GT Radial debuted its first, all position urban city-bus tyre at The CV Show, reporting that leads surpassed expected demand.
The GAU861 has been designed with an extra reinforced sidewall protector to ensure maximum resistance to curbing and impact damage, while a unique tread pattern with a 20.2mm depth ensures good mileage performance combined with comfort and reduced noise.
Available initially in 275/70R22.5, the tyre can be used in both steer and drive positions on both 4x2 and 6x2 configurations and is M+S marked indicating excellent traction in mud and snow conditions.
Tony McHugh, Truck and Bus Sales and Marketing Director at Giti Tire UK, manufacturer of GT Radial, said: "Prior to the event the performance figures and feedback we collated on the GAU861 made for impressive reading, and the positive market reaction we encountered was better still at The CV Show.
"The new urban city-bus tyre has been designed specifically and extensively tested to ensure it meets the demanding requirements of the European market, and bus and coach operators now see a very strong product portfolio. All the signs point to a hugely successful launch."
In addition, The CV Show marked the event debut of GT Radial's recently launched commercial vehicle roadside service assistance programme, GT ASSIST.
Operating throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and working in collaboration with over 180 sites in the dealer network, GT ASSIST offers roadside assistance 7 days per week 365 days of the year within a specified response time, putting it on par with the best in the industry.
The programme is managed by RAC Commercial Assistance (RACCA), who will take the initial breakdown call and find the nearest dealer who has both the correct GT Radial product and capability to attend the scene within the strict timescale, and Infleet, who will handle all back office functions.
"It is designed specifically to create the full fleet requirement package of product, price and service from a mid-tier tyre manufacturer," added McHugh. "Again the reaction was excellent, we are extremely happy with the leads and the way the service is performing."
Giti Tire is one of the top 10 largest tyre companies in the world in terms of both volume and revenue. The company exports to more than 100 countries and offers a complete product range for Europe including passenger car, SUV, van, light truck, heavy truck and bus tyres.
All new heavy truck and bus products are the result of the company's advanced testing and evaluation programme, with more than 1,000 tyres on field test across Europe at anytime. The casings of each are designed for retreading using both cold and hot processes.