VW Caddy 5 will run on first AA-rated Giti Tire

GitiSynergyH2 will be released in a full range for the replacement market in March 2021 (Photo: Giti)

Giti Tire has produced its first AA-rated EU label tyre. The GitiSynergyH2 original equipment tyre, produced in size 215/55R17 XL 98H for the bestselling VW Caddy 5 light commercial vehicle, achieved A grades in the EU label’s wet grip and fuel efficiency metrics. The deal follows Giti’s first LCV OE deal with Volkswagen earlier in 2020, for the larger Crafter model. An aftermarket version of the new GitiSynergyH2 will be launched in the aftermarket in March 2021, replacing the GitiSynergyE1 and GitiPremiumH1, both of which were part of the original Giti brand launch into Europe in 2016. Label ratings for the replacement range will be confirmed during the model’s aftermarket launch.

The GitiSynergyH2 was designed and engineered at Giti Tire’s European Research & Development Centre in Hannover, with testing at the company’s Mira facility in the UK as well as key locations in Germany and Spain.

Giti reveals that it is the first European tyre which utilises its AdvanZtech technology platform. The manufacturer’s global R&D system boosts the sharing and utilisation of specialised and advanced technology to create new tyres that enhance overall performance.

Next generation GitiSynergy features

As a result of this, the GitiSynergyH2 has a newly developed tread compound, which delivers significant improvements in wet and dry safety. Giti says the new pattern layout provides precise and stable handling behaviour and a tangible improvement in aquaplaning resistance.

Its mileage potential, depending on driving characteristics, could be improved by almost 20 per cent, while the new lightweight carcass delivers low rolling resistance which improves fuel efficiency. Giti said its core focus for the new product was increased safety, comfort and quietness, driving pleasure, and green credentials.

Stefan Fischer, managing director – product technology at Giti Tire Europe, said: “To deliver our first double AA-rated EU label for a VW Caddy 5 OE fitment is a massive statement of intent, and it shows what the company is capable of in terms of our R&D and modern plant manufacturing capabilities.

“The GitiSynergyH2 is a big step forwards and replaces two very good tyres, so to prove an increase in performance across the board, especially in wet tests and mileage potential, shows we have delivered on the highly demanding targets set by the VW Group.”

Martin Wells, director OEM Europe at Giti Tire, added: “After the original equipment release for the Crafter (205/70 R17 C115 / 113 R), securing a VW Caddy 5 fitment is another important milestone for Giti and underlines the good cooperation with the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand.”