Apollo Launches ‘Technology Benchmark’ Cross-Ply Tyre

More than 65 per cent of the revenue generated by India’s tyre industry is derived from commercial vehicle tyres, and in this segment Apollo Tyres holds claim to being the clear market leader. The subcontinent is witnessing a gradual shift in usage trends, and while radialisation is beginning to make its presence felt, customers still reliant upon cross-ply technology also seek to benefit from improvements that deliver a better cost-per-kilometre ratio.

With this market in mind, Apollo has launched what it calls a new technology benchmark for cross-ply commercial tyres. Called the XT-100K, the new product is designed to provide more than 100,000 kilometres of use in a segment where the average cross-ply tyre gives a mileage between 75,000 and 80,000 kilometres. Apollo, upon launching the XT-100K, has expressed its confidence that the new tyre will ‘dramatically change customer expectations and set new performance definitions for the cross-ply segment’. The XT-100K is intended for drive axle fitment, and Apollo states it can reach the six-figure kilometre mark when employed under normal load applications, in a well maintained vehicle, operated in optimal conditions.

Commenting on the launch, Mr Satish Sharma, chief, India Operations, Apollo Tyres Ltd said, “In keeping with our mantra of ‘Application to Fit’, we have especially developed the XT-100K to cater to those looking to minimise on cost of operation, but are not yet ready for the transition to radial tyres. In the true sense, this is a technology breakthrough in the cross-ply segment, where XT-100K is capable of delivering 20 per cent more value than its competitors. As a leader, it is our responsibility to cater to emerging market segments and customer needs with our technology investments catering to both our core markets while competing with the best in the world. The product has been under test for the past year and that’s what gives us the confidence to move to the next level.”

What sets the XT-100K aside in terms of technology, says Apollo, is the tyre’s tread material, which includes a multi-layered compound at the edges, where tyre wear is typically highest.