Apollo Tires has unveiled a five-year plan to expand its presence in the European truck and bus radial (TBR) market. The plan is to double tire production at the Hungarian plant and expand the range by 2025 to cover up to 90 percent of the total size and specification requirements in the TBR segment.
In 2023, Apollo Tires plans to launch its first truck and trailer tires for 19.5-inch rims, typically used for lower tonnage, high-mileage regional transportation. The company will initially focus on the seven most common dimensions. By 2025, 81 percent of demand in the 19.5-inch market should then be covered. The new plan also includes entry into the 22.5-inch winter tire market.
Apollo has also announced details of the launch of the new Endu-Mile LHT – the company’s first long-haul trailer tire (LHT). The tire’s rolling resistance was rated as class A and LHT tractor tires will soon be added. Another new segment for the company is low-profile tires with an aspect ratio of 60 millimeters, which are suitable for commercial vehicles with Euro 6 engines. Apollo Tires will launch corresponding versions for steer and drive axles.
Apollo Tires is also increasing its efforts in the original equipment business. Last month, for example, an agreement was reached with trailer manufacturer Schwarzmüller for the Endu-Race RT and RT2 and Endu-Trax MAHD tire models. It is the first deal of this for Apollo in Europe. The company is also working on a range of connected tire solutions, including RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) and tire pressure monitoring systems. (aum/av)