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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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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