From Hanover to Halifax: The History of Continental Tyres
When people talk about quality European tyres, Continental is one of the first names that comes up — and with good reason. It’s a brand with a proper heritage, stretching back more than a century, and one that’s still right up there at the top of the game today.
A solid German beginning : Continental Tyres Story
Continental’s story starts in Hanover, Germany, way back in 1871. Back then, it wasn’t about car tyres at all—the company was called the Continental Caoutchouc & Gutta-Percha Company, and it made soft rubber products such as horse hoof pads and rubberised fabrics. Cars hadn’t even hit the roads yet!
But the firm’s engineers were clever sorts, and by the late 1800s they were already experimenting with pneumatic tyres—the kind filled with air rather than being solid rubber. In 1904, Continental became the first company in the world to produce grooved car tyres, which massively improved grip and handling.
That same spirit of invention has stayed with the brand ever since. Continental was also behind the first detachable rim wheel and, years later, the development of synthetic rubber when natural supplies became scarce during wartime.
The motor age and beyond : Continental Tyres Story
As the car industry boomed across Europe, so did Continental. They became a trusted supplier to German manufacturers such as Mercedes and Audi, and by the 1920s their horse logo — the proud Continental Horse still seen today — had become a symbol of top-quality German engineering.
Through the years, the company grew steadily, merging with other tyre and rubber firms to form Continental Gummi-Werke AG and expanding its reach into other parts of Europe. By the 1960s and 70s, Continental was a genuine world player, producing tyres for everything from family saloons to racing cars and heavy trucks.
The brand’s commitment to safety also took shape around this time. Continental developed early versions of what we now know as modern tyre testing and braking systems — technology that would later link into their work with ABS and traction control systems.
Continental today – safe, smart and sustainable
Fast-forward to the modern day, and Continental isn’t just a tyre company—it’s a major technology group working on tyres, braking, and automotive safety systems. They’re one of the few manufacturers that actually design tyres to work hand-in-hand with modern driver aids.
Their popular PremiumContact and EcoContact ranges are brilliant examples of this. They balance grip, comfort, and fuel efficiency — ideal for British roads, where you get rain, cold mornings, and the odd sunny spell all in the same day.
Here at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre in Halifax, we’ve fitted countless Continental tyres over the years, and they’re always a customer favourite. Drivers who do a lot of motorway miles—say between Halifax, Leeds, and Manchester—often choose Continental for the quiet ride and low fuel use. We also see plenty of SUV drivers picking the CrossContact range for stability on rural roads and those steep climbs we’ve got around Calderdale.
A tyre built for Yorkshire roads : Continental Tyres Story
Driving around Halifax and the Pennine hills puts any tyre to the test. With winding roads, cobbles, and a fair mix of weather, you need something that can grip, brake, and handle sudden rain showers without a fuss. Continental tyres really shine here.
Their all-season models perform superbly in our local conditions, especially for drivers who don’t want the hassle of changing to winter tyres each year. I’ve had plenty of customers tell me how confident they feel on the bends up to Mount Tabor or while heading through the twists of the Hebble Valley — that’s the sort of feedback you only get from a quality tyre.
Motorsport pedigree and innovation
Like Bridgestone and Michelin, Continental has always had one foot in motorsport. They’ve supplied tyres for touring car championships and endurance racing, where durability and precision matter most. That experience filters down into the everyday tyres we fit here in the garage.
In recent years, Continental has been a major player in the push towards sustainability too. They’ve experimented with natural rubber from dandelions, recycled materials, and eco-friendly production methods. It’s all part of their goal to make tyres that perform brilliantly without harming the planet — something more and more customers now ask about.
The Continental difference : Continental Tyres Story
What I like about Continental as a brand is their attention to safety and consistency. They’re not flashy or over-marketed — just solid, dependable engineering. Their tyres tend to wear evenly, perform predictably, and last well even under Yorkshire’s rougher road conditions.
We see everything come through the doors at Pellon Autocentre, but when a customer wants a tyre that’ll give them confidence in all weathers, Continental’s often my top recommendation. Whether it’s a small hatchback or a big SUV, they’ve got a model that’ll suit the job perfectly.
So next time you’re due a change of tyres, have a look at what Continental’s been up to. There’s a reason they’ve been around for over 150 years—they keep improving, adapting, and delivering the quality that drivers expect.
My Own Long Association with Goodyear Tyres and Motorsport
When I read that Goodyear is expanding its famous Blue Streak historic racing tyre range, it immediately brought back many memories from my own early days in the tyre trade.
As regular readers of my blog will know, I have been involved with tyres for over 60 years. During that time, I have seen enormous changes in tyre technology, from the old cross-ply tyres of my youth to the sophisticated radial, run-flat, winter and electric vehicle tyres that we fit today at Pellon Tyres here in Halifax.
However, some of my fondest memories go back to the days when I worked for Tyreservices in Huddersfield, which, at that time was owned by Goodyear.
Goodyear wasn’t simply another tyre manufacturer to me. I was actually involved with the company and its products during one of the most exciting periods in motorsport history.
In the 1970s, motorsport felt raw and exciting. Rally cars sounded incredible, drivers were real characters, and spectators could get remarkably close to the action.
I was fortunate enough to be involved in supporting the Goodyear rally scene, including some memorable winter rally events. These experiences helped build my lifelong respect for Goodyear as a tyre manufacturer.
So, when I read about the expansion of the legendary Goodyear Blue Streak racing tyre range, I couldn’t help thinking about how the past and present of the tyre industry have come together.
Goodyear isn’t simply looking back at its history. The company is making sure that some of the world’s greatest historic racing cars can continue competing on tyres appropriate for the eras in which those cars originally raced.
And for somebody like me, who remembers those days first-hand, I think that’s absolutely wonderful.
The Famous Goodyear Blue Streak Racing Tyres Return in a Much Bigger Way
Goodyear has announced a major expansion of its legendary Blue Streak range, strengthening its commitment to the rapidly growing world of historic motorsport.
The company has added 57 additional tyre sizes and specifications, significantly increasing the number of historic racing cars that can use Goodyear tyres.
The expanded range covers an incredible variety of machinery.
We’re talking about everything from pre-war Bentley, ERA and Alfa Romeo racing cars to the great sports cars and Formula cars of the 1950s, 60s and 70s.
Then there are legendary endurance racing machines such as the Porsche 917 and Ferrari 512, cars that fought some of the greatest battles ever seen at Le Mans and in the World Sportscar Championship.
Goodyear is also supporting the smaller, lightweight racing cars that frequently punched above their weight, including famous names such as Matra, Lola and Chevron.
For the more modern classics of the 1980s onwards, Goodyear is also expanding its historic Eagle range to support GT2, LMP2, LMP1 and Super Touring machinery.
To me, this is about far more than nostalgia.
These cars were built to be driven, and there’s something very special about seeing a genuine historic racing car being used as its designers intended rather than simply sitting silently in a museum.
My Days at Goodyear-Owned Tyreservices in Huddersfield: Goodyear Blue Streak Racing Tyres
My own association with Goodyear really developed during my days working at Tyreservices in Huddersfield.
At the time, Tyreservices was owned by Goodyear, and this brought me into much closer contact with the company’s products and motorsport activities.
I was a younger man then, full of enthusiasm for the tyre trade, although I don’t suppose I could possibly have imagined that all these years later I would still be writing about tyres in 2026!
Those days gave me experiences and memories that have stayed with me throughout my life.
Motorsport was an important part of tyre development. Manufacturers such as Goodyear used racing and rallying to push their tyres to the absolute limit.
On a racing circuit, tyres had to cope with extreme cornering forces, high speeds and enormous heat.
Rallying was perhaps even more challenging because conditions could change constantly. A tyre might face dry tarmac, standing water, mud, ice or snow, sometimes all during the same event.
For a young tyre man like myself, it was fascinating.
And I loved every minute of it.
Supporting Goodyear Rallying in the 1970s
Some of my strongest memories involve supporting rallying during the 1970s.
These were the days of proper rally cars and some incredibly talented drivers.
I remember being involved with winter rally events, including the Mintex and HRCR scene. On one memorable occasion, we were out through the night around Scarborough in the middle of winter.
Anybody who has been involved with rallying will know that it isn’t always glamorous!
There can be hours of waiting around in freezing weather, followed by frantic activity as cars arrive and tyres need attention. Then suddenly the cars disappear into the darkness again, leaving behind the smell of hot engines, petrol and tyres.
But there was a wonderful atmosphere.
Everybody was there because they loved motorsport.
I also remember supporting Krissy Ashford, whose Ford Escort Mk2 carried Tyreservices and Goodyear support. The car was white with a distinctive blue stripe and looked exactly like a proper rally car should.
