Volkswagen Passat to run on Apollo tyres globally?

Founded in 1976 and Head-quartered in Vadodara, Apollo tyres has reportedly won the contract to supply tyres for Volkswagen Passat globally. In competition were global players like Bridgestone, Pirelli and Michelin.

Apollo Tyres is the largest tyre manufacturer in India. It features in the top 15 tyre manufacturers in the world today, and they aim to enter the top 10 by 2016. The news about the deal between Apollo and Volkswagen was revealed by AutoCar India, but it is yet to be officially confirmed by either Apollo Tyres, or Volkswagen.

In order to realize their dream of becoming one of the top 10 tyre manufacturers in the world, Apollo has already made inroads into Europe. Present in 14 countries across Europe, the company has restructured its R&D team so as to meet these growing demands. Earlier this year, Apollo Tyres opened a global R&D Center at Enschede, Netherlands. Apollo Tyres was also honored with the ‘Tyre Manufacturer of the Year’ Award at an international event in Cologne, Germany. It has also made inroads into African markets. Apart from this, in India, it is all set to bring in their new 4G tyre series ranging from sizes of 12 to 18 inches for Indian markets.
Apollo Tyres is also introducing their Dutch brand Vredestein in India by Q3 2013. This brand will be high performance and durable tyres aimed at Tier I and Tier II cities across India. The range will include Sportrac 5, Ultrac Cento and Ultrac Sessanta and Sessanta SUV tyres. Prices have not been announced as on date. Vredestein is currently official tyre partners for Audi Driving Experience being offered at the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida.