Apollo Alnac 4G All-Season is an all-season model for passenger cars. It features low noise, minimal rolling resistance, and excellent traction on wet and snowy roads. The manufacturer has combined the best technologies from summer and winter models in the tire, having obtained a harmonious symbiosis.
The Apollo Alnac 4G is a summer tire with an asymmetric tread pattern that, according to the manufacturer, copes well with all weather conditions. Wider outer shoulder areas improve dry handling, while larger longitudinal grooves that can accommodate large amounts of water improve aquaplaning resistance. The silica-enriched High Silica compound optimizes wet grip, while the grooved center rib creates additional elasticity, reducing rolling resistance and improving pressure uniformity.
The rubber compound of the tire was made using High Silica technology, which involves the use of silicon-containing components. Thanks to this, a high level of abrasion resistance was achieved, which affected the duration of the operating period.
The wide profile of the model provides a reduction in load per unit area, which also reduces wear and improves traction.
Size range
At the initial stage of production, the tire is offered in 29 standard sizes. Most of the size range is designed for wheels with a rim diameter of 14 and 15 inches. At the same time, some dimensions have two versions, one of them is distinguished by increased carrying capacity and strength of the sidewalls. Their markings contain the abbreviation XL.
Reinforced shoulder design
One of the distinguishing features of the asymmetric directional tread pattern is the design of the shoulder areas. They are distinguished by their massive size and increased rigidity. Due to this, the tire demonstrates excellent stability and controllability during sharp maneuvers and cornering. In addition, the Apollo Alnac 4G's reinforced shoulder areas increase the size of the contact patch, giving it an almost rectangular shape. This ensures the stability and predictability of the tire behavior and improves the resistance to uneven wear.
High Silica Rubber Compound
A significant part of the grip properties, especially on wet roads, is provided by the High Silica rubber compound. Already from the name, it is clear that its distinctive feature is the increased content of silica. These silicon-containing components give the tread increased elasticity at low temperatures as well as excellent abrasion resistance.
For predictability of the behavior of the rubber during maneuvers, the side blocks were made of a more rigid composition. Thanks to this, side puncture protection was also achieved.
The presence of numerous lamellas leads to an edge effect, which has a positive effect on traction properties. In addition, the slats are involved in drainage, helping the main drainage system to cope with any volume of water and snow masses.
Main features of Apollo Alnac 4G All Season
- the presence of silica in the composition determines the preservation of elasticity under any weather conditions;
- the speed of removal of snow and water from the contact zone minimizes aquaplaning and slashing;
- stability of behavior in turns and on straight sections due to the special structure of the tread pattern.
Apollo said the excellent performance of the new tires has further encouraged the company, which is now actively increasing its investments in Europe. Apollo has already restructured its R&D department, including the creation of a new tire development center in Enschede, the Netherlands.
The new complex employs around 100 people designing and testing all Apollo, Vredestein, and Dunlop passenger car and light truck tires for the global market. In addition to the 90 Dutch specialists, 20 Apollo South African experts also work in Enschede, and the company says that the creation of a united international team will help to quickly and efficiently respond to changing market requirements, offering customers new world-class products. The establishment of the center in the Netherlands should also accelerate Apollo's advancement in the OE sector of the European market.
As for the budget class, the tire performed well on dry and wet pavement, without critical lag behind premium tires. For example, on dry surfaces, it has the same stopping distance as the Michelin, and the lap times on wet asphalt are on par with the Continental. The tire also provides one of the best noise levels and average fuel efficiency.
Expert Review:
The tire is highly resistant to aquaplaning, but on wet asphalt, it has a weak grip and sluggish steering response. When maneuvering sharply at high speed, the front axle easily skids, while the rear wheels maintain good traction. On a dry surface, the tire behaves slightly better than on a wet one, but this does not cause safety problems. The tire is quiet and economical while on the move.
Apollo Alnac 4G Winter, in turn, is designed for winter conditions in Central and Western Europe. The combination of straight sipes in the center area and smaller sinusoidal sipes in the shoulder sections ensures optimum stability and maneuverability. The manufacturer also notes that the new tires "guarantee excellent grip and effective braking on snow and ice."
The tires are also equipped with a special wear indicator that tells you when the tires can no longer be used in winter conditions. When the indicator changes shape and changes from a snowflake to a sun symbol, it means that the residual tread depth has reached 4 mm - the minimum allowed for winter tires. Apollo Alnac 4G Winter, available in 15 '' and 16 '' diameters and T and H speed ratings