The Ford Escort Mk2 itself has become one of the great icons of rallying history.
Even today, decades later, these cars remain enormously popular in historic rallying, and good examples can be worth considerable amounts of money.
When I see an Escort Mk2 competing today, it immediately takes me back to those earlier days.
Goodyear’s Incredible Motorsport Record: Goodyear Blue Streak Racing Tyres
Goodyear has one of the greatest motorsport records of any tyre manufacturer in history.
The figures are astonishing.
The company achieved 368 Formula One victories, an extraordinary record from an era when Goodyear tyres were fitted to some of the greatest Formula One cars ever built.
Goodyear has also achieved 14 overall victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Here in Britain, the company has won more races in the British Touring Car Championship than any other tyre manufacturer since the championship began in 1958.
Then, of course, there is NASCAR.
Goodyear has supplied tyres to NASCAR for more than 70 years and has been the exclusive tyre supplier to NASCAR’s three national series since 1997.
When you look at that history, the expansion of the Blue Streak range makes perfect sense.
Goodyear has played an enormous part in motorsport history, and many legendary racing cars originally competed on its tyres.
Now, those same types of cars can continue racing on Goodyear tyres designed to preserve the authentic performance and appearance of their era.
The Great Porsche 917 and Ferrari 512 Battles
One part of the new Blue Streak expansion that particularly caught my attention is the availability of wider tyre specifications for the great sports racing cars of the 1960s and 1970s.
This was a golden age of endurance racing.
The Porsche 917 and Ferrari 512 became legendary rivals, competing at incredible speeds at circuits around the world.
The Porsche 917, in particular, is remembered as one of the greatest racing cars ever built. It was enormously powerful and frighteningly fast.
These weren’t racing cars filled with computers and electronic driver aids.
The drivers relied on their own skill, courage and feel for the car.
And, of course, everything ultimately depended on those four relatively small contact patches between the tyres and the racing surface.
That’s something I’ve always said throughout my life in the tyre trade.
No matter how powerful, expensive or sophisticated a car might be, the tyres are the only parts actually connecting it to the road.
That was true in the 1970s, and it’s still true today.
Keeping Historic Racing Authentic: Goodyear Blue Streak Racing Tyres
One of the most important aspects of the expanded Goodyear range is authenticity.
Historic racing isn’t simply about putting modern tyres onto old cars and driving them as fast as possible.
The cars should behave and feel in a way that is appropriate for their period.
That’s why the FIA has strict Appendix K homologation requirements governing historic motorsport.
Goodyear says that the approved production methods, moulds, specifications and performance characteristics of its historic tyres will be preserved.
I think that’s extremely important.
If you fitted a historic 1960s racing car with completely modern racing tyres providing vastly more grip than the originals, you would fundamentally change how the car handled.
The suspension, chassis and brakes were all designed around the tyres available at the time.
Historic racing tyres therefore need to provide the right balance between modern manufacturing quality and authentic period performance.
Goodyear Blue Streak for the Earlier Racing Generations
Goodyear has divided its historic racing tyre strategy into two main brands.
The famous Blue Streak name will cover pre-1980s competition cars, while the Goodyear Eagle brand will support historic racing categories from the 1980s through to more recent machinery.
I think this makes good sense because it reflects the different generations of motorsport.
The Blue Streak name itself has a wonderful historic sound to it.
For enthusiasts of classic American racing cars, Formula cars, touring cars and sports racers, it is a name that immediately brings back memories of a different age.
The expanded range now includes tyres suitable for racing machinery going all the way back to the 1920s and 1930s.
That means cars from manufacturers such as Bentley, ERA and Alfa Romeo can continue competing with tyres that provide the appropriate period appearance and performance.
Imagine watching one of those huge old Bentleys thundering around a circuit.
That’s proper motorsport history brought back to life.
The Lightweight Giant Killers: Goodyear Blue Streak Racing Tyres
I was also pleased to see names such as Lola, Chevron and Matra mentioned in connection with the expanded range.
These lightweight sports racing cars were often incredibly successful.
They might not always have had the biggest engines or the most enormous budgets, but their low weight and clever engineering allowed them to compete against much more powerful machinery.
There’s something very British about the idea of a small, lightweight racing car taking on the giants and giving them a good run for their money!
Lola and Chevron, in particular, have a special place in British motorsport history.
Many of these cars still race today at historic events, where spectators can see and hear machinery from motorsport’s golden age being driven hard once again.
My Unforgettable Visit to Goodyear in Luxembourg
One of my greatest personal Goodyear memories was visiting the company’s facilities in Luxembourg.
I was fortunate enough to attend a Goodyear track day where we experienced the company’s Grand Prix X tyres on Vauxhall Cavaliers.
The cars were fitted with 1600cc engines, and we were able to experience the tyres under controlled test conditions.
But the real highlight for me was being driven around the circuit by the legendary Finnish rally driver Timo Mäkinen.
Now, that was an experience!
Timo was one of the famous Flying Finns and a genuine rallying legend. He won the RAC Rally three times and also achieved three victories on the famous 1000 Lakes Rally in Finland.
Sitting alongside a driver of that calibre was something I’ll never forget.
Professional rally drivers operate on another level entirely.
What feels frighteningly fast to an ordinary passenger is completely controlled to them.
Those experiences strengthened my respect for Goodyear and its involvement in motorsport.
They also taught me just how important tyre development is to vehicle performance.
From Goodyear Rally Tyres to Pellon Tyres in Halifax
It’s strange to think about how life develops.
Back then, I was a young tyre man involved with Goodyear, rallying and Tyreservices.
Today, all these decades later, I’m still involved with tyres as the owner of Pellon Tyres here in Halifax.
The industry has changed enormously.
We now fit tyres for electric cars, hybrids, high-performance SUVs and vehicles with wheel sizes that would have seemed enormous when I started out.
My own white Hyundai Tucson hybrid is a perfect example of how much cars have changed.
Yet my enthusiasm for good tyre brands has remained.
I’ve always had great respect for Goodyear because I have genuine personal experience with the company and its products.
It’s not simply a name I’ve read about in a brochure.
Goodyear forms part of my own journey through the tyre trade.
Modern Historic Racing Is Booming: Goodyear Blue Streak Racing Tyres
Historic motorsport has grown enormously in popularity.
Events such as the Goodwood Revival and Silverstone Festival attract huge crowds who want to see legendary racing cars competing once again.
And I can understand why.
Modern racing cars are incredibly fast and technologically advanced, but historic machinery has something different.
It has character.
You can see the drivers working. You can hear the engines, watch the cars moving around under braking and cornering, and often smell the oil and fuel.
For people of my generation, these cars bring back memories.
For younger enthusiasts, they provide an opportunity to experience machinery they might previously have seen only in old photographs or videos.
The fact that Goodyear is adding 57 more sizes and specifications shows that this isn’t some tiny corner of motorsport.
There is genuine demand for authentic tyres for historic competition cars.
From Blue Streak to Goodyear Eagle
While Blue Streak tyres will concentrate on pre-1980 competition cars, the Goodyear Eagle historic range covers the later generations.
And even cars from the 1990s and 2000s are now becoming historic!
That certainly makes me feel old.
Cars from GT2, LMP2, LMP1 and the Super Touring era are now highly sought-after historic racing machines.
I remember when these cars were the latest technology.
The Super Touring era of the British Touring Car Championship was particularly exciting, with manufacturers spending enormous sums of money developing cars that looked vaguely like the family saloons in the showroom but were, underneath, sophisticated racing machines.
Goodyear’s expanded historic portfolio will help keep these cars racing as well.
Why I Think Goodyear Is Doing the Right Thing
I think Goodyear deserves credit for investing in historic motorsport.
Making specialised tyres in relatively low volumes can’t be as straightforward as mass-producing tyres for everyday road cars.
Different sizes, constructions and specifications are required for cars from very different periods.
Yet preserving these tyres helps preserve the cars themselves.
A racing car was designed to race.
Of course, museums have an important role, but there’s nothing quite like seeing a historic competition car driven at speed.
The noise, movement and atmosphere bring history to life.
Goodyear’s Blue Streak expansion means that more of these legendary cars can continue competing on tyres connected with their original racing eras.
Goodyear Tyres: Part of My Own Tyre Trade Story
Reading about this new expansion brought back many happy memories for me.
From my days at Goodyear-owned Tyreservices in Huddersfield to supporting winter rallies around Yorkshire and Scarborough, helping with Krissy Ashford’s Escort Mk2 and travelling to Luxembourg for that unforgettable track experience with Timo Mäkinen, Goodyear has been part of my own tyre-trade story.
More than 60 years after I first entered the motor trade, I still get excited by developments in the tyre industry.
Perhaps that’s one reason I’ve stayed involved for so long.
