The global tyre industry has evolved on all fronts.  Tyre manufacturers faced a constant trade-off between meeting productivity goals and increased requirements from the customers and new regulations. Hauvala and his colleagues realised that tyre manufacturers could no longer do everything by themselves in the changing market environment: to design tyres, tyre factories and manufacturing processes in a way that would support the new demands for efficiency. Instead, they should be able to concentrate on their core business. “We had a great vision with true market potential, plus an attractive option to reform the tyre industry,” said Hauvala.

‘We’, that is a key founding team of twelve tyre technology professionals. Hauvala uses the plural form throughout the interview, pinpointing the obvious fact that you cannot change the industry alone. “It is all about ‘collaboration’,” Hauvala stresses.

In 2011, the tyre industry, well known for its strict conventions, was however not ready and waiting for a changemaker. It took long before tyre manufacturers accepted the new service concept and realized its potential business value. “It was the depth of our expertise that convinced the first customers. The fact that we knew the tyre industry from inside out and could provide the whole package under one roof,” Hauvala says

Today, Black Donuts is an established and recognised technology house providing innovative solutions for tyre manufacturers. The concept of turnkey solutions has remained as the company’s key strategic principle. Elaborating the solultion provided by Black Donuts, Hauvala, said, “We are a full-service technology house providing the entyre solutions for designing, building, and running a smart and sustainable tyre plant with maximized productivity and best-in-class products.”

The company’s customer portfolio includes 20 out of the top 25 tyre manufacturers, which a glaring sign of competence and an option to reform the industry. “You need references to be convincing. And you need a network of partners sharing your vision of a brighter future for making it happen,” Hauvala says.

Changes And Challenges In Tyre Production

In last ten years, according to Hauvala, tyre manufacturing has witnessed the diverse challenges, including complex product mixes, shorter product runs, and the pressure for faster deliveries – a myriad of different demands affecting day-to-day factory operation. “ Things are changing at an accelerating pace, and there are no signs of slowing down. From the tyre manufacturers’ perspective, the operational environment has become complicated,” thinks the Black Donuts CEO.

Focusing on core competencies is a clear industry trend. Other operations outside manufacturing high-end products are increasingly being outsourced – aligned with Black Donuts’ original business idea.

Nevertheless, all players regardless of their area of specialization benefit from partnering with a company that understands the entire sector. In the era of ever-tightening cost and efficiency targets, choosing a partner to lead and actualize major investment projects, such as setting up a new factory, has become a mainstream option. “Tyre manufacturers desire a proven and effortless end-to-end service, provided by professionals, whose core competence is to plan and manage investment projects,” he says.

Assuming total responsibility for the production design, ramp-up, and material handling, Black Donuts controls that every detail in the production aligns with the customer’s goals. A shortened payback time creates concrete extra value for the customer. Hauvala says, “Our finetuned processes and advanced technology tools enable a smooth ramp-up. The reduced time-to-market generates faster and greater ROI.”

The rise of automation is another key trend in the tyre manufacturing. Black Donuts helps tyre manufacturers improve productivity and take the required technology leaps towards smart factory efficiency. The company has developed its own MES concept that gives multiple benefits for tyre manufacturers, such as improved insight and the potential for full traceability of tyres in production. The new plant concept also enables a remarkable decrease in stock levels and factory manning. “ In our latest factory design plans, the required manning is only half of the level in the first plans ten years ago,” tells Hauvala.

Also, the end-customer demands are higher now than a decade ago, forcing tyre manufacturers to rethink their business models to live up to the growing expectations.  In the concept of Black Donuts, the manufacturing process is optimized, flexible and efficient despite the increased number of simultaneous products and sizes in production. “With us, the manufacturing process gets new flexibility that enables shorter delivery times,” Hauvala promises.

The Rise Of New Brands

During the past decade, the tyre industry has witnessed a geographic change. The number of brands in the market is growing, just like in any other industry offering low-involvement consumer products. Established international brands get new challengers from local manufacturers offering good quality for moderate prices. “ The interest in tyre production raises its head particularly in the countries of fast economic growth with own raw material sources,” says Hauvala.

Black Donuts has developed a tailored turnkey service for the industry newcomers. It covers the entire solution from A to Z for designing, building and running a tyre plant. “We step in on day one and work hands-on with the customer throughout the process from feasibility study to the market entry. Or beyond, keeping the production and products always in the frontline of tyre technology,” explains Hauvala.

