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Michelin Malaysia

These days, the line between road-going vehicles and off-road vehicles is a bit blurred. Modern SUVs and crossovers can cruise on highways comfortably at high speeds and also go off the highway onto rough terrain. Actually, if the trail is not muddy or too rocky, almost any type of vehicle can be used as long as there is enough ground clearance and the driver is careful.

This being the case, tyres too should have broader applications and the new BFGoodrich Advantage Touring offers such capability. According to Michelin Malaysia, which distributes BFGoodrich tyres as well, the Advantage Touring is positioned as one simple tyre line to cover sedan, pick-up, MPV, and SUV fitments.

Essentially on ‘on-road’ tyre, it is designed to be used on any road drivers may want to take. “The BFGoodrich Advantage Touring targets active-lifestyle drivers who want the best value for their money and demand confident control for urban adventure. This newly launched tyre stands out with its extensive size offerings, as well as improved performance and aesthetics,” said Oliver Biggart, Managing Director of Michelin Malaysia.

Various features address the expectations of drivers of different types of vehicles in different conditions. For example, the asymmetric, non-directional tread pattern with computer-optimized footprint reduces interior cabin noise so there’s a quieter journey on the highway. The dynamic and simplified tread design also looks good for those who want something sporty and stylish to complement their vehicle’s looks.

Of course, performance is also important and with its 150 years of experience in making tyres, BFGoodrich knows a lot about engineering the Advantage Touring to give good handling and braking in all conditions. The asymmetric tread design has rigid tread blocks and a shoulder that enhance handling responsiveness and control. The tread blocks are large and have deep grooves that are claimed to deliver superior braking performance in both wet and dry road conditions.

An interlocking band technology reduces friction and heat, which helps in reducing fuel consumption. Tyre life can also be improved with the optimized contact patch specifically designed for markets with severe heat conditions.

The Advantage Touring is available in sizes to cover more than 85% of the market in the 13-inch to 20-inch range, with a total of 67 dimensions. Depending on the tyre size, the speed ratings are H, T or V.​ Priced from RM200 to RM900, each new tyre purchased from an authorised dealer comes with a 6-year manufacturer’s warranty as well.

Michelin Malaysia introduces BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A tyre for SUVs and pick-up trucks

Building on the successful Pilot Sport 4 tyre, Michelin today launched the new Pilot Sport 5 in Asia and Australia today. For markets in Asia, the fifth generation of the popular high-performance tyres will be offered in up to 43 sizes for 17-inch to 21-inch wheels. The Malaysian market will have 26 sizes from 17 to 19 inches, with 21 more sizes from 17 to 21 inches to be made available by the end of this year. The recommended retail prices of the new tyres range from RM700 to RM1,900.

Sophisticated features
Targets at sportscar and high-performance sedan drivers, the new Pilot Sport 5 has a range of sophisticated features and is, of course, improved in performance over its predecessor. The key features include Dual Sport Tread Design technology, Groove Clear, Dynamic Response technology, MaxTouch Construction, and Premium Touch Sidewall Design.

Michelin Pilot Sport 5

Dual Sport Tread Design technology is like having two tyres in one as there is a two-sided functionalized tread design inspired by Michelin’s motorsport experience. On the inner side of the tyre is a tread pattern with large grooves and high void ratio for enhanced wet road traction, while the outer has rigid blocks for better grip on dry roads. Groove Clear is the association of large longitudinal grooves that guide water under the tyre into wide transversal channels from which the water is ejected to keep the contact patch as dry as possible.

Shorter stopping distances
Independent testing showed that on a wet road, the Pilot Sport 5 stopped 1.4 metres (new tyres) and 4 metres (worn tyres) shorter than other premium brands. On a dry road, the stopping distance was 1.3 metres shorter. Other testing also showed that the Pilot Sport 5 lasted 33.5% longer than tyres from other premium brands. This longevity is due to the MaxTouch Construction that maximizes the tyre’s contact with the road and evenly distributes the forces of acceleration, braking, and cornering without sacrificing performance.

