In his inaugural European season, ten-times winner of the British Truck Racing Championship Stuart Oliver says he will be benefitting from forged aluminium vehicle wheels, from xlite.
The wheels are 40% lighter than the standard steel equivalent and five times stronger, meaning increased impact resistance. Other claimed benefits include unique safety features and reduced vibration.
Forged aluminium gives improved heat dissipation, meaning longer wear on surrounding parts, plus less water needs to be carried for the coolant system – making the race truck lighter at the start line.
Oliver, who will be leading the charge for the 2011 FIA European Truck Race Drivers Cup with Team Allgäuer, used the wheel during his last three successful seasons and has stayed with the brand for its improved performance characteristics under extreme pressure.
"The benefits of using forged aluminium wheels on the race truck are substantial," states Oliver. "Lighter wheels mean less unsprung weight on the axle, creating less wear and tear to surrounding parts and greater grip between the tyre and the circuit."
The racer says strength is also a major factor. "I have been in several collisions over the last three seasons and because the design absorbs the contact, I have been able to continue and win races," he comments. "Normally this would have meant an early retirement, but no more."