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There are two main reasons why Continental Tyre SA is bringing European SuperTruck racing to this country. The first is a simple one. Truck racing is, without doubt, one of the most spectacular forms of motor racing in the world. Since being in this country, I have found that South Africans are true motorsport enthusiasts and I feel that truck racing will not only serve to enrich motorsport in South Africa but will also serve to entertain the public in a way which has never been done before.

The second, and a most important reason, is that we view this event as the starting point for the launch of our truck tyres in South Africa. Although Continental launched its first truck tyre onto the local market in 1996, it is true to say that we are not well known in this sector. We now want to promote awareness that Continental Tyre is not only a reputable supplier of high quality, high performance passenger car tyres but also of high quality truck tyres. What is not generally known in this country is that Continental Tyre enjoys No 1 position in Germany in terms of market share and occupies No 2 position in Europe in the truck tyre industry. We currently enjoy a 25% share of the passenger car market in South Africa and that is the goal we are setting for the truck market. Seeing our products working in the harsh world of motor racing will, we feel, serve as a solid endorsement that our quality is world-class.

Given these two reasons, one could say we are mixing business with pleasure. We hope that by doing so, we will make an indelible stamp on the South Africa consumer and, more importantly, the truck operators of South Africa. All that's left now is to say I hope you enjoy the truck racing as much as we have enjoyed bringing it to you!

Dr Thorsten Reese
Chief Executive Officer
Continental Tyres SA