Omni United unveils run-flat for South African safety

KRUGERSDORP, South Africa—For several years, it's been a priority of GS Sareen to develop a run-flat tire for a drivers in a country that has one of the highest murder rates in the world.

Sareen, president and CEO of Omni United Pte. Ltd., and his team held a dealer event in South Africa on Aug. 21—called Mission Africa Terrain—to announce they had done just that under an initiative called Project Safedrive.

Omni introduced a line of Radar Dimax Sport and Radar Dimax Sprint tires with run-flat technology in seven sizes for SUV drivers in South Africa.

The private brand owner said it will be subsidizing these key sizes for dealers "with the aim of making safety accessible for drivers in South Africa." It said its goal is to sell the "life-saving" tires as the same price as regular tires.

According to a German data gathering firm, South Africa has one of the highest murder rates in the world—more than 27,000 murders in 2024, or 45 per 100,000. In the U.S., that rate is six per 100,000.

South Africa has the highest crime index in Africa and is ranked as the fifth most dangerous country in the world.

Omni United said Project Safedrive serves as Radar's commitment to driver safety "through advanced yet affordable tire technology."

The project, Omni United said, focuses on developing a portfolio of tires that will operate even if they are compromised, ensuring drivers reach safety. The project includes run-flat and bulletproof technologies, designed to provide protection in both every day and high-risk situations, the company said.

"We recognize the unique challenges faced by everyday drivers in South Africa, especially women, who prioritize safety and reliability on the road," Sareen said. "By subsidizing key run-flat tire sizes, we are ensuring that safety isn't a luxury but a standard—one that is affordable and within reach for all drivers. This initiative isn't just about tires; it's about empowering the community, providing peace of mind and reinforcing our dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of South African drivers."

The bulletproof tire range is in development, Omni United said, as ballistics testing is conducted. The tires will be introduced as a Renegade lineup of light truck and 4x4 tires, branded as Renegade Ultra.

Seven run-flat sizes are expected to be available in South Africa by year-end, Omni United said.

In addition to the Project Safedrive, Omni United also unveiled the Renegade AT Sport tire, which it called a next-generation all-terrain tire, specifically for the South African market.

Omni United said the tire was engineered to provide exceptional off-road performance as well as a quiet, smooth ride on roads. The product, part of Radar's "premium collection," is available in 14 sizes at a "more accessible price point," according to Sareen.

Among the attributes are:

Ultra-shield system: A combination of stone ejectors, serrations on the bottom tread and strong tie bars to enhance durability, increase puncture resistance and casing protection;

Gravel-Trac technology: Optimized interlocking tread block design in combination with reverse radius on shoulder blocks provides the ultimate all-terrain performance on gravel roads and exceptional traction on sand and mud;

Enduramax compound: Silica-based compound that provides great cut and chip resistance and maximum grip in all conditions; and

Snake-Bite tread block design: Snake head shaped tread blocks create torsional strength in all directions and protect the aggressive shoulder block, Omni United said, while wide circumferential center block design provides driving feel.increasing stability and handling.

The Renegade Ultra range will be available by the first quarter of 2025.

Sareen said South Africa is a key market for the private brand owner.

"The objective of Mission African Terrain is not just about showcasing products; it's about forging strong connections with retailers and demonstrating the essence of our brand, which has always been rooted in giving back to the community," Sareen said. "Project SafeDrive is a prime example of this commitment."