Snap-on has appointed Sarah Philpott as acting marketing manager. Philpott, who holds several qualifications in business management and administration (including an MBA from the University of East Anglia in Norwich) joined Snap-on Diagnostics in 2002. In addition to her new position, she also remains responsible for her primary role as sales support manager.
David Bavaird, director of Scrap Tyre Exchange, has created a programme called TEFORS (Tyre Education for Schools) designed to teach children how a tyre works, the importance of tyre safety and the benefits of tyre recycling. TEFORS programme was launched this week at Battle Hill Primary School in North Tyneside, whose programme has been sponsored by neighbouring North Eastern Tyre and Autocare’s (NETA) Silverlink retail outlet.
Gavin Marshall, managing director of NETA says they were delighted to be the first to commit to the programme: “North Eastern Tyres has outlets across the North East and we were thrilled to be invited to be the first to take up the opportunity of being the first sponsor of what looks like becoming a hugely successful scheme. TEFORS will bring to life subjects such as science, safety and green issues in the classroom and will allow us to play a much closer role within the community where our retail outlet sits. We are thrilled to be launching this with Battle Hill Primary School.”
Global silicone producer Momentive Performance Materials has announced the launch of a new range of elastomer products that can be cured through exposure to ultraviolet light. Unlike traditional silicone elastomers (HCR), which are typically vulcanised with a peroxide catalyst cured by heat exposure, this UV-sensitive, platinum catalysed curing system allows curing to take place at room temperature. This will, says Momentive, lead to energy savings and increased extrusion speed while maintaining the silicone elastomers’ physical properties.
There’s a nip in the air to remind us that winter is heading our way, and soon the cold season’s wet, icy and even snow covered roads will again be a feature of our daily lives. Still, be thankful you live in the UK, where two inches of snow is considered a blizzard. To help van drivers in countries with extremer conditions cope with what winter throws their way, Michelin has introduced the Agilis X-ICE North studded tyre. The new tyre, the manufacturer reports, enables van drivers to “safely overcome obstacles to winter driving while also generating cost savings thanks to its exceptional longevity and outstanding robustness.”
Industrial and commercial equipment provider, Slingsby has launched a new website – slingsby.co.uk. The company reports that it is one of the largest of its kind in the UK. Lee Wright, marketing director of Slingsby, explained: “With such a large product range and wide-spanning customer base, the launch of this new website marks a significant investment in technology for Slingsby.”
Marangoni has teamed up with premier drag venue Santa Pod Raceway and experienced TV production house Pulse 8 Media to create two unique ‘magazine’ style car shows that will be airing throughout the latter half of the year on both Eurosport and Motors TV channels on the digital platform.
Investing significantly in the move, Marangoni and Santa Pod Raceway acquired no less 36 hours of broadcast time for two shows that showcased their ‘Marangoni Fast Show’ and ‘Marangoni Ultimate Street Car’ sponsored events. The programmes show every aspect of the events from the ubiquitous racing, to the nightlife and lifestyle elements that proved so popular with the capacity crowds. Naturally, Marangoni branding, demo cars and products are liberally sprinkled throughout.
Goodyear Tire & Rubber has announced that its Luxembourg based subsidiary Goodyear S.A. will commence a cash tender offer to acquire any outstanding shares in Polish tyre company TC Debica for 59.52 PLN per share.
Thule has added a line of snow chains to its UK vehicle accessories range. Produced in Thule’s Italian manufacturing facility, the extensive range of snow chains will be available from selected recognised dealers from October. The UK launch coincides with a reported rise in demand across Europe and the UK for high quality snow chains.
Peter Barker, UK general manager, commented: “For Thule, the manufacture and distribution of snow chains is a welcome addition to our sports and leisure equipment transportation range. Snow chains are a vital part of ski-drive holidays and are required by law in many destinations. We have seen a demand for a high quality chain by our customers, and are confident the Thule snow chains will not disappoint with their quick and easy application and durable, superior materials.”
The K-Summit snow chain is a key model in the range. With a patented rachet system the chain is designed to fit over 250 wheel sizes, with just eight chain lengths, mounting to the wheel in three steps. Once fitted, the ratchet system centres itself as you drive. The K-Summit has zero clearance, which means no part of it touches the inner side of the tyre, so it can be used on cars with limited space around the wheel arch.
Tyrepress.com has published a new question of the month for September. After getting off to a positive starte with our launch question (which showed that a large majority of readers favour the new-look tyrepress.com) this month’s readers poll looks at how long it will take for dealers to comply with the new s-marking ruling which is set to officially take effect on 1 October. At the moment the first few responses seem pessimistic about the chances of largescale compliance before March 2010, short of a robocop kind of enforcement. However, every point of view needs to be taken into account. So, to cast your vote click 'home' to answer this month's question. Every opinion counts so don’t forget to leave a comment.
Bridgestone recently launched its B250 tyre in the Middle East. According to publicity material released to coincide with the launch, the B250 promises “comfortable, low-noise journey, achieves better braking, regardless of the climate, and high level of running turning, which eventually guarantees travelling in comfort and safety with extended durability.”
Vredestein has become the first tyre-maker to offer a 25-series winter tyre for people who want to drive their high-performance car in the winter time.
Goodyear turns 111 this year, and is celebrating by recounting its Top 111 Innovations, Inspirations and Historic Firsts.
General Motors Co. has confirmed it has signed a stock purchase agreement with Koenigsegg Group AB regarding the sale of 100 per cent of the shares of Saab Automobile AB. The deal is expected to conclude in the next few months and will then secure Saab's future. The stock purchase agreement will be subject to agreed closing conditions. Conditions to close the sale include expected funding commitments with Swedish government support and guarantees, as well as transitional assistance from GM, as Saab becomes independent. Saab is about to launch several new cars, developed with General Motors, that are in the final stages of development.
Bridgestone has confirmed that Jenson Button will be appearing on the second day of the launch event of its UK Driving Nation roadshow. The Driving Nation roadshow starts on Wednesday 29 July in Birmingham’s Centenary Square and runs for two days from 10:00 to 16:00. By bringing together the nation’s collective opinions on driving, Bridgestone is aiming put the pleasure back into motoring by reminding us how great it can really be.
After continuing his pursuit of the World Championship at the Hungarian Grand Prix, Brawn GP’s Jenson Button will be flying in on Thursday 30 July to sign autographs and greet fans from 12:00 onwards.
In the US Michelin is to supply Harley-Davidson with the new Michelin Scorcher 31 tyre, Michelin’s first original equipment fitment for Harley-Davidson. Available exclusively as original equipment on four 2010 Harley-Davidson Dyna models, the all-new tyre was unveiled today at the Harley-Davidson summer dealer meeting in Denver. The new tyre carries both companies’ trademarks on its sidewalls and the signature Harley-Davidson logo carved into the shoulder.
“Michelin has specifically engineered this innovative and durable tyre to meet the high expectations of Harley-Davidson owners,” said Gary Midkiff, vice president of Michelin North America’s two wheel division. “Michelin is excited to build upon our successful relationship with Harley-Davidson as we launch this historic first original equipment fitment.”
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