Hankook Tire has launched its new e-Vantra FlexClimate all-season tyre as original equipment for the popular Volkswagen Crafter van. Supplied in the size 205/75 R16C 113/111R, this development marks a significant expansion of the company's portfolio within the light commercial vehicle sector. While debuting on the Crafter with conventional drive technology, the tyre was engineered to address the specific demands of both electric and internal combustion engine vans. A release on the replacement market is also planned for the near future.

The tyre’s design prioritises core commercial vehicle requirements, including high load capacity, exceptional durability and resistance to wear. A key feature is its reinforced sidewall, which is constructed to reliably absorb high transverse forces and ensure stable and safe handling, even when the vehicle is fully loaded. This structural integrity is further enhanced by a multi-reinforced bead structure and an optimised bead filler height, providing outstanding stability across diverse driving conditions.

Performance is augmented by a tread compound with a high silica content, functionalised polymers and special resins. This combination is engineered to deliver excellent wet braking performance, high durability and reduced rolling resistance. The tread pattern itself incorporates advanced 3D sipe technology to improve block rigidity, promote a uniform wear pattern and ensure reliable traction. An innovative zigzag sipe pattern provides added grip on snow and mud. Consequently, the Hankook e-Vantra FlexClimate carries the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) certification, confirming its suitability for use in severe winter conditions.

Jongho Park, President and COO, Hankook Tire Europe, said, “With our appointment as an original equipment manufacturer for the VW Crafter, we are underlining our commitment to continuing to expand our product portfolio in the van segment and to offering innovative solutions to meet the diverse requirements of our commercial customers. The Hankook e-Vantra FlexClimate combines numerous characteristics that make it ideal for demanding everyday use. This product focuses on state-of-the-art technologies that enhance efficiency and safety, ensuring it is well equipped to meet changes in the sector.”

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The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd. has expanded its established partnership with Mitsubishi Motors Corporation through the selection of its GEOLANDAR SUV tyre as original equipment for the newly launched 2026 Delica D:5 minivan. This latest generation of the vehicle, which debuted in Japan in January, features the tyre in size 255/55R18 98H. The collaboration builds upon a proven history, as the GEOLANDAR SUV was also fitted to the previous Delica D:5 model. For this new application, Yokohama engineers focused on refining the tyre’s performance, achieving enhancements in fuel economy and a reduction in external noise compared to the already well-regarded predecessor.

The GEOLANDAR SUV line is engineered primarily for modern minivans and on-road-focused SUVs, balancing the demand for everyday comfort and safety with versatile utility across diverse surfaces. Yokohama’s relationship with Mitsubishi extends beyond this single model, with the GEOLANDAR brand appearing on several vehicles in the automaker’s portfolio. Notably, the GEOLANDAR G94 model has been supplied in recent years for the Triton and Pajero Sport, underscoring a continued mutual confidence between the two companies.

This tyre supply agreement aligns with the comprehensive updates characterising the new Delica D:5. Mitsubishi has introduced refreshed exterior and interior styling while incorporating sophisticated all-wheel control technology and advanced driver-assistance systems. These improvements collectively elevate the distinctive dynamic character and driving capabilities for which the model is known, with Yokohama’s tyres contributing directly to its on-road performance and efficiency.

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The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd. has initiated original equipment supply of its GEOLANDAR X-CV tyres for Subaru’s new 2026 Solterra SUV-type battery electric vehicle (BEV), in North America, size 235/50R20 100V. For the Japanese market Solterra, the company continues to provide the ADVAN V61 model. This new GEOLANDAR X-CV is engineered as a modern highway terrain tyre that meets the M+S standard, emphasising high-speed capability and drivability alongside a balanced performance in safety, comfort, durability and fuel efficiency.

Developed through Yokohama’s AI-powered HAICoLab framework, which blends human creativity with artificial intelligence for advanced data processing, the tyre incorporates specific technologies for electric vehicles. This is signified by an ‘E+’ mark on the sidewall, indicating enhancements in durability, quietness and energy efficiency tailored to electrified vehicles.

