Bridgestone Launches Integrated Tyre And Fleet Management Solution

Ashutosh Chincholikar, Founder-CEO, Smart Controls Succumbs To Covid-19

Bridgestone has launched Fleetcare, an integrated tyre and fleet management solution designed to fast forward business for fleets. 

An evolution of Bridgestone’s Total Tyre Care, Fleetcare combines Bridgestone’s best-in-class tyre range and tyre management solutions with fleet management solutions from Webfleet, Europe’s number one telematics solution for fleets, the company said in a statement. 

With Fleetcare, fleet owners can reduce their total cost of ownership thanks to a complete package from a single mobility partner, the release claimed. 

Mark Tejedor, Vice President Commercial Replacement and OE at Bridgestone EMIA, said, “Cost-efficiency, convenience and sustainability are the three big priorities for fleets right now. When utilising many service providers, it is always a challenge to get the maximum effect on each of those priorities. We understand this is a key pain point for fleet owners and operators, which is why we’ve evolved Total Tyre Care into Fleetcare, an integrated solution for all tyre and fleet management needs. Through the launch of Fleetcare, we’re providing a unique and modular solution that addresses so many key business needs, from cost to compliance, from safety to sustainability. Fleetcare will help fast forward the businesses of our fleet customers thanks to the synergies between our proven fleet management and tyre management solutions. This launch is just the start, with more exciting innovations on the way.” 

Fleets demand maximum efficiency, convenience and sustainability as they enter the future of mobility, and Bridgestone’s portfolio of solutions is rapidly evolving to meet these demands and create new social and customer value, it said. 

Bridgestone said its new integrated tyre and fleet management solution, Fleetcare, provides a host of benefits to fleet customers, including total cost of ownership reduction, maximised customer satisfaction, time-saving, regulatory compliance and increased sustainability, safety and security. 

It is developed for managers of commercial fleets who are looking for a comprehensive and modular solution package that adds cost control and automation into their daily work, enabling better decision making. 

Available now, Fleetcare revolutionises the fleet market by offering both tyre and fleet management solutions with integrated and connected data and reporting available under one agreement and delivered by one single partner. Thanks to the use of combined tyre and vehicle data, Fleetcare provides smarter and more predictive maintenance solutions, resulting in optimised performance and increased convenience, the release pointed out. (TT)

Sun Auto Opens New Plaza Tire Store In Collinsville, Illinois

Sun Auto Opens New Plaza Tire Store In Collinsville, Illinois

Sun Auto Tire & Service has advanced its strategic expansion in the Midwest by opening a new Plaza Tire Service location in Collinsville, Illinois. This addition strengthens the company’s footprint on the east side of the greater St. Louis area and represents Sun Auto’s 17th store in the state.

With more than six decades of service in the Midwest and a reputation as the Quick Change Artist, Plaza Tire Service continues to emphasise trust and dependable service. Situated at 1501 Golfview Drive near the Orchards Shopping Center and just off Belt Line Road, the new Collinsville store reinforces Plaza Tire Service's commitment to delivering best‑in‑class automotive service and top tyre brands backed by Sun Auto’s price match guarantee.

Sun Auto Network continues to grow nationwide through both strategic acquisitions and new‑build locations, now operating over 575 stores across the country.

Rob Kingery, Regional Vice President, Operations, said, "The greater St. Louis market remains a priority in our growth strategy. This location enhances Plaza Tire Service regional coverage and reinforces our commitment to covering customers in the Midwest."

Continental Finalises Sale Of French Tyre Service Unit To ASC Investment

Continental Finalises Sale Of French Tyre Service Unit To ASC Investment

Continental has officially transferred ownership of its French service and distribution arm, ContiTrade France, to the investment firm ASC Investment. The planned sale, first revealed by the company in December 2025, has now been completed. Under ASC’s management, the business is expected to gain flexibility and operate more nimbly, helping it retain existing clientele while attracting new customers with a specialised tyre and service lineup.

The deal encompasses over 130 corporate BestDrive outlets, two retreading centres and all associated administrative support for the tyre and repair business, employing approximately 1,200 people. Although sold, all service points will stay within Continental’s BestDrive France network through franchise arrangements. Both sides have chosen to keep the purchase price and other financial specifics confidential.

ASC Investment, with offices in Luxembourg and Munich, focuses on European corporate carve-outs and succession opportunities. Its leadership team brings decades of industry experience, aiming to boost performance in acquired companies through operational refinements rather than structural overhauls.

