Wheel Solutions, a pioneering force in the wheel and tyre industry, has announced a groundbreaking advancement in caravan wheel technology. The new alloy wheels created using Flow Form Technology, represent a cutting-edge hybrid solution, combining elements of traditional low-pressure die-cast aluminium wheels with the strength of forged wheels.
In partnership with Sumec, a globally renowned aluminium wheel manufacturer known for its commitment to automotive excellence and environmental sustainability, Wheel Solutions is introducing this comprehensive lightweight wheel solution tailored for caravan manufacturers.
Flow form alloy wheels offer unparalleled benefits for electric vehicle (EV) towing, featuring a 10-12% reduction in weight and a 12-15% increase in strength compared to traditional cast wheels. This not only enhances fuel efficiency but also improves manoeuvrability, marking a significant leap forward in wheel technology.
Flow Form Technology involves applying pressure to the inner barrel of a cast wheel blank while in rotation, resulting in enhanced tensile strength. Designed to set new industry benchmarks, flow-formed wheels provide advantages for caravan enthusiasts, including reduced inertia with enhanced shock resistance offering greater protection against pothole or kerb strike damage, for safer, smoother journeys.
Wheel Solutions consistently adheres to a Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) to guarantee the quality and safety of its supplied products, integrating automotive-style standards into its internal procedures to establish itself as a frontrunner in the industry. Alongside its environmental pledges, the wheel specialist has recently renewed its ISO 14001 certification in addition to its ISO 9001 accreditation, emphasising its continuous commitment to sustainable practices and ethical business operations.
Josh Budding, Managing Director at Wheel Solutions, comments: “We’re excited to introduce flow form alloy wheels to the caravan market in collaboration with Sumec. These wheels offer significant advantages, including reduced weight and increased strength, which leads to improved handling and enhanced efficiency – which are crucial as EVs become more common as towing vehicles.
“This shift from traditional casting to flow form marks a significant advancement in the touring caravan market, supporting the industry’s objectives for innovation with improved quality and sustainability. It is important for us to partner with a manufacturer that has significant expertise in supplying alloys to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), specifically targeting the trailer and caravan market. Most of Sumec’s business caters to OEM applications, which sets them apart from the majority of alloy manufacturers who specialise in aftermarket products for passenger cars.”
As a supplier, Wheel Solutions focuses closely on continuous improvement initiatives to provide the best solutions for its customers. Budding continues: “This partnership enables a collaboration with a manufacturer who shares our same sustainable values and environmental commitments while offering years of extreme quality management standards and operating with fine tolerances. Sumec brings vast expertise in producing alloy wheels, working with 80% of the automotive sector. Its substantial presence in the USA recreational vehicle (RV) market underscores its industry influence. Additionally, Sumec ‘s TUV-accredited facility and industry leading accreditations ensure meticulous quality management at every stage of production.”
Zhou Yu, General Manager at Sumec, stated: “We’re proud to partner with Wheel Solutions to innovate caravan wheel technology with our Flow Form Alloy wheels. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation.
“At Sumec, our dedication to green development is evident in our 14th Five-Year Plan, showing our active response to the carbon peaking and carbon neutrality targets. We have participated in the construction of clean energy projects across the world, prioritising eco-friendly technologies and processes. Together, we aim to deliver lightweight wheel solutions for caravan manufacturers, enhancing both performance and sustainability in the automotive industry. This partnership drives progress and reaffirms our commitment to a greener future.”
By introducing flow form alloy wheels and leveraging Sumec’s expertise, Wheel Solutions reaffirms its position as a leader in the wheel and tyre industry, dedicated to driving progress and excellence.
For more information on Wheel Solutions’ flow form alloy wheels and latest technology, please visit: wheel-solutions.co.uk