After a hiatus of over a decade in Australia, the iconic teal-blue Falken Tyres livery is back.
"The colour scheme is also known as Falken's 'motorsport scallops' as the design resembles the ridges of the mollusc's shell," explains William Ng, Marketing Manager Falken Tyres Australia. "These days the shade of blue is slightly darker than the blue of yesteryear, signifying Falken's evolution."
Spearheading the Australian Falken Motorsport team is the Brenthel Industries trophy truck, which will be competing in the Extreme 2WD class at this year's Tatts Finke Desert Race. Jordan Brenthel will pilot the car, along with team owner Mark Lancaster and co-driver Shaun George.
"The Wildpeak MT tyres used on our truck are superb. They handle the most punishing conditions in Australia and allow us to remain competitive. Best of all there is no trickery here – these MTs are the very same tyres anyone can buy," said Mark Lancaster.
In the Pro Buggy class, Glen Towers will be behind the wheel of the Brenthel Industries 2013 buggy, also emblazoned with Falken colours.
On the tarmac front, the Falken colours adorn two of Drift School Australia's cars – a Nissan Skyline R32 and Nissan 200SX S14. Based out of Sydney Dragway, Drift School Australia lets any member of the public learn how to drift in a safe and controlled environment.
Fernando Whierl, Drift School Australia Director, explains why he chose Falken, "Although it might appear contrarian that cars that slide still need grip, it's the traction and consistency Falken tyres provide that give us the confidence to do what we do."
Overseas, Falken Motorsport is represented in Formula Drift, USA and endurance racing in Europe.
About Sumitomo Rubber Australia
Sumitomo Rubber Industries (SRI) is the sixth largest tyre manufacturer in the world. With 11 global tyre manufacturing facilities, SRI produces tyres for passenger cars, light trucks, trucks & buses, motorcycles and agricultural machinery. Sumitomo Rubber Australia (SRAU) is the local subsidiary and manages three brands – Falken, Sumitomo Tyres and Ohtsu. For more information visit www.falken.com.au.