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 Apollo Alnac 4G summer passenger tire is one of the first models developed after the purchase by the Indian manufacturer of the Dutch company Vredestein. It is not surprising that a number of its technologies have been used to create this tire, the target audience of which is, first of all, European car owners. This is confirmed by the presence of certification in the Old World, according to which this model received a rating of "B" for grip on the wet road, rolling resistance "C", and the noise level is only 69 dB.
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.
Main features of the Apollo Alnac 4G bus
- the tire was specially designed for European roads;
- asymmetric tread pattern gives the tire excellent grip under any road and weather conditions;
- excellent directional stability on straight lines and in turns due to three rigid ribs in the central part and reinforced construction of the shoulder zones;
- four longitudinal drainage grooves with large internal volume provide excellent resistance to aquaplaning;
- High Silica rubber compound improves grip on wet asphalt while increasing the tread resistance to abrasion.
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.