Pirelli To Supply P Zero Elect Tyres as Original Equipment to BMW iX

BKT Tires Starts Trial Production At New Waluj Plant

Pirelli will supply P Zero Elect tyres as original equipment to the new BMW iX, an electric SUV, for the xDrive50 version and the more sporty M60.  

P Zero Elect tyres are available for the BMW iX xDrive50 version in 255/50R21 109Y XL and 275/40R22 107Y XL sizes, with the latter size also available for the sportier M60 version of the German SUV, the company said in a release.  

All these tyres are marked with a star on the side to indicate that they have been especially developed for BMW as part of Pirelli's ‘perfect fit’ philosophy, which also includes a 22-inch BMW iX tyre with more grip than the other two: made for maximum performance. This tyre has an “I” on the side, in addition to the star marking. 

The Pirelli P Zero Elect tyres developed for the BMW iX focus on low rolling resistance, to allow the car to travel for more kilometres after a charge, the release said, adding, tey even have an ‘A’ rating on the European tyre label to certify this particular feature, allowing the driver to take full advantage of all the car’s performance. 

The specific profile of the tyre also influences the mileage, thanks to its superior aerodynamics compared to the standard P Zero. The external profile has been modified to ensure that the tyre protrudes less, reducing aerodynamic turbulence while improving overall efficiency, without sacrificing adequate rim protection. The ‘sunk’ lettering on the side of the tyre is just as distinctive, hollowed into the sidewall rather than standing out in relief, the company claimed. 

The release pointed out that particular attention is paid to comfort for BMW iX drivers, with the dedicated Pirelli P Zero Elect tyres also equipped with PNCS (Pirelli Noise Cancelling System) technology, which reduces road noise. PNCS technology consists of a specific sound-absorbing material placed inside the tyre, which dampens the acoustic vibrations that would otherwise be transmitted into the car, with a consequent reduction in road noise. The tyre structure has also been optimised to cope with the considerable weight of this 100 per cent electric zero-emission vehicle, ensuring optimal levels of driving safety in all traffic conditions, it added. (MT)  

Cadillac OPTIQ And Chevrolet Equinox EV E-SUVs To Run On Continental CrossContact RX Tyres

Cadillac OPTIQ And Chevrolet Equinox EV E-SUVs To Run On Continental CrossContact RX Tyres

Continental has been selected by General Motors as an original equipment supplier for its new Cadillac OPTIQ and Chevrolet Equinox EV models. These electric SUVs will be factory-fitted with Continental's CrossContact RX all-weather touring tyres, specifically in 20- and 21-inch sizes.

Engineered for a blend of safety and comfort, the CrossContact RX tyres are designed to perform reliably in diverse conditions, including light off-road terrain and moderate snowfall. Their development focused on delivering strong braking performance and dynamic handling on dry, wet and wintry roads. An optimised tread pattern and contour contribute to lower rolling resistance and enhanced traction across various weather scenarios.

Furthermore, a uniform sipe arrangement within the tread reduces road noise for a quieter ride. A key feature is the inclusion of ContiSeal technology, which automatically seals punctures up to 6 mm in diameter, allowing drivers to continue their journey without immediate interruption. This technology provides an added layer of convenience and safety for electric vehicle owners.

The tyre range has been approved in the following sizes:

CrossContact RX, 275/40 R21 107H XL FR ContiSeal
CrossContact RX, 245/50 R20 105H XL FR ContiSeal

Honda N-ONE e: Mini-EV To Run On Yokohama BluEarth AE-01 Tyres

Honda N-ONE e: Mini-EV To Run On Yokohama BluEarth AE-01 Tyres

Honda has selected Yokohama Rubber’s BluEarth AE-01 tyres as original equipment for its upcoming N-ONE e: mini-electric vehicle. Scheduled for launch in Japan in September 2025, the mini-EV will be fitted with the tyres in the size 155/65R14 75S.

As part of Yokohama’s global BluEarth brand, the AE-01 model is engineered to be an eco-conscious and socially responsible product. It is designed to provide excellent fuel efficiency while maintaining a balanced performance in key areas including quiet operation, ride comfort and tread longevity.

This partnership is a reflection of Yokohama Rubber's strategic initiative to expand its advanced BluEarth technology across a diverse range of new vehicles. The company’s tyres are increasingly chosen as factory-fitted equipment for a wide spectrum of models, from sedans and SUVs to sports cars and compact vehicles, including gasoline, hybrid and electric powertrains.

Kia PV5 To Run On NEXEN N’Blue S Tyres

Kia has selected NEXEN TIRE’s N’Blue S high-performance summer tyre as original equipment for the new Kia PV5, an adaptable purpose-built vehicle (PBV) developed on the dedicated Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). This model is designed for a wide array of uses, from personal and recreational activities to commercial logistics, positioning it as a cornerstone for the future of urban mobility. The supply agreement underscores NEXEN TIRE's advanced technological capabilities in developing tyres specifically engineered for the demands of electric commercial vehicles.

The N’Blue S tyre, sized 215/65R16 102H, is engineered to meet strict European environmental standards, emphasising high efficiency and minimised rolling resistance to extend electric vehicle range. A key innovation featured in this model is Sidewall Aero Dynamic technology, which functions to reduce pass-by noise and improve overall energy efficiency. The tyre’s tread design incorporates a simplified groove pattern that enhances water drainage, providing superior wet traction and stable braking performance. These attributes ensure excellent durability and reliability, which are critical for the repetitive stop-and-go patterns characteristic of urban commercial operations.

This partnership with Kia is part of a broader strategic trajectory for NEXEN TIRE, which has established itself as a trusted original equipment supplier for major global automakers. The company leverages over 80 years of technical expertise to provide tyres for a growing portfolio of electric vehicles, including Kia's EV3, EV4, EV6 and EV9 models, alongside global strategic vehicles like the PV5 and Tasman. This latest supply agreement for the innovative PV5 further solidifies NEXEN TIRE's reputation and demonstrates its commitment to supporting the evolving needs of the electric mobility industry.

John Bosco (Hyeon Suk) Kim, CEO, NEXEN TIRE, said, “The supply of OE tyres for the Kia PV5 demonstrates our technological competitiveness in the future mobility market, driven by electrification and personalisation. We will continue to strengthen our partnerships with global automakers to contribute to the expansion of the future mobility ecosystem.”

BMW 7 Series Sedan To Run On Yokohama ADVAN Sport V107 Tyres

BMW 7 Series Sedan To Run On Yokohama ADVAN Sport V107 Tyres

The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., is supplying its ultra-high-performance ADVAN Sport V107 tyres as original equipment for the BMW 7 Series sedan, including the all-electric i7 model. The tyres – 255/45R20 105Y size for front axle and 285/40R20 108Y for rear axle – are the product of a joint development effort with the BMW Group. This collaboration has resulted in a tyre engineered to meet the exacting demands of a high-power luxury vehicle.

The ADVAN Sport V107 incorporates a specially formulated compound and an optimised tread pattern to deliver exceptional steering stability and a quiet ride. It has also earned the highest possible ‘A’ grade for rolling resistance under the EU labelling system. The application of Yokohama's proprietary mound profile technology ensures even contact pressure distribution, which enhances both dry performance and wear resistance. The tyre’s sidewall features BMW’s star mark, a designation granted only to suppliers that meet the automaker's strict standards for technology, quality and reliability.

This partnership aligns with Yokohama Rubber's medium-term management plan, YX2026, which prioritises increasing sales of high-value-added products. A core initiative of this strategy is expanding the placement of its global flagship ADVAN and GEOLANDAR brand tyres as original equipment on new vehicles.