes numerous seminars, covering
such subjects as tire-derived fuel, the economics of scrap tire
management, new tire technology update, off-the-road recycling, added-value markets, and far-reaching issues such as the
California Business Assistance Program and the international
Basel Convention.
“The program covers all kinds of rubber products, but the bulk
To view the videos, visit
betiresmart.ca/video/rac.asp
is tires,” Paquette says. “We focus on how to get rid of these,
because they mount up fast when you look at all the vehicles on
the road. With four tires on each one, there are naturally a lot of
tires to deal with.”
The Rubber Recycling Symposium is held every two years and
was last hosted in Ottawa. For the Vancouver event, the Gold
Sponsor will be Tire Stewardship B.C.
www.rubberassociation.ca • www.rubberrecycling.ca
To order the DVD,
please call (905) 814-1717
or send an inquiry to
[email protected].
David Lipson
[email protected]
Breaking Down Barriers
April 2008
Intelligent Tire
Technology
Conference
Several Possible
Solutions for TPMS
Without Batteries
Imagine never having to replace the batteries in
your direct TPMS system. There are two systems in
development that could save boatloads of batteries from
heading to the landfill, while simultaneously improving
the performance of intelligent tire systems.
Tire gurus from around the world congregated in
Dearborn, MI on April 28-30 for an intelligent tire
technology conference. Manufactures, dealers, and
C
arl Wacker, vice president of Sales and Marketing at
Schrader Electronics, spoke at the conference about two
repairers focused on Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
of the emerging batteryless technologies.
(TPMS), a pertinent topic in the automotive industry.
Energy harvesting
Energy harvesting is one system in the works. “The current stor-
T
age cell is replaced by a device which creates electrical current
he issue is at the tip of many tongues because TPMS
from the kinetic energy generated in the tire wheel assembly,”
is an emerging technology that is far from perfect. The
says Wacker. “You replace the battery with something that
conference mandate was on education.
actually uses all the vibrations and pounding inside the tire
and turns it into electric energy like a generator.” The current
“I think it’s important that everyone in this room under-
configuration for a direct TPMS does not change with energy
stands that not every vehicle manufacturer, or new car
harvesting. There are still four receivers and one antenna.
dealer, or even tire dealer for that matter, is informed,” said,
Kevin Rohlwing, senior vice president of training and techni-
Inductively coupled
cal services for the Tire Industry Association (TIA).
Inductively coupled is the second system in the works. “The
current storage cell is replaced with an antenna coil which ab-
40
Rohlwing delivered the introductory speech at the confer-
sorbs electromagnetic energy from another coil in close prox-
ence. “This is certainly an opportunity right now to convince
imity to the secondary coil in the sensor,” says Wacker. “It’s
the consumers that TPMS is expensive to maintain and do
like a transformer. It inductively couples energy and then runs
require some special up-keeping, but we’re talking about
off of that energy.” The configuration does change with this
protecting a pretty important aspect of the vehicle,” he said.
system. It can require up to nine components including four
“These systems are worth maintaining, just from the protec-
sensors, one central receiver, and up to four LF coils mounted
tion of the assets alone.”
on the vehicle chassis.
The following articles will focus on three topics discussed at
Green technology?
the conference: TPMS myths and misconception, battery-
Batteryless systems are environmentally friendly, but there
less systems, and RFID technology.
is a misconception that many direct TPMS use hazardous
Tire News
tn
August 2008
Carl Wacker, vice president of Sales and
Marketing at Schrader Electronics
batteries, says Wacker. “It depends on the formulation of the
OFFICIAL SUPPLIER OF
battery. Your typical lithium battery, once the cells are expired, according to the people who manufacture them, can be
thrown in the regular trash. Any of the heavy metal that might
be assumed to be there—isn’t. They basically say that you
PRODUCTS IN CANADA
could possibly consume them.” He believes most manufacturers don’t use batteries that are dangerous, but acknowledges
that some use ‘nasty’ stuff. He cites one company that has to
weld its batteries shut.
Weighing the options for energy harvesting
Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of energy
harvesting highlighted in Wacker’s presentation.
Advantages: No change in design, a potential lifetime device, environmentally friendly, and has tire data storage capability. There is
also the possibility of additional data features such as rev counter,
vertical load, tread temperature, and tire footprint analysis.
Disadvantages: Limited stationary monitoring, data transmission that is dependent on the energy production of the harvester, and still in the development phase.
Weighing the options for inductively coupled
Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of inductively coupled systems highlighted in Wacker’s presentation.