This supply agreement aligns with the strategic goals outlined in Yokohama Transformation 2026, the company’s medium-term management plan running through 2026. A core initiative of this strategy is to increase the proportion of high-value-added tyre sales by expanding original equipment placement for key global brands. This includes actively promoting both the flagship ADVAN line and the GEOLANDAR series for SUVs and pickup trucks on new vehicles worldwide.

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Audi’s latest A6 will be equipped with Continental tyres as original equipment, offering drivers two specialised summer tyre options. Catering to efficiency-minded motorists, the Continental EcoContact 6 Q utilises a specific rubber compound and tread design to minimise rolling resistance and noise. This focus promotes lower energy consumption, extended driving range for electric vehicles and a quieter, more comfortable journey without sacrificing essential safety.

For those seeking a sportier driving experience, the high-performance Continental SportContact 7 is available. Its construction prioritises precise, athletic handling by delivering strong grip and short braking distances on both dry and wet pavement. The tyre is also engineered to provide reliable stability even at higher speeds. In recent independent testing, this model was recognised for its secure and well-balanced performance, earning high praise in critical safety categories like braking and control.

Beyond summer, Audi specifically recommends the Continental WinterContact TS 870 P for cold-weather mobility. This dedicated winter tyre features an innovative tread pattern and a compound that stays pliable in freezing temperatures. This combination is designed to ensure trustworthy traction, secure handling and shorter stopping distances on snow, ice and wet winter roads.

Together, these Continental options provide A6 owners with a tailored tyre portfolio, allowing them to choose based on their performance preferences for summer and ensuring prepared safety for winter conditions.

The tyres have been approved for the new Audi A6 in the following sizes in numerous countries:

EcoContact 6 Q Silent, 255/40 R20 101Y XL
EcoContact 6 Q Silent, 255/35 R21 101Y HL
SportContact 7 Silent, 255/40 R20 101Y XL
SportContact 7 Silent, 255/35 R21 101Y HL
WinterContact TS 870 P, 245/45 R19 102W
WinterContact TS 870 P, 255/40 R20 101W

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Continental Tires has launched its new all-terrain tyre, the CrossContact A/T², in India, making the country one of the first global markets to receive it.

The tyre was introduced during Continental Tires Track Day 2026 at Dot Goa 4X4. Designed for 4x4 and utility vehicles, the CrossContact A/T² targets drivers seeking off-road capability alongside on-road performance across India’s varied terrain.

The launch underlines Continental’s strategic focus on the Indian market and its expansion in the 4x4 segment. According to the company, the CrossContact A/T² has been developed to deliver enhanced traction, durability and grip, supported by its proprietary Traction Plus technology.

“India’s 4x4 vehicle segment is experiencing sharp growth, driven by a growing passion for adventure and long-distance travel. With our ‘In the Market, For the Market’ approach, we continually innovate to meet the demands of Indian road conditions and deliver enhanced driving experiences. The CrossContact A/T² delivers high performance across the diverse terrains and topographies that India offers,” said Samir Gupta, managing director, Continental Tires India.

Gupta added: “India is the first market globally to introduce the CrossContact A/T². This decision is a testament to Continental’s commitment to the Indian market. We remain committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions tailored to our Indian customers.”

The CrossContact A/T² has been engineered for use across mud, gravel, sand, wet highways and rocky trails. The tyre features a BlackPaw compound designed to maintain elasticity across temperature ranges, self-cleaning shoulders to expel debris, rigid tread block geometry to improve braking and reduce hydroplaning, and reinforced sidewalls for resistance to cuts and abrasions.

The tyre is available through Continental’s authorised dealerships and more than 200 brand stores nationwide, in sizes ranging from 215/70 R15 to 285/60 R18, covering a broad range of SUV and 4x4 models.

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