General Tire is a globally recognised tyre brand, founded in Akron, Ohio, on 29 September 1915 by William F. O'Neil and Winfred E. Fouse. Since 1987, it has been part of the Continental group. In France, General Tire tyres are exclusively imported by Copadex, a key market player since 1980.
General Tire tyres are renowned for their durability and advanced technology, providing drivers with increased safety and comfort. They are also used in prestigious rallies such as the Dakar Rally, the Rallye des Gazelles, and the 24 Heures 4x4 de France.
The brand celebrated its hundredth anniversary in September 2015, highlighting its experience and longevity in the tyre industry.
- General Tire’s RTM (Replacement Tyre Monitor) technology alerts the user when the tyre is worn and needs to be replaced. The inscription “Replacement Tyre Monitor” appears three times on the tread of a new tyre. When the tread reaches the minimum depth indicated by Tread Wear Indicator bars, the inscription changes to “Replace Tyre”.
- The VAI (Visual Alignment Indicator) is another innovation from General Tire. It allows the user to check wheel alignment to avoid uneven tyre wear. The VAI is displayed three times around the tyre’s circumference by two additional grooves (with a tread depth of 1.6 mm) on the opposing shoulder blocks of the tyre. If the VAI grooves wear differently (one side more than the other, for example), it indicates a potential wheel misalignment. This technology helps minimise the risk of premature tyre wear.
