Primewell launches first SUV tyre as segment continues European growth

As the SUV segment continues to reach new heights of popularity in Europe, Giti Tire has introduced its first ever Primewell brand 4×4 tyre, expanding its passenger car tyre portfolio.

The Valera SUV is pitched as a “quality affordable tyre” for the European replacement market, which will expand over the next year after thesustained sharp increase in ownership of the vehicle type during 2014. The tyre is manufactured in 11 sizes from 17-20”, ranging from 215/60R17 to 275/40R20 and with speed ratings V, W and Y.

Angelo Giannangeli, marketing director for passenger car and light truck – Europe for Giti Tire, said: “This is a key development in the Primewell portfolio, not only because it cements our relationship with existing customers, many of whom have requested a SUV offering, but it opens up whole new sector.

“The SUV market in Europe now represents 15 per cent of passenger car sales and literally every carmaker is increasing their product range over the coming years. The Valera SUV covers the vast majority of these vehicles, including the ever-popular Nissan Qashqai and Juke models, so the size range is optimal.

“The Primewell brand already has a solid reputation in the UK for offering exceptional tyres at a competitive price, and we anticipate the new SUV product will prove to be a popular choice in the quality affordable segment of the market.”

The Valera SUV features strong braking and good handling on wet and dry roads, a quiet, comfortable ride and long lasting wear resistance, according to the manufacturer. These properties have been achieved through a five-point equilibrium contour for enhanced sidewall stiffness and optimised contact area, optimal pressure distribution for uniform wearing, a new compound to reduce heat and improve rolling resistance and a unique tyre pattern to enhance safety on wet roads.

Primewell passenger car and van tyres are distributed in the UK by Stapleton’s (Tyre Services) Ltd. It is positioned by Giti as a “quality, affordable brand” beneath its flagship GT Radial range.

The new Primewell SUV tyre joins the recently launched Enduro SUV in the segment, Giti’s road-going 4×4 tyre in its Micheldever-distributed Runway brand.