I have seen cross-ply tyres give way to radials. I’ve watched wheel sizes grow dramatically. I’ve seen the arrival of run-flat tyres, sophisticated winter tyres, all-season tyres and specialist tyres designed for electric vehicles.
But motorsport heritage reminds us where much of that tyre development began.
Racing pushes tyres to their limits.
And lessons learned on the race circuit and rally stage have helped manufacturers improve tyres for ordinary motorists over many decades.
Keeping the Great Racing Cars Alive
For me, the expansion of the Goodyear Blue Streak historic racing tyre range is about much more than adding another 57 sizes to a product catalogue.
It is about preserving motorsport history.
It’s about allowing Bentleys from the 1920s, Formula cars from the 1950s, Porsche 917s and Ferrari 512s from the great endurance racing era, lightweight Lolas and Chevrons, and later GT and touring cars to continue doing what they were built to do.
Race.
And I think Goodyear’s Xavier Fraipont summed it up perfectly when he explained that historic racers don’t choose tyres through nostalgia alone. They need authentic performance, confidence and consistency.
After my own long career in the tyre trade, I completely understand that.
A great racing car deserves the right tyres.
And after all these years, I am proud to say that Goodyear remains one of the tyre brands I admire most.
From the rally stages of my younger days to the historic racing circuits of today, that famous Goodyear name continues rolling on.
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpg00Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2026-07-15 06:43:502026-07-15 07:12:45Goodyear Blue Streak Racing Tyres
Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 – A Winter Tyre for Modern British Roads
Here at Pellon Tyres in Halifax, I have been involved with winter tyres for more years than I care to remember. In fact, my association with Goodyear tyres goes right back to my younger days in the tyre trade, when winter tyres were very different from the highly developed products we see today.
So, I am always interested when Goodyear announces something new concerning its famous UltraGrip range.
The latest news is particularly impressive. Goodyear has expanded its UltraGrip Performance 3 winter tyre range to an incredible 344 different sizes and specifications, adding 66 new fitments to cover an even wider selection of modern cars, SUVs and electric vehicles.
According to Goodyear, this gives the UltraGrip Performance 3 the broadest winter tyre coverage available from a single tread pattern.
That’s quite an achievement.
For motorists here in Halifax and across Calderdale, it also means that many more vehicles can now be fitted with the same award-winning winter tyre technology.
One Winter Tyre Pattern Covering 344 Different Fitments: New Goodyear Winter Tyre
The modern car market has become incredibly complicated.
When I first started in the tyre trade, things were much simpler. Wheel sizes were smaller, and there were nowhere near as many tyre sizes as we have today.
Now, we regularly see cars arriving at Pellon Tyres fitted with 18, 19, 20 and even 21-inch wheels. SUVs have become increasingly popular, while electric vehicles often require larger tyres capable of carrying additional weight.
Goodyear has responded by expanding the UltraGrip Performance 3 range to 344 different specifications, covering wheel sizes from 14 inches right up to 23 inches.
Interestingly, more than 90% of the 66 newly added sizes are for wheels of 19 inches or larger.
This tells us a great deal about how the modern car market is changing.
Large wheels were once mainly associated with sports cars and expensive luxury vehicles. Today, they are commonplace on family SUVs, crossovers and electric cars.
Here at Pellon Tyres, we have certainly noticed this change over the years. The days when most family cars arrived on 13, 14 or 15-inch wheels are long gone!
Why Winter Tyres Matter Here in Halifax
Anyone who knows Halifax and the surrounding Calderdale area will understand why I have always been a supporter of winter tyres.
We have hills everywhere!
From Wainstalls and Mount Tabor to Queensbury, Sowerby Bridge and the higher parts of Calderdale, our local roads can become extremely challenging during cold weather.
And it isn’t always deep snow that causes the biggest problems.
Cold rain, slush, frost and icy patches can make winter driving difficult. A good winter tyre is designed to remain flexible at lower temperatures, providing better grip when an ordinary summer tyre can become harder and less effective.
This is particularly important when braking or cornering.
I have seen it many times over the years. A car fitted with proper winter tyres can often climb a snowy Yorkshire hill while another vehicle on summer tyres struggles for grip.
Of course, winter tyres don’t make anyone invincible. Drivers must still adjust their speed and driving style to suit the conditions. However, having the correct tyres underneath you can make an enormous difference.
Goodyear UltraGrip – A Name I Remember Well: New Goodyear Winter Tyre
The UltraGrip name means something special to me personally because of my long history with Goodyear.
Back in the 1970s, I was involved with Goodyear through my work at Tyreservices in Huddersfield, which at the time was owned by Goodyear.
Those were exciting days for me in the tyre trade.
I remember supporting rally cars and attending events where winter tyres were pushed to their limits in some very difficult conditions. Rallying was a fantastic proving ground for tyre manufacturers because it tested tyres on snow, ice, mud, wet roads and loose surfaces.
I was also fortunate enough to visit Goodyear’s facilities in Luxembourg and even experienced being driven around a test track by the great Finnish rally driver Timo Mäkinen.
That’s a memory I’ll never forget!
Tyre technology has changed enormously since those days, but the basic challenge remains the same: keeping a vehicle safely connected to the road in difficult conditions.
The modern UltraGrip Performance 3 is the result of decades of development since those earlier days.
Snow Protect Technology for Winter Conditions
One of the key features of the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 is what the company calls Snow Protect Technology.
In simple terms, the tread pattern is designed to provide strong traction when driving on snow.
The tyre has many grooves and edges that can bite into a snowy surface, helping the car accelerate, brake and maintain control.
This can be especially valuable on the steep roads around Halifax.
Anyone who has tried climbing one of our Pennine hills after a heavy snowfall will understand exactly what I mean!
The trouble with snow is that it can quickly become compacted by traffic. This creates an extremely slippery surface, particularly on hills and at junctions.
Having a tyre specifically designed to work in these conditions can provide valuable extra grip.
Wet Grip+ Technology for British Winters: New Goodyear Winter Tyre
Let’s face it: a British winter usually means more rain than snow!
This is why I think wet-weather performance is every bit as important as snow performance when choosing a winter tyre for UK roads.
The UltraGrip Performance 3 uses Goodyear’s Wet Grip+ Technology, which is designed to improve braking and control on wet roads.
For drivers around Halifax, Brighouse, Elland, Huddersfield and the wider West Yorkshire area, this is particularly relevant.
Our winters can bring weeks of cold rain, standing water and damp roads. Temperatures can hover only a few degrees above freezing, creating conditions where good grip is essential.
A winter tyre that performs well in the wet as well as the snow makes much more sense for the typical British climate.
An Award-Winning Goodyear Winter Tyre
Of course, any tyre manufacturer can tell us how wonderful its own products are.
What interests me more is how a tyre performs in independent testing.
The Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 has achieved some impressive results.
According to Goodyear, the tyre secured first place in ADAC winter tyre testing in both 2024 and 2025.
ADAC is one of Europe’s most respected motoring organisations, and its tyre tests are known for examining performance across a wide range of conditions.
The tyre was tested for performance in the wet, dry and snow, as well as for wear and efficiency.
One particularly impressive figure was its predicted mileage of 76,500 kilometres.
That’s approximately 47,500 miles, which is certainly a significant potential lifespan for a winter tyre, although, of course, actual tyre life will always depend on the vehicle, driving style, road conditions, tyre pressures and other factors.
Auto Bild also named Goodyear its Top Manufacturer of the Year 2025 in the winter tyre category, further strengthening the reputation of the UltraGrip Performance 3.
Suitable for Electric Cars and SUVs: New Goodyear Winter Tyre
One of the biggest changes in the motor industry is the rapid growth of electric vehicles and larger SUVs.
These vehicles can place different demands on their tyres.
Electric cars are often heavier because of their large battery packs. They also produce instant torque, which can increase tyre wear if the tyres aren’t suited to the vehicle.
Goodyear says that the UltraGrip Performance 3 has been developed for both electric and traditional petrol or diesel vehicles.
The tyre includes features aimed at reducing rolling resistance and interior noise, both of which can be particularly beneficial for EV drivers.
Because electric vehicles don’t have the noise of a traditional combustion engine, tyre noise can become much more noticeable inside the cabin.
A quieter tyre can therefore make a real difference to comfort.
New Sizes for the Latest Generation of Cars
The expansion of the UltraGrip Performance 3 range includes fitments for some of the newest vehicles on European roads.
These include electric and high-performance vehicles from manufacturers such as BMW, Audi, Volvo, Škoda, Polestar, Porsche and Mercedes-Benz.
The range now covers sizes from 14 inches to 23 inches, meaning the same basic winter tyre design can be fitted to everything from smaller city cars to large SUVs and powerful electric vehicles.
