Pirelli to sell tyres over Web
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• Pirelli has unveiled a range of products, including an Internetbased tyre management and ordering system. This is designed to help operators maxImise tyre life, as well as letting them select and order tyres from their desktop.
It follows the decision by Central Tyres, owned by Pirelli, to close its outlets and replace them with a fleet of mobile units that visit operators from unstaffed stock depots (CM1622 March).
The system will come online over the next 18 months with some applications available within six weeks.
Secure access for registered operators will enable them to access Pirelli's databases and management programs to maximise tyre life. Marketing manager Bruno Belpietro says: "We're not selling tyres, we're selling miles."
Computers have also played their part in the development of new tyres, with extensive use of predictive modelling to evaluate designs.
New regional tyres include the FR25 for the front axle and the TR26, with its heavier duty sibling, the TR25, for drive axles. New trailer tyres reflect a trend towards lower ride heights and higher trailers: the ST55 is available for 17.5 and 19.5n rims.
Long-haul work is catered for with the FH75, while on/off road applications are targeted with the FG and TG85, which will be launched in Africa before going on sale in the UK at the beginning of next year.