Giti launches GT Radial SportActive 2 – 10-15% better wet performance

Giti Tire has launched its new mass-market European UHP tyre, the GT Radial SportActive 2. The second generation of the SportActive comes with a range of performance enhancements, particularly in wet conditions. The GT Radial SportActive 2 will initially be available in 14 sizes for rims from 16-20”, section widths from 205-275, series sizes from 35-55, and with speed indices of W or Y.

The tyre has registered improvements of around 15 per cent in wet braking and 10 per cent in wet handling and aquaplaning resistance versus the original GT Radial SportActive according to the manufacturer’s testing. The manufacturer adds that the tyre has increased mileage potential by 5 per cent, depending on driving characteristics, and low external noise at just 69db.

These improvements mean the entire SportActive 2 car tyre range achieves A-grade wet grip and B-E in fuel efficiency on the EU tyre label. The tyre targets C, D and E segment cars and SUVs with a sport orientation. The size range includes fitments for the VW Golf, Ford Focus, Mercedes C Class, BMW 3 series, VW Passat, the Audi A6, and the Mercedes E Class. Tyres specifically oriented to SUVs will carry a marking on the sidewall to showcase their specialisation.

While Giti Tire has a full range of car tyre products under its eponymous Giti brand in certain continental European markets, GT Radial remains the manufacturer’s dominant brand in the UK car tyre aftermarket, distributed exclusively by Micheldever Tyre Services. As such the SportActive 2 could be described as a flagship car tyre product for the UK market.

GT Radial Sport Active 2 characteristics

GT Radial SportActive 2

Describing the features and characteristics of the new tyre, Giti says the GT Radial SportActive 2 is “designed to deliver precision control with superb wet and dry grip, long lasting mileage and a confident, fun driving experience.” The tyre features Giti’s latest compound technology. The compound, which the manufacturer claims is “best-in-class”, is engineered to deliver increased grip and homogeneous wear, improving the tyre’s longevity.

The GT Radial SportActive 2’s tread includes four or five longitudinal grooves, dependent on section width, for improved water drainage. Micro-sipes create a suction effect for additional grip, the manufacturer adds, while the blocks have been optimally tuned to reduce noise and increase driving comfort.

The GT Radial SportActive 2 was designed and engineered at Giti Tire’s European Research & Development Centre in Hannover, with testing at the company’s MIRA facility in the UK as well as key locations in Germany and Spain.

Stefan Fischer, managing director – product technology at Giti Tire Europe, said: “Drivers looking for a UHP tyre which delivers both high levels of safety and utmost enjoyment need look no further than the GT Radial SportActive 2, which performs across the board.

“While continuing the well-known and well-respected SportActive name it is a completely new tyre as signified by the A grade in wet grip across the entire PCR range, both passenger car and SUV derivatives.

“For the European R&D team and manufacturing plants to deliver such a high-quality tyre at the price point expected of the GT Radial brand is testament to our local and global capabilities, now distributors, stockists and drivers will all be able to enjoy the benefits.”