Falken expands 4×4 line-up with new R/T01 rugged terrain flagship tyre

Falken Tyre Europe has launched the Wildpeak R/T01 rugged terrain tyre, a new flagship expanding its 4×4 tyre portfolio for demanding off-road applications. The new tyre means the Sumitomo Rubber Industries global flagship tyre brand now has a tyre for every off-road application. The company states that the R/T01 was “engineered with adventure in mind”; the tyre’s tread design and structure promote high traction performance in the most difficult conditions. Falken will distribute the Wildpeak R/T01 from the first quarter of 2024 with an initial range of nine sizes, ranging from 16 to 20 inches, with a speed rating of Q. The Wildpeak R/T01’s designation as a professional off-road tyre (POR) means it has no further EU tyre labelling information.

The new tread blends the key attributes of Falken’s existing All-Terrain (A/T) and Mud-Terrain (M/T) Wildpeak products to achieve an optimised combination of traction, durability, and longevity for all-wheel drive vehicles in extreme applications. Falken states that the mix should benefit the construction, forestry, agricultural and expedition sectors, as well as off-road enthusiasts and those who like to travel off the beaten path.

The Falken Wildpeak R/T01 pattern contains features designed to inspire confidence whilst tackling the most difficult driving routes at the same time as delivering low wear rates and high durability. The hybrid off-road tread pattern shares similarities with the Wildpeak A/T and features a large contact area and stiff tread blocks for maximum mileage reliability, on-road performance and off-road ruggedness. With its M/T capabilities, the Wildpeak R/T01 is able to traverse muddy ground thanks to its open shoulder tread design. It is also well equipped for stones: the self-cleaning properties of the tread provide high levels of performance on mud and rocks, ensuring more grip and traction. The three-layer sidewall provides the required cut resistance, robustness and additional protection to provide maximum grip when it’s needed the most.

“The Wildpeak R/T01 is our top model for off-road use and has been developed to master even the most challenging conditions. With these tyres, vehicles can reach their destination over any surface, no matter how challenging,” states Andreas Giese, chief corporate officer at Falken Tyres Europe GmbH. “Our range of tyres, which was already extensive with A/T3WA and M/T series, is now complemented with another attractive model in the Wildpeak R/T01.”

Wildpeak brand extends Falken’s 4×4 reach

Since the introduction of the Falken Wildpeak M/T in 2018, Falken has expanded its range of 4×4 tyres suitable for off-road capable vehicles. Their features and capability to conquer even the toughest of terrain has led to the range being approved for original equipment fitments for vehicle manufacturers such as Mercedes Benz and RAM.

In addition to its off-road performance and exceptionally good driving characteristics on the road, the Wildpeak M/T, in size 245/75 R16, impressed during the 2022 Classic Dakar Rally in Saudi Arabia to complete 7,500km of running across challenging terrain with zero punctures.