Stamford Tyres to distribute Prometeon tyres in SA

October 2, 2024

Stamford Tyres, a member of the Singaporean Stamford Group, recently hosted an event at the Courtyard Hotel in Waterfall City to unveil the latest additions to its product range: the 385/65R22.5 Prometeon R02 Pro Trailer, Pro Fuel Steer and 315/80R22.5 Nextroad.

According to the regional sales manager for South and East Africa at Prometeon, the company soon recognised the need for a specific type of tyre in the African market.

“Initially, our mixed application tyres performed exceptionally well in Africa when the roads were extremely rough and conditions were challenging – our customers were very satisfied with the product,” he explained. However, as road conditions improved, the performance of the mixed application products did not meet expectations.

Recognising this gap, Prometeon understood the need for a versatile tyre that could cater to both regional and “on/off” road applications. The company’s engineers were tasked with addressing the unique challenges presented by the African continent. “They found that sometimes the tyre needs to function as a regional tyre, while in other areas, it must perform as a mixed application tyre,” he said. “This led to the development of the Nextroad product, which is effective on roads where a regional tyre is typically used, as well as in conditions suited to a mixed application tyre.”

Stamford Tyres’ decision to partner with Prometeon was influenced by several crucial factors. “First, the technology and investment behind these products were evident,” said José Romero, vice president of Stamford Tyres South Africa. “Unlike many tyres designed for European markets, these tyres were specifically engineered for African conditions, which are among the most diverse and challenging in the world. The emphasis on drive tyres, particularly the 315 and multi-axle models, is essential for meeting local demands.”

Romero further highlighted the exceptional ongoing support from the manufacturer, along with their significant research and development (R&D) efforts. These efforts are focused on creating products that are environmentally friendly, offer excellent mileage, and meet the evolving needs of modern vehicles and drivers.

“Vehicles are changing, horsepower is changing, and driver characteristics are changing. Without R&D, you cannot produce a tyre that is environmentally friendly, delivers optimal mileage, and meets the results customers are seeking,” Romero added.

The area manager for South and East Africa Tyre Export Department at Prometeon also shared insights on the concerns of fleet operators. “Whenever I visit a fleet, the first question I am asked is: What’s the weight of the tyre?” he noted. “For them, a heavier tyre is perceived as a stronger tyre. The next question is often about tread depth, as this directly impacts mileage for fleet owners and managers.”

However, he added, Prometeon is approaching things differently: “Today, fuel efficiency and reduced CO₂ emissions are paramount. This can be achieved by lowering rolling resistance. Prometeon tyres are designed with energy dispersion belts beneath the tread, using lighter belts for a lighter tyre, while maintaining the same strength in the casing.”

Prometeon’s new technologies, including energy-dispersion belts and zero-degree spiral belts, are designed to improve fuel efficiency, reduce CO₂ emissions, and enhance tyre durability. These new tyres are currently undergoing testing in various African markets, including South Africa, with the goal of optimising performance and cost per kilometre for fleet operators.

Stamford Tyres’ introduction of the Prometeon range marks a significant step forward in addressing the unique demands of the African transport industry. As these innovative products continue to be tested and refined, they promise to deliver enhanced efficiency, sustainability, and reliability to fleet operators across the continent.