Lasting performance
Michelin also makes sure that its tyres provide lasting performance throughout the lifespan. This is made possible by Dynamic Response technology that uses a high-density aramid and nylon hybrid belt which promotes driving precision for optimum transmission of steering instructions onto the road. This belt, which is located just below the tread, is both very resistant and light. Thus, at equivalent weight, the associated nylon and aramid are 5 times more resistant than steel.

The tread pattern usually gives character to a tyre but for the Pilot Sport 5, the sidewall too has been given sporty and appealing aesthetics. Michelin’s patented velvet sidewall branding, called Premium Touch Design has a matte-black velvet-like micro texture which gives a premium look and feel.

Michelin Pilot Sport 5

Drivers who care for their tyres and for safety will regularly check on the tread wear (besides the pressures). To make it easier, Michelin has added Wear2Check, an easy-to-find and easy-to-read tread wear indicator (TWI) on each tyre. This is visible by three tiny holes on certain tread blocks, indicating the area where the TWI is running across.

“With the Michelin Pilot Sport 5, Michelin further strengthens our complete and best overall high-performance Pilot Sport range, with ‘Performance Made to Last’ being our key differentiator. Inspired by motorsports, the tyre is perfect for drivers who demand sporty driving performance and expect nothing but the best. What’s more, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 goes one step further in aesthetics, as evidenced by its 2021 Contemporary Good Design Award – one of the world’s most prestigious international design awards,” said Michelin Malaysia’s Managing Director, Oliver Biggart.

Michelin Malaysia introduces BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A tyre for SUVs and pick-up trucks

 

 

With the explosive growth in SUVs for many years now, demand for replacement tyres for such vehicles has obviously been growing. So besides offering passenger car tyres, companies have now to also offer SUV tyres which have to be a bit more robust and handle heavier loads, and be off-road capable.

There are many brands on the market nowadays which offer SUV tyres but it’s always better to buy tyres from a reputable and known brand. BFGoodrich is a brand in the Michelin group, so it is obviously a trusted brand and Michelin Malaysia has brought in a new tyre from the brand for SUVs.

The new tyre is the Trail-Terrain T/A, a premium ‘on-road plus’ tyre which can perform well on highways and also handle light off-road motoring (which is what most SUV owners do). Its performance is due to having an optimized footprint design, and resistance to chipping and tearing, and a serrated shoulder design optimized for soft-soil traction without increased road noise.

The tread has Full-Depth 3D Locking Sipes that provide good tread block stability for even wear so tread life can be longer. The tyre also provides a quiet and comfortable ride on all surfaces.

The Trail-Terrain T/A is available in 41 sizes so it covers a wide range of SUV models and can also be used for pick-up trucks. However, availability of sizes will be dependent on dealer’s stock, but they should be able to order from Michelin Malaysia anyway. The tyre covered by a 6-year manufacturer’s warranty.

 

The new BFGoodrich tyre is suitable for many SUVs and pick-up trucks, including the Nissan X-Trail (above) and Isuzu D-MAX (below).

“The BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A responds to the post-covid adventure mindset and the growing DIY trends that target drivers of All-Wheel-Drive crossover utility vehicles, sports utility vehicles and light trucks. These are adventure-ready vehicles offering versatility for hobbies, carrying gear, and outdoor recreational activities – perfect for the next exploration ahead,” said Michelin Malaysia’s Managing Director, Oliver Biggart.

Michelin, as a leader with a long history in the tyre industry, offers tyres for all types of vehicles… even spacecraft. With over 130 years of experience in making tyres, the company has built up its technological knowledge to develop the best tyres for each sector.