For tyre dealers like ourselves at Pellon Tyres, this wider coverage is useful because the modern tyre market has become so diverse.
We can have a small hatchback in one minute and a large electric SUV the next, both requiring completely different tyre sizes and load capabilities.
The Importance of Choosing the Correct Winter Tyre: New Goodyear Winter Tyre
Although the UltraGrip Performance 3 is available in hundreds of specifications, it’s still important to fit the correct tyre for the individual vehicle.
Tyre size is only part of the story.
The correct load rating and speed rating must also be considered, particularly for heavy SUVs and electric vehicles.
Some cars also use mixed tyre sizes, with different dimensions on the front and rear axles.
This is another reason why it’s worth getting professional advice rather than simply buying a tyre based on size alone.
At Pellon Tyres, we always check the vehicle requirements and make sure that the tyres supplied are suitable for the car.
My Long-Standing Belief in Winter Tyres
I have been writing about winter tyres for many years, long before they became as widely discussed in Britain as they are today.
My interest comes partly from my own experiences in the tyre industry and rallying.
I have seen first-hand the difference that the correct tyres can make in challenging conditions.
Here in Halifax, we don’t need to imagine difficult winter roads. We have them on our doorstep.
The steep hills and high moorland surrounding Calderdale can quickly become challenging when snow, frost or ice arrives.
For people who need to travel regardless of the weather — perhaps for work, healthcare or family commitments — winter tyres can provide extra confidence and grip.
Many of our customers also keep a separate set of winter wheels and tyres, fitting them as temperatures fall and changing back to summer tyres in spring.
Others choose all-season tyres as a compromise for year-round use.
There is no single answer that’s right for everybody. It depends on where you live, where you drive and how essential your car is during bad weather.
A Winter Tyre Range That Keeps Growing: New Goodyear Winter Tyre
For me, the most impressive aspect of the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 is the sheer scale of the range.
One tread pattern. 344 different specifications. Wheel sizes from 14 to 23 inches.
That is an enormous spread of vehicle coverage.
It also shows just how complicated the modern tyre industry has become.
Cars are getting heavier, wheels are getting larger, and electric vehicles are bringing new demands. Yet motorists still expect the same basic things from their tyres: safety, good braking, reliable handling and reasonable mileage.
Goodyear appears to have designed the UltraGrip Performance 3 with all these challenges in mind.
Goodyear Winter Tyres at Pellon Tyres Halifax
After more than 60 years in the tyre trade, I have seen many tyre designs come and go.
I remember the old cross-ply tyres, the early radial tyres and the winter patterns used on rally cars decades ago.
Now we have tyres designed using advanced computer technology, sophisticated rubber compounds and tread patterns capable of working across an enormous range of modern vehicles.
Yet the purpose of a tyre remains exactly the same.
It is still the only part of your vehicle actually touching the road.
For motorists around Halifax, Calderdale and West Yorkshire, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 looks like a particularly interesting winter tyre option.
Its combination of snow performance, wet grip, independent test results and an enormous choice of sizes makes it one to watch as we head towards the colder months.
And knowing Yorkshire weather, winter can sometimes arrive when we least expect it!
Here at Pellon Tyres in Halifax, we’ll continue helping our customers choose tyres that suit their vehicles, budgets and driving needs.
Because whether you’re driving through Halifax town centre, climbing towards Wainstalls or heading over the Pennine hills on a cold winter morning, having the right tyres fitted can make all the difference.
From Kurume to the world: the founding and history of Bridgestone tyres
If you’ve ever owned a car in the UK, you’ll have seen Bridgestone on the forecourt or fitted at a local garage. It’s a brand with a proper story — starting in a small Japanese town and growing to one of the world’s biggest tyre makers.
Bridgestone’s story begins with Shojiro Ishibashi, a Japanese entrepreneur who set up a tyre division in Kurume, Fukuoka. The very first tyre bearing the Bridgestone name rolled out in 1930, and a year later, on 1 March 1931, the Bridgestone Tire Co., Ltd. was officially formed. The name Bridgestone is actually an English play on Ishibashi’s family name — literally “stone bridge”. Bridgestone Global +1
Early days weren’t easy. Bridgestone decided to rely on homegrown technology rather than copying European or American designs. That meant hard graft: improving manufacturing, learning quality control and slowly winning customers at home before pushing overseas. By the post-war years the company had moved into mass production and started exporting tyres and expertise beyond Japan. Bridgestone Global Website
Bridgestone’s global leap really accelerated in the late 20th century.
One of the biggest moves was the acquisition of Firestone in 1988–89—a deal that gave Bridgestone a major foothold in the US market and turned it into a truly international player. From there Bridgestone expanded R&D, built factories across the world and positioned itself as a major supplier in motorsport, too. Bridgestone Global +1
If you’re into racing (and a lot of us round here had a soft spot for it), Bridgestone invested heavily in motorsport from the 1960s and became a big name in Formula One between the late 1990s and 2010. They went head-to-head with rivals, developed cutting-edge race compounds and for a time supplied tyres for the pinnacle of single-seater racing. That motorsport DNA also helped with road tyre technology — what they learn at the track often finds its way onto the family car. ms.bridgestone.co.jp+1
Interesting local note for our customers in Halifax: Bridgestone Tyres the Beginning
While Bridgestone is a global company, they don’t have tyre manufacturing plants in the UK—they handle UK operations through offices and technical centres—but you’ll still find their tyres widely available at independent garages and national dealers alike. If you’re shopping for a set of all-season or winter tyres, Bridgestone’s range is a sound choice and often seen on cars in town and country lanes alike. Wikipedia
Today Bridgestone is one of the world’s largest tyre manufacturers, with a presence in dozens of countries and a wide range of tyres for everything from family hatchbacks to commercial vans and motorsport. Their story is a proper example of how a local business — started in Kurume — grew into a global name by focusing on quality, innovation and persistence. Bridgestone Global +1
Bridgestone Tyres the Beginning
Bridgestone Tyres Today – From Track to the Roads of Halifax
If you’ve read the story of how Bridgestone grew from a small Japanese company into one of the world’s biggest tyre manufacturers, you’ll know the brand’s built on solid engineering and sheer persistence. But it’s not all about the past — Bridgestone is still right at the front when it comes to tyre design, safety, and adapting to how we drive here in the UK.
Bridgestone and the British roads: Bridgestone Tyres the Beginning
Driving around Halifax and the wider Calderdale area gives any tyre a proper workout. We’ve got steep hills, tight bends, and the sort of mixed weather that keeps garages like ours busy all year round. One minute it’s sunshine, the next it’s a downpour on the A629!
Bridgestone tyres have a solid reputation for handling those unpredictable Yorkshire conditions. Their all-season range, especially the Bridgestone Weather Control A005, has been popular with local drivers who want one set of tyres that can cope with both rain and cold snaps. It’s a good choice for those who don’t want to swap to full winter tyres but still want peace of mind on icy mornings.
We’ve fitted plenty of A005s here at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, and customers often comment on the quieter ride and confident braking. You really notice it on wet cobbled streets around town or when heading up the hills toward Mixenden or Ogden.
The push for fuel efficiency and greener driving
Modern tyres aren’t just about grip anymore—they’re about helping your car run cleaner and cheaper. Bridgestone has been one of the leaders in developing low rolling resistance tyres, which basically means they take less effort for your engine to turn. Less effort = less fuel used = lower emissions.
Their Turanza Eco and Ecopia ranges are perfect examples. They’re ideal for city driving and longer motorway runs — popular with our customers who commute from Halifax to Leeds or Manchester and want to save a few quid on fuel.
With so many hybrid and electric vehicles on the road now, Bridgestone’s also been quick to adapt. Their Turanza EV line is built specifically for electric cars — extra-strong sidewalls, quieter tread patterns, and tyres that can handle the heavier weight of batteries. We’ve already seen a few EV owners popping in asking about those, and it’s definitely a growing trend.
Bridgestone’s link with motorsport continues:Bridgestone Tyres the Beginning
Even though they stepped back from Formula One a few years ago, Bridgestone hasn’t stopped racing. They still support major motorsport events like MotoGP and various endurance racing series. Why’s that important? Because the lessons they learn in racing — heat control, durability, braking performance — end up improving the road tyres we fit every day.
For example, some of the tread designs used on Bridgestone’s Potenza Sport tyres are directly influenced by their track work. Those tyres are brilliant for high-performance cars and sporty drivers — great grip, stable handling, and good feedback on winding roads. I remember one local customer with a BMW 3 Series switching to Potenzas and being amazed how much sharper his car felt on the corners up towards Queensbury.
