Kumho Sets Ambitious 2009

The tires were unveiled to dealers attending Kumho’s reception during SEMA; the company did not have a booth at the show.

In addition, Kumho said that its tires were tapped for OE positions on the 2009 Dodge Journey and the 2009 Ford Focus.

The tiremaker also showed its new 15-series Ecsta SPT in size 385/15R22.

New products slated for 2009 rollout include:

• Ecsta XS, an asymmetric W-rated radial with 25 sizes covering 17- to 19-inch sizes. The tire will have a 180AAA UTQG rating.

• Ecsta XVG, due in the first half of 2009 in 18 sizes covering 17- to 19-inch wheel diameters.

• Eco Solus KH16, the company’s first eco-friendly line, will be phased-in with sizes P195/60R15 and P235/60R16. The tire is said to have 20% lower rolling resistance than Kumho’s standard Solus KH16.

• Solus KH25, a new all-season high performance line, with a 480AA UTQG. Sizing has not been announced.

• Eco Solus KL21, an eco-friendly touring line for small SUVs and CUVs, with 30% lower rolling resistance than the Solus KL51. Due in August 2009, sizes will cover 16- through 18-inch diameters, in primarily direct OE replacement sizes.

• Road Venture SAT KL61, an on-/off-road light truck/SUV line that also carries the snowflake symbol. P-metric sizes will have a 680AB UTQG; LT-metric sizes were not announced. The tire is to launch this month, with most sizes coming in 2009.

On the medium truck tire sides:

• KMA01+, a mixed service all-position radial, in sizes 11R22.5, 12R22.5, 295/80R22.5, 315/80R22.5, 11R24.5, 11.00R20 and 225/70R19.5.

KMA02, another mixed service all-position tire, for single-tire on-/off-road applications. It will be launched in sizes 385/65R22.5, 425/65R22.5 and 445/65R22.5. (Tire Review/Akron)

Discount Tire & Service Centers has a new sponsorship deal with the Los Angeles Angels for the 2024 season. Discount Tire said this partnership will not only benefit its customers with season-long promotions and giveaways but will also support local non-profits.

"We're thrilled to launch this strategic partnership with the Los Angeles Angels," said Sergio Andonian, president, Discount Tire & Service Centers. "As neighbors, from Anaheim, we are dedicated to serving our local communities and providing quality tire & automotive service at the most competitive prices. Together, we look forward to making a positive and lasting impact in the communities. Add baseball to the mix, and with this winning combination, the possibilities are endless."