Bridgestone collaborated closely with Mercedes-Benz for more than two years to design, engineer and fine-tune the Turanza T005 touring tire to the new Mercedes A-class. The tire is supplied for the full 17–19” high-rim range including the 17” and 18” tire with Run-Flat Technology.
‘The A-Class has a very youthful, dynamic character,’ explains Daniele Turriziani, test-driver for Bridgestone EMEA, who was actively involved in the engineering process. ‘It’s also extremely modern and comfortable. We wanted the Turanza T005 to bring all these qualities to the forefront by tailoring the tires to the car from the very beginning of the design phase.’
The wet grip is outstanding and the product delivers a comfortable driving experience. ‘Bridgestone engineers fine-tuned the latest tread compounds to the plans and designs for the A-Class,’ says Daniele Turriziani. ‘We tested, adjusted and re-tested the tires here at the Bridgestone European Technical Centre and Proving Ground. We kept pushing the design until we knew we had it exactly right. The hard work is being acknowledged now, with the tires slated for use on European roads.’
This approach has also enabled Bridgestone to develop a tire that delivers best-in-class label performances, for the Run-Flat Technology tires, thanks to whom Mercedes-Benz A-Class drivers will not have to stop on the side of the road for a flat tire.
‘The Turanza T005 is an incredible innovation and has pushed the tire engineering in a very interesting new direction. But away from the drawing boards for design and development, the Turanza T005 is indicative of what all Bridgestone tires represent,’ explains Christophe de Valroger, VP Original Equipment Bridgestone EMEA. ‘They keep you going, no matter what obstacles you encounter on your journey.’
Bridgestone will be supplying the full 17–19” high-rim range, with their winter range approved by Mercedes-Benz for the replacement market.