Bridgestone Tyres the Beginning
Tyres that suit Yorkshire life
That’s what makes Bridgestone a proper all-rounder brand. They’ve got something for everyone — from motorway commuters to rural drivers heading up to the Dales. Here in Halifax, where we get all four seasons (sometimes in one day!), a well-balanced tyre like the Weather Control A005 makes a lot of sense. For vans and tradespeople, Bridgestone’s Duravis range is another top seller — tough enough to take heavy loads and daily stop-start driving without wearing out too quickly.
It’s easy to see why Bridgestone remains one of the most trusted names we recommend. They’ve never stopped developing, and that’s reflected in how well their tyres cope with British roads and weather.
Our view at Pellon Tyres
At Pellon Autocentre, we’ve been fitting Bridgestone tyres for decades, and they’ve always been a brand we can rely on. Whether it’s a family hatchback, a delivery van, or a sporty weekend car, Bridgestone offers something that fits both the vehicle and the driver’s needs.
If you’re in Halifax or nearby and thinking of new tyres, pop in for a chat—we’re always happy to talk about what’ll suit your car best. And if you fancy learning more about how tyres are changing, we’ve got displays showing some of the latest tread technology and eco-friendly designs right here in the depot.
Local Sheep Farmer Calls at Pellon Tyres for New Ifor Williams Trailer Tyres
A Different Sort of Job at Pellon Tyres in Halifax
Yesterday, we had a slightly different sort of job arrive here at Pellon Tyres in Halifax. Of course, we are used to seeing cars, vans, 4x4s and motorhomes coming through our doors every day, but this time it was a four-wheel Ifor Williams livestock trailer belonging to local hill farmer Boe Schofield.
Boe farms sheep up at Wainstalls, an area of high moorland just a few miles from our tyre depot here in Halifax. Anyone who knows this part of West Yorkshire will understand that Wainstalls is proper farming country. The roads climb steeply out of Halifax, the weather can change quickly, and the landscape opens out into some wonderful Yorkshire moorland.
It is beautiful countryside, but it can also be tough country in which to earn a living.
Boe had called in to have the tyres checked on his Ifor Williams trailer. Like most working farmers, he relies heavily on his equipment, and a trailer is not something that just sits around looking pretty. It has a real job to do, carrying livestock and helping to move sheep around the farm and to livestock markets, including the famous Skipton Auction Mart.
After checking all four tyres, we found that three of them needed replacing.
The tyre size was 175 R13 8-ply, a strong commercial-type tyre suitable for van and trailer applications. After a bit of Yorkshire bargaining — and believe me, Boe drives a hard bargain! — we eventually agreed on a price for three budget Maxrex tyres.
I must admit, this made me smile.
Farmers have always had a reputation for looking after the pennies, and quite rightly so. Sheep farming is a tough business, and every cost matters. Feed, fuel, machinery, veterinary bills, fencing and transport all take their share. So, when it comes to buying tyres, farmers know what they want and what they are prepared to pay.
Eventually, the deal was done, the three new tyres were fitted, and Boe was soon setting off back towards his farm at Wainstalls.
Just another day’s work at Pellon Tyres, perhaps, but this particular job got me thinking about the deep connection between sheep farming, wool, Halifax and the Yorkshire towns that grew and prospered because of this ancient industry.
New Tyres for Sheep Farmers Are an Important Part of Farm Safety
For sheep farmers like Boe, a reliable livestock trailer is an essential piece of equipment. Whether moving sheep between fields, collecting livestock or making the journey to Skipton Auction Mart, the trailer needs to be safe and ready for work.
This is where new tyres for sheep farmers become particularly important. Farm and livestock trailers often have a hard life, travelling along rough tracks, narrow country lanes and uneven moorland roads. They may also stand unused for periods of time before suddenly being called upon to carry a heavy load of livestock.
Unlike normal car tyres, trailer tyres can sometimes deteriorate through age before the tread has completely worn away. Cracking in the sidewalls, damage from potholes and prolonged exposure to the weather can all weaken a tyre over time.
For this reason, new tyres for sheep farmers are not simply about replacing worn rubber. They are an important part of keeping trailers roadworthy and ensuring livestock can be transported safely.
Before setting off for market, farmers should always check the condition of their trailer tyres, including the tread, sidewalls and tyre pressures. A tyre failure on a remote Yorkshire road is inconvenient at the best of times, but with a trailer full of sheep, it can become a much more serious problem.
The right new tyres for sheep farmers must also have the correct load-carrying capacity for the trailer. In Boe’s case, we fitted 175 R13 8-ply Maxrex tyres, which were suitable for the demands of his four-wheel Ifor Williams livestock trailer.
Good trailer tyres help provide stability when carrying livestock and give the farmer confidence when travelling over the challenging roads found around Wainstalls, Halifax and the wider Calderdale area.
Of course, farmers are always conscious of costs. As Boe proved during our friendly Yorkshire negotiations, every penny counts! However, fitting suitable new tyres for sheep farmers can help prevent breakdowns, avoid unnecessary disruption and keep an important piece of farming equipment safely on the road.
Here at Pellon Tyres in Halifax, we understand that a farmer’s trailer is much more than something simply towed behind a vehicle. It is an essential working tool, relied upon for transporting livestock and keeping the farm running smoothly.
That’s why checking and fitting new tyres for sheep farmers is another way we can help support our local farming community across Halifax, Calderdale and the surrounding Yorkshire hills.
Sheep Farming Around Halifax and the Yorkshire Pennines: New Tyres for Sheep Farmer
Sheep have been part of the landscape around Halifax for hundreds of years. In fact, you could probably say that without sheep and wool, Halifax might never have developed into the town that we know today.
The surrounding Pennine hills and moorlands are ideal sheep country. The land can be too steep, exposed or poor for growing crops, but hardy sheep can survive and thrive on these upland pastures.
Around places such as Wainstalls, Mount Tabor, Queensbury, Oxenhope, Hebden Bridge, Sowerby Bridge and the wider Calderdale area, sheep farming remains part of the landscape and our local identity.
Drive around these areas and you will still see sheep grazing on the hillsides, often in weather that would have most of us heading straight back indoors!
Hill farming is not an easy way of life. Farmers work in rain, wind, snow and freezing temperatures. Lambing season can mean working through the night, checking animals and helping ewes that are struggling to give birth.
Then there are fences to repair, sheep to move, fields to maintain, animals to treat and livestock to transport.
This is where a good, reliable livestock trailer becomes absolutely essential.
For farmers such as Boe, an Ifor Williams trailer is not a luxury. It is a working tool and an important part of running the farm.
Why Trailer Tyres Are So Important
Trailer tyres are sometimes forgotten because they may not cover the same mileage as the tyres fitted to a car or van. However, that does not mean they are any less important.
In fact, trailer tyres often have a particularly hard life.
A livestock trailer may stand for days or weeks before suddenly being loaded with animals and driven over country lanes, rough farm tracks and faster main roads. The tyres must cope with heavy loads, mud, stones, potholes and changing weather conditions.
Age can also be a major problem.
A tyre may still have plenty of tread but can deteriorate simply through standing for long periods. Rubber naturally ages, and exposure to sunlight and weather can cause cracking in the sidewalls.
This is something we always look out for when checking trailer tyres at Pellon Tyres.
In Boe’s case, three tyres needed replacing, and because this was a four-wheel trailer used for transporting livestock, it was important to fit tyres with the correct load-carrying ability.
The 175 R13 8-ply tyres fitted to the trailer are designed to cope with heavier loads than a normal passenger-car tyre. The term 8-ply comes from the older way of describing tyre strength. Modern tyres may not physically contain eight separate layers, but the ply rating still indicates the tyre’s strength and load capability.
This is particularly important on livestock trailers because the combined weight of the trailer and several sheep can soon add up.
Nobody wants a tyre failure on a remote moorland road or, worse still, on the way to market with a trailer full of animals.
The Ifor Williams Trailer: A British Farming Favourite – New Tyres for Sheep Farmer
When it comes to trailers in the British farming industry, few names are better known than Ifor Williams.
Founded in Wales in 1958, Ifor Williams Trailers has grown into one of Britain’s best-known trailer manufacturers. Its trailers can be seen everywhere, from farms and livestock markets to building sites, landscaping businesses and equestrian centres.
For many British farmers, the words Ifor Williamshave almost become another way of saying ‘trailer’.
They are particularly popular because of their strong construction, practical design and ability to cope with the tough conditions found on British farms.
Our weather certainly gives equipment a hard time. Rain, mud, road salt and rough ground all take their toll. Farming trailers have to be built to withstand years of hard use.
The classic galvanised finish of an Ifor Williams trailer is instantly recognisable. Over the years, the company has developed a huge range of trailers, including livestock trailers, horseboxes, flatbeds, tippers, box vans and general-purpose models.
However, it is probably the livestock trailer that most people associate with British farming.
You only need to visit a busy livestock market to see how important these trailers have become.
On market day, the roads around places such as Skipton can be full of 4x4s and pickups towing livestock trailers carrying sheep and cattle from farms across Yorkshire and Lancashire.
The Journey from Wainstalls to Skipton Auction Mart
For a farmer based at Wainstalls, taking livestock to Skipton Auction Mart is part of a long Yorkshire farming tradition.
Skipton has been an important market town for centuries, and its livestock auction remains one of the best-known agricultural markets in the country.
Farmers travel from across Yorkshire and beyond to buy and sell livestock. For sheep farmers, the market is not just a place of business. It is also a meeting place where people catch up, discuss prices, exchange news and, no doubt, have a good moan about the weather!
And let’s face it, here in Yorkshire, the weather always gives us something to talk about.
Transporting sheep safely to market is an important responsibility. The trailer must be in good working condition, and that includes the tyres, brakes, lights, floor and general structure.
A breakdown on the way to market can cause serious problems, particularly when livestock are involved.
This is why checking trailer tyres before a busy farming season or an important journey is always a sensible idea.
Boe did the right thing by bringing his Ifor Williams trailer to us for a tyre inspection. Finding three tyres that needed replacement at our depot is far better than discovering the problem at the side of the road with a trailer full of sheep.
Sheep and Wool Built Halifax: New Tyres for Sheep Farmer
The sight of a sheep trailer in our tyre depot also reminded me of just how much Halifax owes to sheep farming and the wool trade.
Long before Halifax became an industrial town, local families produced woollen cloth in their own homes and small workshops.
The surrounding hills provided grazing for sheep, while the streams and rivers of the Calder Valley supplied water that would later power mills and support the growing textile industry.
Wool was woven into the very fabric of Halifax life.
By the 18th and 19th centuries, the Industrial Revolution transformed the area. Small-scale cottage weaving gradually gave way to larger mills, and Halifax became one of Britain’s most important centres for woollen and textile production.
The wealth created by wool shaped the town.
It created jobs, built mills and warehouses and helped finance some of the magnificent buildings that still stand in Halifax today.
Perhaps the greatest surviving symbol of this history is the Piece Hall.
Originally opened in 1779, The Piece Hall was built as a place where handloom weavers could sell pieces of wool cloth. Today, of course, it has been wonderfully restored and has become one of Yorkshire’s best-known visitor attractions and music venues.
But its origins take us straight back to sheep, wool and the hard-working people of the surrounding Calderdale hills.
Every time we walk through The Piece Hall, we are walking through a piece of Halifax’s woollen history.
From Sheep on the Hills to Mills in the Valley
The geography of Calderdale played a huge part in the development of the woollen industry.
Sheep grazed on the higher land, while mills grew up in the valleys where water power was available.
Places such as Halifax, Sowerby Bridge and Hebden Bridge developed rapidly as textile production expanded.
The steep Pennine valleys were ideal for water-powered mills. Later, steam power allowed factories to become even larger and more productive.
Thousands of local people worked in the textile industry. Entire families depended upon the mills for their livelihoods.
Of course, working conditions were often incredibly hard by modern standards. Long hours, dangerous machinery and poor working environments were common.
Yet there is no doubt that wool and textiles helped build modern Halifax.
Even the grand homes, public buildings, banks, chapels and commercial premises that appeared throughout the area were often financed directly or indirectly by money made from textiles.
This is why I find it fascinating that, hundreds of years later, sheep still graze on the hills around Wainstalls while the town of Halifax below carries the architectural evidence of the industry they helped create.
The Famous Halifax Gibbet and the Cloth Trade
The woollen trade was so important to Halifax that the town even developed its own severe laws to protect valuable cloth.
The famous Halifax Gibbet is one of the town’s most unusual historical landmarks. It was an early form of guillotine used to execute criminals, particularly those convicted under local laws.
The Halifax Gibbet became associated with the protection of the valuable cloth trade. In a town where woollen cloth represented wealth and livelihoods, theft was treated extremely seriously.
The old saying:
“From Hell, Hull and Halifax, good Lord deliver us.”
became famous across England.
Today, thankfully, buying and selling woollen goods is a much more peaceful affair! But the story demonstrates just how important the textile trade was to the people and economy of Halifax.
Wainstalls: Proper Yorkshire Hill Country: New Tyres for Sheep Farmer
Wainstalls itself is a fascinating part of the Halifax area.
Sitting high above the Calder Valley, it is surrounded by open countryside, farms, stone walls, and moorland.
It is the sort of place where you can experience four seasons in one day.
One minute the sun is shining across the hills; the next, mist can roll in and completely change the landscape.
Winter brings its own challenges. Snow and ice can make the higher roads difficult, and anyone who lives or works around the Halifax hills understands the importance of having the right vehicle and tyres.
At Pellon Tyres, we have always had a strong connection with people living in these outlying communities.
Over the years, we have looked after vehicles belonging to farmers, builders, tradespeople and families from all across the Calderdale area.
A customer from Wainstalls may need tyres that can cope with completely different conditions from somebody who spends most of their time driving around a city centre.
That’s the beauty of running an independent garage. You get to know the area, the roads and, most importantly, the people.
Farmers, Money and the Art of a Good Bargain
I mentioned earlier that Boe drove a hard bargain over his three new Maxrex tyres.
This came as no great surprise to me!
After more than 60 years in the tyre trade, I have dealt with just about every type of customer imaginable, and farmers certainly know how to negotiate.
But I completely understand why.
Modern farming operates on tight margins. Farmers face rising machinery costs, fuel bills, feed prices, veterinary expenses and countless other costs that many of us never think about.
Sheep farming, particularly on upland farms, can be extremely challenging financially.
So, yes, Boe wanted a good deal on his tyres.
After a bit of friendly Yorkshire negotiation, we eventually agreed on the price of three Maxyrex budget tyres that were suitable for his trailer.
That’s how business should be done.
We supplied him with the tyres he needed at a price we could both live with. The trailer was made safe and ready for work, and Boe could return to his farm knowing that three fresh tyres were fitted.
No fuss. No unnecessary extras. Just a proper job at a fair price.
That’s always been our philosophy at Pellon Tyres.
The Importance of Supporting British Farmers: New Tyres for Sheep Farmer
I have enormous respect for British farmers.
We often take our food for granted. We walk into a supermarket and expect the shelves to be full.
But behind that food are farmers working every day of the year.
Animals still need feeding on Christmas Day. Sheep still need checking during storms. Lambing does not stop because it’s a Sunday or a bank holiday.
Hill farmers face some of the toughest conditions of all.
The beautiful moorlands around Halifax, Calderdale and the wider Pennines have been shaped by generations of farming families.
Without active farming, these landscapes would change dramatically.
Sheep farming also helps maintain the character of our upland countryside. Stone walls, open fields and grazing land all form part of the Yorkshire landscape that we know and love.
Of course, farming is changing. Environmental pressures, changing food habits and financial challenges mean that farmers constantly have to adapt.
But I hope there will always be room for family farms and working hill farmers in places such as Wainstalls.
They are part of our local heritage and, I believe, part of our future too.
The Wool Industry: Could It Have a New Future?
Wool built much of Halifax, yet in recent decades its value has fallen dramatically.
There have even been times when farmers have found that the cost of shearing a sheep is greater than the value of the fleece.
When you think about the enormous wealth once created by Yorkshire wool, that seems almost unbelievable.
However, there are signs that natural materials could become more important again.
Wool is renewable, biodegradable and naturally insulating. It can be used not only for clothing and carpets but also for building insulation, bedding, packaging and other products.
At a time when we are all being encouraged to reduce our dependence on plastics and synthetic materials, perhaps natural wool deserves another chance.
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if the material that helped build Halifax could find a new role in a more sustainable future?
The sheep are still here. The knowledge is still here. And the history is certainly all around us.
A Simple Tyre Job That Tells a Bigger Story: New Tyres for Sheep Farmer
So, what started as a simple tyre check on an Ifor Williams trailer turned into something much more interesting.
Three worn tyres were removed and replaced with new 175 R13 8-ply Maxtrex tyres.
Boe Schofield had done his Yorkshire bargaining.
We had done our job.
And the trailer headed back up the hill towards Wainstalls, ready to continue its working life on the farm and on future journeys to livestock markets such as Skipton.
Yet that simple trailer also represents something much bigger.
It connects modern-day farming with generations of Yorkshire history.
The sheep carried in trailers like Boe’s are descendants of the animals whose wool once helped create enormous wealth across Halifax and Calderdale.
The farmers working the hills today continue traditions that go back centuries.
And companies such as Ifor Williams continue providing British farmers with the tough, practical equipment they need to do their jobs.
Here at Pellon Tyres, we might be better known for fitting car tyres, carrying out MOT tests and repairing cars and vans, but jobs like this remind me why I still enjoy the motor trade after all these years.
