When asked in a recent survey what people most associate with the measurement “six metres”, the ‘length of two cars’ was the most common response. The Spaniards topped the results with 51%, followed by the UK with 42%. Poland and Germany came a close third and fourth with 39% and 38% respectively, and Italy were not far behind with 30%. Perhaps the average car size is smaller in Italy than elsewhere in Europe! Other bizarre answers to the survey question included: the height of a giraffe; the width of a football goal; the width of my house; and the length covered by a snail in one hour.
The survey was commissioned by Fulda, a leading German tyre manufacturer, to coincide with the launch of its new summer tyre, EcoControl. Respondents from around Europe were asked what they felt was synonymous with six metres, which is the reduced braking distance displayed by EcoControl when compared to its predecessor thanks to its specially developed wet grip compound and design.
Not only are braking distances shorter, but EcoControl also promotes reduced fuel consumption. The origin of this fuel consumption reduction comes from the silica compound used in the EcoControl. In a comparison test on rolling resistance versus the most popular tyre of the mid price category, EcoControl proved to be substantially superior allowing, on average, annual fuel economies of €80* (TÜV rolling resistance test based on ISO test standard ISO 1864 against Firestone F590 Fuel Saver 175/65 R14 (October 2006))
In addition, the tyre’s deeper tread pattern results in up to 20% (6,000 kilometres) increased durability when compared to Fulda’s previous summer tyre.
EcoControl thus represents an excellent combination of value and quality. It saves on fuel and is durable and reliable in all driving conditions.
According to Alain Klepper, Marketing Director Associated Brands, Goodyear Dunlop Europe, Middle East and Africa: “Fulda is a brand that reacts to the needs of the ‘smart buyer’. These consumers are very conscious about their choices and clearly decide where they want to invest more or less money. As far as tyres are concerned, they are not prepared to compromise on any aspects of their safety but keep an eye on price, therefore demanding superior quality products that represent excellent value for money. Fulda has ensured that the research and development that goes into the EcoControl gives results that satisfy all of these exacting criteria, making EcoControl a first choice for the smart buyers.”
About the Fulda EcoControl Survey
The Fulda Survey was conducted in January 2007 by IPSOS Belgium among 5,000 people aged 15 to 64 in five European countries: Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain and the UK.
About Fulda
Founded in 1900, Fulda is a German tyre maker producing quality products that provide safe, long-lasting performance offering outstanding value for money. With around 10% market share, Fulda is one of the leading brands in Germany, offering a range of top quality, reliable products for passenger car, light truck, truck and farm applications. Fulda products are designed to offer safe driving, even in the most challenging conditions. Continuous research and development programs ensure that Fulda tyres are using the latest technologies and materials.
Regular recommendations from independent tests are proof of the high quality levels of Fulda products.