A survey has identified over half of younger drivers in the UK would favour replacement tyres delivering on looks as well as performance.
In a poll of 1,000 those who said they ‘love’ or ‘like’ driving, over a half (54%) of those aged 18 to 24 agreed with the statement: “Tyres look boring – I’d like to buy a tyre with a sidewall design that is more distinctive than that of normal tyres.”
The survey also identified 26% of respondents overall agreed with the statement: “I prefer the overall look of cars with larger wheels.” This is said to align with the rising demand in the UK for lower-profile tyres, enhancing the sporty appearance of high-performance vehicles.
Earlier this year Apollo Tyres introduced its flagship ultra-ultra-high-performance tyre, the Vredestein Ultrac Pro, with a asymmetrical sidewall design, specially created by Italian design, engineering and prototyping company, Italdesign. The look is inspired by the visual signature of chronometers and other quality timepieces, with the overall theme of passing time referencing the tyre’s performance focus.
The debut of the Ultrac Pro marks the 25th anniversary of Apollo Tyres’ creative partnership with Italdesign; the companies first worked together to co-develop the Vredestein Sportrac, which debuted in 1999.
The Ultrac Pro is available in sizes up to 24 inches, suitable for a range of supercars, sports cars and performance-flagship saloons and SUVs.
Yves Pouliquen, Vice President, Commercial, Europe at Apollo Tyres, said: “Our latest survey reveals significant demand for tyres that deliver in terms of aesthetics as well as performance. The Ultrac Pro combines exceptional dynamic capabilities with a unique, chronometer-inspired design. It’s not just a tyre – it’s a visual statement for high-performance vehicles.”
