GRI supplies Ultimate XT forklift tyres to KION Group

GRI has commenced its supply of original equipment tyres to the Kion Group, one of the world’s leading providers of industrial trucks and supply chain solutions. Kion selected GRI’s Ultimate XT premium plus tyre for its Linde Material Handling forklift trucks, produced in Germany. GRI manufactures its speciality tyres in Sri Lanka, using some of the latest technology and locally sourced natural rubber. It calls the OE deal a milestone for its product development.

The GRI’s Ultimate XT has been developed for the most demanding conditions in 24-hour material handling operations. Its tread pattern provides excellent traction and high stability. Its compounds are formulated to reduce heat build-up, increase run-time, and reduce rolling resistance. The tyre has high abrasion resistance, providing greater comfort and safety. Its high tread volume, greater lug depth and optimised aspect ratio all work to extend the tyre’s life.

“We have great admiration for Kion and are privileged to have GRI’s premium plus tyres fitted on Kion brands OEM forklifts,” said Prabhash Subasinghe, managing director of GRI. “This partnership testifies to the excellence of GRI’s tyres, their high-performance in varying conditions and the company’s commitment to develop superior forklift tyres. We are excited about the possibilities ahead in our partnership with Kion.”

The Ultimate XT underwent more than two years of rigorous testing by Kion Group’s advanced engineering and testing department in Germany. Kion Group and GRI engineers worked in close collaboration in all aspects of this meticulous process to fulfil very specific and stringent requirements.

Dr Mahesha Ranasoma, CEO of GRI states: “We deliver high-grade specialty tires, that are built sustainably using pure natural rubber at our advanced production plants in Sri Lanka. We believe that forklift operators who move material to supply our needs are noble. We live and work to enhance their lives.”

GRI is committed to bringing Sri Lankan speciality tyres to the world through product excellence, greater environmental sustainability, and innovation. The Kion Group is the largest manufacturer of forklift trucks and warehouse equipment in Europe and provides supply chain solutions to more than 100 countries worldwide. Kion’s world-renowned forklift brands Linde Material Handling and STILL serve the premium industrial truck segment. Baoli focuses on industrial trucks in the value segment. Fenwick is the largest supplier of material handling products in France and OM is a provider of industrial trucks in the Indian market.