Bridgestone has developed a tailor-made Potenza tyre for the Huracán STO. The company engineered a high-performance tyre capable of maximising the Huracán STO’s traction, handling, control, and extreme overall performance.

The perfect fusion of technology and design

Bridgestone’s Potenza tyres specifically developed for Lamborghini’s Huracán STO supercar are the result of a new collaboration between two industry leaders. Like the Lamborghini Huracán STO, the custom-engineered Bridgestone Potenza tyres are the perfect fusion of technology and design.

Key to the tyre’s success in maximising the supersports car’s performance is the combination of pattern and cavity design and the use of the latest state of the art technologies. The Potenza tyres apply an asymmetric tread design for enhanced steering response and cornering stability, and an internal crown structure that distributes footprint pressure evenly when cornering. These features, combined with a newly developed tread compound that enhances grip, help to bring the Huracán STO’s track-level performance to road users.

A new project

Thanks to a strong collaboration with Lamborghini and its virtual development technology, Bridgestone carried out its tyre development process to achieve maximum results despite limitations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bridgestone’s capabilities in virtual tyre development proved crucial to its Potenza tyres achieving outstanding performance in the given timeframe, with the tyre manufacturer testing several combinations in its virtual environment and integrating tyre behaviour in the vehicle’s system to find the perfect match for Lamborghini in a virtual driving simulator. This resulted in a process that went from start to finish in a more efficient way and with a reduced environmental impact.

The Lamborghini Huracán STO will begin production beginning of 2021. As well as the road-focused, custom-developed Potenza fitment, Bridgestone will also be providing a track-oriented, road-homologated version of the tyre that applies “race” technologies to maximise the vehicle’s track performance, especially in dry conditions.

Commenting on this announcement was Steven De Bock, VP Consumer Replacement and OE at Bridgestone EMIA: “It’s been a pleasure for our team to work so closely with Lamborghini for the first time, and on such an exciting project. The Huracán STO is an incredible piece of engineering that deserves a custom tyre that can fulfill its full potential. I can proudly say that Bridgestone has delivered such a high-performance tyre. It has been fantastic for the team to have worked on a project that is at the forefront of technology in so many ways.”

Caterpillar announces four new backhoe loader models based on the success of the Cat® F2 series backhoe loader. The new series consists of the Cat® 428, 432, 434 and 444 models, which replace the 428F2, 432F2, 434F2 and 444F2 machines respectively.

The new Cat backhoe loader range offers similar model platforms to ensure a common component base and similar functionalities across its entire range.

Cat’s new backhoe loaders now carry the new Cat logo combined with a new simplified nomenclature without having to apply the model’s alphanumeric suffix.

More efficiency

Cat’s new backhoe loaders are powered by Cat C3.6 engines with improved anti-pollution technology and are fully compliant with EU EU Stage V emission standards. maintenance required, particle retention filter DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) while using liquid DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid).

Reducing operating costs, the new Cat C3.6 engines, with up to 10% improved fuel efficiency compared to the F2 series engines, offer exactly the same performance characteristics (power – torque).

All models of the new series of backhoe loaders have four-wheel drive as standard equipment with a differential lock on the rear wheels for improved traction, when the ground conditions are bad.

The power management option offers the operator the Economy Mode and Standard Mode options for good engine performance and greater fuel savings or Standard Plus Mode to boost machine efficiency by maximizing backhoe loader components speeds.

All models of the new series of backhoe loaders have four-wheel drive as standard equipment with a differential lock on the rear wheels for improved traction, when the ground conditions are bad.

The power management option offers the operator the Economy Mode and Standard Mode options for good engine performance and greater fuel savings or Standard Plus Mode to boost machine efficiency by maximizing backhoe loader components speeds.

A new powershift gearbox will be available as an option on the 428 and 434 and will be standard on the 432. The new powershift gearbox allows for easier on-the-go gear changes for the operator. The 444 will still be equipped with a fully automatic transmission as standard. All new models have adjustable auxiliary hydraulic flow in the excavation system so that the hydraulic system of the machine can be adjusted according to the functional requirements of the working components.

