The praised solution has been in use at Eurl Saterex-Iris in Algeria since autumn 2019. Eurl Saterex-Iris is the third biggest tyre manufacturing plant in Africa, serving both local and export markets. The modern plant was mainly designed and constructed by Black Donuts Engineering and its international partner network. Black Donuts is also responsible for production management, which applies the core principles of Lean Management and focuses on reducing the interim stocks to the bare minimum according to the pull method. To enhance this, the company developed an RFID-based electronic eKanban solution together with Toptunniste.

“The eKanban project started from a need to improve production management. The first acute challenge we met was the lack of adequate and accurate information on the overall production status,” Solution Manager Aki Nurminen recalls.

Originally, there were nine Kanban boards located all over the two-floor factory. One had to check each board manually, so it took time and effort to capture a complete view of the production status.

Another deficit concerned the insufficient information provided on manufacturing schedules. The old Kanban boards did not give enough information on when certain materials were supposed to be in production.

The returned cards included no accurate time markings, so it was hard to stay updated, notice stock alerts and to respond on time.

Real-time production status

New technology was needed to solve the problem. It became clear that initiating remote monitoring would require electronic boards instead of the traditional ones. Black Donuts contacted another Finnish technology company, Toptunniste, to present the idea and search for a way to actualise it. The solution was simple: adding RFID features to an existing Kanban board would upgrade it to a more accurate, more informative, and easy-to-use eKanban board. Next, the old cards were replaced by RFID tagged cards, readable through RFID technology.

Now, all nine eKanban boards are online in Saterex’s internal data system and easily monitored from any computer. Consequently, an up-to-date overall view of the entire production is now always at hand.

The eKanban solution enables better and real-time tracking of overall production status and enhances the supervision of production processes.

It adds the time markings automatically to each card on return, keeps account, and establishes automatic triggers to replenish stock when predefined minimums are reached for each inventory item.

The system also calculates and presents the estimated time left before reaching the pre-defined minimum of each item in the downstream processes. This is the lens that helps us prioritize and schedule the production runs.

Optimised processes

The new eKanban boards were taken into use at Saterex tyre plant in fall 2019. For the users operating in the production lines, the new solution has not brought any changes in their daily routines, but the Kanban boards are used the same way as before. For the supervisors and factory management, the new system enables a remote and real-time view of the production status through a web interface.

The new solution helps in prioritizing the tasks and shortens the reaction time to different problems arising in production. eKanban is also a great planning tool, as it gives us a complete process overview, Aki explains.

The eKanban system gets all the production information it needs straight from the company’s MES, where the daily consumption levels of each process, as well as the minimum and maximum storage levels, are defined. Separate eKanban views, visualizing the interim storage levels, can be reviewed through MES which enables effective inventory management.

The eKanban solution is designed for tracking the production, not to automatically assign anything. It is always the team, the people, who make the decisions based on the information they receive. However, the solution helps to improve tracking and optimizing operations, Aki says.

Advanced work management

Moreover, the eKanban solution enhances work management.

Compared to manual Kanban systems, eKanban gives additional information on storage unit rotations, events and even stock rotation history. It is valuable information for both follow-ups and for managing transportation activities and best working methods. Earlier, the material transportation could idle, and the return of cards to the Kanban boards be irregular, which caused various scheduling challenges, stockouts and unexpected changes in demand.

It was nearly impossible to find the root cause for problems and consequently improve it. Thanks to the digitised solution, we can now track every event, which supports work development and feedback giving.

While the manual Kanban boards already gave a good boost for companies in optimizing production, the new eKanban solution brings monitoring, tracking and optimizing to a remarkably higher level.

eKanban is an excellent example of how we can improve proven old methods during digital transformation.

eKanban was designed to add a remarkable value to the supply chain support operations. This was accomplished by optimizing cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and the movement of materials. Currently, Aki’s team is already developing the next generation eKanban solution, one without any physical cards or printed labels and boards. This will serve the needs of the highest automation solutions, which require visual identification instead of manual labelling or printed cards.

The operators do not even need to touch the storage units anymore, but the Electronic Shelf Label (ESL) completes the visual identification. Electronic Shelf Label is automatically updated during the manufacturing processes and events referring to RFID identifications and data communication. This way, the labels are never missing, old or wrong, and they are readable in all occasions and all the time, Aki explains.

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TyreSafe, UK’s charity dedicated to raising tyre safety awareness, has forged a new alliance with Sheffield City Council aimed at elevating tyre safety awareness among the city's motorists. This initiative specifically targets Sheffield’s substantial student demographic and its numerous newly qualified drivers, recognising their particular vulnerability on the roads.

Sheffield's urban transport network accommodates over 1.7 billion vehicle miles annually, predominantly through short, daily commutes that exert significant stress on tyres. The city's diverse vehicle fleet includes a notable proportion of older or shared cars, which underscores the critical necessity for regular tyre maintenance. The collaboration will promote straightforward, preventative checks focusing on air pressure, tread depth and overall tyre health.

This partnership will weave tyre safety education into various local road safety campaigns, aiding the Council's broader objectives to diminish casualties on city roads. By instilling good vehicle maintenance habits early, especially among learners and students, the programme aims to foster lifelong safety practices. This concerted effort supports the Council's ongoing mission to reduce the number of individuals killed or seriously injured on Sheffield's thoroughfares.

Stuart Lovatt, Chair of TyreSafe, said, “In a city like Sheffield, where traffic density is high and journeys are frequent, making sure tyres are properly maintained is essential. By partnering with Sheffield City Council, we can reinforce these vital safety messages and encourage road users to make tyre checks part of their regular routine.”

Cllr Alexi Dimond, Chair of the Transport, Regeneration and Climate Policy Committee at Sheffield City Council, said, “Tyre safety is a fundamental part of road safety, but it’s something many road users – particularly those newer to driving and riding – don’t always remember to check. I’m pleased to announce this new partnership with TyreSafe, which will help ensure that practical tyre safety advice reaches road users at all stages. This scheme will give them the knowledge and confidence to keep vehicles safe and roadworthy in all weather conditions. Tyre safety can help reduce collisions and contribute to Vision Zero: our ambition to have no fatalities on Sheffield’s roads.”

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Atturo Tires has entered into a multiyear agreement to serve as the exclusive tyre brand for Mecum Auctions, the host of the World’s Largest Collector Car Auction. This strategic alliance positions Atturo at the heart of a dedicated automotive community that includes collectors, builders and daily drivers who value performance, style, durability and affordability – principles that have guided the tire manufacturer since its inception in 2009.

As the category-exclusive tyre sponsor for Mecum’s 2026-27 auction calendar, Atturo will benefit from extensive branding and promotional integration. This includes visibility across live events, television broadcasts, digital platforms, print media and social channels, all aimed at increasing brand recognition among consumers who actively seek Atturo products through dealerships.

The auction’s diverse lineup of muscle cars, luxury vehicles and off-road models aligns perfectly with Atturo’s target audience, showcasing Trail Blade and AZ tyres alongside enthusiast favourites. To support its dealer network, Atturo will provide co-brandable materials, event photography and sponsorship talking points via the dealer portal, reinforcing the brand’s national presence and its message of accessible performance.

Michael Mathis, President, Atturo Tires, said, “Mecum's audience is our audience. The people who show up to watch a Challenger cross the block or a built Bronco roll through the lot are the same drivers who trust Atturo on their daily vehicle, their weekend build and everything in between. This partnership puts our Trail Blade and AZ lines directly in front of them – and gives our dealer network another example of how Atturo is becoming the best-known private brand in the country.”

Breeann Poland, Director – Marketing and Communications, Mecum, said, “Mecum Auctions is excited to join forces with Atturo Tires by bringing them on as our official and exclusive tyre partner. Atturo has earned a reputation for delivering high-quality tyres for automotive enthusiasts of every kind, from racers and off-road enthusiasts to the everyday driver and weekend cruiser. That diverse range of customers they serve makes Atturo an excellent choice for our equally wide-ranging Mecum community.”

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Avon Tyres has expanded its motorcycle tyre portfolio with the introduction of 11 new specifications across its Cobra Chrome, Spirit ST and 3D Supersport product lines. The release comprises seven completely new sizes and four established dimensions that have been technically refined to broaden vehicle compatibility. This strategic enlargement is designed to align the company’s offerings more closely with contemporary market demands.

The most substantial growth occurs within the Cobra Chrome family, which accounts for seven of the new entries. Four pre-existing sizes have received upgrades, including enhanced load and speed ratings or a construction shift to bias belted technology, aimed at delivering superior stability and wet-weather braking for cruiser riders. Additionally, three entirely new sizes have been introduced, extending fitment to popular models such as the Harley-Davidson Fat Boy, Sport Glide, Low Rider S and ST, alongside the current Honda GL1800 Gold Wing series.

