Giti Tire recently hosted an immersive event at its Hefei R&D Centre for its distributor and dealer network, moving far beyond a simple meeting to deliver a hands-on masterclass in future mobility. The core experience was a guided tour through Giti's Innovation Hub, where specialised zones deconstructed the entire tyre development journey. Partners witnessed firsthand the advanced materials, EV-specific engineering and rigorous motorsport-grade testing processes that form the foundation of Giti's collaborations with leading global automakers.

The event physically manifested this innovation with two pivotal showcases. Guests received a rare, hands-on examination of the Giti Flexcore (Airless) Technology, a concept designed for ultimate safety and sustainability by eliminating punctures. Furthermore, they experienced the cutting edge of automotive performance firsthand by entering the cabin of the YANGWANG U9X, a premier electric supercar, engaging directly with its advanced technology and premium construction.

This carefully curated experience was designed to demonstrate how Giti meticulously engineers, challenges and validates ideas long before production. By providing this transparent look into their technological ecosystem, Giti reinforced its role not just as a supplier but as a strategic partner invested in shared growth. The event served to align the network with the brand's forward trajectory, firmly establishing Giti’s commitment to co-shaping the future of mobility through tangible innovation and deepened collaboration.

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Apollo Tyres Ltd recently marked the seventh edition of EK NAAM, its flagship programme dedicated to recognising and uplifting women entrepreneurs from underserved communities. The initiative, launched in 2019, has evolved into a significant platform that celebrates grassroots women leaders who drive community transformation and inclusive development through their resilience and vision. By spotlighting their achievements, Apollo Tyres reinforces its commitment to fostering gender equity and enabling sustainable livelihoods.

At this year’s ceremony, eight remarkable women were honoured as EK NAAM Change Agents for their outstanding leadership and entrepreneurial spirit. The awardees included Sahida Beevi, Seemamol S, Meera Appa, Pinki Ji, Manjulaben Patel, Kavita Ji, Gohil Dakshaben and Bahamuni Kisku. Their recognition followed targeted support and collaboration between Apollo Tyres and its NGO partners, underscoring the impact of structured interventions in empowering women at the grassroots level.

The event featured notable voices who enriched the discourse on equity and inclusion. Gregor Trumel, Counsellor for Cooperation and Cultural Affairs and Director of The French Institute in India, spoke on the importance of diversity in strengthening societies and international partnerships. R Mahalakshmi, Chief Human Resources Officer at Apollo Tyres, reiterated the organisation’s dedication to inclusive growth, emphasising that supporting women entrepreneurs is essential for lasting community progress. A special interaction with Anjum Chopra, former captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, offered the audience valuable perspectives on leadership and determination.

The occasion also saw Apollo Tyres Foundation reaffirm its strategic alliance with Saral Jeevan India Foundation and Frontier Markets, aimed at expanding economic opportunities for rural women through digital platforms. Ajaita Shah, Founder and CEO of Frontier Markets, highlighted the vital role of women-led enterprises in fostering grassroots economic development. Additionally, a panel discussion titled ‘Justice in Action: Advancing Equity for Inclusive Futures’ called for moving beyond conversation to concrete systemic change, ensuring fairness and access for marginalised groups by embedding equity into policy and practice.

Through EK NAAM, Apollo Tyres continues to advance its sustainability goals in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, positioning women as key drivers of change and community resilience.

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Bandag has taken a significant step forward in its UK growth strategy by welcoming Scotland’s largest independent tyre retreader into its franchise network. The new partnership with Alba Tyre Management Ltd marks a pivotal moment for both companies and strengthens Bridgestone’s footprint in the region.

Based in Kilbirnie, near Glasgow, Alba was established in 2004 and has built a strong reputation as a leading supplier of premium retreaded truck tyres and new tyres across all vehicle classes. The company manages around 60,000 tyres currently in service on Scottish roads and delivers comprehensive local, national, and mobile fitting services. With 26 employees, the business now looks to expand further after becoming a Bandag Cornerstone Franchisee.

A central element of the agreement includes the installation of new retreading equipment, such as a Bandag builder machine, which is projected to boost annual production by at least 2,000 additional retread units initially. This growth in capacity is also expected to lead to job creation in the near future.

The decision to join Bandag was largely driven by the integrated offering from Bridgestone, which combines high-quality casing supply, established fleet partnerships, and advanced mounted wheel programmes. Few manufacturers can deliver such a complete package. Furthermore, Alba will implement BASys, Bridgestone’s digital tracking system, enabling full visibility of each casing throughout its lifecycle – from collection and retreading to final refitment. This end-to-end solution positions Alba for a new phase of operational growth and service excellence.

David Wilson, Operations Director, Alba, said, “This partnership gives us a full front-to-end provision of services. From premium Bridgestone casing supply to access to their new tyre range, data, fleet programmes and mounted wheel offering, it’s a complete solution. For us, we will never get into a war about price. We’re about premium quality and delivering a circular, joined-up approach for commercial fleets. With Bandag sharing our philosophy, the growth potential is huge.”