The new Cat series can be equipped either factory-installed or with an on-site kit, with optional Integrated Tool (IT) loader quick connectors for quick tool changes. The new backhoe loaders are compatible with the outgoing F2 series components, so there is no need to buy new components, reducing operating costs. Offering remote data monitoring via VisionLink®, the latest Cat Product Link. Is available as standard on these new models to maximize machine uptime. Customers can customize the machine operating data collected, such as fuel usage, payload summaries, scheduled service reminders, and error code alerts, to meet specific needs for improved fleet management.

Improved features.
The new loading system cylinders, optionally available at 428 and 434, offer up to 25 percent more lifting capacity to improve operating efficiency. In the new excavator loaders 428 and 434, for the operation of the excavation system, Joystick-type controls can be selected, as an option. As a basic choice. In models 432 and 444, the joystick controls of the loading system and the excavation system are now mounted on the operator’s seat. This option gives particularly increased ergonomic capabilities to the operator, as it allows through the feature (Dual Mode), the operation of the loader or excavator to be performed with the operator turned at an angle, without the need to change the position of the machine or direction of the seat.

In addition, due to the adjustment of the position of the controls, more space inside the cabin is ensured, ensuring a more comfortable and ergonomic user interface with improved visibility. The new controls on the Cat backhoe loader seat are electrically operated, so no piping is advanced from inside the operator seat or inside the cab. This avoids the increase of the temperature of the operating environment as well as completely eliminates the risk of failure of the hydraulic piping that could lead to leaks inside the cabin. The redesigned console infotainment system (available as default) integrates analog machine counters with a color LCD information display, which is controlled via soft keys for easy menu navigation. Pop-up information icons offer fast navigation between modes, while full-text diagnostic descriptions simplify troubleshooting and machine maintenance.

For the first time in Cat backhoe loaders, an LCD touch screen is available as an option that allows the operator to interact with the machine to quickly change basic functions such as pattern control and hydraulic settings. The improved security of the new series shuts off the engine, gearbox, and hydraulics until a valid password is entered through the LCD operator control screen, preventing unauthorized access to the machine. The new 428, 432, 434 and 444 will set the new standard in the comfort and efficiency of backhoe loaders!

With this new partnership, ELTRAK reinforces its position in the Greek market by providing comprehensive proposals and competitive business solution packages. Following this, on Saturday, February 1st, a live demonstration of the MB products (crusher buckets, screening buckets & drum cutters) took place at ELTRAK’s premises in Thessaloniki. We were honored by the presence of over 70 professionals in the industry who showed a keen interest in the crusher buckets and the screening buckets, throughout the presentation. MB’s innovative products bring significant cost savings to standard earthmoving jobs. Since the jobs that were done in off-site installations (eg on a quarry crusher) can now be carried out in situ, saving money from transportation costs.

We thank everyone who attended our presentation and we look forward to seeing you at the next UK product launch at the ELTRAK premises in Athens.

About MB

For over 15 years MB has been a leader in the fields of crushing, sorting, and recycling, by designing, producing, and selling the very first jaw bucket crusher.

Since 2001, MB has offered the largest line of patented crusher buckets all over the world. With extensive innovation and development, MB now offers crusher buckets for excavators, skid loaders, and backhoes of all sizes.

About ELTRAK

ELTRAK has been a leader in Greece since 1982, where it becomes the Dealer of Caterpillar, with an extensive product range that among others includes: earthmoving machines, marine engines, power generators, lift trucks. At the same time, ELTRAK stands for the Palfinger brand which includes loader cranes, grabs, doors, marine cranes, and JLG with aerial platforms.

In this way, we become your voice and ears in Greece and around the world, about news and achievements, where Caterpillar leads in. Eltrak chooses to be with you, now more than ever, in a peculiar period, shortening the distances and traveling around the world for you.

Browse CAT MAGAZINE and learn about top collaborations, innovative product applications, social projects, where Caterpillar and Eltrak dominate with effective solutions and innovative proposals that literally free your hands.

In a world that continues its course, in defiance of the strange conditions it experiences, evolution and progress must never stop: CATERPILLAR, LET’S DO THE WORK!

