Smart mobility is as relevant as ever, with growing urbanisation rates in almost all countries across the globe. But the concept isn’t new. At least I recall reading about the future of driving when I was very young, and a university project concluded that in the future, cars would be able to connect to each other and slide onto some sort of rail system when driving on the highway, so nobody would have to worry about steering or speeding when covering the long stretches of the journey. Not surprising, the project couldn’t have been more wrong in its conclusion. But why didn’t it work? It would have reduced accidents, pollutant emissions, road wear and maintenance costs, and it would have probably been quite easy to develop guiding chips and software to let cars in and out of the chain.

Well, the answer is simple, and is proven by the fact that car sales are still going up worldwide in spite of an ever-growing range of alternative transportation methods available to the buyers: freedom. As global wealth keeps increasing, all societies can recognize that the first luxury people growing out of poverty take is to buy a car, in many cases even before considering taking out a mortgage to buy a house. Why do they do that? Obviously to signal their increased wealth to the people around them (it’s harder to show if your house is bought or rented), but also to enjoy the freedom of being able to go exactly where they want to go and when. In these corona times being able to move about without bumping into others in public transportation is of course also an important factor. If this wasn’t the case, car sales would be dropping rapidly. Public transportation is cheaper, if you compare it to total cost of ownership of a car it’s easy math, and in many cases it’s also faster and easier. Plus, you can be productive getting some work done or enjoying a good rest when you don’t have to sit at the wheel in a traffic jam.

For those who care about global warming and reducing the environmental impact, there’s even further incentive to get rid of the car, but still, this is not what we see in the new car sales figures – although you could argue that some people buy a new car because it pollutes less than the old one.

Bicycles

With all the new technology, it will be very interesting to see how smart mobility will be implemented in cities across the globe, and if it will change the trend for good. After all, it’s be big cities with massive population numbers that will make a difference for the planet. If we look at a city like Copenhagen, it has for many years focused on being the world’s best city to ride a bicycle in, and it has implemented many innovative structures allowing cyclists to zip from one place to another in a matter of minutes with minimal need to stop along the way. Some places bridges have been built just to cater to cyclists. No doubt you can get around faster and cheaper in Copenhagen if you ride a bike than by any other means of transportation.

Another thing that is becoming increasingly interesting in the big cities is the drone technology, now we have seen Chinese firefighters putting out high-rise fires using drones controlled from the ground, and many places they have also begun working as parcel or food delivery agents. But is there a viable case to argue that we will all be flying in private drone vessels instead of driving in cars in the coming decade? I wouldn’t bet my money on it. First of all, it would take long until the general public would trust a drone manufacturer enough to not fear dropping to the ground or being flung into a building or another drone mid-air at any moment. Second of all, they would most definitely run on electricity, which we know from electric cars means very heavy batteries and/or short operation times. Probably in colder regions you would also struggle with much lower performance during winter, and possibly weather conditions not allowing them to take off.

That’s another nightmare scenario – to be caught in a thunderstorm or hailstorm up in the air.

Naturally, the ultimate challenge would be that everyone would basically need to have a pilot license to operate them, and air traffic control would be an entirely new concept in this scenario. We have all seen movies like Stars Wars or The Fifth Element where flying vehicles somehow get into invisible lanes and layers, but it’s hard to see how that can go from fiction to reality.

Urban hubs

So, how can consumers most likely have their desire for freedom fulfilled within a smart mobility concept? Most likely by creating urban hubs or city line parking facilities, so it’s easy to take the car to, from, or between cities, but not inside them. At these hubs, you would park the car and jump on the next shuttle to anywhere in the city, or even ride a bike that you brought with you. Designing these hubs, along with ample green areas in the cities, is the only way that any city planner can create the grounds for real smart mobility, and not take people’s freedom away from them. Then the only thing left is to address the issue of the environmental impact caused by passenger cars, both combustion engine emissions and tyre pollution from wear during use and waste management at end of tyre life.

Tyre manufacturers don’t seem to be making huge changes to the technology yet, except for a few innovative products like the Michelin Tweel – and the ultimate challenge is of course that the vehicle so far has to be in contact with the road surface to move and handle satisfactorily. It’s hard to imagine any tyre concept where rubber against the road surface isn’t involved, and it’s also hard to imagine any tyre manufacturer supporting such a project, given the massive investments they have in their production equipment, which isn’t easy to readjust to put out something else. Well, at least not any serious manufacturer – there was a Chinese plant that stopped producing tyres this year to start producing face masks instead because of corona demand, but that probably says something about the quality of both products coming out of that factory, and it makes me very interested in reading their mission statement.

Ultimately, for tyre manufacturers to start investing in any game changing product development, we would have to see a development like we have seen with British Tobacco actually advertising against smoking – which is very much in line with the trends of the day but doesn’t seem rational from a business perspective. So, to conclude, I’ll venture a bet that we won’t see any drastic changes in how much smarter our mobility options will become until we either see a scenario that will allow people to experience the same level of freedom as owning a car, drastically reducing the environmental impact from driving and tyre waste, and/or creating cities where it utterly doesn’t make any sense to drive instead of hopping on the city’s smart mobility system, whatever that might turn out to be.

