NEXEN TIRE has introduced its latest ultra-high-performance tyre, the N’FERA Primus UX, following a domestic launch in Korea on 1 June. The tyre is now entering the Asia-Pacific and Middle East markets, signalling the company’s full push into the global replacement tire sector.

Built under the One Universal Fit strategy, the N’FERA Primus UX delivers a 20 percent gain in tread wear performance compared to its predecessor. It is engineered for electric vehicles, internal combustion engine cars and SUVs alike and carries NEXEN TIRE’s proprietary EV ROOT certification mark to guarantee balanced performance across powertrain types.

Performance enhancements include strengthened reinforcement for improved high-speed stability, an expanded contact patch for better driving control and an optimised tread block design that reduces road noise. The tyre also features a new advanced-material compound that lowers energy loss to extend tread life. An aerodynamic sidewall design cuts air resistance, boosting fuel economy for ICE vehicles and maximising range for EVs.

Development relied on NEXEN TIRE’s AI and virtual simulation capabilities, including an AI-powered performance prediction system and a high-dynamic driving simulator. This marked the first time such simulation tools were used in the domestic automotive industry, allowing the company to mathematically model real-world driving conditions and accelerate measurement while raising development efficiency.

John Bosco (Hyeon Suk) Kim, CEO, NEXEN TIRE, said, "The N'FERA Primus UX is designed to deliver optimal performance regardless of vehicle type, in line with the demands of the EV era. Moving forward, we will continue to strengthen our global product lineup based on our 'One Universal Fit' strategy to expand our presence in international markets."

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Indian tyre exports reached a record INR 273.12 billion in FY2025-26, rising 9 per cent from INR 250.57 billion in the previous financial year, according to data released by the Ministry of Commerce.

The increase marks the second consecutive year of 9 percent growth in tyre exports, highlighting the industry's ability to sustain overseas demand despite geopolitical uncertainty and slower global economic growth.

The United States remained the largest export market for Indian tyres, accounting for 15 percent of total export value at INR 40.82 billion during FY2025-26. However, its share declined from 17 per cent a year earlier after the US administration increased tariffs on Indian tyre imports from 25 per cent to 50 per cent in August 2025.

The higher tariffs reduced the competitiveness of Indian tyres against products from countries benefiting from lower trade barriers. In February 2026, the US reduced tariffs on most Indian goods from 50 per cent to 18 per cent, providing some relief to exporters.

Arun Mammen, chairman of the Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association, said the industry had delivered strong export performance despite disruption to global supply chains, higher logistics costs and trade uncertainty across key markets.

Through market diversification, cost optimisation and policy support, Indian tyre manufacturers-maintained export momentum during the year.

After the US, the leading export destinations for Indian tyres were Germany, which accounted for 7 percent of exports, followed by Italy and Brazil at 5 per cent each, and France at 4 percent. Indian tyres are now exported to more than 170 countries.

"The tyre industry has exhibited remarkable resilience and growth in the post-pandemic period. Over the last four to five years, tyre manufacturers have invested approximately INR 300 billion across greenfield and brownfield projects, reflecting strong confidence in India's long-term economic prospects and its emergence as a global manufacturing hub" added Mammen.

India's tyre industry has an estimated annual turnover of about INR 1 trillion, with exports accounting for more than one-quarter of total industry turnover.

The industry said geopolitical developments, including the West Asia crisis, continued to pose challenges through supply chain disruption, higher energy costs and inflationary pressure. However, manufacturers remain optimistic about long-term export prospects, supported by trade agreements and deeper integration into global value chains.

"As global supply chains continue to evolve, India is increasingly being recognised as a reliable sourcing destination for high-quality tyres. Supported by technological advancements, sustainability initiatives and favourable trade engagements, the Indian tyre industry is well positioned to strengthen its role in global markets in the years ahead," added Mammen.

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ZC Rubber recently orchestrated a unique brand activation at Emirates Stadium, hosting its Partner Match Day: Emirates Stadium Experience on 24 May. The gathering occurred shortly after Arsenal’s coronation as 2025/26 Premier League champions, amplifying the electric atmosphere for attending partners, industry media and Arsenal collaborators.