For the growing SUV sector, Michelin Malaysia has recently introduced the Michelin LTX Trail tyre, specifically designed for SUVs and also applicable for use on pick-up trucks. This new tyre has extended lifespan, with excellent wet braking performance – even when worn – for long-lasting safety. It is suitable for highway use as well as on unpaved roads and unlike many such tyres, it also generates lower noise levels for a more comfortable ride.

The extended lifespan can provide up to 41% longer mileage, thanks to the RallyForce2 Tread Compound. This makes the tyre more durable so it can give maximum service life, even with off-road use. The new tread design is also a contributory factor with the Biting Shoulder that wraps from the tread down the sidewall. This results in better protection against sidewall aggression and ensures greater off-road performance and traction.

Variable Thickness Sipes (those small slits in tyres) provide improved contact patch that enhances handling and grip. Braking performance is also better, even on wet roads. When compared to its premium competitors, the LTX Trail has been able to stop 3.1 metres shorter when new, and 4.6 metres shorter when worn. On dry roads, when new, it stops 3.8 metres shorter. The sipes are deep so even the tyre is worn, the performance remains consistent and high.

Quietness is not always a strong point of tyres for SUVs and pick-up trucks. However, factory tests show that the LTX Trail has 19.8% lower sound pressure level. This is thanks to Duo-Harmony Blocks featuring two different block shapes in the tread’s centre that spread the noise generated  across a wider spectrum.

The Michelin LTX tyres are suitable for SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner (above) and pick-up trucks like the Nissan Navara, Isuzu D-MAX and Ford Ranger (below).

“At Michelin, we are constantly innovating to enable people to move around more freely, safely; and to live a better life in motion. The new Michelin LTX Trail is a great match for the increasing popularity of SUVs, which is projected to grow 5.6% year-on-year, from 2021 to 2026. Perfect for consumers who own 4×2 and 4×4 high-rise pickups, as well as SUVs – such as Toyota Hilux, Toyota Fortuner, and Nissan Navara – these tyres also cater to those whose lifestyle demands the ability to reach on- and off-road destinations, for work or pleasure,” said Oliver Biggart, Managing Director of Michelin Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei.

“We are confident that the new MICHELIN LTX Trail gives drivers in Malaysia a safe and comfortable ride on the road, across a variety of terrain – ranging from city commuting, wet road, highway driving, to light and moderate off-road,” added Mr. Biggart.

For the Malaysia market, the LTX Trail is offered in 9 sizes to fit with rim dimensions ranging between 15 and 18 inches. It is available at Michelin’s authorized tyre dealers nationwide. For more information on the Michelin tyre range and location of dealers, visit the Michelin Malaysia website.

Michelin’s airless UPTIS tyre now undergoing testing, market launch in 2024

Although commercial vehicles may not change as frequently as passenger cars, the tyres they run on have technologies which are continuous improved in many aspects. This is the case with the Michelin X MULTI Z 2, introduced in February last year as the latest addition to the tyremaker’s best-selling range in the East Asia and Australia regions.

3 major breakthrough technologies
There are 3 major breakthrough technologies in the X MULTI Z 2, beginning with REGENION. This technology enables differently shaped grooves to be used, ensuring minimal tread deformation. The advantage of minimizing tread deformation is that rolling resistance is lowered, leading to less fuel consumption.

The X Multi Z 2 tyre is suitable for long-distance, regional and urban use.

With the ground-breaking 3D metal printing techniques, the longitudinal grooves regenerate as the tyre wears, delivering a high level of grip and traction throughout the tyre’s lifecycle in all weather conditions. There is also a lower wear rate, claimed to be more than 20% compared to its predecessor, the X MULTI Z.

INFINICOIL is another technology and this adopts reinforced tread plies with a continuously wound steel wire of up to 400 metres long (depending on tyre size) inside the casing. The high tensile steel wire increases tyre strength and thus optimizes the ground contact patch and delivers high mileage potential.