Mike Howling, Bandag Service Operations Business Partner, said, “We are overjoyed to attract Alba to Bandag, who will play a strategic role in the success of our brand for many years to come. The only limiting factor is our imagination. We wanted a footprint in Scotland, and could not wish for a better partner than ALBA. Alba has established the marketplace in Scotland, but in working together, we both believe the business can grow significantly. We can build a very strong partnership together. We have an entrepreneur in Alba and their enthusiasm and vision for the future is something that we are all extremely excited about.

“Our Bandag model is built on three pillars: premium Bridgestone casing supply, longstanding commercial fleet partnerships and a network of experienced, locally based dealers, which is where Alba comes into its own. We’re not about quantity but quality franchise partners who share our passion and ambition for the future. With Alba now firmly embedded within the network, we have a formidable presence north of the border – and our global expertise, digital traceability and premium product engineering can only provide additional strength in the months and years to come.”

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Continental has unveiled the Terra Competition, a significant new addition to its Terra tyre line and the brand's fastest gravel tyre to date. Designed to excel across mixed surfaces, this model aims to dissolve the traditional boundaries between pure road cycling and gravel exploration, catering to riders who prioritise speed and performance on diverse terrain.

The tyre features a meticulously engineered tread pattern suited for rough pavement, compacted dirt and light gravel, particularly in dry to moderately damp conditions. A nearly solid central strip ensures minimal rolling resistance for sustained speed on straights, while pronounced shoulder knobs provide reliable traction when cornering off-road. This design reflects a dual-purpose philosophy, balancing efficiency on tarmac with capability on loose surfaces.

Recognising the varied demands of gravel riding, Continental offers the Terra Competition in two distinct casing options. The Race version, paired with the Rapid compound, is tailored for those seeking maximum velocity and swift acceleration on both flats and climbs. In contrast, the Trail casing utilises the Grip compound and a sturdier single-ply construction, delivering enhanced durability, puncture resistance and ground compliance for more technical off-road sections. Both variants incorporate a textile breaker beneath the tread for added protection and feature the brand's proprietary BlackChilli rubber compound. Furthermore, both models are designed to be Tubeless Ready and compatible with hookless rims.

For the first time in the Terra series, aerodynamic efficiency was a primary development goal. The Terra Competition offers notable performance gains, including a weight reduction of up to 16 percent – with the 35-622 Race version tipping the scales at just 345 grammes – and a decrease in rolling resistance of up to 17 percent when compared to the 35-622 Terra Speed. The tyre is available in 35, 40 and 45-millimetre widths, each offered in both Race and Trail casings to suit a wide spectrum of riding styles and surfaces.

Alexander Haenke, Product Manager – MTB and Gravel, Continental Tyres, said, “We set out to create the Terra Competition for riders who don’t want to choose between road speed and off-road capability. As more riders mix surfaces and push performance, the demand for a fast, yet versatile tyre continues to grow. Terra Competition delivers that balance, combining efficiency on tarmac with the confidence needed when the route turns to gravel.”

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ZC Rubber has announced the extension and expansion of its successful partnership with the Red Bull Driftbrothers. Through this collaboration, the Chinese tyre manufacturer, under its Westlake Performance Tyres brand, serves as the official tyre and equipment partner for the renowned German motorsport team. The partnership primarily focuses on equipping the team’s fleet of BMW vehicles used in competitions, show drifts and exhibitions. This fleet now features a newly constructed BMW M2 built for the 2026 season, alongside two 1,000-horsepower BMW M4 models and a classic BMW E30 used as a show car.

Beyond vehicle supply, the partnership is deeply rooted in joint technological development. Engineers, drivers and team members from both ZC Rubber and the Red Bull Driftbrothers work closely to enhance tyre performance. Their collaborative efforts have led to the latest innovation, the improved Westlake Sport RS2. This next-generation high-performance competition tyre offers precise handling, maximum stability and consistently high-level performance across all temperatures and throughout the entire tread depth. Enthusiasts and end customers can also look forward to this product, as it will be available through ZC Rubber’s retail partners.

The 2026 season promises an extensive programme for the Red Bull Driftbrothers, featuring selected rounds of the Drift Masters European Championship and a spectacular show as part of the supporting programme at the ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring in May. Further joint appearances are planned at major industry events, including The Tire Cologne in June and the Essen Motor Show in late November, where both partners will showcase their ongoing collaboration and innovations.

Jeffrey Zhang, General Manager – International Business Department, Zhongce Rubber Group, said, “We are excited to continue our partnership with the Red Bull Driftbrothers. The experience of Elias and the constructive exchange with his team are extremely valuable for technology and the performance of our products. This is demonstrated very clearly in the development of the Westlake Sport RS2. The demanding drift sport is also an excellent platform for illustrating the performance of our tyres. We look forward to the joint events, where we intend to activate our partnership for the European market.”

Elias Hountondji, driver and engineer of the Red Bull Driftbrothers, said, “Having a reliable and high-performance tyre partner is enormously important in our sport. With ZC Rubber, we have had such a partner at our side since last year and are very pleased to continue the cooperation. Together, we have further optimised the rubber compound of the Westlake Sport RS2. The result is a high-performance tyre that we can rely on one hundred percent, even under extreme loads, to ensure that the level of grip does not drop. The fact that the tyre will soon also be available to customers makes us even more delighted.”

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