25.01.2012
New sports SUV-specific tyre delivers improved stability and handling
Falken has unveiled a new SUV-specific tyre that delivers improved stabilility and handling on the likes of the Porsche Cayenne, Range Rover Sport, BMW X6 and Audi Q7.
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Available in 14 sizes, for everything from a BMW X3 right through to a Mercedes ML, Falken’s Azenis FK453CC is specifically created to meet the exacting demands of the performance SUV market, a sector that has grown to be the fourth most popular in countries such as Germany.
To deliver the unique stability and higher speed requirements, coupled with the increased loading experienced with sportier SUVs, the Azenis FK453CC features a more warp-resistant casing construction than comparable tyres in its segment.
Secondly, the “NUR-Spec” design incorporates an additional, nylon-reinforced cover ply and more rigid sidewalls to improve stability, even at speeds up to 300km/h (186mph). This construction is complemented by a rounder tyre shoulder shape to optimise pressure deployment on the tread area. The result is a 21 percent improvement in steering stability over the previous S/TZ01 offering.
With larger rim sizes and lower profiles commonplace on performance SUVs, Falken has also addressed the noise issue that is widely experienced and endured by drivers and passengers. “Thanks to the rounder shoulder and phase-shifted tread bars, pass-by noise is reduced by 15 percent compared with the tyre’s predecessor,” says Yukio Yoshida, Falken Tyre Europe’s corporate planning director.
Renowned for its ability to provide exceptional performance often at lower price point, Falken has ensured the FK453CC retains the sporting characteristics enjoyed by its enthusiasts. Silica percentage has been increased over the tyre’s predecessor to achieve stronger interaction with the road surface, further enhancing steering responsiveness and handling. Dry handling in particular is improved, with grip levels up 14 percent compared to the predecessor.
Rigorous testing and benchmarking, including an extensive evaluation at the Nürburgring, leads Falken to believe its FK453CC surpasses its competitors in terms of high speed stability, wet and dry handling and hydroplaning resistance.
“Resistance to hydroplaning, critical for heavier and taller SUVs, is up seven percent improvement thanks to advances in tread pattern,” continues Yoshida. “Three central tread grooves in the tread design allow efficient water deflection. In addition, the staggered sipes integrated into the first tread bar at the tyre shoulder break up the water film more effectively than conventional tread patterns.”
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