This technology provides greater stability throughout the tyre’s lifetime, help reduce risk of sudden pressure loss for better vehicle control, extend mobility even when punctured, and improve uneven wear as it flattens the contact patch – thus, contributing to longer mileage and less unexpected breakdown incidences.

Finally, the use of HT NYLON provides strengthened bead endurance that helps not only reduce tyre damage linked to long-distance/high-speed usage and continuous usage cycle by 10% but also increase retreadability.

Additional sizes
New size offerings are now available for a wider range of applications. These new sizes – 295/80R22.5 and 12R22.5 – along with the original 11R22.5 are available at all authorized Michelin truck tyre dealers around Malaysia.

“We are proud to bring in new additions to the line-up of sizes offered by the Michelin X MULTI Z 2 range. The truck tyre market is an important segment that bolsters economic activities for the nation, and is crucial now more than ever, as we go into yet another movement control order in Malaysia. Thanks to the three core revolutionary technologies, the Michelin X MULTI Z 2 brings to our targeted customers uncompromised safety performance and helps meet their delivery timing and efficiency – thus, leading to increased productivity and improved cost-effectiveness for their businesses,” said Michelin Malaysia’s Commercial Director for B2B, Muhammad Arya Subrata.

Click here for others news about Michelin products and activities.

Any SUV owners in the house? If you’re looking for one of the best tyre options for your beloved vehicle, the new Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV is now available here in Malaysia. These rubbers have been specifically designed for ‘excellent longevity, remarkable braking performance, dynamic handling, and comfortable driving experience.’ (more…)

Michelin has joined Petron in its effort to communicate and impart road safety advocacy in universities around Malaysia. The objective of the ROAD SAFETY PROGRAM for Michelin is to educate and create awareness amongst the younger generation, as tyres are the first line of defence on the road, it is very important to ensure that these tyres are in good condition for better safety on the road. Other partners for this program include Road Transport Department (JPJ), Road Safety Department Malaysia (JKJR) and other private companies.

University students with Miss Nora Guitet, Public Affairs & Corporate Communication Director (Michelin – Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore & Brunei Darussalam) at the Petron Road Safety Program with Michelin Malaysia as one of its partners

Michelin has always been a strong advocate of safety – we place the utmost priority in ensuring our tyres are the safest on the road, in all conditions. The team is very pleased to be a part of this program as it is in line with our own road safety campaign,” shared Miss Nora Guitet, Public Affairs & Corporate Communication Director (Michelin – Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore & Brunei Darussalam).

She further added, “Being at UMP and UNISZA these past two weekends gave us first-hand opportunity to raise awareness that tyres are an essential part of road safety. Our aim during this program is to educate students on tyre care and maintenance to ensure they know the steps and precautions to take to be safe on the road.”

Michelin and Petron together with other partners have successfully completed the ROAD SAFETY PROGRAM in Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP), Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin Terengganu (UNISZA) and Universiti Selangor (UNISEL). The program will continue at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UITM) Seremban, Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) Selangor and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Skudai Johor from October through December.

Piston.my was recently invited to Pattaya, Thailand to witness and try-out the latest offering from renown tyre maker, Michelin, the new Primacy 4! Sep Irran, Editor of MotoMalaya.net files this report…

One of the world’s leading tyre manufacturers, Michelin, has officially unveiled their latest generation vehicle tyre; the Michelin Primacy 4. The latest and best addition into their premium Primacy range yet comes with a very assuring slogan, “Safe When New, Safe When Worn”.

This particular catchphrase is not just mere words the PR department from Michelin conjured up, folks. After years of research and development, they’ve pushed the limits of tyre safety technology and produced a tyre that provides lasting safety and excellent performance not only when brand new but up to the point where they’re worn down after miles of usage whilst providing the ultimate comfort throughout.

According to Pascal Nouvellon, Managing Director of MICHELIN Malaysia, “A tyre’s grip and braking performance – especially on wet roads – is critical to road safety in our country. Malaysian consumers today choose their tyres based on their characteristics when they are new.”

