New Vredestein Ultrac+ summer tyre launched
Apollo Tyres has launched the Vredestein Ultrac+, a new summer tyre claimed to deliver dramatic improvements in longevity compared to the outgoing Ultrac, while maintaining its predecessor’s segment-leading comfort and highly competitive wet and dry handling capabilities.
Available now from Irish distributor Modern Tyres, the Ultrac+ is offered in 70 different sizes from 15 to 20 inches, making it ideally suited for a very wide selection of family and compact cars.
The longevity of the tyre has been enhanced by its ‘square’ footprint and the use of a new, cutting-edge tread compound. The company’s internal test processes have identified that the ‘projected mileage’ of the Ultrac+ has been improved by up to 30 per cent compared to the Ultrac, while ‘abrasion loss’ has been reduced by up to 30 per cent – both factors ensure the tyre will last much longer and have a lower environmental impact.
Additionally, rolling resistance has been cut by three per cent compared to the Ultrac, helping to maximise driving range and greatly reduce whole-life cost.
Two leading independent testing and engineering companies have separately conducted comprehensive evaluations of the new Ultrac+ (in 225/45 R17 94Y XL size) to rate its capabilities in the highly competitive summer tyre segment.
IFV GmbH assessed the Ultrac+’s longevity, while Applus+ IDIADA evaluated the performance of the tyre in the wet and dry, as well as its comfort. Both testing organisations benchmarked the Ultrac+ against leading premium-brand rivals.
The reduced apex height and enlarged ‘flex zone’ in the sidewall of the Ultrac+ play a key role in delivering a quiet and comfortable ride. In addition, the optimised pitch sequence from the Ultrac has been retained in the Ultrac+ and optimised for different tyre diameters. Applus+ IDIADA found that the Ultrac+ retains the Ultrac’s leading comfort, aided by its low noise levels and smooth ride quality.
Developed by the Apollo Tyres Global R&D Centre Europe, in Enschede, Netherlands, the Ultrac+ features a centre rib with parabolic lateral grooves which enhance steering response and precision for a safe and dynamic driving experience.
To deliver an excellent balance in wear and braking performance, the new tyre benefits from next-generation tread compound technology, including a high level of silica, a traction-enhancing resin and a multi-functional polymer.