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.”

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Michelin has introduced its next-generation MICHELIN X MULTI Z2 and D2 19.5-inch tyres, engineered specifically for the rigors of regional and urban transport. Designed for both steer and drive axles, these tyres are built to master the unique challenges of frequent, short-to-mid-distance delivery routes, providing exceptional safety and versatile performance across all weather and road conditions throughout the year.

Available in multiple sizes, including 285/70R19.5 from June 2025, followed by 245/70R19.5 and 265/70R19.5 from September 2025, this new line is approved for most global markets. It delivers a compelling combination of benefits aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing operational costs for fleet managers. A key advantage is significantly enhanced mileage, with the tyres offering up to 30 percent more mileage on the steer axle and 15 percent more on the drive axle compared to the previous generation, leading to fewer replacements and lower operating expenses.

Safety is paramount, demonstrated by outstanding long-lasting braking performance. An internal test supervised by DEKRA in June 2025 revealed that when worn to 3.5 mm, these tyres achieved wet braking distances up to eight metres shorter than key competitors, a critical advantage for navigating congested urban and suburban areas. Their all-season capability is certified by the 3PMSF marking, guaranteeing consistent handling and safety in any condition. Furthermore, the tyres feature enhanced robustness and retreadability thanks to innovative Duracoil technology that ensures a more durable, longer-lasting casing to minimise unplanned downtime.

The line also addresses economic and environmental concerns with optimised rolling resistance, classified as Class C. This efficiency can save users an average of EUR 705 per truck annually and reduce CO2 emissions by as much as one tonne per truck each year. Recognising the shift in the industry, these tyres are designed for electric vehicle compatibility. With higher load indices in specific sizes, they can bear the additional weight of batteries, supporting up to 6.3 tonnes per axle and meeting the specific demands of electric trucks.

This product launch is strategically timed to address the growing complexities of last-mile delivery, a phase characterised by congested city centres, stringent environmental regulations and stressful driving conditions that include frequent braking and navigating low-emission zones. The MICHELIN X MULTI Z2 and D2 tyres are positioned as a comprehensive solution, offering fleet managers and drivers peace of mind through high mileage, superior braking, all-weather versatility and high load capacity, all while helping to control costs and ensure optimal safety.

Underpinning this innovation is Michelin’s substantial investment in research and development, exceeding one billion euros annually, supported by over 12,000 active patents. The tyre incorporates three core proprietary technologies. Duracoil technology uses a high-quality nylon reinforcement on the bead wire to protect the casing, ensuring greater stability and a longer lifespan. Powercoil technology employs new, lighter yet more robust steel cables that improve rust resistance and enable the increased load capacity vital for electric vehicles. Finally, the award-winning Regenion technology utilises self-regenerating tread sculptures, produced via 3D metal printing, to maintain optimal grip and tread longevity while also contributing to reduced fuel consumption.

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Falken has launched its new EUROALL SEASON AS220 tyre, a versatile all-season option developed for compact cars, mid-size sedans and SUVs. This model is the first to carry the innovative VARIO CORE label, a comprehensive technical seal that represents the culmination of Falken's latest advancements.

The VARIO CORE standard integrates next-generation technologies tailored for the diverse demands of modern vehicles, including traditional petrol and diesel engines as well as battery electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid models. This unified approach encompasses breakthroughs in lightweight construction, tread design, advanced materials and aerodynamics to ensure year-round driving confidence.

The core of the AS220's performance is its sophisticated Chaotic Array tread pattern, engineered to provide reliability in varying weather. For enhanced wet-weather safety, specialised Hydro Grooves efficiently channel water away, which helps minimise aquaplaning risks while promoting greater stability and shorter braking distances. In winter conditions, Snow Compaction Grooves embedded within the tread capture snow to form additional biting edges, thereby improving traction on snowy surfaces. A carefully considered Chamfered Block Design further optimises handling by evenly distributing forces across the tyre’s surface, ensuring predictable control and braking response.

Beyond the tread, the AS220 features a sidewall that has been aerodynamically profiled to aid high-speed stability and contribute to a modern aesthetic. The tyre is constructed with a temperature-stabilised compound, ensuring consistent performance and grip whether in summer heat or winter cold. This durability is supported by the use of energy-efficient and wear-resistant polymers. Available in 65 sizes ranging from 15 to 20 inches, the tyre has achieved EU Tyre Label ratings of B-C for rolling resistance, B for wet grip and A-B for external rolling noise. Backing its robust construction, the EUROALL SEASON AS220 is protected by Falken’s standard five-year guarantee, reinforcing the brand's commitment to long-term reliability.

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The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has embarked on a new chapter in its storied racing history with the creation of a unified Global Racing organisation. This strategic initiative consolidates all of the company's motorsport operations into a single, worldwide structure, reinforcing its deep commitment to performance and innovation both on the track and in its commercial products.

To lead this new entity, Xavier Fraipont has been appointed Vice President of Global Racing, effective 1 October. Fraipont brings nearly 30 years of combined experience in both racing and product development within the Goodyear family. His extensive background is expected to be instrumental in evolving the company's motorsport strategy. He will be responsible for guiding the strategic direction of the global racing efforts and ensuring they are fully aligned with Goodyear's broader product and brand vision. A key part of his role will be to unify the teams currently supporting premier series like NASCAR, NHRA, the World Endurance Championship and the British Touring Car Championship into one cohesive unit.

To ensure tight integration between technical innovation and marketing, Fraipont will report jointly to Senior Vice President and Chief Technical Officer Chris Helsel and Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Will Roland. This reporting structure is designed to foster seamless collaboration.

The heart of Goodyear's racing legacy continues to be the iconic Eagle tyre, a symbol of performance and reliability that sets the standard across numerous racing disciplines. Backed by over a century of motorsport heritage, this new global organisation is a future-focused strategy aimed at fuelling technological innovation, enhancing brand impact and driving strategic growth throughout the entire company.

Helsel said, "Goodyear has been synonymous with car racing since the very beginning of our history. With Xavier's deep expertise and leadership at the helm, we're advancing our commitment to innovation – enhancing performance and elevating our competitive edge worldwide."

Roland said, "Motorsport is a central pillar of our brand strategy. It's where our technology, performance and brand identity converge. The best and fastest tyres in the world have Goodyear written all over them, and racing provides the ultimate proving ground – demonstrating the speed, precision and reliability that define our products."

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A recent all-season tyre test conducted by the German publication AutoBild (Issue 39/2025) has positioned the Sailun Atrezzo 4Seasons Ultra as a highly competitive product with a ‘Good’ rating, signalling a major achievement in Sailun's technological progress. The evaluation particularly highlighted the tyre's strong safety attributes, noting its short braking distances on both wet and dry roads, which is essential for secure daily driving. Furthermore, the tyre demonstrated above-average resistance to cornering aquaplaning, providing drivers with increased confidence in challenging rain-soaked conditions.

These results are driven by Sailun's innovative engineering, which includes a specialised pattern design and EcoPoint³ technology to ensure reliable performance in varying temperatures. Features like wide directional grooves improve water dispersal for safer wet braking, while advanced materials reduce abrasion and balance year-round grip. Additionally, a refined structural design minimises noise, ensuring comfort for both traditional and electric vehicles across a wide range of available sizes.

Beyond performance, the test underscored the tyre's exceptional economic value. By combining a long service life with an attractive purchase price, the Atrezzo 4Seasons Ultra achieves an excellent cost-per-kilometre ratio. This economic benefit is complemented by low rolling resistance, which enhances fuel efficiency and contributes to lower CO₂ emissions.

Harry Wang, General Manager, Sailun Tyre Europe, said, “The results of the AUTO BILD test confirm our commitment to offering drivers in Europe a safe, high-performing and cost-efficient tyre solution. With the Sailun 4Seasons Ultra, we offer what we call smart performance and we are delighted that the Auto Bild testers confirm this with a ‘good’ result.”

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