A global tyre manufacturer NEXEN TIRE is revolutionising tyre development by integrating advanced technologies such as eXplainable AI (XAI) and 3D printing.

NEXEN TIRE has traditionally followed a multi-step process for tyre development, involving designing structures and patterns, creating molds, manufacturing prototypes, and testing them on vehicles. The company has streamlined this process by incorporating XAI and 3D printing and enhanced product precision.

XAI, an artificial intelligence technology, helps analyse and understand the causes and processes behind machine learning algorithms. NEXEN TIRE uses XAI to analyse various information related to tyre design, such as basic designs, key design variables, performance contributions, and design directions. This maximises design efficiency and helps propose optimal structures and designs that meet tyre developers’ requirements.

NEXEN TIRE leverages XAI-driven designs to create Virtual Tire Models, assessing product performance in virtual environments. This increases accuracy and speed in tyre development. The company’s recent decision to adopt a driving simulator will elevate virtual development further.

Once a model passes the virtual development stage, a physical prototype is produced for final evaluation, which requires mould production. NEXEN TIRE utilises 3D printing technology to make molds, enabling the simultaneous creation of prototypes in various designs and specifications. As these prototypes have already undergone verification in the virtual development process, the chances of final product approval are significantly increased.

Traditionally, mould production alone took two to three months, but with 3D printing, this period can be cut by at least 70%. Additionally, production costs can be reduced by at least 50%, ensuring cost efficiency from the early stages of development.

The 3D printing-based mould manufacturing technology allows for innovative tyre designs that include diverse and complex patterns and sipes. This is crucial for supporting high-performance vehicles and providing consumers with enhanced performance and safety. NEXEN TIRE has applied for an international patent for its 3D printing technology.

By innovating its development process, NEXEN TIRE enhances product competitiveness while reducing time and costs. The company also contributes to sustainable management by reducing waste and costs associated with discarded prototypes.

“The ultimate goal of our technological innovations is to enhance customer satisfaction.” A NEXEN TIRE representative stated, “Transforming the tyre development process not only secures market competitiveness but also contributes to environmental protection during the development process, shaping the future of tyre manufacturing and driving revolutionary change.”

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Dr Suttipong Angthong, Secretary-General of the Association of Natural Rubber Producing Countries (ANRPC), attended the TRA & TLA Dinner 2026 on 8 May 2026. The high-profile gathering was jointly organised by the Thai Rubber Association (TRA) and the Thai Latex Association (TLA) at the Centara Grand at CentralWorld. The event brought together industry leaders, policymakers and key stakeholders from across the rubber and latex sectors to foster professional relationships and examine the shifting dynamics of the global natural rubber market.

The event served as a critical platform for Dr Angthong to engage in high-level discussions on market sustainability, trade relations and technological advancement. Particular attention was given to the long-term viability of rubber production, improving synergy between producers and exporters and the growing role of latex processing in the modern economy. His presence highlighted the ANRPC’s dedication to supporting member countries through close cooperation with national associations.

Thailand continues to hold a foundational position in the global natural rubber industry. The partnership between the TRA and TLA acts as a key driver of both innovation and regional stability, reinforcing the importance of collaborative efforts to navigate the evolving market landscape.

Dr Angthong said, "Events like the TRA & TLA Dinner are essential for maintaining the pulse of the industry. It is through these partnerships that we ensure the natural rubber sector remains resilient and forward-looking."

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Continental is preparing to appear at this year’s TOC Europe with a combined offering of advanced tyres and digital management tools. The company’s presence at the event will emphasise its drive to make port logistics both high-performing and resource-conscious.

The exhibition lineup is built around the theme ‘Driven by Excellence’, featuring the ContiConnect digital tyre platform alongside the new DockMaster Radial tyre. The latter is a purpose-built product for harsh port environments, including automated guided vehicles, reach stackers and heavy forklifts. A company representative has explained that every solution is tailored directly to real customer needs in port operations, blending tyre engineering with data services to enable more energy-efficient and digitally managed workflows.

TOC Europe 2026 will run from 19 to 21 May at the Hamburg exhibition grounds. Continental will receive visitors in Hall B6 at Booth B44, where the focus will fall on operational safety, sustainability and efficiency gains.

