CUPRA has selected Hankook Tire’s Ventus evo SUV tyres as original equipment (OE) for its new CUPRA Terramar SUV. The premium summer tyre is available in three different sizes from 18 to 20 inches for the sporty SUV.

Every tyre variant for the CUPRA Terramar underwent a rigorous testing programme to ensure optimal performance in every size, whether it was on the test bed, a rough, vibrating track or in the endurance test on the Nürburgring Nordschleife. High driving comfort is the goal of the 18-inch and 19-inch variants, while the top CUPRA Terramar models, with optional high-performance plug-in hybrid technology, can be equipped with the 20-inch Ventus evo SUV upon request. Every tyre has the CUPRA original equipment symbol ('+') on the sidewall, and replacement dealers will also sell them.

Produced exclusively at the company's ultra-modern European site at Rácalmás, Hungary, the tyre features quiet rolling characteristics thanks to its thoughtfully engineered tread design as well as the careful mix of tread materials. The CUPRA Terramar's maximum total noise level is 68 dB, while the Ventus evo SUV's noise level of less than 66 dB is even lower than CUPRA's own manufacturer's standard. The Ventus evo SUV's technological characteristics include the Kerf design, which reduces noise, and the Opti Pitch technology, which is designed to maximise tread block size and placement. In addition to taking into consideration the needs for a low-noise tread pattern, Dual Pitch technology guarantees the ideal number of blocks on the inside and outside of the tread for optimal steering precision when cornering. In order to minimise noise without sacrificing traction, braking performance, cornering stability or maximum mileage, the tread height was also changed.

Klaus Krause, Vice President and Head of Europe Technical Centre, Hankook, said, “With the Terramar, CUPRA is showing that family friendliness and sporty performance can go hand in hand. It is a perfect match for our Ventus evo SUV premium summer tyre, which masterfully transfers the engine performance and sporty handling to the road. The collaborative partnership with CUPRA on the tyre development is reflected in the optimum match for each tyre size. This enabled us to make an essential contribution to the sporty performance of the latest addition to the CUPRA family.”

Michelin has introduced its new PRO5 bicycle tyre to the North American market, targeting experienced riders with a product that delivers improved performance and durability.

The French tyre manufacturer claims the new model offers 35 percent  better rolling resistance compared to its predecessor, the PRO4 Endurance. This is achieved through a Tubeless Ready design and Michelin’s proprietary Gum-X tread rubber compound.

“The tyre plays a key role in the bicycle’s dynamic behaviour, transmitting the force needed for it to move,” said Andrew Besancon, Marketing Director for Recreational Brands at Michelin. “The tyre is the only point of contact between the bicycle and the road, an imperfect surface. While cyclists cannot change the surface on which they are riding, they can choose the type most suited to conquer the terrain.”

Designed for endurance cycling and competitive racing, the PRO5 features a new tread pattern and wider cross-sections ranging from 28mm to 35mm. Michelin says this allows riders to use lower inflation pressures for improved comfort.

The company reports that the tyre underwent extensive testing covering more than 60,000 miles in actual conditions with various rider types, including recreational cyclists, ultra-distance athletes and professional racers.

Available in two sidewall colour variations—black and classic—the PRO5 is compatible with most road bikes and is positioned as an all-weather, all-terrain option for serious cyclists.

Industry analysts note that the premium road cycling segment has seen increased competition as more riders adopt the sport for recreation and competition.

Pricing and distribution details were not included in the announcement.

Continental AG announced that it provided tyres to 18 of the world’s 20 highest-volume manufacturers of fully electric vehicles in 2024, demonstrating its strong position in the growing electric vehicle market.

The German tyre manufacturer said it supplies nine of the top 10 electric vehicle manufacturers in the three major regions: Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA); the Americas; and Asia-Pacific. These include major automotive companies such as BYD, Geely, Volkswagen, NIO, Mercedes-Benz and Renault.

“The high level of trust placed in Continental original equipment tyres by electric vehicle manufacturers worldwide confirms: We offer our customers an inspiring driving experience,” said Manja Greimeier, head of original equipment business in Continental’s Tyres group sector.

Continental highlighted that electric vehicles present specific challenges for tyre technology due to their heavier weight from batteries and instant torque when accelerating, which can lead to increased tyre wear. Additionally, the quieter operation of electric motors makes tyre noise more noticeable to drivers.

The company began optimising its tyres for these requirements long before electric vehicles became mainstream, introducing its first energy-efficient tyre line, the ContiEcoContact, in 1993. The recently launched seventh-generation EcoContact features specially designed sidewalls with “aerodimple” structures to reduce air turbulence and improve energy efficiency.

According to Continental, approximately one in five cars sold globally is now electrically powered, citing data from the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA).

The tyre manufacturer reported that its tyres group sector generated sales of €13.9 billion in fiscal 2024, with Continental AG as a whole posting sales of €39.7 billion last year.

Mitsubishi Motors has selected Bridgestone’s ALENZA 001 tyre as original equipment (OE) for the All-New Mitsubishi XForce HEV.

Developed using Bridgestone’s ENLITEN Technology, the tyre has high-end features including a Slit Silencer to cut down on road noise, Nano Pro-Tech for increased durability and fuel economy and Multi-Round Block (MRB) Structure for better grip. By further reducing weight and rolling resistance, ENLITEN Technology maximises fuel economy and lowers CO2 emissions.

As per the company, ALENZA 001 guarantees a comfortable and effective driving experience when paired with Mitsubishi Motors' Full Hybrid System, 7-Drive Mode, and Active Yaw Control (AYC).

Chinese automaker Zeekr has selected Continental's PremiumContact 6 tyres as original equipment (OE) for its Zeekr 001 electric sedan. The sedan will be fitted with 265/40 R22 106V XL FR size tyre, specially designed for dynamic and responsive handling while providing safety and comfort.

The tyres refined design guarantees control and strong cornering stability at higher speeds, while its superior grip performance guarantees efficient power transmission to the road. The tread's shape enables both precision steering and a fast reaction. Excellent safety and braking performance on both wet and dry roads are guaranteed by the unique silica rubber compound, which is made for safe driving in all weather situations. Additionally, the reduced rolling resistance contributes to longer battery life of the vehicle. Even on damp roads, the tyre provides excellent safety qualities, accurate handling and short stopping distances.