Advantages: High frequency and low frequency possibilities
for data exchange, pressure on demand (the vehicle does not
have to be in motion), potential lifetime device, environmental, high sample and transmission rates, and unlimited energy
within limits of the antenna.
Disadvantages: Requires additional components, limited stationary monitoring and possible dead bands, and the risk of it
being a new device.
Value and cost
Are these systems affordable? “Our belief is that it is going to
be a high end system only, but you are going to get more data
THE LEADING SPECIALIST IN TIRE RACKING
and integrate them with chassis systems,” says Wacker. “I can
tell you that both of the systems that have been priced at this
time point are extremely high—some of these could be two or
three times what you are paying today.” tn
T. 1-800-754-9432
info @mskcanada.com
www.mskcanada.com
David Lipson
[email protected]
Tiny Additions Can Make a Big Difference
Fact and Fancy
How RFID Tags Are Changing
Tire Technology Today
Consumer
Interpreting a tire’s sidewall information can be as difficult as reading the last line on
an eye chart. Wear and tear can leave numbers looking like letters and vice versa. This
can lead to problems in recording and tracking vital information.
A
new technology might make tracking tires
Tire and Wheel Standard and the ISO-17367 are
easier. Radio Frequency Identification
two examples of tire item level RFID.”
vehicles built in the U.S
must be equipped with TPMS in
compliance with Federal Motor
(RFID) tags are miniscule automatic identification devises that can record a life’s worth of infor-
The use of RFID tags in tires is slowly emerging.
Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS)
mation. Pat King, Michelin’s Global Electronics
In 2006, Goodyear was commissioned to place
138. Most cars built before this
strategist, says fleets could benefit from this
tags in all tires in the NASCAR circuit. “Truck
date lack TPMS. Drivers with-
emerging technology. RFID is used in tollbooth
tire applications will be emerging over the next
out the system often check their
collection, animal tracking, toxic waste man-
five to ten years as the key focus as a result of
tires visually, which is not a good
agement, blood tracking, and for various other
business benefits,” says King. “Passenger car
idea, according to Maxgay. For
purposes.
tire RFID will likely not occur until there is user
people without TPMS, “always
demand or a mandate to do so.”
use a quality tire gage when
Here is how it works for tracking tires
measuring your tire pressure,”
An RFID tag is cured into a tire. The tag is
“Global trade had placed renewed interest in
he says. “You can’t tell if a mod-
equipped with an antenna that receives elec-
asset tracking. The Grey Market has placed ad-
ern radial tire is under-inflated
tromagnetic waves sent from a reader. The
ditional commercial pressure on authenticating
just by looking at it. And always
information is sent back to the reader and con-
products, their origin and their intended applica-
put the valve caps back on—they
verted into digital data, which can be stored and
tion. RFID is seen as the key auto identification
help prevent leaks by keeping
managed in a computer. “The tag in the tire can
tool for most of these topics.”
dirt and moisture out.”
translates to approximately 200 characters. The
RFID for the future
For those with TPMS, the light
key data is the tire serial ID and perhaps some
The ability to track items using miniscule micro-
will come on when tire pressure
specific tire information.”
chips brings up ethical and privacy issues. Some
is 25 percent under the recom-
critics say that RFID might be used to track
mended number on the placard.
RFID tags are essentially advanced bar codes.
humans. But how do these privacy issues relate
“When the low tire light comes
They perform similar functions, but bar codes
to tires? “There is not intended to be any,” says
on, it means that one or more
need to be in the line of sight of a reader, RFID
King. “The information intended to be added to
of your tires are under-inflat-
tags do not. RFID can operate using different
the tire is of no more detail than the information
ed,” says Maxgay. “This can be
frequencies. Higher frequencies have longer read
already listed on the sidewall in other forms. The
quickly and simply remedied by
distances and can transfer data quickly. RFID
problem RFID solves is just that. The sidewall in-
adding air to the affected tires—
tags can also be updated.
formation is hard to read and in so many formats
something that the owners can
that it has become ineffective and expensive.
do by themselves. There isn’t
have up to 2K bits of memory,” says King. “This
RFID in the past
42
A
s of Sept. 1, 2007, all
a need to go to the dealership
King says tire companies began experiment-
“In a world where people carry cell phones and
for service, and there’s nothing
ing with low frequency tags in the 1980s. “The
smart cards, and the vehicle on which the tires
wrong with your vehicle, except
problem was cost and short read distance. When
are placed has GPS, and a very large and visible
for the amount of air in your
the retail industry began to support ultra high fre-
license plate—having a tire RFID that is inert
tires.”
