A new addition to Vredestein’s Quatrac all-season family, first established in 2007 with the Quatrac 3, is scheduled for release at the Geneva International Motor Show. The new product, the Quatrac Lite, is described by Apollo Vredestein as being the first "green" all-season tire.

In announcing its imminent launch, the tiremaker said the Quatrac Lite “meets all the environmental regulations due to be implemented across the European Union in 2012, and is focused on fuel efficiency…(It) meets the premium quality and safety standards for which Vredestein is renowned.”

According to the company, the Quatrac Lite is a perfect compromise: “The Vredestein Quatrac Lite is the optimal alternative for car owners who want to use the same tire for the summer and the winter season, and also value environmentally friendly alternatives.” The tiremaker said the Quatrac Lite contains all the features of a winter tire, including the Three Peak Snowflake symbol, and is “an excellent tire for countries that do not experience extreme winter driving conditions.” The tire is also the “ideal” all-season tire in flat or hilly regions with a moderate climate, Apollo Vredestein noted.

Compared to the Quatrac 3, the Vredestein Quatrac Lite was developed with a greater focus on future environmental regulations, and Apollo Vredestein said the knowledge incorporated into the Quatrac Lite was gained in previous projects such as the SuperBus, Mindset and Quatrac E. In addition, its size range is positioned more toward the “green” market segment, which includes current and future hybrid and electric cars. During the range’s pre-launch at the Geneva Auto Salon from March 1-13, the Quatrac Lite will be displayed fitted to the latest electric concept car by Italian designer Giugiaro, the Proton Emas3.

Reducing rolling resistance was a design priority for Quatrac Lite and this quality was addressed with the use of a Full Polymer Compound (FPC). “This FPC technology guarantees excellent road traction in all conditions and a long lifespan,” said Apollo Vredestein. Other features the manufacturer notes include the tire’s many sipes or so-called flexing points, which function as hinges and give the flexibility required for low rolling resistance and excellent traction on snow; the tread’s three circumferential grooves and lateral grooves located in the shoulder are said to ensure good water dispersion and good aquaplaning reserves. (Tyres & Accessories)