PE-produced tyres voted best in country

THE people have spoken – the Eastern Cape produces not only top cars but also top tyres.

Eastern Cape original equipment manufacturers have been recognised at Standard Bank's People's Wheels Awards in Johannesburg.

The awards give the automotive sector a chance to get direct feedback from South African motorists who voted for their favourite cars, as well as fuel and replacement tyre brands, in an online survey. With more than 60000 votes across the competition's 22 categories, Port Elizabeth's Continental Tyres SA (CTSA) was named South Africa's top replacement tyre for the third year in a row.

CTSA managing director Dieter Horni said the award was a fantastic achievement for CTSA, the only tyre manufacturer that supplies all seven South African vehicle manufacturers.

"The award reinforces the hard work that has gone into establishing and maintaining our status as the leading tyre brand in the original equipment sector, and the preferred choice in the replacement tyre market," Horni said.

Another manufacturer with roots in Port Elizabeth was Ford Motor Company of SA whose Ranger Double- Cab received the most votes out of all the vehicles entered.

The Ranger made history by becoming the first light commercial vehicle to win the overall prize and was also the winner in the double- cab bakkie category. Ford's EcoSport was the winner in the small SUV category.

In terms of the greatest number of wins, East London-based vehicle manufacturer Mercedes-Benz SA dominated by winning eight categories – one more than last year.

Uitenhage's Volkswagen Group SA twice topped the category rankings, with the Polo Vivo as the best budget buy and the Touran as the best compact MPV.

In the preferred fuel brand category, Engen took first prize. - Cindy Preller