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Michelin UK is calling on motorists to check their tyres this October after new research (OnePoll survey of 2,000 UK drivers, conducted in September 2026, commissioned by Michelin) found that half are unsure about some of the most basic elements of tyre safety. The findings arrive as TyreSafe's Tyre Safety Month gets underway and suggest that while drivers recognise vehicle safety matters, knowing what to inspect and how to act when something requires attention remains unclear for many.

Nearly a quarter of those surveyed (24 percent) cannot tell whether their tyres are road legal, and only 53 percent know that the UK's legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm. Everyday maintenance also presents difficulties: 19 percent of motorists are not confident about inflating tyres and setting pressures correctly, and 56 percent lack confidence in using a tyre repair kit.

Since tyres are vital to braking, handling and grip, Michelin stresses that knowing how to check and maintain them is essential for the safety of drivers, passengers and other road users. The company is therefore urging drivers to act now and inspect their tyres during Tyre Safety Month rather than waiting for problems to emerge.

Michelin points drivers to four key areas of tyre care. On legality, UK car tyres need at least 1.6 mm of tread across the central three-quarters of the tread around the entire circumference, and drivers should watch for visible damage including cuts, cracks and bulges. On tread depth, regular checks are preferable to waiting for the legal limit; a gauge gives an accurate reading, while a 20 pence coin offers a handy alternative because its rim measures 1.6 mm.

On pressures, Michelin notes that incorrect inflation can affect handling, braking, fuel consumption and tyre wear. Drivers should check when tyres are cold, follow the manufacturer's recommendations, usually in the handbook or on a label inside the vehicle, and use a pressure gauge. On damage, drivers should learn their tyre repair kit before an emergency; many modern vehicles carry a sealant kit instead of a spare wheel, injecting sealant through the valve to temporarily seal certain punctures and restore pressure so the vehicle can reach safety or the nearest tyre professional.

Joe Brammer, Technical Manager, Michelin UK, said, “The findings highlight an opportunity to make tyre safety advice more accessible and help motorists feel better equipped to make informed decisions about their vehicles. By understanding a few key checks and knowing when to seek professional advice, drivers can take a more active role in maintaining their tyres and help to keep themselves and others safe on the road.”

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Toyo Tires will stage its Treadpass showcase at the 2026 SEMA Show in Las Vegas from 3–6 November, assembling a hand-picked roster of vehicles making their global premieres. Set between the Las Vegas Convention Center's Central and South Halls, the exhibit pairs the tyre maker with skilled builders, handing them a high-visibility platform for their craft.

Twenty-seven world-debut machines will populate this year's display, spanning a spectrum broad enough to satisfy nearly any automotive taste. Among them are a 1979 Porsche 935 styled after racing machinery and powered by a 637-horsepower electric drivetrain, alongside a 2027 Rolls-Royce Cullinan with a custom body kit marking its first North American appearance. Toyo Tires will again dedicate a section of its website to detailing each build, listing model year, make, model, wheel and tyre fitment and other notable modifications.

Working with Time Capsule, a business-to-business firm known for finely crafted diecast miniatures, Treadpass will host an oversized die-cast toy box. The centrepiece is a 2014 Scion FRS (Toyota GT86) conceived and assembled by Daniel Song of DRVNmind. It carries the first Neo86 widebody conversion fitted outside the demonstration car built in Japan a year earlier, restyling the Scion with cues drawn from the iconic AE86 and honouring the celebrated US-built AE86 nicknamed ‘Run Free’. A Beams 3SGE swap with individual throttle bodies from Panic Made and custom high-rise headers from Dream Maker Goods sit under the hood, while Rays TE37V 18x10 wheels in Dash White carry Toyo Proxes Sport R 255/35/18 rubber.

Leen Customs returns as a collaborator, with limited-edition pins once again part of the SEMA experience. Ten designs will honour select Treadpass vehicles and be handed out at scheduled times. A separate 11th pin will be offered during an Artist's Meet with Leen Customs founder Hansel Echeverria on 4 November from noon to 1 p.m.

As the industry's premier trade gathering, the SEMA Show draws manufacturers and buyers from every sector. Toyo Tires remains a highlight, presenting distinctive builds from leading shops nationwide. Among the vehicles on view will be a 1972 Chevrolet Blazer K5 by Tony Arme, a 1974 Capri Mk 1 by JH Restorations Ltd., a 1979 Ford F-250 Crew Cab by Fat Fender Garage, a 1979 Porsche 935 Baby Moby by Bisimoto and a 2027 Rolls-Royce Cullinan by WALD USA. Further details on the tyres behind these builds can be found on the Toyo Tires website.

