INDIAN retreading equipment supplier Elgi is targeting new tyre manufacturers with the launch of a monorail tyre handling system, developed by its Brazilian subsidiary Armonas.
India is home to 39 tyre manufacturers and 60 individual production plants and Elgi said that it hopes to take advantage of producers moving into, or developing their retreading capacity.
The growth in radialisation of truck, OHT/OTR and agricultural products in India is a factor in the greater viability and potential for large scale retreading.
The monorail system connects and streamlines all stages of the retreading process into a single production line; increasing efficiency, reducing manpower and eradicating contamination, as once loaded onto the monorail the tyre makes no further contact with the factory floor until retreading is complete.
Elgi’s Satish Kumar, said, “We completed the purchase of Armonas earlier this year, recognising that the monorail system takes retreading efficiency to a new level. It is the first of its kind in India and we think it will appeal to larger new tyre manufacturers who want to develop their business by investing in a high quality, professional retreading operation.”
Meanhwile, India’s PRS Tyres is launching new additions to its industrial and agricultural ranges with two sizes for Bobcat equipment in the 12-16.5 Skid Force and 10.0/75-15.3 Loadstar products.
A new 12.5/80-18 bias ply tyre for backhoe loader applications is featured in the show.
PRS Executive Director P. Prasanth, who is also the chair of Capexil’s tyre group, commented, “Tyrexpo India is an ideal show for us as it allows us to interact with our domestic dealers and customers as well as international visitors. Our business profile is divided equally between the Indian and export markets so we benefit across the business.”
Aldo on the show are Chinese tyre makers who are targeting the Indian market
According to Tyrexpo India’s organiser, ECI International, Hangzhou Zhonce (HZ) was amongst the major Chinese brands debuting at the show and confirming an increased interest in the Indian market from exporters following several years of trade restrictions.
The Chinese tyre maker is breaking sales in India through its Chao Yang brand of CM 913 10.00 R20 and CM914 10.00 R20 retreadable truck tyres.
HZ is an OE supplier to a number of major Indian OEMs including Tata Motors, Mahindra and Ashok Leyland.
Wanda Boto’s Frank Zhang is another exhibitor looking to increase brand awareness and establish a strong regional distribution network in India. A full range of PCR, TBR, OHT and OTR tyres is available, with particular emphasis on its TBR radials in popular sizes 10.00 R20 and 295/80/222.5.
Merry Wang from Linglong said they are securing extended distribution on a State by State basis for their full range of products, but with a greater focus on its PCR products.
The show also held the public launch of a significant joint venture between Myers Tire Supply International, a US wholesale distributor of tools, supplies and equipment, and India’s TVS Automobile Solutions, part of the giant TVS & Sons. The agreement makes up to 15,000 lines available to customers in India, covering all tyre and wheel service requirements.