Maxxis has signed an agreement with Mercedes-Benz to supply original equipment fitments for its upcoming Sprinter
Good news for Dunlop as Prime Minister David Cameron, on the other hand, has assured assures careful weighing of options to support continuing production at Erdington
Merc Goes for Maxxis This Time
Maxxis Tyres will supply its MCV3 van fitments as original equipment for 5.0T and 3.88T variants of Merc’s Sprinter. The tyre maker’s MCV3 range was introduced over a year ago and features broader main grooves, and greater number of sipes for outstanding handling at high velocities. The tyre is capable of maintaining decent grip levels in mud, rain and snow as well. The MCV3’s shoulder serves to prevent uneven wear and ensures a quiet ride.
Maxxis Thrilled with this Association
Maxxis Tyres hopes that its association with prestigious brands like Mercedes-Benz will help strengthen its reputation and popularity in the European market. Derek McMartin, MD, Maxxis International states that Maxxis is among globe’s top 10 tyre makers at the moment. It offers high performance tyres at affordable prices to motorists. Besides, Maxxis also offers an opportunity to dealers to make a decent margin on their tyres.
Mr. McMartin added that Maxxis is still taking its juvenile steps in UK and is working to ensure that traders and end users understand the plus points of purchasing and selling Maxxis tyres.
Speaking on this OE partnership, Mr. Mc Martin said that there are few marquees that can match Mercedes’ quality, performance and reliability. And Merc has chosen Maxxis for their flagship vans only because they are 100% sure Maxxis can deliver high performance standards, he added.
Dunlop Production Retention – A Possibility?
Goodyear Dunlop had announced that it would not be feasible for them to continue with motorsport tyre production in UK, and hence their current production capacity here will be shifted to factories in France (Montlucon) as well as Germany (Hanau) by the end of 2014.
However, Prime Minister David Cameron has initiated close investigations into the matter, following a request from Jack Dromey, MP, Erdington.
Dromey expressed his keenness on Dunlop being able to continue motorsport tyre production at Erdington. He stated at a meet in House of Commons that the Dunlop Plant began producing world-class motorsport tyres in Erdington from the time when Queen Victoria was in power. He said that currently, Jaguar and Land Rover need support from the same Erdington site to expand their production.
Alternative Locations for Dunlop Plant Discussed
The Birmingham City Council and the Business Secretary, have together managed to identify three alternative locations and a financial package for Dunlop to successfully relocate. Mr. Dromey requested the PM to join their joint efforts in considering these alternatives so that Dunlop can continue uninterrupted its 125 year rich manufacturing tradition.
David Cameron commented that he had already been briefed about the situation regarding the Dunlop Erdignton Plant, and assured that he would be happy to explore the options carefully and see if something can be done. He further said that the revival of the automotive industry has been immensely welcomed in UK, especially in the western midlands.
The Prime Minister concluded saying that Goodyear Dunlop represents a historic name and brand value. And that he would act in every possible way, working with Hon. MP and Business Secretary to achieve a desirable outcome.
Source: Tyre Blog
Published: 17 Feb 2014