Stan Chen, Deputy Director – Consumer Marketing, Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp, said, “Over the years, Treadpass has been an incredible way for us to collaborate with top builders and create a one-of-a-kind experience at the SEMA Show. We are thrilled to bring the activation back for its 13th year and deliver another unforgettable experience for attendees while showcasing the largest culmination of world-debut cars at this year’s show.”

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Sri Trang Agro-Industry Public Company Limited (STA) and Sri Trang Gloves (Thailand) Public Company Limited (STGT) collectively secured six accolades at the IAA Awards for Listed Companies 2026, a recognition reflecting their strength in corporate management, financial stewardship and investor relations. The Investment Analysts Association (IAA) hosted the ceremony on 21 October 2026, at the Eastin Grand Hotel Phayathai.

STA claimed all three honours in the Agro Industry category for a second straight year. Chief Executive Officer Veerasith Sinchareonkul was named Outstanding CEO, with Thitima Wongwairoj, Regional Finance and Controller Manager, accepting on his behalf. Chief Financial Officer Patrawut Panitkul received the Outstanding CFO award, also collected by Wongwairoj. Executive Director Vitchaphol Sincharoenkul earned Outstanding IR recognition, with Pimpetch Sapkhoonthawee of Investor Relations accepting for him.

STGT, which won Outstanding CEO and Outstanding IR in 2024, took three awards in the Consumer Products category. Chief Executive Officer Jarinya Jirojkul was honoured as Outstanding CEO, while Chief Financial Officer Thanawan Sa-ngiamsak received Outstanding CFO. Chairman of the Executive Committee Vitanath Sincharoenkul was named Outstanding IR, with Sa-ngiamsak accepting on his behalf.

The six awards underscore the confidence of Thai securities analysts and fund managers in both companies' management teams amid global economic uncertainty. Sri Trang Group continues to uphold good corporate governance, rigorous financial discipline and transparent disclosure while integrating environmental, social and governance principles into its operations. These include STA's responsible raw material sourcing and EU Deforestation Regulation preparedness, alongside STGT's delivery of products meeting international quality standards. The IAA Awards, among Thailand's most prestigious capital market honours, are scored by analysts and fund managers on management expertise, disclosure quality and investor engagement.

Veerasith Sinchareonkul, Chief Executive Officer of Sri Trang Agro-Industry Public Company Limited, said, “Receiving awards in all three categories for the second consecutive year is a great honour and a source of pride for Sri Trang. This recognition inspires us to continue upholding the highest standards of excellence. It reflects the dedication of our executives and every member of our team, who work together to advance the business responsibly and with a firm commitment to good corporate governance. As economic and industry conditions evolve, we will continue to communicate accurately, transparently and promptly about both opportunities and challenges, enabling investors to understand our strategic direction and strengthening their confidence in our long-term growth.”

Jarinya Jirojkul, Chief Executive Officer of Sri Trang Gloves (Thailand) Public Company Limited, said, “At Sri Trang Gloves, trust begins with the quality of the rubber gloves we deliver to users around the world and the responsibility with which we manage our business. Receiving awards in all three categories this year is a source of pride for our entire team, whose collective efforts uphold product quality, sound financial management and effective investor communication. We remain committed to financial discipline, prudent resource management and open, transparent disclosure so that shareholders and investors understand our performance, opportunities and risks. We will continue to develop our business to create long-term value.”

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The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has named Joseph Stanekenas, a professional driver with General Transport, as the recipient of the 42nd Goodyear Highway Hero Award. The honour recognises his courageous response to a serious highway accident involving a semi-truck that had collided with another trailer and caught fire.

Upon witnessing the crash, Stanekenas immediately parked his vehicle and rushed to assist the driver trapped inside the burning truck. With the help of fellow commercial driver Charles Johnson, he led the rescue despite dangerous conditions, and the two men pulled the driver from the vehicle and moved him to safety. The driver survived thanks to Stanekenas' swift initial response and the pair's shared willingness to risk their own safety for a stranger.

Established in 1983, the Goodyear Highway Hero Award recognises professional truck drivers across the US and Canada who demonstrate exceptional courage and selflessness on the job. As the 42nd recipient, Stanekenas will receive a cash prize and a ride aboard the iconic Goodyear Blimp, with Johnson also invited to join the Blimp experience in recognition of the teamwork that made the rescue possible. The award reflects Goodyear's commitment to honouring the commercial trucking industry and the drivers who keep North America's roads, businesses and communities moving.

Karly Becker, Director of Safety, General Transport, said, “Joseph has been a driver for General Transport for four years and is always willing to go above and beyond in every aspect. It is a pleasure to have Joseph as part of our fleet but our honour to nominate his heroic actions through Goodyear’s Highway Hero Award to save a stranger’s life.”

Joe Stuglis, Vice President, Commercial Sales North America, Goodyear, said, "Professional truck drivers keep goods and services moving across North America every day, but their impact often extends far beyond the freight they haul. Joseph and Charles demonstrated extraordinary courage and selflessness when they stopped to help a fellow driver in a life-threatening situation. Their actions made a difference, and we are proud to recognise their bravery."

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