Low Profile Tire
A recent trend in the passenger car market is the adoption of low profile tire.The market trend in tires had previously been moving from bias tire(cross-ply tire)to radial tire, but a shift has now started towards low profile tires.
As the lowering of the profile of a tire increases the cornering force, it can be regarded as improvement to the tire's handling performance. In addition, as the lowering of the tire profile decreases the section height and increases the wheel diameter of the tire even when the outside diameter is not changed, it can also be regarded as improvement in the visual appeal of the tire.
Advantages and considerations of adopting low profile tire
Advantages
1. Increased tread contact area with road surface
2. Greater power in steering performance Improved handling performance (Quick handling)
3. Increased stability at high speeds
4. Enhanced stiffness of sidewalls
5. Enhanced vibration suppression while cornering
6. Enhanced casing stiffness Improved cornering capabilities
7. Augmented steering precision
8. Increased cornering force (CF) Improved tire performance and greater power in steering performance
9. Improved aesthetics
10. Appeal of larger wheel diameter Looks fashionable
11. Lower appearance of the tire enhances good looks
12. Improved cornering performance + Enhanced aesthetics
Considerations of adopting low profile tire
1. Steering feel may change.
2. Noise may increase.
3. May necessitate the adjustment of the wheel alignment.
4. Driving comfort may change.
5. Driving experience will change.
6. Braking capabilities may vary.
7. May increase the opportunity to explain to customers about the advantages and the considerations relevant to low profile tires before selling them. Also may necessitate the acquisition of accurate knowledge about them (tread wear, noise, cornering ability and stability, etc.).
