PARIS—Trelleborg Wheel Systems S.p.A. is launching the first product in its ProgressiveTraction range, the 70-series TM700.
Calling it the culmination of years of research and testing, Trelleborg claims the ProgressiveTraction's “double lug” design results in an 18-percent wider footprint and improved flotation performance, traction and fuel efficiency, performance characteristics that result in maximum crop yields, while preserving soil from compaction and erosion.
Trelleborg will unveil the tire in two sizes, 520/70R38 and 420/70R28, at SIMA, the International Agri Business Show in Paris and plans to add more sizes throughout the year.
The TM700 ProgressiveTraction design incorporates Trelleborg's “BlueTire” environmental performance technology, which provides up to a 6-percent reduction in CO2 emissions, when compared to standard tires.
The new line is designed for the latest generation of farm tractors, according to Piero Mancinelli, R&D director, agricultural and forestry tires, who noted the TM700 provides extra performance in terms of traction and fuel efficiency.
During field operations, the higher grip of the TM700 is driven by the dual edges of the lug that act as two anchor points. This new design significantly reduces tire slippage, increasing traction capability by up to 17 percent over the market average.
The economic benefits result in significant savings for farming professionals of as much as $450 when farming an area of 600 acres, according to Trelleborg.
The product will be available in North America as well, a spokesman said.
Separately, Trelleborg bought D.G. Manutention Services SAS, a Marseilles, France-based industrial tire distributor and service provider, to strengthen its presence in southern France.
Trelleborg did not disclose the acquisition price but said the company generated $6 million in sales last year.
“The acquisition gives us the opportunity to expand our industrial tire service concept while also allowing us to grow our service and distribution in Europe,” said Maurizio Vischi, president of Trelleborg Wheel. “It strengthens our entire supply chain, from manufacturing to service of industrial tires.”