GRI develops OTR winter tire for Japanese market

Colombo –Global Rubber Industries (GRI) has developed and launched an off-the-road (OTR) winter tire for the Japanese speciality tire market.

Marking a first for GRI and Sri Lanka, Gripex Snow was designed in collaboration with unnamed Japanese partners and can withstand the winter weather and distinct terrain of Hokkaido prefecture in northern Japan, GRI said in a release. 

“This tire is a milestone for GRI as it is a very different technology developed for a very discerning market,” said CEO Dr Mahesha Ranasoma, in a statement 19 Aug. 

In addition to a strong grip and traction in deep snow, the tire is claimed to offer firm stability in rough use “under the toughest of conditions.” 

Employing a unique tread design that channels snow and water out “efficiently”, the tire offers effective traction on wet and compacted snow.

The tire, according to GRI, underwent rigorous testing in-house and as well as independently to fine-tune the product and meet stringent specifications. 

“We are grateful for the opportunity to create a product for a specialised customer need and our determination to create the tire,” said managing director Prabhash Subasinghe.

With a “well-reputed” natural rubber supply base in Sri Lanka and “a world-class production plant”, GRI said it is now focused on building lean management and manufacturing processes to complement its infrastructure. 

GRI produces radial agriculture tires, construction tires and material handling solid tires in Sri Lanka and has offices in nine countries.