To construct the first-ever test track in India particularly intended to verify tyres for Electric Vehicles (EVs) and low rolling resistance (LRR) tyres, Apollo tyres has announced a substantial cooperation with NATRAX (National Automotive Test Tracks). Through this partnership, EV manufacturers will have access to a specialised testing laboratory where they can evaluate and certify tyre cut and chip resistance.
Because of their distinct features, such as high-speed acceleration and regenerative braking, EVs require a thorough evaluation of the cut and chip resistance of their tyres. Additionally, the facility will assess the fuel-efficient tyres’ resilience to cuts and chips (Star label programme).
Sustainable mobility was stressed by Hanif Qureshi, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Heavy Industries, Government of India, during the facility’s opening at NATRAX. The addition of the new track is a significant step forward in the nation’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan” initiative, which aims to promote self-sufficiency and reduce dependence on imports, thereby fostering a more self-reliant India. He attributed the track facilities at NATRAX to the government of India’s commitment to the growth of the automotive industry.
Satish Sharma, President, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa (APMEA), Apollo Tyres, underscored the company’s unwavering commitment in providing exceptional products to customers worldwide. By investing in cutting-edge testing facility, Apollo Tyres demonstrates its dedication to innovation, quality and customer satisfaction. The facility will enable the company to fast-track the development of tyres for OEMs, in particular for EVs, and low rolling resistance tyres, specifically designed for the Indian roads, taking into account the country’s unique road conditions and climate.
Manish Jaiswal, Director of NATRAX, highlighted the significance of NATRAX test tracks, which is a one-of-a-kind world-class facility. He stressed that the newly constructed unique cut and chip test track, built in close partnership with Apollo Tyres, added feathers to NATRAX facility. He also stated that this track is available for passenger vehicles, commercial vehicle original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and tyre manufacturers. It marks another significant milestone in NATRAX’s transformation into a global hub for automotive testing.
Daniele Lorenzetti, Chief Technology Officer, Apollo Tyres, commented, “This test track is uniquely designed to validate tyres consistently by mimicking real-world conditions with split mu surfaces and gradients. This test track will help to reduce product development time, allowing Apollo Tyres to bring new products to market faster and more efficiently. This is a critical advantage in today’s fast-paced and competitive market. Furthermore, the joint development of this testing capability aligns with Apollo Tyres’ Electric Vehicle (EV) product journey for both domestic and international markets.”