Chinese tyre maker Linglong to invest $1.19 billion in Brazil factory
- By Sharad Matade
- April 28, 2025
China's Shandong Linglong Tire announced plans to invest USD 1.19 billion in a new manufacturing facility in Brazil, marking one of the largest Chinese investments in South America's automotive sector this year.
The project, located in Ponta Grossa in Brazil's southern Paraná state, will be developed through a joint venture with local distributor SUNSET S.A., with Linglong holding a 70 percent stake and the Brazilian partner taking the remaining 30 percent.
Construction is slated to begin in the third quarter of 2025, with full completion expected by the end of 2032 after three construction phases spanning seven years.
The new plant aims to produce 14.7 million tyres annually, including 12 million passenger car radial tyres, 2.4 million truck and bus radial tyres, and smaller volumes of engineering and retreaded tyres. The facility will also manufacture 6,000 tonnes of liquid reclaimed rubber yearly.
Linglong plans to finance the project with USD 600 million in self-funded capital and USD 593 million in bank loans. The facility will include a 35-megawatt solar power plant to support sustainable manufacturing practices.
The investment comes as Brazil's government has been actively courting foreign direct investment through various incentive programmes.
Linglong's venture partner, SUNSET S.A., reported revenue of USD 650 million in 2024 with net assets of USD 200 million, according to the announcement.
The project still requires regulatory approvals from Chinese government bodies, including the National Development and Reform Commission and Ministry of Commerce.
Continental Launches aContact OE Tyres For Autonomous Vehicle Fleets And Robotaxis
- By TT News
- August 18, 2025
Continental has launched its aContact tyre line, a dedicated original equipment solution designed specifically for autonomous vehicles. Engineered to meet the unique demands of self-driving fleets – including robotaxis, shuttle services and future private autonomous cars – these tyres will soon debut on public roads in US cities like Las Vegas and San Francisco.
Since self-driving cars typically operate at lower speeds under controlled conditions, tyres must deliver extended durability and consistent performance over long periods. Continental has tailored the aContact series to address these needs while prioritising safety, efficiency, and sustainability – whether navigating dense urban traffic or following fixed routes like airport shuttles. Key features include short braking distances, superior wet-weather grip and reduced rolling resistance to maximise the range of electric autonomous vehicles.
The tyres also incorporate specialised designs to enhance performance. A narrower, taller profile improves aerodynamics and load-bearing capacity – critical for heavy battery-equipped vehicles – while robust sidewall construction extends service life. Additionally, Continental minimises rolling noise for a quieter ride, aligning with the comfort expectations of autonomous passenger services.
Meletis Xigakis, Head of Research and Development – Original Equipment Business, Continental Tires, said, “Self-driving robotaxis will soon be part of our everyday mobility – alongside traditional cars, cargo bikes and e-scooters. To ensure maximum efficiency, it is crucial they are equipped with tyres made specifically for the job. That is where our aContact product line comes in, combining technologies that have been adapted and customised for the ordering manufacturer or mobility provider – promoting safety and optimising performance and efficiency.”
Titan International To Showcase Innovation At Farm Progress Show 2025
- By TT News
- August 18, 2025
Titan International, Inc. (Titan) will unveil its latest agricultural advancements at the Farm Progress Show 2025 in Decatur, Illinois, from 26–28 August (Booth #933). Among the highlights is the debut of the Demco Big Buddy grain cart, a custom-built concept featuring wheels developed in collaboration with Titan and Wold Rim & Wheel. Designed as a striking companion to the legendary Big Bud KTTA 700 – recently restored by the Welker Family – the Big Buddy is equipped with Goodyear LSW1400/30R46 Optitrac tyres, the world’s largest agricultural tyres. Attendees can see both machines on display at Titan’s booth.
The event will also feature appearances from NASCAR star Ross Chastain, known for his ‘Hail Melon’ move and family farming roots, along with popular ag influencers like the Welker Family and Cole the Cornstar (and Cooper). Visitors can meet these industry personalities, learn about real-world farming applications, and see Titan’s high-performance tyres in action – including Cooper’s AGCO Challenger fitted with Goodyear 800/70R38 Optitrac tyres.
