PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — TBC Corp. is rolling out the latest iteration of the Sumitomo HTR A/S all-season high-performance tire, the P03, to replace the P02, which has been on the market since 2015.
TBC Brands, the exclusive distributor of Sumitomo-brand tires in North America, claims the HTR A/S P03 outperforms its predecessor in ride comfort, wet braking, tread life and winter traction, while maintaining the same dry braking and reduced road noise performance.
TBC is focusing the launch of the P03 on larger rim diameters and higher speed ratings "to capture the trends of the fastest-growing segments," Jon Vance, TBC's senior vice president of product marketing, said.
"This tire was designed for dealers seeking an exclusive, high-quality product with top-tier performance all while offering improved profitability. The A/S P03 is a great addition to Sumitomo's full product line-up and answers the end-users need for a remarkable high-performance ride."
TBC is offering the P03 in 75 sizes covering 15- to 20-inch rim diameters in H, V and W speed ratings, running from 175/65R15 84H to 275/35R20 102W. Additional sizes will be added in 2021, TBC said.
TBC is targeting the HTR A/S P03 at owners of sports cars, sedans and crossovers, pointing to the tire's blend of "impressive" handling and sporty performance. The P03 also offers reduced hydroplaning risk due to a new tread pattern, while 3D sipes offer enhanced contact with the road for improved bite and irregular wear prevention.
TBC is backing the P03 with a 65,000-mile limited treadwear warranty for H- and V-rated SKUs and a 45,000-mile warranty on W-rated sizes, as well as 24/7 roadside assistance coverage for two years, a one-year tire road hazard protection plan and a 30-day free test drive.
The HTR A/S P03 is built in Japan by Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd.