Avon OE on 610bhp Carlsson SLK 340

The Carlsson-developed SLK 340 international hillclimb race car due to première at the Geneva Motor Show on 5 March is capable of developing a respect-worthy 782bhp per tonne, and a car with this level of performance needs a suitable tyre. Thus Avon Tyres takes pride in reporting that its hillclimb tyres have been chosen as the SLK 340’s original equipment fitment.

Developed by the highly respected Mercedes tuning specialists, the SLK 340 has been designed and built using industry-leading technology. Aerodynamics have been tested in a wind tunnel to ensure optimum downforce, while a carbon body kit and lightweight braking system have significantly reduced the weight of the car.

Weighing in at just 780 kilogrammes, the car’s JUDD-developed 3.4-litre V8 engine boasts an impressive 610bhp and its extreme performance and technical prowess combine to make the SLK 340 the new benchmark in its field. The ultra-lightweight car also features a closed underbody which optimises air resistance, making it even more efficient in competition.

Avon will provide specialist hillclimb tyres, developed from experience it has gained in this field in Britain and across Europe. National and international hillclimb entries are planned and the team also hopes to contest the world-renowned Pikes Peak Challenge race in Colorado, USA.

The SLK 340 will be driven by Meisel Motorsport Team principal, Reto Meisel, who has enjoyed a glittering motorsport career dating back to 1989. Meisel, 42, dominated the German Mountain Championship between 1999 and 2001 and, more recently, the Swiss driver became German Touring Car Hillclimb Champion, with victories in 2007 and 2009.

Sarah McRoberts, Marketing Communications Manager for Cooper Tire Europe, said the tie-up with the Meisel Motorsport-run SLK 340 made perfect sense for Avon: “What Carlsson has achieved in terms of developing the SLK 340 is quite staggering and they really have proven to be extremely pioneering in their approach to the vehicle.

“Like Carlsson, Avon remains committed to developing its products to the highest technical specifications so it’s fitting that we come together on this project, as the Meisel Motorsport Team aims for success in 2013. Avon has a rich history in hillclimbing – as demonstrated by its relationship with the Avon Tyres British Hillclimb Championship – and we hope that we can use our expertise in the field to continue the progression of the SLK 340,” Mc Roberts added.

The SLK 340 is expected to begin competition this summer.