As the official wristband sponsor, Titan is offering USD 200 off purchases of USD 1,000+, plus daily USD 2,500 rebate giveaways towards Titan or Goodyear Farm Tyre products. The company will also showcase its Carlstar-branded semi-pneumatic tyres and wheels, engineered for durability in demanding conditions like high-speed no-till planting.
In a philanthropic initiative, Titan is launching the ‘Small Change, Big Impact’ campaign, encouraging attendees to donate spare change to Farm Rescue, a nonprofit supporting farm families in crisis. A travelling donation box, ‘Penny’, will accompany Titan to events nationwide over the next year.
NEXEN TIRE Launches ROADIAN ATX All-Terrain Tyre In Australia
- By TT News
- August 18, 2025
NEXEN TIRE has expanded its presence in Australia with the launch of the ROADIAN ATX, a versatile all-terrain tyre designed to meet the country's rising demand for high-performance SUV and pickup truck tyres. Built to handle Australia's varied landscapes – from rugged outback trails to coastal highways – the tyre combines durability with advanced technology. Its wide contact patch and specialised rubber compound ensure extended tread life, while features like 3D kerf patterns improve wet-weather grip and 3PMSF certification guarantees reliability in snow. Additional innovations, including stone ejectors and side biters, enhance off-road traction and reduce gravel retention.
The ROADIAN ATX is already supplied as original equipment for Jeep’s Wrangler and Gladiator models, reinforcing NEXEN TIRE’s reputation for quality. To strengthen its Australian operations, the company has established distribution centres in New South Wales and Victoria, with another logistics hub planned for late 2025. These facilities will streamline deliveries across major eastern markets like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
Beyond infrastructure, NEXEN TIRE is boosting brand awareness through a partnership with Sydney FC, a top-tier A-League football club. As the team’s official sponsor since October 2024, the company leverages stadium advertising, digital broadcasts, and social media campaigns to engage fans. This multi-channel approach, including collaborations with Paramount+ for global streaming, helps NEXEN TIRE connect with Australian consumers and solidify its position in the competitive tyre market.
John Bosco (Hyeon Suk) Kim, CEO, NEXEN TIRE, said, "The ROADIAN ATX reflects our commitment understanding and meeting the unique needs of the Australian market. We will continue to build a strong local presence through product localisation, strategic partnerships and an enhanced logistics framework."
Linglong Tire Extends Real Madrid Partnership
- By TT News
- August 16, 2025
Linglong Tire has renewed its partnership with Real Madrid, continuing as the club’s global tyre partner for the 2025/2026 season. The collaboration kicks off as Real Madrid begins their La Liga campaign with a home match against Osasuna at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
As the Official Tyre Partner, Linglong Tire will enjoy prominent visibility across multiple platforms. During all La Liga and Copa del Rey home matches, the brand will be showcased on the stadium’s digital perimeter boards and partner signage. Additionally, the Linglong logo will appear on Real Madrid’s official website and in their digital and print magazines. The sponsorship also includes TV advertisements on Real Madrid TV, VIP hospitality opportunities and the rights to use official partnership branding. The deal further integrates Linglong into the club’s media initiatives, amplifying its global reach.
To engage fans, Linglong Tire is running interactive campaigns on its social media channels. For the season opener against Osasuna, the company gave away two pairs of VIP tickets through a raffle. A follow-up contest is currently active on Linglong’s European and German Instagram and Facebook pages, offering fans the chance to win VIP tickets for the second home match against Real Mallorca.
Real Madrid’s unparalleled success – including 15 UEFA Champions League titles, 36 La Liga trophies and numerous other domestic and international honours – solidifies its status as one of the world’s most prestigious football clubs. This partnership allows Linglong Tire to align with a globally recognised brand while enhancing its own visibility in the sports and automotive industries.
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