Toyo Proxes RR Featured in New NASA Challenge Class

Toyo 18-inch Proxes RR DOT competition tires will be featured in the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) new Toyo Tires GT Challenge class.

The Proxes RR tires are race-ready off the shelf with a 4/32-inch-deep tread, and deliver consistent lap times and predictable handling on dry tracks. This DOT-competition tire is ideal for NASA road racing, track days, and high-performance driving schools. The symmetric two-groove tread design and special tread compound provide a maximum contact patch and ultimate dry traction with superior cornering force.

Recently, Toyo rolled out six new sizes of its Proxes RR tire, including the first 20-inch sizes in the two-groove DOT competition tire segment. The new sizes being rolled out include: 295/30ZR18, 315/30ZR18, 235/35ZR19, 295/30ZR19, 285/30ZR20 and a 285/35ZR20.

The new racing class will pit Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport and GT4 Clubsport MR race cars against each other during the inaugural race at the 2017 NASA 25 Hours of Thunderhill presented by Hawk Performance.

“The race-proven Proxes RR will provide competitors with fast, consistent laps times throughout this grueling 25 Hours event, while maintaining the even level of competition that only a spec class can enjoy,” said Marc Sanzenbacher, senior manager, motorsports, Toyo Tire U.S.A. “We look forward to seeing some of the closest racing the event has seen in recent years and eagerly await the future growth and excitement this class will provide.”

The new GT Challenge class is the first spec tire program in the 15-year history of the 25 Hours, the longest endurance race in North America. The winning team of this class will receive a $5,000 cash reward from Toyo Tires, the official tire of NASA.

Edwin Goudswaard is now officially serving as the head of research and development at Continental Tires. He succeeds Dr. Boris Mergell who took over as head of the user experience business area at Continental Automotive, also on September 1, 2023.

Goudswaard began his career at Continental in 2006, shortly after completing his mechanical engineering studies, the company said. Following an international R&D trainee program, he worked in virtual development and product development for original equipment tires. Between 2013 and 2021, Goudswaard assumed various management roles in R&D and in the production facilities for two-wheeler and passenger car tires in Europe and Asia. In 2021, he was appointed head of the two-wheel tire business area. He was most recently responsible for Continental’s global research and development activities in the passenger car tire replacement business.