Sumitomo Rubber started supplying its DUNLOP e.SPORT MAXX tyres as factory-standard tyres for the recently launched Crown Sedan (HEV and FCEV models). This marks the first adoption of the e. SPORT MAXX as a factory-standard tyre in Japan after its debut as our inaugural commercial EV tyre in the Chinese market in 2022.

The DUNLOP e.SPORT MAXX incorporates a new tread rubber material compound, significantly enhancing rolling resistance. Furthermore, the tread’s pitch arrangement has been optimised to reduce road noise. 

In terms of design, our unique blackening design technology, Nano Black, enhances the visibility of the brand logo and product name on the sidewalls. By adopting a finely uneven shape, Nano Black minimises light reflection, achieving a richer black colour and contributing to an improved design aesthetic and a sense of luxury.

“We have been addressing the growing global demand for EVs and the desire for a sustainable society by launching the e. SPORT MAXX in the Chinese market in 2022 and the e. ZIEX in the European market in 2023. In the Japanese market, the e. ENASAVE SP148, the first commercial tyre for EV route buses from a Japanese manufacturer, has been on sale since October. We are developing tyres that achieve the high fuel (energy) efficiency required by EVs and other eco-friendly vehicles and will increase the number of products in each region to meet the needs of the expanding market,” said the company in a statement.

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DUNLOP (company name: Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd.) has commenced original equipment tyre supply for the all-new battery electric vehicle Uncharted, a compact SUV unveiled for the US market by Subaru Corporation in December 2025. The chosen fitments are the SP SPORT MAXX 060 and the e. SPORT MAXX.

The fitted tyres reduce noise through optimised tread patterns and lower rolling resistance using new tread rubber compounds, helping to extend the vehicle’s driving range. They also deliver high-level handling stability together with wet-weather performance. Additionally, the e. SPORT MAXX incorporates the proprietary Nano Black blackening design technology on the sidewall brand logo, which boosts visibility and adds a premium feel.

The Uncharted combines the dynamic driving traits of an electric vehicle with everyday practicality, including ease of handling and manoeuvrability. This approach aims to accommodate the varied lifestyles of a wide owner demographic.

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Toyo Tire Corporation said its OPEN COUNTRY H/T tyres have been selected as original equipment for the new Mazda Motor Corporation CX-5 crossover SUV, which went on sale in North America in March 2026.

The tyres supplied for the model are size 225/55R19 99V.

Mazda developed the new CX-5 under the concept of “New Generation Emotional Daily Comfort”, focusing on design, driving performance, interior spaciousness, ride comfort and reduced cabin noise.

Toyo Tire said the OPEN COUNTRY H/T was developed using its Nano Balance Technology material design platform and T-MODE tyre design support technology. The company said the tyres were designed to support the vehicle’s ride comfort and driving stability.

The tyres will be supplied for vehicles sold in North America and other markets.

Vehicle and tyre overview

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Toyo Tires has reinforced its position as a preferred original equipment manufacturer partner for major automotive brands by securing a new agreement to supply tyres for the all-new Toyota Yaris Cross in Malaysia. The 1.5 litre variant of the compact sport utility vehicle will be fitted with the Proxes R61 tyre in size 215/55R18 95V.

The Japanese tyre maker was recently named the sole original equipment tyre supplier for another Toyota model, the all-new Vios Hybrid Electric Vehicle launched in the Malaysian market. That vehicle utilises the Proxes CR1 tyre, continuing a partnership that spans decades of original equipment experience and underscores the confidence automakers place in the brand’s quality, performance and reliability across diverse vehicle segments.

Every original equipment tyre from Toyo Tires is specifically engineered to match the unique characteristics of the vehicle it serves, aiming to optimise comfort and enhance overall driving performance. Whether for daily commutes or longer journeys, each tyre is designed to deliver a refined and confident driving experience.

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NEXEN TIRE has confirmed its original equipment supply of the ROADIAN CTX tyre for Hyundai Motor Company’s new STARIA Electric and STARIA Limousine models. The STARIA Electric, a practical multi-purpose vehicle, features an electric powertrain producing high instant torque, while its increased weight demands superior tire durability and ride quality. The premium STARIA Limousine similarly requires enhanced comfort and stability.

Engineered to meet these challenges, the ROADIAN CTX was developed using NEXEN TIRE’s artificial intelligence-based performance prediction system to optimise ride quality across diverse driving conditions. The tyre provides all-season reliability, blending ride comfort with greater durability and maintains handling and structural strength under high-load, high-torque scenarios. It will be fitted to domestic versions and export vehicles for Europe, Oceania, Latin America, Middle East and Africa.

NEXEN TIRE follows a one-tyre strategy to deliver optimised performance across electric, hybrid and internal combustion powertrains. The company already supplies original equipment for key Hyundai models such as the Palisade, NEXO and IONIQ 6, along with vehicles from other premium global brands. With the Hyundai STARIA addition, NEXEN TIRE has expanded its purpose-built vehicle lineup beyond the Kia PV5.

"With this OE supply, we have demonstrated that our one-tyre strategy for both electric and internal combustion vehicles works in the real market. We will continue working closely with automakers to deliver tyres optimised for every powertrain," said a NEXEN TIRE official.

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