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German automaker, BMW, has approved the General Tire brand as original equipment (OE) fitment for the latest BMW X5. The all-terrain Grabber AT3 has been recommended in size 275/45 R20 110V XL on the Bavarian automaker’s latest X range model for its optional ‘Off-Road Package’.
The BMW X5 is a trailblazer in the off-road vehicle segment that combines luxury and performance, so a great deal is expected of its tyres.
The Grabber AT3 features three innovative technologies from General Tire that allow for robust performance both on and offroad, enhanced acoustic performance and improved mileage providing maximum grip on stony, sandy and muddy ground at the same time.
“For the General Tire brand, this recognition by one of the leading European 4×4 vehicle manufacturers is a special seal of quality,” General Tire Business Development Manager for the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) Region, Matthias Bartz, said.
“BMW invariably sets the bar high in terms of the requirements of the tyres in both the original equipment and replacement sectors. The Grabber AT3 approved for the BMW X5 is rated for speeds of up to 240 km/h. As an all season tyre, it bears the M+S mark and the snowflake symbol to signify safe handling on dirt roads and snow-covered surfaces. “
The technologies that are stand-out features of the Grabber AT3 includes ‘TracGen’, which includes an open shoulder design, traction ridges for improved grip on all surfaces, and sipes arranged at different angles to enhance water dispersion properties for optimal wet grip and braking performance. ‘DuraGen’ is a rubber compound that provides excellent rip resistance and improves mileage in rough terrain.
This combination of design features boost the self-cleaning properties of the tread, permits good interlocking with loose surfaces and provides a large number of edges to deliver grip in every direction.
And, finally, ‘ComfortBalance’ successfully overcomes the conflicting interests of ride comfort on-road and good off-road grip. The balanced block geometry of the tread with low stiffness and the specially modified arrangement of the blocks in the centre of the tread reduce vibration in the tyre for maximum comfort.