“But what happens to grip and braking performance after 50,000 kilometres, or after a few years of use? In the tyre industry, performance tests are typically conducted on new products. Michelin is a step ahead. We want to demonstrate that our performance is maintained with mileage and time,” added Pascal.

Three years worth of effort and innovation led to the birth of two new technologies developed for the new Michelin Primacy 4. The first one is the EverGrip™ Technology where it provides two remarkable features, which are:

  • New tyre sculpture – provides increased water evacuation space by 50% for wet grip as the tyre wears with usage, which allows the tyre to still safely grip wet roads even when worn.
  • New-generation rubber compound – bonds rubber and silica more strongly and evenly together, which provides uniform energy dissipation upon contact with the road, resulting in better grip on wet roads, even when worn.

The second ground-breaking technology by the folks from Michelin is the second-generation Silent Rib Technology which helps in elevating the overall driving experience and comfort. How are they able to achieve this? By the introduction of brand new inter-locking bands that helps to minimize the deformation of tread blocks as the tyre is rolling. This helps by:

  1. Reducing the air pumping sound effects for a more silent ride
  2. Providing better shock absorption in response to road obstacles for a more comfortable ride

Michelin invited media members from all over Asia to Pattaya, Thailand for a very exciting test drive to see how the Michelin Primacy 4 is able to perform under different conditions. The Primacy 4 Experience showcased how it’s able to perform under super wet conditions when brand new AND when worn out to 2mm remaining tyre depth. The result was quite amazing, to say the least.

Michelin commissioned TÜV Rheinland Thailand Limited to test new and worn MICHELIN Primacy 4 tyres on wet roads, as well as new and worn tyres of other premium tyre brands. The result? Michelin Primacy 4 tyres brake 2.5 meters shorter when new, and 5.1 meters shorter when worn, compared to other premium brands in the market.

With Michelin’s main focus of pushing the limits of tyre safety even when worn, they’ve accomplished something more amazing in which we were able to witness for ourselves at the test track. The Michelin Primacy 4 tyres are able to brake 1.8 meters shorter than brand new tyres from other premium brands!

Pascal continued by saying that “The new Michelin Primacy 4 addresses two major pain points of consumers in our country: safety journey after journey, due to unfavourable road conditions and rain-related accidents; and on comfort, due to challenging road and traffic conditions. Sustainability of our products is Michelin’s key corporate strategy. Instead of producing tyres that are easily depleted, we strive to deliver tyres that provide safety and true value to consumers, while respecting the environment, throughout its full life cycle.”

The new Michelin Primacy 4 will be available from July 2018 onwards with 64 available sizes from 15 to 18 inches in diameter, with an estimated MSRP of between RM400 to RM700 each depending on size (TBC, check local authorised dealer).

Those who own popular vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, BMW 3 and 5-series, Mercedes E and C-Class plus many more are all able to enjoy the new Primacy 4. For more information, head over to www.michelin.my, ‘TYREPLUS’ or any of the Michelin’s authorised dealers across Malaysia.

Michelin Primacy 4 Pattaya Thailand Launch Photo Gallery…

  • Michelin telah melancarkan tayar Michelin Primacy 4 terbaharu di Pattaya, Thailand Jumaat lepas.

  • Michelin Primacy 4 mampu memberi prestasi cengkaman optimum sepanjang hayat sehingga haus.

  • Ini mampu dilakukan dengan Teknologi EverGrip™ dan Teknologi Silent Rib generasi kedua dari Michelin.

