Michelin Retains Crown as World's Most Valuable Tyre Brand

Michelin Retains Crown as World's Most Valuable Tyre Brand

Michelin has secured its position as the world's most valuable tyre brand for the eighth consecutive year, according to the latest Brand Finance report. 

The French manufacturer saw its brand value climb 11 percent to USD 8.8 billion, whilst also achieving the sector's highest Brand Strength Index score of 92.6 out of 100, placing it 15th amongst the strongest brands globally across all industries.

Brand Finance's research indicates Michelin enjoys exceptional familiarity and recommendation metrics across nearly all markets, underpinned by its reputation for quality, innovation and trust. Despite maintaining premium pricing—which can present challenges in price-sensitive segments where consumers struggle to identify the added value of high-end tyres—the brand continues to dominate on quality and reliability metrics.

Japanese firm Bridgestone maintained its second-place ranking with an 8 percent increase in brand value to USD 8.3 billion, bolstered by strong North American performance and ongoing investment in premium electric vehicle tyres.

Continental Tires rounded out the top three despite suffering the largest brand value decline among the top 10 contenders, falling 16 percent to USD 3.9 billion. The German manufacturer's drop reflects weaker 2024 revenue, persistently lower brand strength scores in the US market and a less optimistic outlook.

The combined brand value of the top 25 tyre brands rose 5 percent to USD 38.8 billion, outperforming the largely stagnant wider automotive sector. Industry players are heavily investing in innovations such as green tyre technology, smart RFID-enabled products and EV-specific offerings as vehicle electrification reshapes market demands.

"Tyre brands are driving growth by investing in innovation, digital integration, and EV readiness. Electrification is reshaping product demands, and international competition continues to intensify. Brands that adapt quickly to evolving technologies and shifting global markets are best positioned for future success," said Lorenzo Coruzzi, Director at Brand Finance.

Finnish manufacturer Nokian Tyres emerged as the ranking's fastest-growing brand with a remarkable 31 percent surge to USD 343 million. Within the top 10, Japan's Yokohama achieved the strongest growth, increasing 23 percent to USD1.5 billion, fuelled by record profitability, robust consumer tyre sales and effective pricing strategies.

China's Sailun broke into the top 10 for the first time, displacing Japan's Toyo Tires, which experienced a 4 percent decline to USD 852.1 million.

Toyo Tires Secures CDP ‘A List’ Recognition For Actions Against Climate Change

Toyo Tires Secures CDP ‘A List’ Recognition For Actions Against Climate Change

Toyo Tires has made its way to the annual A-List of CDP for its climate change mitigation efforts. This premier recognition, awarded for the first time to the company in the 2025 evaluation, reflects the company’s comprehensive decarbonisation efforts, which include validated science-based targets for cutting greenhouse gas emissions and a shift towards renewable energy at its production sites. CDP’s annual assessment is a key benchmark for corporate sustainability across climate, water and forests.

The assessment also highlighted Toyo Tires' commitment to transparency, as verified by independent third-party data reviews. Viewing its business activities as intrinsically connected to society and the future, the Toyo Tires Group treats reducing environmental impact as a top operational priority.

Moving forward, the company is dedicated to advancing decarbonization across all its manufacturing processes and broader supply chain, aiming to support a sustainable global society.

Apollo Tyres Expands Vredestein Gravel Tyre Range With Aventura Core Series

Apollo Tyres Expands Vredestein Gravel Tyre Range With Aventura Core Series

Apollo Tyres Ltd has introduced a new and more affordable range of gravel tyres under the Vredestein Aventura Core Series. This new-generation family consists of three distinct models: the Aventura Seta Core, Aventura Core and Aventura Grezzo Core. Engineered in Europe, these tyres are built for enhanced durability and dependable performance across diverse surfaces, offering riders a cost-effective upgrade for adventure biking.

The series is constructed around a streamlined Core platform, which incorporates a robust 60 TPI casing for increased puncture resistance and stable handling on uneven terrain. While utilising the proven tread patterns of existing Vredestein gravel tyres, this refined construction delivers high-end capability at a more accessible price point.

Each model is tailored for specific riding conditions. The Aventura Seta Core is designed for speed, with a race-optimised tread for fast rolling on asphalt and high-speed gravel, complemented by shoulder knobs for technical cornering. For versatile, everyday use, the Aventura Core offers a balanced blend of rolling efficiency and predictable grip across tarmac, hardpack and gravel roads. Finally, the Aventura Grezzo Core provides confidence on loose and rugged terrain, featuring an aggressive tread for enhanced traction in sand and soft surfaces, while its chained centre tread maintains efficiency on harder ground.

The Aventura Core Series will be available starting 1 February 2026. The Aventura Seta Core comes in 40, 45 and 50-622 sizes. The Aventura Core is offered in 50-584 and 40, 45, 50-622 sizes. The Aventura Grezzo Core is available in 50-584 and 40, 45, 50-622 sizes. Colour options include black/black and black/transparent sidewalls.

Nic Knippers, Division Head – Vredestein Two Wheel Tyres, Apollo Tyres Ltd, said, “The Aventura Core Series marks an important expansion of our gravel offering within the Vredestein range. By introducing three purpose-designed tyres built on a shared durable foundation, we can better support riders across the full spectrum of gravel terrain – from high-speed racing to off-road exploration and everyday mixed-surface riding.”

Continental Expands HDR 5 And HSR 5 Tyre Lines With New Size

Continental Expands HDR 5 And HSR 5 Tyre Lines With New Size

Continental Tires Americas has expanded its HDR 5 and HSR 5 19.5-inch product lines with a new 245/70R19.5 size, specifically engineered for urban and regional delivery fleets.

These tyres are built to endure high-scrub environments and the demanding stop-and-go cycles typical of city routes. Key advancements include a reformulated tread compound that reduces rolling resistance for better fuel economy while also extending tread life. The redesigned sidewall enhances durability to support multiple retreads, maximising the value of each tyre casing. Furthermore, both models are validated for use on electric and hybrid vehicles, as well as traditional combustion engines.

This size extension provides a practical option for fleets seeking to improve operational cost-efficiency and tyre longevity under rigorous driving conditions, continuing the proven performance of the existing series with targeted upgrades.

NIRT Silver Jubilee Celebrations Commence In Kottayam

NIRT Silver Jubilee Celebrations Commence In Kottayam

The Silver Jubilee of the National Institute for Rubber Training (NIRT) commenced on the morning of 9 January 2026 at Kottayam's Hevea Hall. Union Minister of State George Kurian formally inaugurated the event, with Member of Parliament K Francis George presiding. Attendees also heard an address from MLA Chandi Oommen.

A wide array of activities marked the inaugural programme. These included unveiling a commemorative monument, honouring former NIRT Directors and recognising student cohorts. Several publications and materials were launched, such as a Silver Jubilee souvenir and tutorial videos for stakeholders. The new jubilee logo was revealed, and a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Rubber Board and the Government of Nagaland.

The ceremony further involved prize distributions for earlier competitions and celebrated the Diamond Jubilee of Rubber magazine. The day's schedule continued with a curated panel discussion and a dedicated exhibition at the NIRT campus.