Champiro Winterpro Designed for Wet European Winters

A standardised test process conducted by TÜV SÜD Automotive between four brands of winter tyre saw the GT Radial Champiro Winterpro come out on top. The manufacturer reports its tyre was found to have the best braking qualities on wet and dry surfaces and features above-average aquaplaning and snow driving behaviour. In the words of GT Radial, it was “the clear number one” following completion of all driving tests.

Eighty per cent of the time in the winter season European roads are wet or dry at temperatures around the freezing point. That is why, in developing the Champiro Winterpro, Giti Tire conducted extensive test drives in these types of conditions with partners in Sweden, New Zealand and the Alps as well as at the Giti Tire European Technical Centre in Birmingham. “We optimised the Winterpro for typical winter use during three years of intensive research and development in Europe,” commented Michael Andre, marketing director Passenger Car Tires at Giti Tire Europe. “This work has really been worth it. We offer the tyre trade a new, top-quality product at a price that leaves plenty of room for attractive margin.”

   Giti Tire says the Champiro Winterpro’s characteristics in snow and wet conditions are the result of its newly developed tread design and ‘Nanotek’ silica compound. “Its directional tread with intelligent drainage channels in the shoulders offers exceptional adherence even during critical road conditions,” explains Giti. “Tread blocks with fine sipes improve grip and braking behaviour on snow. The innovative silica tread compound also ensures secure grip on low-friction surfaces at temperatures around the freezing point. All this comes with lower rolling resistance than the predecessor model, and noise development remains remarkably low, especially for a winter tyre.”

Like all new GT Radial tyres, the Champiro Winterpro also bears the “S” and “W” markings on its side, confirming it meets EU tyre regulations for noise development and traction in wet conditions. The range is available in 43 sizes between 13 and 16-inches with T and H speed ratings.