Instead of a passive viewing experience, guests from the ZC Rubber family – including WESTLAKE, GOODRIDE and TIANLI – along with representatives from Stapletons Tyre Service, International Tyres, City 1st Tyres and ADR UK Tyremart, stepped onto the pitch for a competitive 90-minute tournament. Following two mini leagues and a climactic final showdown, City 1st Tyres secured the champion’s trophy before enjoying post-match hospitality inside the stadium.

As the Official Global Tyre Partner of Arsenal FC, ZC Rubber designed the event to deepen ties within its international partner network. The day demonstrated a clear strategy of merging sport with relationship-building, creating memorable connections for global audiences.

Andrew Reitzner, UK National Manager, ZC Rubber, said, “Partner Match Day was a fantastic opportunity to bring some of our partners and media friends together in a truly unique environment. Playing at Emirates Stadium is something many football fans dream of, and it was great to share that experience with the people who continue to support and grow with ZC Rubber. For us, that is what this event is about – teamwork, shared experience and the spirit of partnership behind ZC Rubber’s brands.”

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Giti Tire has strengthened its response to electric mobility by securing original equipment deals with major automakers while overhauling product design for the unique strains of battery-powered cars. Engineers have focused on solving challenges such as increased curb weight, immediate power delivery and the need for exceptionally quiet cabins, which set EVs apart from traditional vehicles.

Several leading brands, including Volkswagen, BYD and BMW, now fit Giti rubber on next-generation models across European and Asian markets. The technical focus has centred on lowering rolling resistance, controlling tread wear and managing acoustics, all of which are critical for factory-approved EV tyres. A case in point is the GitiControl P10, chosen for the BYD Sealion 7, iCar 03 and Deepal S07. By reworking the tread pattern and compound, the P10 manages higher loads and torque while preserving range, grip and durability while reducing interior noise.

Meanwhile, the GitiSynergy family has proven itself through the H2 variant on the Volkswagen ID. Buzz in Europe, including during a Guinness World Record attempt that tested long-distance reliability. The upgraded H2+ version further refines energy efficiency and ride comfort to meet BMW’s standards for consistency and low noise. On the performance front, the GitiSport S2+ earned an ‘Exemplary’ rating from Auto Bild in its 2026 Summer Tyre Test, ranking near the top for braking, handling and grip under high torque and heavy vehicle loads.

Together, the P10, H2+ and S2+ cover touring, daily driving and high-performance EV segments. Through ongoing collaboration with vehicle manufacturers and continuous engineering advances, Giti Tire is building a reputation as a dependable supplier for the electric mobility era.

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Bridgestone Americas has unveiled the new UltraWeather all-weather grand touring tyre aimed at drivers needing consistent grip on sedans, crossovers, SUVs and light trucks. The product replaces the outgoing WeatherPeak model and carries the three-peak mountain snowflake designation, confirming its ability to handle severe winter conditions. Through the application of ENLITEN technology, the tyre promises longer wear, lower fuel consumption due to reduced rolling resistance and dependable performance across every season.

Engineered for modern driving demands, the UltraWeather shows superior wet braking in internal evaluations, stopping four feet shorter than its predecessor and reducing hydroplaning risk via specialised grooves and shoulder slots. On snow, the tyre demonstrates a 14 percent shorter stopping distance compared to the Goodyear WeatherReady 2 while also outperforming both the Pirelli WeatherActive and the prior Bridgestone WeatherPeak by 10 percent. A proprietary PeakLife polymer and closed centre rib slots support the rubber’s longevity, backed by a 60,000-mile (approximately 96,560 km) limited warranty.

Additional ENLITEN benefits include noise-reducing structural design, rolling resistance improvements for better fuel economy and the use of renewable soybean oil in manufacturing. The tread pattern is precision-tuned to limit vibrations and road noise, contributing to a quieter, more comfortable ride for daily commuters and long-distance travellers alike.

The UltraWeather is available in the market from 1 June 2026, initially in select sizes before expanding to a total of 61 options for 16- to 22-inch rims. Popular vehicle fitments include the Honda Civic, Subaru Impreza, Toyota Highlander and Volkswagen Taos.

Dale Harrigle, Chief Engineer, Consumer Replacement Tire Development, Bridgestone Americas, said, “Our all-new UltraWeather grand touring tyre helps give drivers a new level of confidence, regardless of the day’s forecast. By integrating our ENLITEN technology, we’ve developed a tyre that delivers a remarkable balance of year-round reliable performance and sustainability elements, surpassing its predecessor.”

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