FRANKLIN, Tenn. — As it continues preparations to build its first North American tire plant, Triangle Tire USA has launched a premium all-position fleet tire, the Triangle TRS02, which the company called a "practical solution" for regional and urban-haul operations.
The tire, available in 10 sizes ranging from 265/70R19.5 to 11R24.5, delivers long tread life, Triangle, said, as well as "outstanding" cornering and traction capabilities. It is built on a durable casing, Triangle said, that allows for multiple retreads. Ply ratings range from 14 to 20.
Triangle's warranty for the TRS02 includes a 90-day satisfaction guarantee; a five-year casing warranty; a three-retread warranty; and free replacement during the first 50 percent of treadwear if the tire becomes unusable due to workmanship or material defects.
The tire is SmartWay verified for reduced rolling resistance.
Rick Phillips, vice president of sales, said the product will be competitively priced, providing "a very practical solution for regional fleets wanting to increase their tire performance and reduce tire operating costs."
The tire features a split layer compound that extends original tread life while reducing rolling resistance. A wider footprint also contributes to extended removal miles, Triangle said.
The tire's variable sipe concept and undulating tread base grooves improve cornering stability and overall handling.
"This is a new generation product for Triangle," Mr. Phillips said. "It's a preview of things to come as we revamp our lineup and prepare for TBR production in the U.S."
In December, Triangle Tyre Co. Ltd. announced plans to invest nearly $580 million to build a plant in Edgecombe County, N.C. It eventually will employ up to 800 when fully operational.
The two-phased project includes passenger tire capacity in Phase I and a commercial tire capacity in Phase II. The company expects to complete both by 2023. Once both facilities reach capacity, Triangle expects to produce 6 million tires annually in North Carolina.