This distinction, among all Caterpillar dealers in Europe, is a recognition of our continuous improvement efforts and our dedication to serving the doers and makers.

We shall continue with the same enthusiasm in our endeavor to embody our mantra ‘Let’s Do The Work’ with you.

Designed to maximize stacking and order picking efficiency in very narrow aisles (VNA) and high racking, the Cat® NVT11-20(XL) range offers modular flexibility to fit each application perfectly. VNA sales consultants from Cat® Lift Trucks measure and study the customer’s operation in detail and recommend a customized specification that precisely meets all space, load, and operator needs.

Model and specification choices

There are five core NVT models with capacities between 1.1 and 1.5 tonnes, while two more can be specially requested: one for unusually heavy loads (up to 2.0 tonnes) and one for exceptionally high lifts (up to 19 meters).

All trucks delivered are custom-built, starting with their dimensions. For optimum utilization of space, overall truck width can be specified at anything from 1.0 to 1.9 meters – in steps of 5 centimeters or less. A variety of masts and swiveling or telescopic forks can be chosen for different loads and racking arrangements.

Ergonomics, comfort, and safety

Cabin size and design can also be varied, along with control console style and layout, seating choice, and other factors important to operators. From their comfortable, secure working space, complete with carpeted walls and a thickly cushioned floor, users enjoy a clear all-round view and great freedom of movement. Easy and enjoyable to operate, the trucks give a strong sense of safety thanks largely to their high stability and mast rigidity.

High productivity, low running costs

While ergonomic, application-focused features help operators to work more efficiently, the NVT range is also engineered for faster, more powerful performance and lower energy consumption. Keys to this include FEM (finite element method) mast design, low total weight, and advanced AC drive technology.

High productivity combines energy savings and reduced maintenance costs to maximize profits. Each structure, system, and component is designed and specified to minimize wear, damage, and servicing requirements. For instance, the wear-resistant steering chain lasts longer; guide rollers and closed wheel arches protect load wheels, and rapid fault analysis cuts downtime.

Too many features to mention

Given that Cat NVT man-up turret trucks are so extensively customized, the catalog of options available is much too long to list here. Examples range from guidance by side rollers, rail or inductive wire, through systems for weighing, height positioning, and speed control, to cabin heating, fans, and window combinations. Your local Cat lift truck dealer can provide full details.

Following the acquisition of TomTom Telematics by Bridgestone Europe (Bridgestone) on 1 April 2019, Bridgestone has announced that TomTom Telematics’ company name will become Webfleet Solutions as of 1 October 2019.

The acquisition of TomTom Telematics was motivated by Bridgestone’s ambition to strengthen its digital capabilities, as part of its ongoing transformation from a premium tyre producer into a mobility solutions leader. The new Bridgestone company is Europe’s number one provider of fleet solutions, a double-digit growth industry.

The acquisition has reinforced Bridgestone’s footprint in data-based solutions that make fleet operations more effective and efficient. Now, the newly-named Webfleet Solutions – inspired by its main solution platform WEBFLEET, which has been providing leading telematics for fleets for the past 20 years – reflects Bridgestone’s ambition to provide a wider range of digital mobility and fleet solutions to its customers and consolidate a global leadership position. The EMEA business now serves over 1.2 million vehicles with mobility subscriptions and fleet solutions.

Commenting on this announcement was CEO and President of Bridgestone EMEA, Paolo Ferrari: “When we acquired Webfleet Solutions at the beginning of the year, we created a fleet solutions powerhouse. Together we have every capability to lead in what is an incredibly exciting, fast-growing, and innovative area of mobility. We have the ambition, the infrastructure, and resources, the data and insights, and we have the people and their unrivalled knowledge. As the new worlds of connected and autonomous mobility rapidly become a reality, together Bridgestone and Webfleet Solutions will ensure that our customers can enjoy every benefit of this new era.”

As they have done since the acquisition was first confirmed, teams from Bridgestone and Webfleet Solutions will continue to explore new opportunities and innovate together, to deliver future business growth and value to their customers.