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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The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd. has started the delivery of its ADVAN FLEVA V701 high-performance tyres in size 225/45R19 92W to be used as original equipment for Toyota Motor Corporation’s new Corolla Cross GR SPORT, a sport-oriented version of the compact SUV. The vehicle is set to go on sale in Japan, Europe, Australia and other regions starting August 2025.

The ADVAN FLEVA V701 is designed to deliver sharp handling and driving enjoyment, a core concept of Yokohama’s ADVAN brand. It is engineered for dynamic performance across various driving conditions, including city streets, winding roads and highways. Yokohama has a strong partnership with Toyota’s GR sports car lineup, having previously supplied the ADVAN APEX V601 for the GR Corolla and the ADVAN A052 for the GRMN Yaris.

This initiative aligns with Yokohama Rubber’s medium-term management plan, YX2026 (2024–2026), which focuses on increasing sales of high-value-added tyres. A key part of this strategy involves expanding the use of flagship products like the ADVAN series for performance vehicles and the GEOLANDAR range for SUVs and pickup trucks as original equipment in new cars. The collaboration with Toyota’s GR models underscores Yokohama’s commitment to enhancing its presence in the sporty and premium tyre segments.

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The new Renault 5 E-Tech Electric comes equipped from the factory with Continental's EcoContact 6 Q summer tyres in 18-inch size, featuring Renault's exclusive ‘R’ sidewall marking. These energy-efficient premium tyres were specifically engineered for electric vehicles, combining reduced rolling resistance with quiet operation to maximise the EV's range and driving comfort.

Continental's engineers developed a specialised rubber compound that minimises energy loss while driving, along with an optimised tread pattern incorporating modified blocks, sipes and lateral grooves. This design delivers short braking distances, reliable traction on both wet and dry surfaces and stable cornering performance at higher speeds.

The EcoContact 6 Q tyres also account for the increased weight characteristic of electric vehicles, with reinforced construction to handle battery-heavy EVs. As a testament to Continental's leadership in EV tyre technology, 18 of the world's top 20 electric vehicle manufacturers choose Continental tires as original equipment for their models.

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Volkswagen has chosen Apollo Tyres’ Vredestein Wintrac Pro as the original equipment winter tyre for its Tiguan SUV in Europe. The 215/65 R17 99H tyres will be fitted at VW’s Wolfsburg plant and also sold in the replacement market.

The Wintrac Pro is a high-performance winter tyre with an ‘A’ wet grip rating, 3PMSF certification and a speed index of 210 kmph (H-rated). Its advanced silica-rich compound and optimised tread design with angled grooves and sipes ensure strong traction on snow, ice and wet roads while improving braking and cornering.

Manufactured in Apollo’s Hungary plant, the tyre meets VW’s strict safety standards and enhances the Tiguan’s sporty handling. With low noise (B-rated) and balanced rolling resistance (C-rated), it also improves efficiency and comfort. This partnership strengthens Apollo Tyres’ position as a key OE supplier in Europe.

Yves Pouliquen, Vice President Commercial EMEA, Apollo Tyres Ltd, said, “The Vredestein Wintrac Pro is an ideal match for the Volkswagen Tiguan, delivering exceptional performance whether on a dry autobahn or navigating snowy alpine roads. We are thrilled to see the Tiguan join the growing list of vehicles equipped with Vredestein tyres as standard, and we look forward to further strengthening our relationship with the Volkswagen Group.”

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Kia has selected NEXEN TIRE’s premium all-season tyre, the N'FERA Supreme S, as original equipment (OE) for its first electric sedan, the Kia EV4. With this latest OE approval, NEXEN TIRE now supplies OE tyres for key models in Kia’s EV range, including EV3, EV4, EV6 and EV9.

The EV4 was outfitted with the N'FERA Supreme S to satisfy the particular performance requirements of electric vehicles, such as precise handling, strong torque and minimal noise. It was created to offer a well-rounded driving experience in a range of situations, including both braking stability and ride comfort for daily and high-speed driving. Innovative elements including a 4D compound and enhanced load distribution technology, which improve grip and stability during high-speed or long-distance travel, were included into the tyre to provide long-lasting performance. The aerodynamic sidewall reduces air resistance to increase energy efficiency, and its pattern retention design helps sustain tread performance even after 50 percent wear.

John Bosco (Hyeon Suk) Kim, CEO, NEXEN TIRE, said, “This OE selection for the Kia EV4 illustrates NEXEN TIRE’s strong capabilities in EV-specific product development. We will continue to build long-term alliances with global carmakers and expand our premium brand presence worldwide.”

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