Bridgestone Mobility Solutions, Bridgestone EMIA’s business unit focused on developing and launching data-driven fleet, tyre and mobility solutions, has partnered with Startup Autobahn, the mobility-focused innovation network moderated by Silicon Valley global open innovation platform, Plug and Play Tech Center. 

Startup Autobahn said it brings industry-leading companies and startups together would identify new ideas and develop cutting-edge technologies in the mobility sector. With a network of more than 30,000 startups and around 30 corporate partners, the Stuttgart-based platform is accelerating innovation by providing workshops, events, business development and investment opportunities, a press release said. 

Jan-Maarten de Vries, CEO, Bridgestone Mobility Solutions, said, “Partnering with Startup Autobahn is an important step in our strategy to drive continuous innovation and business progress. Joining this high-quality network of pioneers, entrepreneurs and innovative thinkers, we are looking forward to jointly working on new ideas and technologies that will contribute to a safer, more efficient and sustainable future.” 

Bridgestone Mobility Solutions supports and accelerates the digital transformation of Bridgestone to be a sustainable solutions company, helping customers and partners take advantage of the shift towards data-based insight, convenience, and maximum efficiency. 

The Bridgestone EMIA business unit serves a wide range of the digital mobility solutions’ portfolio of the company, including Europe’s leading fleet management solution WEBFLEET. 

Sascha Karimpour, Managing Director at Plug & Play Germany and a co-initiator of Startup Autobahn, said, “We are extremely happy to welcome Bridgestone Mobility Solutions to our global network. Bridgestone, known as one of the leading tyre and rubber companies worldwide, is accelerating its digital solutions business which fits perfectly with Startup Autobahn’s end-to-end value chain of mobility partners. Their diverse portfolio in fleet, tyre and data solutions will bring new opportunities and great value to our platform.” 

As a new ‘anchor partner’ of the Startup Autobahn platform, experts across Bridgestone Mobility Solutions innovation team will scout relevant startups across the network, focused on different innovation areas such as electric mobility, smart city solutions and smart tyre technologies. The goal is to identify joint value propositions, work on pilot projects and develop them into market-ready solutions which add value for customers and society. 

Franck Leveque, Vice President Strategy and Incubation at Bridgestone Mobility Solutions, said, “The Mobility sector is going through massive transformation and innovation is a critical piece of our strategy towards sustainable growth. Engaging in Startup Autobahn’s open innovation platform not only allows us to support startups and explore new and disruptive models in the mobility eco-system, but also offers a unique opportunity to establish an ongoing dialogue with a network of interesting and relevant industry partners.” (TT)

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Dunlop, the proud tyre partner of the FIM International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) since 2019, has announced its continued support for the event’s 99th edition, scheduled to take place in Bergamo, Italy, from 24-29 August 2025. Building on its successful track record, the tyre manufacturer will introduce an enhanced rider assistance programme while showcasing the high-performance capabilities of its Geomax EN91 Enduro tyres.

The company is preparing a number of programmes for professional and amateur riders in 2025, using the 6DAYS as a stage to highlight the capability of its EN91 Enduro tyres. In addition to ranking club team riders that use Dunlop tyres and wear brand badges independently, the Dunlop Geomax Challenge provides free, no-obligation entry. As part of the formal podium celebration, there is an award ceremony. Pre-ordering registered riders can also benefit from discounted prices on EN91 tyres and mousses. Starting on 20 August, the Dunlop Official Tyre Racing Service crew will be available to assist riders with tires and technical guidance.

Roberto Finetti, Dunlop Motorcycle Europe’s Marketing Manager, said, “We’re thrilled to renew our long-standing partnership with the FIM by bringing the Dunlop Geomax Challenge back for the ninety-ninth edition of the iconic 6DAYS in Italy. This event is more than just a race – it’s a celebration of passion, performance and the trust riders place in Dunlop to conquer the toughest terrain. The Geomax Challenge is designed to spotlight rider talent and elevate competition, offering a premium platform for both club and amateur riders. The 6DAYS is one of the few global events where amateurs line up alongside professional riders and we’re proud to support them all with our cutting-edge Geomax tyre technology. We can’t wait to see our Geomax tyres in action on Italian soil and to celebrate the incredible achievements of every rider taking part.”

Fabio Muner, FIM Marketing and Digital Director, said, “On behalf of the FIM, I would like to express my delight that such a valued, long-standing supporter of the 6DAYS as Dunlop is continuing its event support for professional and amateur riders. The Dunlop Geomax Challenge is a forward-thinking initiative that recognises the achievements of club team riders and as such is entirely in keeping with the inclusivity ethos of the FIM International Six Days of Enduro.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Bridgestone Corporation will equip all 33 teams in the 2025 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge (BWSC) with its advanced ENLITEN technology tyres, featuring over 65 percent recycled and renewable materials – including breakthrough recycled carbon black and steel developed through partner collaborations.

The 3,000 km solar car race across Australia (24-31 August 2025) serves as Bridgestone's innovation proving ground for sustainable mobility solutions. As title sponsor since 2013, the company uses this extreme challenge to advance EV technologies while developing future engineers.

These competition tyres represent Bridgestone's most sustainable motorsport offering yet, combining solar-car optimized performance with circular economy advancements like reduced tyre usage and low-carbon logistics. The initiative supports the company's E8 Commitment towards carbon neutrality and a waste-free tyre lifecycle.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

ZC Rubber (Zhongce Rubber Group Co. Ltd.) has successfully debuted on the Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE) under stock code 603049. The company's initial public offering of 87.45 million shares at RMB 46.50 per share establishes a market capitalisation surpassing RMB 45 billion, marking a significant milestone in the company's evolution from domestic manufacturer to global industry leader.

From its founding vision to create world-class tires for both Chinese and international markets, ZC Rubber has grown into a formidable presence across more than 190 countries and regions. This remarkable growth has been fuelled by the company's pioneering investments in smart factory technologies, digitalised production systems and cutting-edge research and development, all focused on delivering high-performance, future-ready tyre solutions to global markets.

Shen Jinrong, Chairman and General Manager, ZC Rubber, said, “This IPO marks a new chapter in ZC Rubber’s journey. It is not only a financial milestone but a strong foundation for our next phase of global development. We have stayed true to our focus, to build a globally respected tyre manufacturer.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

TRS Tyre and Wheel (Yokohama TWS NZ Ltd) has been appointed as the exclusive distributor of Alliance Tyre across New Zealand. This strategic partnership strengthens TRS/Yokohama TWS NZ’s position as a leading provider of premium off-highway tyre solutions for the agricultural, construction, industrial and forestry sectors.

As a globally respected brand under Yokohama Off-Highway Tyres, Alliance is renowned for its innovation, durability and superior performance in the most demanding environments. By bringing Alliance under the TRS/Yokohama TWS NZ umbrella, customers nationwide will benefit from improved product availability, direct factory support and enhanced technical expertise.

This partnership ensures New Zealand businesses have streamlined access to Alliance’s full range of high-performance tyres, including specialised solutions for agriculture, forestry and earthmoving applications. With TRS/Yokohama TWS NZ’s established distribution network and local market knowledge, dealers and end-users can expect faster delivery, reliable stock levels and unparalleled customer service.

Nigel Sherborne, Managing Director, TRS/Yokohama TWS NZ Ltd, said, “We’re excited to represent this brand as trusted as Alliance with a long history in the New Zealand market. This enhances our ability (alongside Yokohama, Trelleborg, Mitas) to deliver world-class off-highway Tyre solutions to Kiwi customers who work in some of the toughest conditions.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!