Today, Black Donuts is a genuinely international company with customers on almost every continent except Australia, where there is no domestic tyre manufacturing. “ We don’t have any borders in our minds, but the whole world is our market area. We are fully open to all directions,” says Hauvala.

Quality Leap In Tyre Development

According to Hauvala, a quality leap is the single biggest change in tyre development, driven by a continuing high-performance trend and technological advances. “ The quality of tyres is remarkably higher today,” adds Hauvala.

Black Donuts’ customers get access to the latest technology, the smartest innovations, and the most advanced materials. All the best-in-class product qualities, such as superior performance, lowest rolling resistance and a quiet ride, are at hand. Within the past ten years, the debate about tyre qualities has increasingly shifted to the total environmental impact of the tyre. Parallel to tightening regulations on emissions and rolling resistance, tyre manufacturers are being pushed to enhance the use of biomaterials in tyre compounds and to minimize waste.

“The tyre industry has made remarkable progress in reducing waste, yet compared to many other industries, the use of biomaterials is still in its infancy,” Hauvala admits. He anticipates new regulations to emerge concerning the recyclability of tyres.

In-Built Sustainability

Improvements in tyre manufacturing and development have accelerated over the last decade, spurred by the sharpened focus on environmental issues. The demands for sustainability now concern the entire industry from products to production.

At Black Donuts, sustainability is a strategic driver. The company not only contributes to sustainability in its own operations but also supports its customers and partners in the move. “The ideas of circular economy are inherent in our business philosophy. All our solutions focus on manufacturing excellence and resource efficiency, optimizing biomaterial use, minimizing emissions and maximizing recyclability,” says Hauvala.

Enjoying a comprehensive view of the tyre industry, Black Donuts has a great opportunity to improve overall branch sustainability. The company runs several major investment projects that aim at making the tyre industry greener – one tyre at a time, like Hauvala says.  “All our most important development projects support a more sustainable tyre industry.”

Recently, the company developed a new stud concept that remarkably reduces the negative side effects of safe winter driving. The new, patented technology tackles the environmental challenges of studs, such as road wear, pollution, and noise. Revealing a bit of the company’s future aspirations, Hauvala reports that Black Donuts is also developing a high-end winter tyre for electric cars, doing research in biomaterials, and investigating the usability of recovered carbon black received from an integrated pyrolysis solution. “We are getting closer to zero-emission factories, although it will require dedication, engagement, and collaboration,” Hauvala concludes.

Future-Proofing The Industry

Today, Black Donuts employs over 60 professionals with skills that cover all areas of tyre manufacture and tyre technology. During the 10-year journey, the company has grown, reinforced its skills and recruited new talents from areas outside its original core competences. Hauvala praises the employees for making it possible to celebrate such a significant milestone. “Our team is exceptional. We have great people from diverse backgrounds, working together for a common goal and inspiring each other to make a difference,” says Hauvala proudly.

Although the company has rapidly grown, it has managed to preserve the flexible and agile corporate culture from the early days. In a recent employee survey, team spirit was named as the strongest motivator. “Team spirit is our internal source of power and a strong pillar supporting the whole business.”

According to Hauvala, every team member at Black Donuts shares the same value-adding commitment and passion to help customers and to make the tyre industry an exemplary branch that considers the generations to come. He encourages all players in the industry to prepare for the future, starting today. “ We know the best practices, future challenges, and opportunities in the tyre industry. For us, it is quite simple to evaluate if a tyre business is future-proof or not. Is yours?” (TT)

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Pirelli is set to play a central role as the FIM Superbike World Championship concludes the first half of its season this weekend at Donington Park for the UK Round. Marking the final event before the summer break, the Italian tyre manufacturer has equipped competitors with the softest rear compounds from its 2026 standard range. This selection represents a clear advancement in development from the previous year, when riders were limited exclusively to older specification tyres.

For the premier WorldSBK class, the rear tyre allocation is headlined by the SCQ extrasoft compound, intended primarily for qualifying and the Superpole Race. This option, the softest in Pirelli’s portfolio, has already garnered positive feedback from riders during the Emilia-Romagna Round for its exceptional single-lap pace and consistent performance over a sprint distance. Complementing the SCQ are the SCX supersoft and SC0 soft compounds, while front tyre duties are covered by the standard SC1 soft and SC2 medium solutions, with the softer front being the overwhelming preference of last year’s grid, including triple race winner Toprak Razgatlıoğlu.

