Apollo Tyres has announced the launch of its European tire brand Vredestein in India, with tires produced in the country for the superbike and premium and luxury passenger car segments.
Vredestein tires for the passenger car sector will be produced in sizes 15in to 20in. The Vredestein Ultrac Vorti will cater for premium luxury sedans, such as Mercedes, BMW, Audi, Land Rover and Volvo, with the Vredestein Ultrac designed for application to premium hatchback and sedan vehicles.
For the motorbike segment, the Vredestein Centauro NS and ST are suitable for fitment to a wide range of sports tourers and superbikes from brands such as Ducati, Kawasaki and Yamaha among others.
“India has been witnessing a high growth in the premium and luxury segment of cars, and also in the superbike segment,” commented Neeraj Kanwar, vice chairman and managing director, Apollo Tyres. “This has prompted us to introduce this 100+ years old brand, Vredestein, for the Indian customers. Vredestein is synonymous with premium styling and ultra-high performance, which are the two most important factors considered by owners of luxury cars and superbikes. I am confident that, with Vredestein, a domestic international brand, we will become the dominant player in the luxury segment in India.”
Ahead of the Indian launch, the Vredestein tires underwent various tests at tracks in Europe and India.
“The introduction of Vredestein brand will definitely strengthen our offerings in the passenger vehicle and two-wheeler segments in India,” said Satish Sharma, president, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa (APMEA), Apollo Tyres.
“The import restrictions on tires imposed by the Indian government recently, had made a strong business case for us to bring in Vredestein brand of tires into India for the high-end cars and motorcycles. Our R&D teams have customized these tires to provide the best safety and driving experience for the Indian conditions.”