quency (UHF) RFID around 2000, UHF tire appli-
read by a reader at no more than 3 feet or 5
cations and standards emerged. Today the B-11
miles per hour appears safe.” tn
Tire News
tn
August 2008
David Lipson
[email protected]
Myths and Misconceptions about TPMS
The sudden flash of a TPMS warning light can cause confusion and anger. John Maxgay, lead TPMS engineer
for General Motors, spoke on the issue at the Intelligent Tire Conference. “We are now providing information
to our drivers, via new messages and telltales, about an issue they don’t understand, don’t appreciate the
importance of, and typically haven’t thought about in some time,” he said about TPMS. But Maxgay believes that
skyrocketing fuel prices are causing consumers to pay attention.
Doing it right
Soaring gas prices are putting TPMS into perspective. “As consumers look to immediate ways to
maximize their gas mileage, they find that maintaining the proper air pressure in their tires is a
simple step to take,” says Maxgay. “GM already
has some marketing material that describes the
benefit of keeping your tires properly inflated. And
we’re considering enhancements to our OnStar
Vehicle Diagnostic that might share the same information.”
During his presentation, Maxgay addressed
some common myths about tire maintenance
from a survey conducted in 2004 by the Rubber
Manufacturer’s Association (RMA), which gauged
customer knowledge. Here is what the survey
found and what Maxgay has to say about it.
More than half of drivers—55 percent—wrongly believe the
correct inflation pressure is written on the tire sidewall.
Maxgay: “The correct inflation pressure for your vehicle is
printed on the Vehicle Tire & Loading Information Label, commonly called the vehicle placard. This is a yellow and white
sticker placed in the driver door opening which contains the
correct cold inflation pressure.”
30 percent wrongly believe that the best time to check their
tires is when they are warm after being driven for at least a
few miles.
Maxgay: “Remember to measure the tire pressure when the
tires are cold (as in, not warmed up by driving), usually defined
as when your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours,
or, driven no more than one mile.”
Nearly one-third of drivers wrongly believe that if they are
taking a trip with a fully loaded vehicle that they are better off
if their tires are a little bit under inflated.
Maxgay: “An under-inflated tire has to work harder to support
the vehicle—and the added weight of people and cargo only
adds to that situation. Tires should always be inflated to the
recommended value (and if anything, a few pounds above the
recommended pressure when the vehicle is loaded, to help
support the extra weight).” tn
August 2008
tn
Tire News
43
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DCAN&*G:<>HI:GCDL6ILLL#H:B6H=DL#8DB
;dgVYY^i^dcVa^c[d!XdciVXi8dck:mmH]dlBVcV\ZbZciVi,%'#)*%#,++'!Zmi#&&-#
NEW
P R O D U C TS
OTC’s New TPMS
Scan Tool and Promo Kit
New Compressor Line
from Chicago Pneumatic
OTC launched its new TPMS Scan Tool (P/N 3870),
which supports both direct and indirect
TPM systems and is offered with the
latest scan coverage for testing and
resetting TPMS equipped cars, lightduty trucks, and mini-vans. The new
3870 tool includes an OBD II Smart
Cable and comes conveniently packaged in a soft nylon carrying
case. Additionally, for a limited
time only, OTC is offering the
TPMS Scan and Test Pack Promo, which essentially bundles
the new 3870 kit with a TPM Reset
tool (P/N TIPS003A) for specific Radio Frequency (RF) applications.
www.otctools.com
Chicago Pneumatic recently introduced a new line of single and two stage
reciprocating compressors with the durability, strength, and performance
ideal for everyday use. The RCP Series is available in four different configurations ranging from 2 to 20 hp. Each model has unmatched heat dissipation
and is engineered for quiet operation with low vibration transmission. All
of the RCP Series compressors are tested at full pressure and charged with
lubricant before they are shipped, which guarantees reliable operation upon
arrival. www.cpcompressors.com
Rotary Offers Simple Lifting Solution for
Exotic Vehicles
Low, wide-bodied vehicles can be tricky to position and pick up using a
swing-arm, frame-engaging lift. To increase technician productivity when
working on these vehicles, Rotary Lift has improved the retraction of its
SmartLift inground lift’s three-stage arms by 7/8-inch. The arms now retract to just 18-3/8 inches and extend to a full 42-3/8 inches.