Syarikat pengeluar tayar terkemuka Michelin telah melancarkan produk tayar kereta terbaharu mereka iaitu Michelin Primacy 4. Tayar generasi baharu dalam rangkaian Primacy mereka mampu merevolusikan pasaran tayar tempatan dengan aspek keselamatan ketika baru dan juga apabila telah haus. (more…)

MICHELIN Malaysia kicked-off 2018 with the MICHELIN OFF-ROAD DAYS event from 20 to 23 March to showcase MICHELIN’s range of SUV and 4 x 4 tyres, including its latest innovation in on- and off-road tyres – the MICHELIN LTX FORCE.

L-R: 1. Mr. Kuang Boon Keat, Customer Engineering Support, Michelin Malaysia 2. Mr. Pascal Nouvellon, Managing Director, Michelin Malaysia 3. Mr. Duy Pham, Marketing Manager, Michelin Malaysia 4. The Michelin Man, aka Bibendum, Michelin’s Mascot

The MICHELIN LTX FORCE features both on-road and off-road capabilities and toughness – from asphalt highways, concrete roads, to unpaved, gravel, sand, and wet mud path. The week-long event saw a diverse group of tyre and car enthusiasts test drive and experience first-hand the adaptability of the MICHELIN LTX FORCE tyres at on- and off-road terrains in the Sepang Circuit.

Consumers were able to experience the tyres’ full potential on various vehicles, including the Toyota Hilux and Toyota Fortuner, as well as witness on-site comparison against other tyres in the market. Themed “By Passion, By Necessity”, the event was aimed at the SUV and 4×4 market segment which is a growing market globally. The theme also addresses the need of today’s drivers who travel for work and leisure, from the daily worker to the avid adventurer.

In Malaysia, the SUV / 4×4 segment accounts for almost 12% of total Passenger Vehicles sold in 2017 – or 61,275 units – according to the Malaysian Automotive Association. Global Insights estimates that the SUV market is expected to grow at a rate of 9.7% by the year 2022, while the Malaysia Tire Forecast and Opportunity Report projects tyre sales to increase by 6.6% the same period.

MICHELIN Malaysia’s Managing Director, Mr. Pascal Nouvellon (above) revealed: “Over the past two years, the SUV tyre segment has outgrown the passenger car tyre segment globally; and will continue to do so for the next five years as more people are seeking safety and versatility in vehicles and would expect the same from their tyres. At MICHELIN, we strive to deliver tyre safety that people deserve – simply.”

The MICHELIN LTX FORCE’s on-road capabilities are enabled by CompacTread Technology, whereby reinforcement between tread blocks increases the contact area with the ground, for better braking and safety; BevelTread Technology, whereby a rounded sloping edge cuts the peaks of noise power at the frequency which is sensitive to human ears, thus providing a peaceful ride; and CushionGuard Technology, which absorbs road imperfections for a more comfortable drive.

Its off-road toughness is enabled by Extended Sidewall Biting Edge, which improves the sidewall’s cut-chip resistance; plus Deep and Open Shoulder Design for off-road traction. True to its tagline “Whatever The Terrain, One Tyre Handles It”, the MICHELIN LTX FORCE is the best option for drivers who seek the best driving experience on all types of roads.

“Off-road technologies behind the MICHELIN LTX FORCE are derived from the World Rally Championship (WRC), one of the world’s most demanding rallies – thus, providing another example of MICHELIN’s “From Track to Street” philosophy. At the same time, on-road technologies improve braking performance on both wet and dry roads, as well as increases durability. Through a series of tests held at the event, consumers could witness the MICHELIN LTX FORCE braking to an average distance of 2 meters shorter versus its competitors on-road, which is a crucial safety feature. Third party studies also revealed that the tyre delivers 35% more mileage” added Mr. Nouvellon.

With the MICHELIN LTX FORCE, customers can be ensured of safety and versatility with excellent on-road grip and great off-road traction, as well as of longevity and durability with better mileage and a tougher design.

MICHELIN LTX FORCE is available in a wide range of fitments – from 15 to 18 inches – at TYREPLUS car service outlets, MICHELIN EXPERT CENTRE and authorized dealers across the nation.

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