Sailun's 'revolutionary' technology, R&D Center keys to North American growth plan

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn.—In this mobility moment—a moment defined by technology and transition—big innovations are needed.

Because the new generation of vehicles, particularly the electrified models, perform differently, sound differently and ride differently. As a result, they need tires that do exactly the same—perform, ride and sound just a little bit different than their predecessors.

They need tires that do everything, better.

So Sailun Tire Americas is giving them just that. A tire tailored precisely for electric vehicles, a tire it says is perfect for the North American market.

It's a tire line that Sailun's dubbed ERange, and it just made its debut in North America late last year.

"As more and more vehicle manufacturers offer additional electric and hybrid car, truck and SUV options, the need for tires that enhance EV performance, help increase range and also deliver a quiet and comfortable driver experience has never been greater," Mark Pereira, Sailun Tire Americas' director of marketing and communications, told Rubber News.

"ERange EV tires," Pereira added, "are designed to reduce rolling resistance, which in turn helps to increase the range of the EV, by reducing battery life consumption. Its high efficiency design not only improves the overall driving experience, but also reduces 'range anxiety' for drivers."

All of that adds ups to some big expectations for the tire line. Because with ERange, Sailun—a proud value-tier brand—says it is poised to take on some of the biggest names in tires, especially in the electric vehicle segment and particularly when it comes to performance.

And it's possible, Sailun says, because of one key innovation: EcoPoint3.

"Our EcoPoint3 Liquid Phase Mixing technology allows us to build a tire that can take on the unique challenges presented by EV and hybrid vehicles that traditional tires struggle with," Pereira said.

How?

Balance.

Balance of materials for balanced performance.

Ultimately, EcoPoint3 technology allows materials to be fully and uniformly mixed under continuous liquid phase conditions. And because it can adapt to effectively provide the correct rubber balance, the technology is applicable for use across a range of tire types—high performance, touring, all-season and winter—as well as vehicle segments.

And that, Pereira said, proves just how valuable the technology is. In fact, it's one the company itself has called "revolutionary."

"This breakthrough comes from years of painstaking research and development on high-performance rubber materials," Sailun said in a news release when it debuted the technology last year. "… EcoPoint3 technology not only improves a tire's rolling resistance for increased efficiency, but also enhances traction and provides more durable tire wear resistance—making tires that can last longer and perform better for a safer, more energy-efficient and comfortable drive."

When it comes to designing those safer, more energy-efficient tires, Sailun is taking its talents to south Tennessee.

The tire maker last year disclosed plans to open a 22,308-sq.-ft. R&D Center in Chattanooga that would serve as a hub for tire design and development. It will play a central role for the company as it looks to gain a greater share of the North American market and lead within the value tier segment.

"The move marks a significant step in the growth of R&D and the technical capabilities for the company in North America," Pereira said. "This new center will be responsible for the design and development of both original equipment and replacement tires for the North American market across the entire portfolio of STA brands, which includes passenger car, EV, SUV/CUV, light truck, and TBR."

Sailun did not disclose the total investment in the facility—which it has retrofitted to meet its specific needs. The facility itself is up and running, the tire maker noted, and it is expected to be fully operational by the third quarter of 2023.

Some key staff members already are in place as the company continues to add equipment and expand employment at the R&D Center.

"We have continued to invest, engineer and design products in North America specifically for the U.S. and Canadian markets, giving drivers affordable options without sacrificing quality, safety and performance," Pereira said.

"Sailun is quickly becoming a recognized leader in both tire manufacturing and rubber technology with a full range of products, brands and possibilities to make it happen. This expansion will allow us to meet the increasing demands for products like ours by North American customers and drivers."

Products like EV-specific tires and those designed for larger vehicles with larger rim diameters.

Because with an auto industry in transition, this is a moment worth capturing. And that is exactly what Sailun intends to do.

"The timing for our new technical center could not be better due to the transitioning market in North America," Pereira said, noting the move is a signal to both the U.S. and Canada. "Together with our global R&D teams, we are confident that we will provide optimum performing products for the North American market."