Véronique Giraud, head of Continental’s tyre business in France, said, “We are proud to support a franchise network of more than 200 BestDrive outlets throughout France. With our strong brand and longstanding expertise in the tyre and vehicle services business, we remain fully committed to supporting all our franchisees, helping them grow their businesses and realise their full market potential.”

Frederic Hierl, Managing Director, ASC, said, “We would like to thank Continental for its trust and excellent collaboration over the past few months, as well as for its confidence that we are the right partner for the long-term development of 130 BestDrive branches in France. Having signed a long-term franchise agreement, we look forward to being a reliable, agile partner for our customers and suppliers while continuing to be an important partner for Continental France in the years ahead.”

Bridgestone Issues Seven-Point Fuel-Saving Plan As Petrol Prices Bite

Bridgestone Issues Seven-Point Fuel-Saving Plan As Petrol Prices Bite

Bridgestone has issued a fresh advisory for motorists feeling the strain of high petrol prices, emphasising that vehicle efficiency extends well beyond the fuel pump. The tyre manufacturer argues that tyres themselves play a measurable role in household fuel budgets and that drivers can achieve significant savings by shifting their focus from fuel costs alone to broader vehicle maintenance and driving habits.

To help consumers maximise every tank, Bridgestone has outlined several practical steps aimed at reducing fuel consumption, improving road safety and lowering emissions. The company stresses that minor adjustments in tyre choice, upkeep and driving behaviour can accumulate into meaningful financial and environmental benefits. A key message from Bridgestone’s Technical Manager Peter Moulding is that many drivers underestimate how greatly tyres and driving style influence fuel economy and safety.

Among Bridgestone’s recommendations, selecting fuel-efficient tyres with low rolling resistance, such as the Turanza 6 model, is highlighted as a primary measure. Regular tyre pressure checks are also critical, as incorrect inflation increases rolling resistance and degrades braking and handling. Additionally, maintaining proper tyre condition through simple tread tests prevents the engine from working harder than necessary, while smooth driving and avoidance of harsh acceleration are presented as major factors in reducing consumption.

Further advice includes anticipating road conditions to maintain steady speeds and using cruise control selectively on flat motorways but not on hilly or winding routes. Drivers are also urged to remove unnecessary weight and roof racks and to close windows at higher speeds to reduce aerodynamic drag. These steps, when combined, help preserve tyre performance and enhance overall efficiency.

Modern tyre technology, exemplified by the Bridgestone Turanza 6 with ENLITEN technology, offers an optimised balance of reduced rolling resistance, safety and long wear life. This EV-ready, all-season tyre suits both combustion engine and electric vehicles, ensuring that efficiency improvements do not compromise everyday usability or road safety when paired with proper maintenance and driving discipline.

MAXAM Tire Expands MS453 PRO Line With High-Capacity 24.00R35 For Rigid Dump Trucks

MAXAM Tire Expands MS453 PRO Line With High-Capacity 24.00R35 For Rigid Dump Trucks

MAXAM Tire has expanded its MS453 PRO line with the release of a new 24.00R35 size, designed specifically for rigid dump trucks operating in severe mining and aggregate environments. The premium tyre offers improved TMPH and TKPH capabilities alongside higher load capacity to boost productivity and extend service life under extreme conditions.

Engineered with a three-star casing to support heavy-haul rigid trucks, the new MS453 PRO model features an innovative self-cleaning two-stage tread void design that increases ground contact and grip for superior stability. Multiple tread compound options allow customisation to various site requirements, while a unique shoulder tie bar reduces lug deflection and stabilises the tread shoulder. Reinforced sidewalls, robust bead construction and enhanced steel belts deliver maximum puncture resistance.

With reduced void length to optimise the footprint and wear characteristics, the 24.00R35 addition strengthens MAXAM’s reputation as a reliable partner for global mining operations. The company continues to provide practical and advanced tire solutions that maximise performance where it matters most.

Jimmy McDonnell, VP – Sales & Marketing, MAXAM Tire, said, “At MAXAM, we know that mining & quarry operations demand more than just a tyre; they demand a solution that yields higher load capacity along with reliability that drives productivity. The new 3-star 24.00R35 MS453 PRO reflects our commitment to providing customers the confidence to take on tougher demands while lowering their total operating costs.”