ContiConnect plays a central role in cutting tyre management costs and streamlining fleet operations. Properly managed tyre pressure can lower fuel use by up to two percent, while continuous monitoring extends tyre life by as much as 20 percent, simultaneously reducing carbon emissions and operating expenses. The system comes in two forms. ContiConnect Lite is a mobile, app-based entry tool requiring no extra infrastructure, whereas ContiConnect Pro delivers real-time data, automated reports and system integration for large fleets.

The DockMaster Radial tyre stands out for its durable, efficient and robust design. A large footprint and maximised tread volume prolong service life, while the radial build lowers heat buildup over long travel distances. Its rolling resistance is lower than that of bias-ply tyres, improving energy efficiency. An integrated sensor tracks both temperature and inflation pressure, while a specialised rubber compound resists cuts, abrasion and cracking. This makes the tyre especially suitable for intense applications with extended operating ranges and punishing ground surfaces.

Beyond products, Continental offers a data-led tyre consulting service to lower total ownership costs and improve resource use. Experts analyse operational data including distance, speed and active cycle time to advise on vehicle deployment, route planning and tyre selection. Detailed usage studies help match the right tyre to each application, reducing premature failures, extending tyre life and delivering clear efficiency improvements for port operators.

Federico Jiménez, Head of Business Development and Product Management for Continental’s Commercial Specialty Tires, said, “We consistently align our solutions with the requirements of our customers in port operations. With our combination of innovative tyre technology and data-driven services, we enable more energy-efficient, digital, and therefore more efficient operations.”

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Pirelli returns to the Nürburgring for the 2026 edition, building on strong results from the previous year. In the SP9 class for GT3 cars, several high-profile entries have selected Pirelli P Zero tyres, including the Porsche entries from Dinamic, three Aston Martins from Walkenhorst and Dörr’s number 69 McLaren featuring a Michael Schumacher tribute livery. A historic BMW Z4 GT3 and numerous GT4 cars, such as Dörr’s number 59, are also equipped with Pirelli rubber.

Beyond sharing Pirelli P Zero tyres, some cars will also display the manufacturer’s signature yellow and black colours through special liveries. The two Dinamic Porsches, one Walkenhorst Aston Martin and Dörr’s number 59 will race with these designs, highlighting a deep technological collaboration with Pirelli. For wet conditions, crews have Pirelli Cinturato tyres available, while the GT4 cars use standard DHG and WHB tyres designed for all GT categories.

AUTO BILD will celebrate its 40th anniversary at the Nürburgring 24-hour race, welcoming selected guests inside the Pirelli Hospitality area in the paddock.

Matteo Braga, Pirelli Racing Activity Manager, said, “The Nürburgring has traditionally been a benchmark for everyone and the ideal track on which to test innovative and demanding solutions, as well as an opportunity to consolidate our research work side by side with professional partners who this year have chosen to celebrate our collaboration by bringing Pirelli colours onto their liveries. In this edition of the 24 Hours, the level of competitiveness and the record number of cars entered will make the weekend particularly demanding. As always, I expect a closely fought race in every category, full of uncertainty and open to every possible outcome until the very end. We are supporting combative, high-quality teams that have everything they need to make their mark.”

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Sri Trang Agro-Industry Public Company Limited (STA) recently hosted the ‘Sri Trang Exclusive Night 2026’ at the Hard Rock Cafe Chidlom in Bangkok. The gathering served as a gesture of gratitude towards the company’s global customers and business partners while showcasing STA’s future vision centred on artificial intelligence, innovation and sustainable development within an atmosphere of international camaraderie.

The event featured senior leadership, including group Chief Executive Officer Veerasith Sinchareonkul, executive directors Chaiyos Sincharoenkul and Vitchaphol Sincharoenkul, Sri Trang International CEO Lee Tristan Chee-Zen and Chief Marketing Officer Nattee Thiraputhbhokin. Together, they welcomed partners from numerous countries worldwide.

A central theme, ‘Empowering AI’, highlighted STA’s strategic direction to integrate AI and data analytics across supply chain management, market analysis and customer solution development. This approach aims to respond accurately and flexibly to shifting global markets. STA also reinforced its role as a collaborative business partner, working with customers to solve problems, enhance efficiency, reduce risks and build sustainability throughout the supply chain, thereby strengthening Thailand’s natural rubber industry globally.

Additionally, STA underscored its commitment to transparency, traceability and responsible supply chain practices for long-term stability. As the company approaches its 40th year, the event not only acknowledged loyal support but also demonstrated STA’s readiness to advance through technology, innovation, and global cooperation.

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