To address the needs of younger commuters who often depend on their motorcycles as primary transport, Avon has launched Spirit ST sizes in 110/70ZR17 and 150/60ZR17. These dimensions are tailored for a variety of small to medium-displacement machines released over the past decade, with the tyre’s advanced tread compound and extended mileage characteristics making it a suitable option for daily use.

Finally, the 3D Supersport range gains two new fitments: a 120/60ZR17 front and a 190/50ZR17 rear. These additions are aimed at owners of older sports bikes and roadsters, as well as riders of contemporary Japanese sport-touring motorcycles, allowing them to benefit from the tyre’s refined handling dynamics and superior grip characteristics.

Don Argento, Manager Motorcycle Sales & Marketing North America, Avon Tyres, said, “These latest additions are designed not only to enhance the riding experience for our loyal customers but also to reach the next generation of riders by expanding fitment across the models they ride most. Avon Tyres remains committed to delivering unparalleled quality and ability, and it is exciting to extend the availability of three of our most popular road tyre ranges to an even broader selection of motorcycles. With its distinctive design and proven performance, Cobra Chrome continues to complement cruisers and tourers in both curb appeal and riding experience, and these new size additions represent a significant step forward for the range.”

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Goodyear Racing has retained its three-star rating within the FIA’s Environmental Accreditation Programme for 2026, securing the highest possible distinction for environmental management in motorsport. The renewal affirms that the company’s racing division operates at best-practice standards, as defined by the governing body of world motor sport and mobility organisations.

The renewed status follows an accelerated push by Goodyear to embed sustainability throughout its racing operations, spanning manufacturing, product development, logistical support and on-track activities. Auditors confirmed top-level commitment to environmental goals, supported by an integrated management system ensuring consistent implementation and ongoing refinement.

Goodyear Racing EMEA’s portfolio, including its role as official tyre supplier for the FIA World Endurance Championship, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the European Le Mans Series and the Goodyear FIA European Truck Racing Championship, falls under the accreditation. Initiatives include renewable electricity at Hanau and Colmar-Berg facilities, ISO certifications, single-specification tyre strategies, increased virtual simulation, retreading practices and a take-back system diverting tyres from landfill.

These measures support long-term targets of 100 percent renewable energy in manufacturing by 2040 and net-zero emissions across its value chain by 2050. Recent innovations include the 2027-generation EAGLE racing tyres with 66 percent sustainable materials for LMGT3 and a truck racing specification featuring up to 60 percent sustainable content.

Originally awarded the three-star FIA accreditation in 2024, Goodyear continues using motorsport as a testing ground for sustainable technologies. The latest developments demonstrate a strategic vision where racing accelerates innovations that transition to road applications, showing measurable progress and enduring commitment.

Xavier Fraipont, Vice-President, Goodyear Racing, said, “Renewing the FIA’s highest level of environmental accreditation is a strong validation of the progress we have made in embedding sustainability across our racing operations. Over the past years, we have focused our efforts at every level – from how we design and manufacture our tyres to how we operate at the track. Crucially, we are proving that there is no trade-off between performance and a more responsible approach: the two go hand in hand. Motorsport has always been a driver of innovation, and today it also plays a key role in advancing more sustainable mobility. We remain fully committed to building on this progress together with our partners, continuing to push the boundaries of both performance and sustainability.”

Marek Nawarecki, Senior Circuit Sport Director, FIA, said, "Goodyear's renewed Three-Star Accreditation reflects exactly the kind of sustained, credible commitment the FIA Environmental Accreditation Programme is designed to recognise. By embedding sustainability from manufacturing through to trackside operations, Goodyear has demonstrated measurable, lasting progress. It's encouraging to see this level of commitment from a key partner in both the FIA World Endurance Championship and the Goodyear FIA European Truck Racing Championship.”

Pierre Fillon, President, Automobile Club de l’Ouest, said, “We would like to warmly congratulate Goodyear on the renewal of its FIA Three-Star Environmental Accreditation, the highest level of recognition within the FIA’s Environmental Accreditation Programme. This achievement reflects the commitment of a major partner of endurance racing, demonstrating that performance and a more responsible approach can progress together. Alongside the ACO, Goodyear plays an important role in developing innovative solutions for motorsport. Endurance racing has always been a laboratory for progress. It must continue to be so, not only in terms of performance but also in supporting the transformation of mobility. This is the spirit of our collaboration with Goodyear.”

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