Pirelli Prioritises Soft Rear Tyres For Dutch Moto2 Battle At Assen

Pirelli Prioritises Soft Rear Tyres For Dutch Moto2 Battle At Assen

The Dutch Grand Prix at the iconic TT Circuit Assen marks the return of Pirelli’s Moto2 tyre comparison between the standard SC0 soft rear compound and the development E0125, which was first introduced at Silverstone and later tested at Aragón. For this round, riders will have access to both rear options in soft compound – the conventional SC0 and the experimental E0125 – paired with either the soft SC1 or medium SC2 front tyres. Each rider will receive eight units of the rear tyres and eight of the front SC1, while the SC2 front will be limited to six. As per regulations, competitors may use a maximum of 17 tyres across the weekend, with a breakdown of eight front and nine rear.

The E0125 development tyre, which was universally adopted by riders at both Silverstone and Aragón, represents an evolution of the standard soft compound. While it retains the same tread compound, it incorporates a revised structure designed to enhance stability and deliver more consistent performance over full race distance. This adjustment aims to improve handling and endurance, particularly under the demanding conditions of Assen’s fast, flowing layout.

Meanwhile, Moto3 riders will continue with the established tyre allocations from previous rounds, receiving eight units each of the soft SC1 and medium SC2 compounds for both front and rear. The same 17-tyre limit applies, ensuring parity in usage across the field. Pirelli’s ongoing development in Moto2 highlights their commitment to refining performance, while Moto3 maintains a stable specification to suit the lightweight class’s unique demands. The Dutch GP will serve as another critical evaluation point for the E0125 as Pirelli gathers data for potential future adoption.

Apollo Tyres Names Mondelez Executive Mahalakshmi Ramaswami As New CHRO

Mahalakshmi Ramaswami

Gurugram-headquartered tyre major Apollo Tyres has announced the appointment of Mahalakshmi Ramaswami as its new Chief Human Resources Officer, effective immediately, the company said in a regulatory filing.

Ramaswami’s appointment was approved by the board of directors following a recommendation from the Nomination and Remuneration Committee.

Prior to joining Apollo Tyres, she most recently served as the Head of HR for the Southeast Asia Cluster based in Singapore at Mondelez International.

She brings over two decades of experience across multinational organisations spanning fast-moving consumer goods, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals and consulting sectors.

During her tenure at Mondelez, Ramaswami is credited to have a played pivotal role as the HR Director for India Region in the business turnaround by aligning people strategy with organisational objectives.

She also has held leadership roles at prominent Indian and multinational companies including Bharti Group, Ranbaxy, Ballarpur Industries and EY.

Ramaswami holds an MBA from IMT Ghaziabad and a Bachelor’s degree in Physics (Hons.) from Delhi University.

On the other hand, as part of the Management Restructuring at Apollo Tyres, Dipankar Ghosh, Group Head of HR Business Partnership for Manufacturing & Projects, will no longer be part of the senior management structure as defined under securities regulations, effective 16 July.

The restructuring reflects Apollo Tyres’ strategic focus on strengthening its human capital capabilities as the company navigates competitive pressures in both domestic and international markets.

Bridgestone India Presents European Alignment Certificate To ARAI For Rolling Resistance Lab Achievement

Bridgestone India Presents European Alignment Certificate To ARAI For Rolling Resistance Lab Achievement

Bridgestone India has presented the European Alignment Certificate to the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), recognising the successful completion of their Rolling Resistance (RR) Lab Alignment. The certificate was presented to Dr Reji Mathai, Director of ARAI, by Rajarshi Moitra, Deputy Managing Director of Bridgestone India, during a ceremony attended by senior leaders from both organisations.

This milestone strengthens the partnership between Bridgestone and ARAI, India’s leading automotive R&D institution for testing and standardisation. Rolling resistance plays a crucial role in enhancing fuel efficiency, aligning with both organisations’ commitment to advancing tyre technology. The certification underscores their shared dedication to fostering innovation, improving testing capabilities and promoting sustainable mobility solutions in India.

Yokohama Rubber Achieves 21-Year Streak On FTSE4Good ESG Index

Yokohama Rubber has been recognised for its sustainability leadership with continued inclusion in three prestigious FTSE Russell ESG indexes. The company marks its 21st consecutive year on the FTSE4Good Index Series, a global benchmark for responsible investing. Additionally, it maintains its ninth straight year on the FTSE Blossom Japan Index and fourth year on the FTSE Blossom Japan Sector Relative Index – both key indicators of Japanese ESG excellence endorsed by Japan's Government Pension Investment Fund (GPIF).

These indexes, developed by London Stock Exchange Group's FTSE Russell, help investors identify companies with strong environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance. Yokohama Rubber's sustained inclusion reflects its long-term commitment to sustainable business practices.

Hankook Tire Supports 2025 Lamborghini Super Trofeo Asia Round 4

The fourth round of the 2025 Lamborghini Super Trofeo Asia Series, a racing competition hosted by Italian supercar brand Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A and powered by Hankook Tire, will take place from 18 to 20 July at INJE SPEEDIUM in Gangwon Province. As the exclusive tyre supplier, Hankook Tire continues to elevate Korean motorsports through its partnership with Lamborghini, showcasing its high-performance Ventus racing tyres on the Huracán Super Trofeo EVO2.

The 3.91-km INJE SPEEDIUM circuit, featuring 19 corners and a 40-metre elevation change, demands exceptional tyre performance under extreme conditions, including high-speed straights and scorching summer temperatures. Hankook’s Ventus tyres are engineered to deliver superior grip, durability and heat resistance, ensuring peak performance in challenging racing environments.

Beyond the races, Hankook will host the ‘Ventus Experience’, inviting European automotive influencers to test the Ventus Super Sports line and explore its advanced R&D facilities.

The 2025 Lamborghini Super Trofeo spans Asia, Europe and North America, with six rounds per series. Top contenders will advance to the Grand Final in Misano, Italy, this November, competing for the season championship.