tire body. It ensures the cohesion of the tire and gives it strength. A distinction is made between the radial-ply and cross ply design.

Radial carcass

Here the cord plies run diagonally to the running direction from heel to heel. A steel cord belt for reinforcement is located between carcass and running surface, the steel cord plys of which lie crosswise to the running direction in the apex angle. This ensures that the tire is subjected to much less friction and, thanks to the soft side wall, is much more comfortable.

Diagonal carcass

It consists of several rubberised textile cord plies. The cords are at an angle of about 40° to the running direction, crosswise from ply to ply. This results in a stronger side wall and thus gives increased protection. The wear of the tire is, however, substantially greater than in the case of the radial tire.

Running strip

The running strip contains the profile, consists of a wear-resistant rubber mixture and is located on the carcass. It transmits forces that occur between vehicle and road.

Side wall

The side wall consists of a highly flexible rubber mixture for the protection of the carcass into which the text is heat embossed.

Heel

The heel consists of a steel wire core around which the ends of the carcass cord is put. It ensures that the tire sits safely on the wheel rim.