The notoriously unpredictable British weather remains a critical variable, with cool morning temperatures and frequent rain showers posing significant challenges for teams. Pirelli’s range has historically demonstrated considerable adaptability across fluctuating track and air temperatures, maintaining reliable grip in both cooler and warmer conditions. To address potential precipitation, the allocation is supplemented by DIABLO Wet intermediate and full DIABLO Rain tyres for both front and rear positions, ensuring competitors have viable options regardless of the elements.

In the supporting categories, WorldSSP riders will retain the SCX and SC0 rear compounds alongside the SC1 and SC2 front options. Meanwhile, the WorldWCR field and the emerging talents of the Yamaha R3 World Cup will also be in action, with both series utilising the Pirelli DIABLO Superbike SC1 tyre on both axles throughout the weekend’s racing programme.

Giorgio Barbier, Pirelli Motorcycle Racing Director, said, “Donington Park is a very distinctive circuit and, in many respects, a unique venue on the FIM Superbike World Championship calendar. The opening part of the lap features a series of fast, flowing corners taken at high speed and rapid changes of direction that require riders to manage significant power while the bike is still heavily leaned over. This demands tyres capable of delivering outstanding grip, precision and stability while maintaining consistent performance over race distance.

"Compared with last year, when only standard range solutions were available and no development specifications were included, this season, while confirming the same compounds introduced in 2025, we will provide riders with the complete 2026 standard range. The SCQ extrasoft compound will be the softest option in the allocation and can be used not only in free practice and qualifying but also, potentially, in the Superpole Race. For the longer races, riders will be able to rely on the SCX supersoft and, should temperatures be lower, the SC0 soft compound – solutions that have already demonstrated throughout the season an excellent balance between outright performance and consistency, as reflected by the many new records that have been set.

"Finally, the weather, which has historically been unpredictable in the UK, will once again be a key factor. Rain and low temperatures, even in the middle of summer, can have a major influence on tyre management and race strategies. Having a complete and versatile range available will therefore be essential to provide the best possible support in any weather conditions.”

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Sri Trang Group has unveiled a comprehensive organisational strategy centred on its ‘Empowering AI’ mission, designed to integrate artificial intelligence across its operations to boost efficiency and foster long-term sustainability. The initiative was formally announced during the company’s flagship annual gathering, the Sri Trang Town Hall 2026, held at the Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort. The event drew over 1,700 participants, including executives such as the Chairman, Group CEO and other board members, alongside employees from domestic and international branches who attended both in person and virtually.

Central to the new vision is the Group’s commitment to leveraging AI and data analytics throughout its entire value chain, supported by a robust Enterprise Data Foundation and an AI Governance framework. These systems are intended to ensure meticulous data management and foster stakeholder confidence. The application of AI is being tailored to optimise specific operational phases, from upstream procurement and production to downstream sales and logistics, aiming for precision in market forecasting, quality control and customer responsiveness.

Parallel to its technological push, Sri Trang is prioritising the development of AI Agents and practical AI Use Cases to accelerate tangible business outcomes. This effort is complemented by a cultural shift towards an ‘AI x Human’ paradigm, preparing the workforce to collaborate effectively with intelligent systems. Concurrently, the Group is reinforcing its dedication to environmental, social and governance principles, focusing on resource efficiency and the management of energy, water, waste and emissions as part of its trajectory towards a Net Zero target.

To support its ESG goals, Sri Trang is enhancing data systems to align with international standards like ISO 14064-1, ensuring accuracy and auditability for better risk management and decision-making. The company is also expanding collaboration with suppliers through its ESG Partner approach to elevate industry standards. This strategic direction underscores Sri Trang Group’s ambition to solidify its status as an innovation-led entity, combining human potential with AI to drive the Thai natural rubber sector towards resilient and sustainable growth on the world stage.