You never know what is going to come through the gates next.
One day, it might be a small family car needing an MOT. The next, a BMW, requires performance tyres. Then along comes a four-wheel Ifor Williams sheep trailer from the moors above Halifax.
That’s the great thing about being an independent garage.
We are part of the local community.
We know our customers, we know our Yorkshire roads, and we understand that every vehicle — whether it’s a car, van or sheep trailer — has an important job to do.
And as for Boe?
Well, he got his three new trailer tyres at a price that kept a Yorkshire farmer happy.
Believe me, after more than 60 years in the tyre trade, I reckon that’s an achievement in itself!
Pellon Tyres – Proud to Serve Halifax and Calderdale
Pellon Tyres has been serving motorists, businesses and local communities in Halifax and the surrounding Calderdale area for decades.
From tyres and MOT tests to brakes, batteries, exhausts and general mechanical repairs, we believe in giving customers straightforward advice and only carrying out work that genuinely needs doing.
And yes, we also look after the occasional sheep trailer!
So, whether you drive a family car through Halifax, a van around Calderdale, a 4×4 across the Yorkshire hills or an Ifor Williams trailer full of sheep heading towards Skipton Auction Mart, good tyres remain essential.
Because whatever you drive — or tow — the only thing connecting you to the road is your tyres.
In my mind, then, this falls in line with another aspect of the MOT testing scene
Last week, the transport minister announced the scrapping of the first MOT test for cars of 4 years old.
As the owner of a testing station in Halifax, UK. This would have been a huge mistake. As a result the current 3 year spell will be resurrected from the scrap heap. Common sense and a lot of pressure from the garage industry showed the government what a mistake it would have been to implement the four year gap from new to the first test.
The second part of this article
is about the introduction of a new MOT inspection manual. One of the implementations will be to to change the classification of a car’s defects so that they’re rated as dangerous, major, or minor.
This of course is one of those improvement that in my opinion existed on the old system. Just that the words have changed?
On this new system then the Minor is the same as the “old advisory” The major and the dangerous are both fails. The difference is that the dangerous part of fail is explained to the customer who will be warned that the car is too dangerous to drive away.
MOT Inspection Manual Renewed, some parts confuse me
The “dangerous part of the failure was also available on the old system that will be replaced. So, it just looks like the swapping of words. When talking to Ryan Linton, my MOT tester, about the changes, I became confused. We both agree that it did not seem like anything was wrong with the old part of the system with the old classes of mot reporting
It was either pass or fail.
With the option to list the car as dangerous, which could be explained to the customer. As the tester, an explanation for the dangerous would be given to the customer. In my simple mind, then, the new system looks confusing. Like anything else, though, I suppose we will get used to it and everything will fall into place.
To finalise a great blog to explain all this, the “matters of testing” blog is worth a look at this subject.
The DVSA is to introduce its new MOT inspection manual for class 3, 4, 5 and 7 vehicles to reflect changes to the MOT test which will be introduced in May 2018. The new manual, which must
ABS Braking Issues with the Ford Ranger: A Trip to Pellon Tyres
When we receive a car that poses a little bit of a problem, it’s always an entertaining day at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre here in Halifax. A Ford Ranger recently rolled into our garage with a problem that caused the driver to become a little anxious: ABS braking system issues. Although the Ford Ranger is a sturdy and dependable car, even the most resilient trucks occasionally experience issues.
The ABS warning light on this specific Ranger was flashing, which is enough to make any driver stop, especially when safety is at stake. But before we get into the specifics of how we resolved this, let’s take a moment to discuss ABS brakes and the history of the Ford Ranger.
Ford Ranger ABS Brake Problems
ABS Brakes: What Are They? Ford Ranger ABS Brake Problems
One of the biggest developments in car safety is the ABS, or Anti-lock Braking System. ABS technology keeps your wheels from locking up and sliding if you’ve ever had to apply the brakes hard in an emergency. By quickly pulsating the brakes, ABS keeps the tires on the road rather than causing the car to lose traction and slide out of control. It performs exceptionally well, particularly in challenging weather conditions like rain or snow, which are common in West Yorkshire.
Around the 1990s, ABS was becoming a feature in the majority of cars, and it has subsequently saved lives. The system is dependent on a hydraulic unit, a control module, and sensors at each wheel. The ABS warning light illuminates if one of these parts malfunctions, which is exactly what happened with this Ranger.
A Brief History: Forde Ford Ranger’s History – Ford Ranger ABS Brake Problems
For drivers in need of a dependable and adaptable pickup truck, the Ford Ranger has been a mainstay. The Ranger was Ford’s response to the rising demand for small trucks when it was first released in the US in the early 1980s. The Ranger quickly gained popularity among farmers, tradespeople, and anybody else in need of a hardy workhorse after making its way to other markets, particularly the UK.
The current Ranger has developed into a midsize powerhouse, particularly the vehicles built since 2011. Given their reputation for strength and ability, it’s no surprise that they’re frequently seen in Halifax’s rural and urban neighbourhoods. The Ranger can handle anything from muddy rural roads in the Calder Valley to towing caravans.
Ford Ranger ABS Brake Problems
Identifying and Resolving the ABS Problem Ford Ranger ABS Brake Problems
Let’s get back to our workshop! We started by plugging in our diagnostic tools to check what the ABS system had to say when this Ford Ranger arrived. The front offside wheel’s faulty wheel speed sensor was discovered by the diagnostic tool. This sensor is in charge of tracking the wheel’s speed and communicating information to the ABS control module. The module activates the warning light and turns off the ABS if it notices a disparity, such as a sensor not reporting properly.
The offender? A mix of corrosion and road grime, which is not surprising considering the recent weather. The Ranger spends a lot of time on muddy roads and construction sites because its owner uses it for work on a daily basis. Any car has a difficult existence, and even the best-maintained models can experience sensor problems.
We recalibrated the system, cleaned the mounting point, and replaced the malfunctioning sensor. The ABS light vanished and the Ranger’s brakes returned to their peak performance during a brief test drive down Pellon Lane’s slopes, which is a good test for any braking system.
Ford Ranger ABS Brake Problems
The Importance of ABS Maintenance
The lesson here is straightforward: don’t disregard your ABS warning light if it ever comes on. The anti-lock system’s safety net won’t be there when you need it most, but the brakes will still function. With Halifax’s combination of steep slopes and erratic weather, a properly operating ABS system might mean the difference between a safe stop and a near miss.
We at Pellon Tyres are always pleased to assist in resolving problems of this nature. We have the know-how and resources to keep you safe on the road, whether you’re driving a Ford Ranger, a family saloon, or a vintage Rover (we still see a few of those!).
A Local Perspective
The Ford Ranger’s reputation for toughness and no-nonsense aligns perfectly with West Yorkshire’s work ethic. We at Pellon Tyres take great satisfaction in being trustworthy and prepared for anything that comes in. Therefore, stop by and see us the next time your car’s ABS starts to malfunction or you simply need winter tyres. One repair at a time, we’re here to keep Halifax running.
ABS FAQs:
Q: What are the most common symptoms of ABS problems? A: Warning lights, grinding noises, pulsing brakes, or increased stopping distances.
Q: Is it safe to drive with faulty ABS? A: It’s possible, but not recommended, because the wheels can lock under heavy braking.
Q: How long does ABS diagnostics take? A: At Pellon Tyres we can test your ABS system in around 30 minutes.
Eric and the Pellon Tyres Team, be careful when driving.
Need tyres or brake repairs in Halifax? Call Pellon Tyres on 01422 351314 or visit us on Pellon Lane.
Brake Servicing in the Calderdale Area – Including Electric and Hybrid Cars
If there’s one thing you don’t want to take chances with on the roads of Calderdale, it’s your brakes. From the steep climbs out of Hebden Bridge to the winding drops into Sowerby Bridge, your brakes are working overtime. Whether you drive a petrol, diesel, hybrid, or fully electric car, keeping your braking system in top shape is essential for safety — and it could save you a small fortune down the line.
Here at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre in Halifax, we’ve been keeping local drivers safe on these hills for decades, and brake servicing is one of our daily jobs.
Why Regular Brake Servicing Matters: Brake Servicing in the Calderdale Area
Your brakes take a beating — especially around Calderdale’s hilly roads and stop-start town traffic. Over time, brake pads wear down, discs can corrode, and brake fluid absorbs moisture, all of which reduce braking performance.
Many people only think about their brakes when they start to hear a squeal or grinding noise, but regular servicing helps avoid those nasty surprises. Our technicians check:
Brake pads and discs for wear or corrosion
Brake callipers and sliders for sticking or seizing (a common issue in UK weather)
Brake fluid condition – it should be changed roughly every two years
Handbrake or electronic parking brake operation
If you drive up and down Halifax’s hills daily, that constant pressure means your brakes are doing double duty — regular checks are vital for safety.
