The ContiTech group sector will become independent, according to a decision made today by the Continental Executive Board. Analysing and evaluating the potential transaction forms for independence and creating an implementation schedule are the tasks of the next preparation phase. In the following phase, the Executive Board will make a decision on this.

Currently, Continental believes that the most likely course of action is to sell ContiTech. This will be put into effect following the sale of the Original Equipment Solutions (OESL) business area and the spin-off of the Automotive group sector. ContiTech may achieve independence by the end of 2026, pending the completion of the required resolutions.

With the anticipated spin-off of its Automotive group sector, Continental has already set the stage for its realignment. The company wants to establish the three group sectors, namely Automotive, ContiTech and Tires, as robust, stand-alone businesses. ContiTech will now function autonomously as a material solutions expert with a strong industrial emphasis. As a result, Continental AG will grow into a multinational tyre firm. The last phase will be to transfer the still-overarching holding functions to Continental AG.

As part of the development, Dr Ariane Reinhart, Director of Labor Relations and Executive Board member for HR and Sustainability, will leave her role on 30 June 2025. With effect from 1 July 2025, Ulrike Hintze will be named Director of Labor Relations and HR Executive Board member. At the same time, she will continue to oversee the HR department for the Tires Group. In addition to Reinhart's responsibilities for IT and Communications, Continental CEO Nikolai Setzer will assume responsibility for Sustainability.

Explaining the Executive Board’s decision, Setzer said, “Over the past 30 years in particular, Continental has used targeted acquisitions and organic growth to build up three strong group sectors in their respective industries. These are now ready for independence. Today’s highly dynamic markets also call for focused, agile and decisive action. Now is therefore the right time to initiate the most far-reaching realignment in the company’s history. We are creating three strong, independent champions that will achieve their full growth and value creation potential as independent companies. I will shape and drive forward Continental’s realignment as CEO until its successful completion. This realignment will benefit all our stakeholders.”

Kraton Corporation, a leading global sustainable producer of specialty polymers and high-value bio-based products derived from pine wood pulping co-products, has announced a general price hike in North America for its SBS, SIS and HSBC product lines with effect from 1 May 2025.

Following a careful analysis of the effects of recently implemented tariffs, related cost increases and a conclusion that the company cannot independently absorb these repercussions, Kraton is adopting these pricing hikes, according to a company statement. The company further said that it will keep an eye on the scene and reassess these measures promptly in the event that conditions and US import tariffs alter.

Trelleborg Tires will showcase its latest tyre solutions for the logistics and material handling industry at the upcoming Intermodal South America 2025, Latin America’s largest and most comprehensive event for logistics, intralogistics, cargo transportation, technology and foreign trade, from 22 to 24 April on booth L100.

Trelleborg's XP1000 tyre is engineered to deliver exceptional performance in terms of comfort, stability, fuel efficiency, durability and mileage. To tackle the demands of today's interlogistics work, this tyre is ideal. By using its unique integrated Pit Stop Line technology, fleet managers can better ensure operator safety and save waste and downtime by knowing when to change their tyres. Locally made, the XP1000 has a cutting-edge tread that is intended to operate sustainably. The tyre's revolutionary fibre composition, which is manufactured from recycled materials, reduces CO2 emissions by up to 110 tonnes annually while saving 866 tonnes of new materials. The new CX940 has an extra-strong casing, an enhanced tread design and a wear-resistant compound that lowers the chance of cuts and punctures. These qualities guarantee great stability, outstanding grip and superior load distribution.

Alessandro Sacco, Sales Director of Trelleborg Tires in South America, said, “Being able to respond quickly and effectively to the specific needs of the South American market is essential. Thanks to our local production, we’re bringing top-quality, high-performance tyres exactly where and when they’re needed. We’re not just supplying products; we’re delivering advanced tyre technology built to match the pace and pressure of today’s logistics. Whether our customers operate in high-intensity ports or dynamic warehouse environments, they can count on Trelleborg Tyres to deliver long-lasting performance while ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness every step of the way.”

The recently launched fifth-generation Pirelli P Zero UHP tyre has claimed the top spot in an independent comparative test conducted by Tyre Reviews for its standout grip, braking and driving comfort.

The new P Zero performed exceptionally well in a variety of categories when tested with a number of top UHP rivals. The tyre led the industry in wet grip and dry braking, and it performed exceptionally well in both wet and dry handling. Tyre reviews highlighted Pirelli's combination of safety, control and ride comfort, praising its excellent performance in real-world scenarios. The new P Zero received the highest ratings for braking, balance and stability in dry weather. Out of all the tyres that were tested, it had the best stopping power. Wet performance was almost as impressive, with the P Zero winning braking tests and demonstrating good resistance to aquaplaning, especially while turning. Tyre Reviews also praised its quiet and cozy ride, calling it one of the smoothest in its class.

The new P Zero is developed using Pirelli’s most sophisticated design procedures to date. During development, engineers employed proprietary algorithms and artificial intelligence technologies, which led to a revised tread shape and structure. The goal of these modifications is to shorten stopping distances and enhance tyre wear over time. Versions featuring Pirelli's Elect technology, a package designed specifically for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, are also available in the range. The company claims that Elect can contribute to a 10 percent increase in driving range.

Kumho Tire’s new ultra-high-performance (UHP) tyre, the ECSTA Sport, has been rated ‘Very Good’ in the latest Die Reifentester summer tyre test.

The tyre size used for testing was 225/40R18. Eight tyre manufacturers participated in the test, including well-known names like Goodyear, Bridgestone, Michelin and Continental. Bridgestone and Continental shared the top rating with Kumho's ECSTA Sport. The wet braking results were one of the test's main features. With a stopping distance of only 23.07 metres at 80 kmph, the ECSTA Sport outperformed every other tyre in the test. It was one of just two tyres – the other being the Continental SportContact 7 – to receive the ‘Very Good’ rating in wet handling. In dry weather, the ECSTA Sport also performed admirably. Die Reifentester gave it a ‘Very Good’ grade for dry handling, comparing it to three competitors of premium brands.

Drivers seeking precision handling, robust safety features and high mileage performance are the target market for the ECSTA Sport. The tyre, which comes in sizes 16 to 22 inches, features a new compound blend that improves high-speed stability and reduces stopping distances.

Matthias Bode, Head of Research and Development Europe at Kumho Tire, said, “We are delighted with this result from Die Reifentester. Kumho ECSTA Sport is designed to offer excellent performance for all motorists, including the most demanding drivers, and this test result is an excellent indication that we are on the right course.”

Tony Gangseung Lee, Head of Europe, said, “This test result demonstrates the commitment of Kumho to developing and producing exceptional tyres which offer excellent value to the driving public. I am delighted to see the team’s hard work being so well rewarded in this independent tyre test as we set new performance benchmarks.”