The wide range of retraction and extension provided by the three-stage arms also gives
technicians more flexibility in spotting
a vehicle for lifting: it doesn’t have to
be exactly centred.
The SmartLift is an environmentally friendly inground lift. It’s entirely
self-contained in a polymer composite housing—made from recycled materials—which protects
the environment from any potential leaks, and protects the lift from the environment. A SmartLift uses
less than five gallons of hydraulic fluid.
For more information, contact your local Rotary distributor, call Rotary
Lift at 1-800-640-5438 or visit www.rotarylift.com.
Drawer Units
Adding Rousseau’s drawer units to work stations effectively organizes
the items most often used and also helps to keep workflow smooth
and productive.
The drawer units are easily attached and available in 9”, 12”, or 15”
high units. Each drawer has a 50 lb. capacity and is offered in 3”, 6”,
9”, or 12” face heights. The lock or vertical security bar is an added
security feature.
Contact Rousseau Metal at 1-866-463-4270 or [email protected].
www.rousseaumetal.com
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PREMA
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SEMA
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Solideal
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August 2008
tn
Tire News
45
François Charron
[email protected]
AUTOMOTIVE
More Than a Simple Pipe
The Exhaust System
A potential source of noise, pollution, and, at times, even harmful emissions that
can be a health hazard, this system can also hinder engine performance if a
routine check is not duly performed.
A
side from the usual main components
With time, O2 sensors lose sensitivity and
middle, and back hoses, catalytic converter,
precision, which slows the ECM response
muffler, clamps, and joints, the exhaust
following changes in oxygen content,
system has accumulated other important
and consequently the air-fuel mix ratio.
accessories over time to better manage
Moreover, they may be contaminated by
the engine’s performance and reduce toxic
carbon or oil deposits. When this hap-
waste released into the atmosphere.
pens, the “Check Engine” light may turn
The oxygen sensor
This sensor’s purpose is to detect the
Translated from its original French by Marc-Alain Nantel.
presence of oxygen in the exhaust gas.
46
Life and efficiency
such as the exhaust manifold, front,
on, showing that the sensor is defective.
The scanner will allow you to detect the
pertinent error code.
We mainly use zirconia sensors, which
The EGR valve
emit a tension signal that varies accord-
Triggered by a vacuum-pressured electro-
ing to the oxygen content, and titanium
valve controlled by the ECM, the exhaust
sensors, whose resistance fluctuates
gas recycling valve serves to lower the
in the same way. In order to produce a
combustion in order to curb NOx produc-
useful signal, these two types of sensors
tion. Upon deceleration, the valve opens
trogen oxides, and hydrocarbons into
must reach an accurate operating tem-
to allow admission of exhaust gas into the
harmless by-products.
perature.
intake manifold. As for the O2 sensors,
New sensors
With the advent of OBD-II on-board diag-
they can jam and send a malfunction sig-
Investigating malfunctions
nal to the module.
The proper operation of the three abovementioned components could be hin-
nostic systems as of 1996, manufacturers
The catalytic converter
added various oxygen sensors in order
As its name indicates, its function is to
improper mixture of air-fuel, and dirty
to better control exhaust pollutant emis-
convert burned gases into ecological zero-
or used spark plugs bringing on an in-
sions by improving powerplant manage-
emission components. Depending on one
complete combustion. Using a vacuum
ment. Their position varies as per their
of the three types found on the market,
gauge or pyrometer to measure operat-
application. The sensor nearer the engine
they may contain platinum, palladium,
ing temperatures will help you pinpoint
essentially allows the command module to
and sometimes rhodium. When exhaust
the source of any malfunction. More than
adequately dose the air-fuel mix, and the
gases come into contact with one of these
a simple pipe, isn’t it?
ones located on either side of the catalytic
components, a chemical reaction occurs,
converter see to its efficiency.
transforming the carbon monoxides, ni-
Tire News
tn
August 2008
dered by oil or carbon deposits, an
tn
This article was originally published in
the July 2008 issue of CASP Magazine.
Your car can only brake
as well as your tires.
So: For your own safety, switch now to winter tires by Continental –
the pioneer in the development of safe tires and innovative braking systems.
Winter tires
35 m
Summer tires
43 m
Measurement at a speed of 50 km/h on snow.
The stopping distance data and comparison between summer and winter tires shown here were obtained using standard vehicles. The
displayed image is for illustrative purpose only. The stopping distance of any individual vehicle depends on the vehicle type, the brakes,
the tires, the load, the temperature and the road surface. (Source: Continental AG)
Tires - Engineered in Germany.
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