Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin inaugurated a USD 3.6 million innovation facility at Madras Christian College, marking the state’s latest move to position itself as India’s next startup hub, according to The Hindu Business Line.

The 45,000-square-foot MCC-MRF Innovation Park, funded by tyre manufacturer MRF’s foundation arm, represents the first such centre established at an arts and science college in India, according to Stalin at the opening ceremony.

The facility will focus on emerging technologies, including business analytics, nanomaterials, and digital healthcare solutions. It aims to support Tamil Nadu’s target of nurturing over 5,000 startups in the coming years. The state government sees the centre playing a crucial role in economic development through startup creation.

“This collaboration exemplifies how institutional partnerships can create lasting opportunities,” said KM Mammen, who serves as both MRF’s chairman and head of the MCC Association board. The centre will provide “access to advanced resources, expert mentorship, and opportunities to transform ideas into impactful solutions,” he added.

Beyond its research focus, the facility includes an amphitheatre and dedicated spaces for academic and cultural events, positioning it as a comprehensive innovation ecosystem.

European tractor tyre sales are expected to grow from USD 624 million in 2023 to USD 762 million by 2029, driven by increased farm mechanisation and environmental regulations, said ResearchAndMarkets.com in its research report.

The market is growing at 3.38 percent annually, with France and Germany leading sales. These two countries account for nearly 30 percent of agricultural tractors registered in Europe.

Key market trends include:

Technology advances

Manufacturers are developing smarter tyres with built-in monitoring systems. Bridgestone and other companies are investing in research to improve traction and durability while reducing environmental impact. Some firms are exploring 3D printing and sustainable materials like Guayule rubber.

Regional preferences

German farmers prefer Very High Flexion tyres to reduce soil compaction, while British farmers are switching to Increased Flexion tyres as they modernise equipment. French farms need specialised tires for various terrains due to diverse agricultural practices.

Radial vs. Bias

Radial tyres dominate the market due to better ride quality and puncture resistance. Their steel-ply construction and bead-to-bead design minimise rolling resistance and improve flexibility.

Sales channels

The aftermarket segment is growing as farmers recognise that worn tyres can damage soil and reduce crop yields. European environmental regulations are pushing farmers to invest in premium tyre solutions that enhance performance while reducing ecological impact.

The European Union’s Green Deal, which aims to have 25 percent of farmland under organic cultivation by 2030, is encouraging farmers to invest in equipment designed for sustainable agriculture.

Reise Moto, a leading tyre manufacturer for two-wheelers and motorcycle accessories, has onboarded Harith Noah, a motorsport rider, as its official Brand Athlete.

Noah is a leading motorcyclist and is among the few Indians to have successfully competed at Dakar Rally, which is considered one of the toughest motorsport event. He has also won many times at the Indian National Rally Championship and also competed in many international competitions making a name for himself.

The company aims to leverage Noah’s image to promote its range of tyres, helmets and motorcycle accessories.  

“Exciting times ahead! I am very thrilled to be associated with Reise Moto! This partnership is a natural fit given our shared passion for pushing boundaries. Together, we aim to create products that inspire confidence and deliver exceptional performance in the toughest conditions," said Noah. 

Yogesh Mahansaria, Founder & MD, Reise Moto, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Harith Noah to the Reise Moto family. His achievements on the global stage reflect our commitment to excellence, and his inspiring journey resonates with our mission to elevate the riding experience for the Indian biking community. While we are committed to nurturing motorsports in India, supporting talent from grassroots initiatives to global icons like Harith Noah, inspiring a new generation of riders to chase their dreams on and off the track, we aim to align our products with the aspirations of both sides of the world."

Goodyear Tire & Rubber will fly its iconic blimp over more than 100 cities across North America and Europe this year to celebrate the airship’s centennial, expanding beyond its traditional sports coverage to music festivals and cultural events.

The tyre maker announced the tour at the Rose Bowl game in Pasadena, California, where the blimp first provided aerial coverage 70 years ago. The company will also offer rare passenger flights through a consumer sweepstakes running through 10 April.

“Only 0.0006 percent of Americans have flown in the Goodyear Blimp,” the Akron, Ohio-based company said in a statement. Three winners will receive flights for two people at their choice of bases in Carson, California, Pompano Beach, Florida, or Akron, along with USD 3,000 travel vouchers.

“The Goodyear Blimp” is an enduring symbol of nostalgia and innovation for fans worldwide. With its century-long history and unique ability to instil a sense of wonder in those who experience it – whether from on the ground or in the air, the blimp gives Goodyear a way to connect with the public in a way no other tyre company can match,” said Mark Stewart, CEO and President of Goodyear.

The first Goodyear Blimp, named Pilgrim, took flight in 1925. Since then, the airships have become fixtures at major sporting events, including the Olympics and the first Super Bowl. During World War II, the company’s blimps aided US military efforts.

The US off-road tyre market, valued at USD 2.89 billion in 2023, is projected to grow at a 6.3 per cent annually over the next six years, driven by expanding construction, mining and agricultural sectors, according to ResearchAndMarkets.com.

The Midwest leads the market, with its extensive farming operations requiring specialised tyres for agricultural machinery. The region’s construction projects, mining activities and growing network of warehouses further boost demand for these heavy-duty tyres.

Key trends include:

Electric equipment adoption

Companies are increasingly switching to electric loaders, haul trucks and excavators, creating demand for specialised tyres that can handle higher torque and battery weight distribution. These tyres use advanced rubber compounds to improve traction while reducing rolling resistance to extend battery life.

Durability requirements

Mining and construction companies are seeking longer-lasting tyres to minimise costly equipment downtime. Manufacturers are responding with features like deeper treads, reinforced sidewalls and heat-resistant compounds.

All-weather performance

Construction and farm equipment operators want tyres that work year-round in various conditions. New designs offer better stability and traction across wet, dry and icy surfaces, eliminating frequent tyre changes.

Volatile raw material prices and high investment costs for new technology challenge the market. Increased competition from low-cost manufacturers is pressuring established companies to innovate while controlling expenses.

Despite these hurdles, infrastructure projects nationwide continue driving demand for off-road tyres. The agricultural sector’s reliance on tractors and harvesters and mining operations’ need for durable tyres supports steady market growth.

Companies are also focusing on environmentally friendly materials and manufacturing processes to meet growing sustainability requirements from customers and regulators.