Apollo claims breakthrough in cross-ply technology 

Gurgaon, India – Apollo Tyres has launched a cross-ply rib tire for steer axles in commercial vehicles, employing ‘a host of innovations’ in the product design and compound technology.

Launched after 2.5 million kilometres of testing, the ‘breakthrough’ Apollo Abhimanyu was developed at the tire maker’s global R&D centre in Chennai and is currently being produced at its manufacturing unit in Perambra, Kerla.

According to Apollo, the tire delivers 15% better initial tread mileage (ITM) compared to ‘other tires’, while the heat ageing resistant casing offers durability, retreadability and casing value, Apollo said in a 7 April statement. 

The tread compound in the new tire has been optimised to offer high wear resistance and offer better distribution of rubber at wearing zones, Apollo said.

In addition, an “innovative cavity design” ensures uniform pressure distribution across footprint to provide high mileage. 

The tire also has “a robust casing” with its specially designed carcass providing better sidewall stiffness.

“The new generation off-shoulder design improves heat dissipation and reduces stress marks, thereby keeping the carcass cooler and safer in these tires,” Apollo said. 

The tires are best suited for carrying moderate loads and fitment on steer axles in the regional cargo, tippers, pmst applications and on all positions in passenger buses.

“The steer position is the most critical on any commercial vehicle, and the tire used on its steer axle position demands highest design precision and manufacturing controls,” said Commenting on the launch, Satish Sharma, president, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa (APMEA), Apollo Tyres Ltd.

To have such differentiating products, he said, will help Apollo continue its “leadership position in the CV segment and create a benchmark in the cross-ply category.”