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 plys 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 longer friction and, thanks to the soft side wall, is much more comfortable.

Cross-ply carcass

It consists of several rubberised textile cord plys. 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-ply 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. Special rubber compounds can make the tires particularly suitable for use in winter.

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 are put. It ensures that the tire sits safely on the wheel rim.