Dr Viyavood Sincharoenkul, Chairman of Sri Trang Group, delivered a keynote address on the vision, stating, “AI will not merely be a tool; it will become part of Sri Trang’s way of working and decision-making. We are building the Sri Trang AI Factory to connect data, technology and people together. AI is not simply a new technology but a major transformation in the way we work and compete in business. As the world accelerates AI adoption, organisations and people that are able to learn, adapt and work effectively with AI will be the ones that gain a competitive advantage and achieve sustainable growth in the future. Our goal is not to have the best AI but to build an organisation where everyone can use AI effectively, supported by trusted data, proper governance and a culture of continuous learning. The success of AI is not measured by the number of systems developed but by the number of people who can work effectively with AI and create value for the organisation.”

Veerasith Sinchareonkul, Group CEO, Sri Trang Group said, “The ‘AI Revolution Without Boundaries’ does not mean bringing in technology to replace our people. Rather, it means using AI to enhance people’s capabilities so that they can work smarter, faster and more efficiently. In essence, the meaning of ‘Empowering AI’ is ‘Empowering People with AI’ empowering our people to grow and move forward through the potential of AI. We believe in the power of collaboration between humans and AI. When AI works alongside people at every level, it helps improve decision-making accuracy, enhance the efficiency of frontline employees, strengthen executive leadership and foster a culture of continuous learning, teamwork and innovation. The future of the organisation is therefore not one in which AI replaces humans, but one in which humans grow together with AI without limits.”

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Michelin has expanded its retail footprint in North India by inaugurating two Michelin Tyres & Services (MTS) outlets, located in Amritsar and Panchkula. The Amritsar location operates through a partnership with National Auto, while the Panchkula facility is a collaboration with Universal Tyres. This development underscores the French tyre giant’s strategy to place its globally recognised products and services within closer reach of consumers in a rapidly developing automotive market.

Each of the new establishments spans 5,000 square feet, situated strategically on Loharka Road and within Panchkula’s Industrial Area. Designed as modern service hubs, they provide a full spectrum of offerings, ranging from passenger car and two-wheeler tyres to advanced wheel alignment and mechanical maintenance. The stores stock renowned product lines such as the Primacy, Pilot Sport and Latitude Sport series, aiming to deliver a premium and seamless experience for vehicle owners.

The selection of Amritsar and Panchkula reflects Michelin’s assessment of their growth potential, driven by tourism, infrastructure projects and a rising number of private vehicle owners. To capitalise on these opportunities, Michelin has aligned with established regional players. National Auto, a trusted entity in Amritsar since 1927, brings a long-standing reputation for quality service, while Universal Tyres contributes over three decades of technical expertise and market knowledge in the Panchkula region.

These partnerships are central to Michelin’s broader objective of delivering superior mobility solutions rooted in safety and durability. By combining its own technological leadership with the local acumen of its partners, the company aims to strengthen its service ecosystem and cater to the evolving demands of the northern Indian automotive sector.

Shantanu Deshpande, Managing Director, Michelin India, said, “North India continues to be a key market in Michelin's growth journey, supported by rising vehicle ownership, improving road infrastructure and growing demand for premium mobility solutions. The launch of our new Michelin Tyres & Services Stores in Amritsar and Panchkula marks another important step in strengthening our retail presence and bringing Michelin's globally benchmarked products and services closer to customers across the region. As we prepare to introduce Made-in-India passenger car tyres, we remain focused on delivering solutions tailored to the evolving needs of Indian consumers.”

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Tyres Europe has issued a formal call for the Industrial Accelerator Act to be revised, urging policymakers to grant greater recognition to the tyre sector’s strategic importance within the continent’s automotive ecosystem. In a newly published position paper, the organisation argues that the current framework insufficiently addresses the industry’s unique contributions and challenges.

The association is advocating for several key amendments, including an expanded scope that acknowledges tyres as critical components in both the replacement and original equipment markets, thereby stimulating demand for EU-manufactured products. Additionally, Tyres Europe proposes the establishment of a Union origin definition that would prioritise European production in public procurement and state-aid schemes. The paper also highlights tyres’ potential to enhance energy efficiency and lower CO2 emissions for light vehicles, while calling for dedicated backing for retreaded and EU-made truck and bus tyres, alongside increased financial mechanisms for industrial decarbonisation and improved governance of manufacturing acceleration zones.

With these targeted modifications, Tyres Europe contends that the Industrial Accelerator Act could effectively foster a market for low-carbon, high-performance tyres produced domestically. Such adjustments would simultaneously bolster competitiveness, support decarbonisation goals and reinforce the overall resilience of Europe’s automotive supply chain.

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