Electric and Hybrid Car Brakes – What’s Different? Brake Servicing in the Calderdale Area
A lot of people assume electric and hybrid cars barely use their brakes, and while that’s partly true, it’s also what causes other issues!
Most EVs and hybrids use regenerative braking — where the motor helps slow the car and recovers energy for the battery. That means the physical brakes (the pads and discs) are used less often. Sounds great, right?
Well, not entirely. Because they’re used less, the discs and callipers don’t heat up enough to burn off moisture. Over time, that leads to rust and corrosion, especially in our damp Calderdale climate. We often see electric cars come in with seized rear brakes or corroded discs that make horrible grinding noises.
That’s why even electric and hybrid cars still need a proper brake inspection every year — especially before winter. At Pellon Autocentre, our lads are trained and equipped to handle EV and hybrid brake systems, including those with electronic parking brakes and advanced diagnostic systems.
Signs Your Brakes Might Need Attention: Brake Servicing in the Calderdale Area
If you notice any of these, it’s time to pop in for a check:
Squealing or grinding noises
Car pulling to one side under braking
Juddering or vibration when braking
A soft or spongy brake pedal
Warning lights on your dashboard
Don’t ignore them — the longer you wait, the more expensive it can become.
Brake Servicing – How We Do It
At Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, we use quality parts and modern equipment for every brake job. Whether it’s replacing pads, discs, or bleeding the hydraulic system, everything is done to manufacturer standards.
We’ll always give you a full explanation of what needs doing — no surprises, just honest advice. For EVs and hybrids, we check the condition of the regenerative systems and ensure your braking components aren’t seizing due to lack of use.
Our customers appreciate that we don’t just replace parts for the sake of it — if something can be cleaned, freed off, or repaired safely, we’ll do that first.
Local Knowledge, Local Roads- Brake Servicing in the Calderdale Area
Driving around Calderdale brings its own challenges — from the steep climbs up Pellon Lane to the twisting routes around Elland and Brighouse. Having well-maintained brakes gives you confidence and safety on every journey.
That’s why so many local motorists trust Pellon Tyre and Autocentre for their brake servicing and repairs. We’ve built our reputation on honesty, good value, and proper workmanship since 1989.
Book Your Brake Check Today
If you’re not sure when your brakes were last checked, drop by our garage in Halifax or book online at www.pellontyres.co.uk. Whether you drive a Ford Fiesta, a Toyota Hybrid, or a fully electric Nissan Leaf, our team has the right tools and know-how to keep you stopping safely on Calderdale’s hills.
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpg00Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2026-07-13 07:41:122026-07-13 07:41:12Brake Servicing in the Calderdale Area
The extremely mild weather here in the UK. Has brought out all the spring flowers,(earlier than normal). It is also bringing out the caravan and motorhome users, into thinking about their first 2014 trips out. Hence, judging by the amount of leisure batteries that we are selling at the moment.
Normally, we see a surge of sales and inquiries just a few weeks before Easter. But this year, the sales are coming early. One of the most popular batteries that we sell. Thus, for the caravan and campervan (RV) fraternity, the XV31 110-amp leisure battery. This battery manufacturer in South Korea is the one who makes this battery.It also covers smaller battery sizes, including the XV 23, XV 24, XV 27, and, of course, the XV31. This battery, along with the LV26 and the smaller LV 22 are made by Johnson Controls . Of course, it’s one of the world’s leading battery developers and manufacturers.
This year is a particularly good time to buy this Leisure Batteries product. Because of the mild winter.Subsequently, the sales of car batteries have dropped. Meaning the leading battery companies are well down on sales of car batteries.So,are looking forward to the next battery season. Which includes the sale of leisure batteries, motorcycle batteries, mobility scooter batteries, and golf cart batteries. Including other seasonal things such as lawn mower batteries. Of course, there are the guys who are lucky enough to own a classic car. Classic car batteries are huge sellers.
What normally happens is that the owners of these types of battery-driven machines equipment will get them out as soon as the weather improves and start getting warmer, which is normally around April time here in the UK. But this year we are about three weeks to a month in front, due to the mild weather. In fact, I have recently seen a butterfly and many bees flying about and also the grass on my lawn needs cutting for the first time after the winter.
People all over will be getting. Leisure Batteries Storage
out their golf and gardening equipment only to find that their battery is flat and will not work. Most of the time the battery will recover when it is charged, but people are reluctant to charge their battery throughout the winter months. Up to recent times, the battery chargers were of the old fashioned types that you put onto your battery
and then took off when the battery was fully charged but these days you can buy what they call “intelligent battery chargers”. These chargers are made by well-known companies such as “Ring Electrical” and “Numax”, and are well worth the investment. What you have to do is find out the correctampsthat you require for the size of the battery, remove the Leisure Batteries from the caravan or lawn mower, whatever it is on, give the Leisure Batteries a clean and if it is not a sealed battery, check the levels.
You can then connect the leisure battery to the smart charger
, (preferably in a frost free place) and leave it to charge all the winter long. The charger will then keep your leisure battery charge topped up to the correct levels and automatically switch on and off when charging is required. This way you will end up with a nice clean fully charged the battery when the time comes to use it.
Potholes, a common occurrence on British roads, seem to be increasing in frequency in Halifax. When a recent customer brought in their Nissan Qashqai, they discovered exactly how expensive these craters can be. The issue? A damaged suspension spring, most often from speeding into a pothole.
The Qashqai’s skewed stance and uncomfortable ride were caused by a neatly cracked spring. Once the problem was identified, we replaced the damaged spring with a high-quality component to restore the vehicle’s handling capabilities. This kind of damage is all too prevalent, though, and it shows how seriously potholes can affect our cars—and our money!
An Overview of the Nissan Qashqai’s Past-Nissan Pot Hole Victim
In the automotive industry, the Nissan Qashqai is somewhat of a trailblazer. It basically invented the crossover SUV market when it was introduced in 2006. Designed and built in the UK at Nissan’s Sunderland plant, the Qashqai quickly became a best seller. It was the perfect family vehicle for negotiating both urban streets and the undulating countryside thanks to its blend of functionality, comfort, and contemporary design.
Originating from a nomadic clan in Iran, the term “Qashqai” reflects its tough adaptability and spirit of adventure. Modern safety features, increased fuel efficiency, and even hybrid alternatives have been added throughout time. Given that a dependable vehicle is crucial in these areas, it is no surprise that the Qashqai is among the most well-liked vehicles on the road today.
Nissan Pot Hole Victim
How Potholes Can Damage Your Car-Nissan Pot Hole Victim
Not only can hitting a pothole make you cringe, but it can seriously harm your car. At Pellon Autocentre, we frequently encounter the following problems:
1. Broken Springs Potholes put a lot of strain on your suspension, as the Nissan Qashqai demonstrated. Springs are particularly vulnerable, and when they snap, you’ll notice an uneven ride and a drop in the car’s height.
2. Tyre Damage Your tires may split or bulge as a result of a sharp pothole, which could result in a dangerous blowout. The impact may potentially completely puncture the tyre in certain situations.
3. Alloy wheels that are bent or cracked Although alloys are made to be durable, they are not unbeatable. Your car’s handling and safety may be impacted if your wheels are bent or cracked by a forceful impact.
4. Wheels that are misaligned Even if your tyres and wheels survive, a pothole can knock your wheel alignment out of place. Your automobile may pull to one side and develop uneven tire wear as a result, necessitating a realignment.
5. Shock Absorbers Damaged Shocks help absorb the impact of bumps, but a particularly bad pothole can damage them, leading to a rough ride and less effective handling.
6. Exhaust System Damage If a pothole is deep enough, the underside of your car can scrape against it. This can harm the exhaust system, especially the more vulnerable flexi pipes.
7. [Steering Issues] Potholes can cause steering components to wear or loosen, leading to vibrations or a lack of precision when turning.
Keeping Halifax Moving-Nissan Pot Hole Victim
Here in Halifax, potholes are as much a part of the landscape as the hills, but that doesn’t mean you have to let them ruin your car. At Pellon Autocentre, we’re experienced in fixing all kinds of pothole-related damage, from bent wheels to broken suspension springs.
Don’t overlook your car dragging to one side, making a knocking sound, or experiencing uneven tyre wear after hitting a pothole. We’ll take care of you if you stop by our garage. The Qashqai that came to us with a broken spring left as good as new, ready to tackle the Yorkshire roads once more.
We’ll always be available to fix your automobile when potholes occur, even though we might not be able to remedy the potholes themselves. Drive carefully out there—it’s a jungle of potholes! 🚗💥
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