NEXEN TIRE has been selected as a key original equipment supplier for KIA's strategic family electric SUV, the EV5. The company is equipping this core model with two of its premium tyres, tailoring the selection to specific regional markets. For North America and Korea, the all-season ROADIAN GTX SUV tyre has been chosen, while the European-market vehicles will feature the N’FERA SPORT, an ultra-high-performance summer tyre designed for high-speed stability and braking. This strategic decision reflects the distinct driving environments and consumer needs in each region.

A critical focus in developing these tyres was addressing the unique demands of electric vehicles. NEXEN TIRE employed its proprietary torque steer pattern design to counteract the pulling sensation that can occur during sudden acceleration in high-torque EVs. Furthermore, the tyre construction optimises stiffness distribution to maximise the road contact area, thereby enhancing traction and minimising wheel slip. Special attention was also paid to noise reduction through an intricate in-out multi-sequence design that effectively disperses driving noise, a particularly important feature for the quiet cabin of an electric vehicle.

This partnership on the Kia EV5 underscores the industry's recognition of NEXEN TIRE's technological and quality capabilities. The company has now established itself as a supplier across KIA’s entire key electric vehicle lineup, from the EV3 to the EV9, demonstrating consistent performance for both electric and traditional internal combustion engine models.

John Bosco (Hyeon Suk) Kim, CEO, NEXEN TIRE, said, “Supplying OE tyres for the KIA EV5 proves that our products deliver reliable performance for the era of electric vehicles. We will strengthen our global market position through an integrated production strategy and maintain our excellent performance without distinction between EVs and ICE vehicles.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Continental Tire the Americas, LLC has formed a strategic partnership with fleet management platform Fleetio, enabling direct access to Continental and General Tire brands through the digital platform.

The tie-up allows fleet managers using Fleetio’s system to purchase tyres, track usage, and monitor performance data across their operations, with the aim of reducing overall ownership costs.

"Continental is committed to delivering innovative solutions that help fleets operate more efficiently," said Dan Gould, Sr. Commercial Sales Manager, Continental Tire. "By partnering with Fleetio, we're making it easier than ever for fleet operators to access our trusted tire brands and make data-driven decisions that support safety, uptime, and cost savings."

Fleetio's platform handles maintenance scheduling, inspections, fuel tracking and parts management for commercial fleets. The company supports more than one million vehicles across 100-plus countries and processes over 13 million repair orders annually through a network of 110,000 repair shops.

The platform counts AAA, Stanley Steemer and Subaru of America amongst its customer base. Fleetio recently expanded its maintenance shop network into Canada as part of its push into enterprise-level fleet operations.

"We're proud to welcome Continental Tire and General Tire into Fleetio's Maintenance Shop Network," said Kendee Vaughn, Director of Vendor Partnerships at Fleetio. "Together, we're making it easier for fleets to access trusted tire brands through a single, comprehensive platform built for speed, scale, and reliability."

The partnership represents Continental's latest move to integrate digital solutions into its commercial tyre business as fleet operators increasingly seek centralised platforms to manage vehicle operations.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Mickey Thompson Tires & Wheels has signed on as the official tyre and wheel sponsor of Jeep Jamboree USA and Jeep Adventure Academy, the off-road tyre brand.

The partnership will see Mickey Thompson products, including its Baja Boss and Baja Legend lines, featured at Jeep Jamboree events aimed at both novice and experienced off-road enthusiasts.

"We're thrilled to welcome Mickey Thompson as the official tire and wheel of Jeep Jamboree USA & Jeep Adventure Academy," said Pearse Umlauf, President of Jeep Jamboree USA. "Mickey Thompson's legacy in off-road performance and commitment to the enthusiast community makes them a perfect fit for our events, which are all about education, exploration and building lifelong connections through off-roading adventures."

The Stow, Ohio-based company offers tyres ranging from 37 to 44 inches designed for off-road use. Event participants will have opportunities to test the products across various terrains and vehicle configurations.

"Jeepers are at the heart of Mickey Thompson," said Matt Arko, general manager, Marketing & Product at Mickey Thompson. "Whether they've just purchased their first Jeep or have been wheeling for years, we want to help them push their limits and discover what their vehicles are capable of. This partnership is about empowering off-roaders to do amazing things – and make lasting memories – with their Jeeps, and we couldn't be more excited to be part of this community."

Founded in 1963 by Mickey Thompson and Gene McMannis, the company markets performance, racing and off-road tyres globally.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Goodyear Tire & Rubber launched its Eagle F1 All-Season, a premium ultra-high-performance tyre designed to deliver year-round capability for drivers who prioritise handling and grip.

The new tyre targets owners of sports cars, performance sedans and premium crossovers, offering what the company describes as exceptional performance in dry, wet and light snow conditions without requiring seasonal tyre changes.

“As one of our most premium performance tyres yet, the Goodyear Eagle F1 All Season is a testament to Goodyear’s commitment to innovation and versatility,” said Jim Reese, Director, Category Strategy and Planning for Goodyear. “We’re proud to offer a tyre that meets the needs of spirited drivers who want precision handling and all-season confidence—without switching tyres.”

The Eagle F1 All-Season features a motorsport-inspired tread pattern and compound designed to enhance durability and treadwear. It includes a built-in wear gauge to help motorists monitor tyre life.

Goodyear emphasised the tyre’s wet braking performance and its ability to deliver what it calls “track-level precision” whilst maintaining a quiet, comfortable ride for everyday driving.

The product is now available through Goodyear’s retail network and authorised dealers across the United States and Canada, expanding the company’s performance segment offering built on more than 50 years of racing heritage.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Yokohama Rubber has begun supplying its BluEarth-FE AE30 tyres as original equipment for Mitsubishi Motors Corp’s newly launched mini-vehicle, the eK Space.

The Japanese tyre manufacturer is providing 155/65R14 75S size tyres for the compact vehicle, which hit the market in October 2025.

The BluEarth-FE AE30 belongs to Yokohama’s environmentally focused BluEarth global brand, which emphasises being “environmentally, human, and socially friendly”. The fuel-efficient standard tyre offers a balance of performance characteristics, including low noise, comfort and longevity.

Mitsubishi’s eK Space targets a broad demographic with its modern design and spacious interior, combining urban manoeuvrability with passenger comfort.

Yokohama has been expanding its presence in the original equipment market, with its BluEarth technology now featured on various new vehicle models, including sedans, sport utility vehicles, sports cars and compact cars across petrol, hybrid and electric powertrains.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!