Firestone launches two agricultural tire ranges: one value-priced and one higher-quality

Firestone, which belongs to the Japanese group Bridgestone, is launching a second line, the ?Profil R1085?, alongside its ?Performer 70? agricultural tires, to stem the losses caused by the Taurus, BKT and Mitas brands, which have made a strong breakthrough in recent years.
Firestone tires have become more European with the arrival of the Performer agricultural ranges. First in 2009 with the launch of the Firestone Performer 85, then at the end of 2010 with the Firestone Performer 70 (presented at Sima).

As a result, the R6000 series with the American-style ?big-nosed lugs? have aged considerably.

The new Firestone Performer 70 series features, as with the Performer 85, Dual Angle technology (two-angle lugs), which is said to provide better traction, better forward progress and minimal soil deformation. The flatter tread is said to optimize road transport.

In addition, the Performer 70 is said to have a higher load capacity than its competitors at identical pressure and speed.

Launched in September 2010, the Performer 70 agricultural range comprises 17 sizes from 24 to 38 inches with a D/E index.

A second line rather than a second brand

The market leaders (Michelin, Goodyear, Trelleborg, Firestone) have been somewhat shaken in recent years by brands described in the industry as ?exotic?. For example, India's BKT is playing the troublemaker by offering very competitive prices.

In response, Firestone is offering a ?second line? of tires with price positioning. The Profil R1085 (85 series) were launched in 2010 and consist of 19 sizes from 24 to 38 inches with an A/B index.

The Profil R1070 (70 series) will be launched in the 1er half of 2011. 15 sizes are planned with an A/B index.