Kia has selected NEXEN TIRE’s all-season ROADIAN HTX2 tyre as original equipment for its new global pickup truck model, the Tasman. Specifically designed for SUVs and pickup trucks, these tyres will be fitted on vehicles exported to Latin America, offering a balanced combination of on-road comfort and off-road performance.

The ROADIAN HTX2 incorporates NEXEN TIRE's latest proprietary technologies to meet the diverse demands of modern pickup trucks. The tyre features an innovative 3D Kerf pattern that significantly enhances traction and snow performance, along with a specialised heat-dissipating structure engineered for high-load durability at sustained speeds. A specially formulated compound provides exceptional strength, driving stability and wear resistance, specifically optimised for pickup truck dynamics.

To ensure real-world reliability, the ROADIAN HTX2 underwent rigorous testing protocols. The tyre successfully completed cross-validation wear tests conducted in both North America and Korea, demonstrating its long-lasting performance. Additionally, it passed demanding off-road evaluations including navigation through 200 mm-deep surface irregularities and climbing 20 percent inclines, proving its capability in extreme conditions.

These comprehensive tests validate the tyre's exceptional durability and adaptability to Latin America's challenging driving environments, which include mountainous terrain, desert landscapes and winter road conditions. The successful testing results highlight the tyre's strong mileage potential and all-terrain versatility.

John Bosco (Hyeon Suk) Kim, CEO, NEXEN TIRE, said, “We are seeing tangible results in the SUV and pickup segment thanks to our continued investment in R&D and world-class product quality. By strengthening strategic partnerships with global carmakers, we will continue to bring premium tyre experiences to customers worldwide.”

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Giti Tire has added the Tesla Model 3 to its original equipment roster. The company’s GitiControl P10, tyre sized 235/45R18 98Y XL, is now approved for specific 18‑inch wheel configurations on the electric sedan. A Tesla‑specific T‑marking appears on the tyre’s sidewall, signifying that development and validation work aligned with the vehicle platform’s requirements.

Performance data for the GitiControl P10 comes from official EU tyre label ratings, including a B for energy efficiency, an A for wet grip and low external rolling noise measured at 69 dB, which falls into Class A. For electric vehicles, low rolling resistance helps preserve driving range, strong wet braking supports safety and reduced noise levels become more apparent given quieter EV operation. The tyre is designed to blend efficiency, handling stability and ride comfort.

This fitment demonstrates Giti Tire’s technical capabilities across product development, testing and production. It also shows that the manufacturer can meet the quality, consistency and supply standards required by the global automotive industry.

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Bridgestone has been selected as the exclusive tyre partner for the new Lamborghini Fenomeno Roadster, a limited-production open-top supercar with only 15 units planned. As part of an ongoing technical partnership, the Japanese tyre manufacturer equipped the vehicle with two custom-engineered Bridgestone Potenza tyres designed to enhance both road and track performance. The Fenomeno Roadster is Lamborghini’s most powerful open-top model to date, featuring a 1080 CV V12 hybrid powertrain.

To manage the supercar’s extreme capabilities, Bridgestone developed a bespoke Potenza Sport ultra-high-performance tyre that balances high-speed stability with precise steering response. This fitment is joined by a new generation semi-slick Potenza tyre, engineered from Bridgestone’s motorsport expertise to deliver track-level grip while remaining fully homologated for public roads. The semi-slick option is available in 20- and 21-inch sizes.

The Potenza Sport comes in 265/30 ZRF21 front and 355/25 ZRF22 rear sizes, with an optional Run-Flat Technology that allows continued driving for 50 miles (approximately 80 km) at up to 50 mph after a puncture. Both tyre fitments feature a unique Lamborghini sidewall marking and were developed and manufactured in Italy using Bridgestone’s Virtual Tire Development technology, which improves efficiency and sustainability.

The Fenomeno Roadster was unveiled at Lamborghini Arena 2026 on the Imola Circuit, where Bridgestone served as the Official Arena Partner. This collaboration extends a six-year relationship between the two companies, beginning with the Huracan STO in 2021 and now covering the entire Lamborghini supercar range, including the Revuelto, Temerario and Fenomeno models.

Adrien Thormann, Director – OE Sales, Bridgestone EMEA, said “As Lamborghini’s Official Technical Partner, and exclusive tyre supplier for its complete supercar range, our role is to help Lamborghini drivers experience phenomenal performance. Leveraging Bridgestone’s decades-long motorsports legacy and the pedigree of our iconic Potenza family, these premium tyres deliver exactly that for the immense Fenomeno Roadster – both on the road and track.”

Christian Mastro, Director – Marketing, Lamborghini, said, “At Lamborghini, unlocking performance is never down to one component – it’s the result of precise engineering working in harmony, and tyres play a decisive role. Through deep collaboration, our partnership with Bridgestone delivers bespoke solutions that fully express each vehicle’s character and the Lamborghini DNA. The Fenomeno Roadster is the latest example of how we continue to push boundaries together.”

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Toyo Tires has been selected as the sole original equipment tyre supplier for the all-new Toyota Vios Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) launched in Malaysia. The vehicle is fitted with the Proxes CR1 tyre, marking a continued partnership rooted in decades of original equipment experience. Toyo Tires positions this selection as evidence of its benchmark status in quality, reliability and performance.

Engineered with EV-ready technology, the Proxes CR1 is designed to complement hybrid vehicles by delivering smooth handling, enhanced stability, and confidence for daily driving. Safety is prioritised through an advanced tread pattern that improves grip on both wet and dry surfaces, offering better control in varied conditions. Whether on city streets or longer journeys, the tyre provides a quiet, comfortable and stable ride.

Manufactured in Malaysia, the Proxes CR1 reflects a commitment to local driving needs while adhering to global quality standards. Available nationwide in sizes ranging from 14 to 20 inches, it suits both passenger cars and SUVs. The specification for the Toyota Vios HEV 1.5L is the Proxes CR1 B in size 195/60R16 86H.

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Continental has secured original equipment approval to supply tyres for the new Volkswagen T-Roc compact SUV. The German tyre manufacturer will provide the EcoContact 7 and EcoContact 7 S models in sizes ranging from 16 to 19 inches. For colder seasons, Volkswagen also recommends the WinterContact TS 870 P, while the AllSeasonContact 2 serves as the year-round alternative.

The EcoContact 7 summer tyre achieves high energy efficiency through a specialised rubber compound and Smart Energy Casing technology. New materials in the carcass, inner layer and sidewall reduce internal friction and lower rolling resistance, while an aerodynamically optimised sidewall further improves efficiency. Continental integrates several innovations, including a golf-inspired aerodimple structure. These small dimples reduce air turbulence behind the tyre, allowing the vehicle to use less energy.

Noise reduction comes from the Silent Pattern tread design, where engineers have carefully adjusted the spacing and angles of tread blocks to match noise frequencies generated at lower urban speeds. The result is a noticeably quieter ride for drivers, passengers, passersby and nearby residents. The energy-focused EcoContact 7 is approved in 16-, 17- and 18-inch sizes, while the sportier EcoContact 7 S comes in 16-, 17- and 19-inch variants.

For winter conditions, the recommended WinterContact TS 870 P features a tread design and innovative sipe structure that provide reliable grip on snow and ice. Its rubber compound stays flexible at low temperatures, enabling short braking distances and safe handling in wet, cold and snowy conditions. Drivers preferring a single set of tyres all year can choose the AllSeasonContact 2, which delivers balanced performance in both summer and wet winter conditions.

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