Kumho to supply Chinese touring car series

Under a three-year agreement, Kumho Tire will act as sponsor and official tyre supplier to the China Touring Car Championship (CTCC). The championship, which gets underway for the 2013 season at the Zhuhai International Circuit on 12 May, is supported by the FIA and the FASC (Federation of Automobile Sports of the People's Republic of China) and features premium level touring car racers. Races attract more than 10,000 spectators and the state-run broadcaster Chinese Central Television holds exclusive rights to the series.

Kumho has been selected as an official tyre supplier for the 2013-2015 period, and the tyre maker reports that it beat Yokohama and Michelin to secure this right. “Through this partnership with the CTCC, Kumho is able to confirm that our technology and reputation in China are well recognised and increasing in strength,” said Hyung Woo Kim, marketing executive of Kumho Tires China. “We will actively use the CTCC in promoting our technology and brand, as this is an excellent stage to showcase Kumho Tires’ technical capabilities and passion towards motorsports.”

The CTCC ran under the name of China Circuit Championship from 2004 to 2008 and was renamed to the current title in 2009. Major participating brands include Beijing Hyundai, Haima Guangzhou Toyota Motor, Shanghai Volkswagen, Changan Ford, DYK, Shangai GM, Honda and Dongfeng Peugeot. The race is split into three classes; 2,000cc and 1,600cc naturally aspirated and 1,600cc turbo. 

Kumho’s motorsport involvement in China began with sponsorship of the Asia Formula Renault in 2006, and the tyre maker has participated in the China Rally Championship since 2011. Spectator numbers at motorsport events in China is projected to rise on the back of government support and media exposure. In addition to motorsports activities, Kumho Tire says its is launching a “multitude of marketing programmes” to expand its presence in China. These include public forums where industry experts can interact with enthusiasts, cooperation with academic institutions such as Qingdao University, multilateral advertising campaigns to increase public awareness and consumer contests/promotions to build a positive brand image.