Firestone, a subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas (Bridgestone), has launched the next generation of its ultra-high-performance summer tyre, the Firehawk INDY 500 V2. This tyre builds upon its predecessor's legacy by incorporating advanced ENLITEN technology, marking its first use in a Firestone ultra-high-performance product. This integration aims to deliver a heightened driving experience while also focusing on sustainable performance and improved fuel efficiency through reduced rolling resistance.

Engineered specifically for sports cars and sedans, the tyre is offered in 65 sizes to accommodate wheel diameters from 16 to 20 inches. It is designed as a fitting match for popular performance models such as the Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Mustang, Dodge Charger and Challenger, Mazda Miata and Nissan 350Z/370Z. The design intent is to translate Firestone's storied IndyCar racing heritage into a tangible driving dynamic for everyday enthusiasts.

Significant technical enhancements define the new V2 model. A revised tread pattern and compound work together to provide sharper steering response and increased cornering stability, fostering a more connected feel between driver and road. Furthermore, the tyre's construction prioritises durability and all-weather capability. Its optimised contact patch and specialised groove design promote even wear for extended tread life while also efficiently channelling water away to maintain reliable wet-weather braking and handling.

This introduction continues the celebration of Firestone's 125th anniversary, reinforcing the brand's commitment to offering dependable, high-value performance. The Firehawk INDY 500 V2 is now available for purchase, presented as a balanced offering that seeks to unite responsive driving excitement with considerations for longevity and environmental efficiency.

Todd Chapman, Senior Manager – Product Strategy, Bridgestone Americas, said, “The new Firehawk INDY 500 V2 tyre is for enthusiasts who dream of the excitement that’s only found behind the wheel. Inspired by the iconic motorsport legacy at Firestone, the Firehawk INDY 500 V2 tyre is designed to deliver the sporty grip and responsive steering that can elevate every drive into an exhilarating adventure, whether on the road or on the circuit.”

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Kuraray America, Inc. marked National STEM Day on 8 November by spotlighting a community educational event that brought together 15 of its volunteers and students from the Houston Japanese Supplementary School at San Jacinto College for a day of hands-on exploration and discovery.

Participants engaged in activities illustrating how science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) converge in chemical manufacturing. Experiments with superabsorbent polymer beads explored chemistry and material properties, while a tour of the college’s facilities introduced industrial equipment. Students also learned about water filtration and distillation processes and how mathematical concepts underpin scientific and engineering applications.

One student showed particular interest in the distillation tower, linking the experience to the Kuraray Group’s contributions to everyday life and its mission of achieving for people and the planet what no one else can. The event also benefited KAI volunteers, who shared technical knowledge, exchanged perspectives and learned alongside potential future scientists and engineers.

Kuraray America thanked Reiko Fuwa and Tomohiro Tani for coordinating the visit, Hans Vandommele for sharing his expertise and all 15 KAI volunteers. The company also expressed appreciation to San Jacinto College for facility access and to the Houston Japanese Supplementary School students for their curiosity, enthusiasm and thoughtful questions.

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Liberty Tire Recycling attended the 2026 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, held from 3–6 November at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The automotive aftermarket event, one of the industry's largest, drew over 160,000 attendees from the automotive, tyre and transportation sectors to review new products, technologies and business opportunities.

The Lakin Tire brand, a consistent SEMA exhibitor, once again used the show to reinforce industry relationships and present Liberty's tyre collection, recycling and sustainable resource management capabilities. Personnel from Grade/Used Tires, Commercial Truck Tires, Metals, Recycling and Collection, together with corporate and regional leadership, met customers, suppliers and industry professionals from around the world.

The booth received existing and prospective customers from numerous tyre and automotive segments during the week. Costco Wholesale Corporate Office, United Tires and UTU Wholesale were among the organisations that stopped by to examine Liberty Tire's products, services and nationwide reach. The company viewed the event as an effective forum for monitoring emerging market trends and demonstrating its position in recycling and sustainability, alongside its focus on innovation, workforce development and circular economy principles.

A memorable moment came when a high school shop teacher and students, attending through a special educator programme, toured the booth to learn about tyre recycling and industry operations. Liberty team members provided industry insights, outlined career pathways and acknowledged educators' contribution to developing future skilled trades professionals, supplying tyre inflation gauges for classroom use.

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Laufenn, Hankook's associate brand, earned a ‘Good’ ratingwith an overall score of 2.2 for its G Fit 4S in the Auto Bild Allrad all-season SUV tyre test published on 8 October 2026 (issue 41). The tyre competed credibly against 11 rivals from established premium marques, finishing competitively in a 12-strong field.

Wet handling proved a particular strength, with the G Fit 4S collecting the second-highest rating shared with other models. Aquaplaning resistance also impressed, as the tyre held its line until stability began to fade at roughly 100 kmph (62 mph). In snow, it recorded the third-shortest braking distance, matching two other contenders.

Testing spanned snow, wet and dry disciplines, each weighted equally in the final ranking, with a third-generation MINI Countryman serving as the test vehicle. Snow assessments were carried out in New Zealand, while European venues hosted the wet and dry evaluations. The jury's conclusion underscored Laufenn's value-focused positioning, finding the G Fit 4S a solid option for cost-conscious buyers.

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Tyres Europe has underscored that tyres qualify as fully recyclable under ISO 22628:2002 and UN Regulation No. 133, describing the established methodology as a robust foundation for assessing tyre recyclability. The organisation recently set out its position on the matter.

The distinction between recyclability and actual recycling rates is central to the group's argument. Recyclability refers to the technical potential of a product and its materials to be recycled, while the real rate hinges on treatment capacity and demand for secondary raw materials. Regulatory frameworks should therefore separate the two concepts clearly and align with an internationally recognised standard.

Tyres consist of rubber compounds, chemical additives and reinforcing textile and steel cords, and at end of life they are separated into rubber, textile and steel fractions, all of which existing mechanical or chemical routes can recycle. Mechanical processing yields rubber granules and powders usable as secondary raw materials across many applications, recovered textiles can be further processed and valorised, and cleaned recovered steel can re-enter metal recycling and steelmaking.

Tyres Europe pledged continued cooperation with policymakers and value-chain partners to strengthen circularity and maximise recovery of valuable tyre materials in Europe, with the full paper available on its website.

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