Nihon Michelin Tire Co. Ltd. is set to launch the new Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 R, marketing this as a circuit racing sports tire that can also be used on public roads. The tire will be available in two sizes, with the lineup consisting of one 20-inch and one 21-inch size. Incorporating the latest technologies that Michelin has cultivated throughout...
Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd. (TYO:5110) has begun sales of the Dunlop Direzza 95R, a competitive tire for use in rallies and dirt trials. Launched on Sept. 11, the tire is available in two sizes: 205/65R15 94Q and 185/60R15 88Q XL, with the XL indicating the ability to carry extra load. Offering a high level of grip, the Dunlop Direzza 95R...
Yokohama Rubber Co. Ltd. (TYO:5101) launched a new competitive tire on Sept. 4 for use in gymkhana motorsport events. Named the Advan A08B Spec G, the tire is available in only one size – 295/50R16 87V – and has no set price. The Advan A08B Spec G is based on the existing Advan A08B, a series of street radial tires...
Bridgestone Corp. (TYO:5108) has started supplying its Ecopia EP150 tires as OE for Nissan Motor Co. Ltd.’s (TYO:7201) Serena e-Power, which recently underwent minor changes. Tires under the Ecopia brand are able to maintain excellent performance in a number of metrics sought after in tires – including wet performance and stable handling – while also helping to cut down on...
Speaking at a results briefing on Aug. 9, Bridgestone Corp. (TYO:5108) President and COO Akihiro Eto commented on his company’s position with regard to all-season tires in the Japanese market. Bridgestone, Eto said, is not planning any change to its stance of using studless winter tires with proper snow performance – as opposed to just going with all-season tires. He...
Toyo Tire Corp. (TYO:5105) is aiming to strengthen its relationship with Mitsubishi Corp. (TYO:8058) on a comprehensive level. By pursuing this while also capitalizing on its own strengths, the tire manufacturer plans for the resulting synergies to provide a positive effect of 10 billion yen ($94.64 million) in operating profit by 2023. Expectations here are that carrying out policies alongside...
