Six currencies, with an estimated population of 184 million - the East African community exists around the Great Lakes Region. “The Cradle of Mankind” is what it is called. This region lies in the heart of Africa and is home to both flora and fauna as it may have existed in the primordial times, undisturbed – SMART.

Mobility has changed considerably in this region by the way the tyres here have found their way into this market. In 1998, Truck Tubeless Tyre Conversions began in Kenya and quickly spread out to the neighboring regions. Presently 95% of the tyres found in fleets are tubeless and there is 100% conversion rate on Passenger and 4x4 range of vehicles. It was the SMART thing to do. The millennium saw an influx of Fleet Management softwares, Tyre Management Contracts, with the help of Budini Tyre Management Software. Unprecedented tyre training, growing investments in tyre machinery, tools and accessories investments. Technology and processes peaked and the bubble burst.

On the tyre spectrum 12.00R20, which was the predominant tyre size, was replaced by the low profile 315/80R22.5 (not the 13R22.5) which continues to hog 60% of the truck tyre market. The 8.25R16 was replaced by the 265/70R19.5 and 295/80R22.5 (together with 12R22.5) replaced 11.00R20. On the tyre spectrum and front we were ahead of developed, space (nuclear) age countries like India and the Gulf where tubeless conversions were less and the predominant sizes remained to be 10.00R20 and 12.00R24 respectively.

Tubeless rims became the order of the day and even when Trilex Split rims (80 years technology) are still in use in the Gulf. For a market that churns out approximately 600,000 trucks tyre casings per year, tyre retreading is the environmentally SMART thing to do. The cold procured tread process replaced the hot casing damaging process.  East Africa has not been left  SMARTing in this field either.

What went wrong:

1.  Intelligent Organisations. Any intelligent system must be data-driven

The primary objective of any successful organisation is to analyse large pools of data accumulated over long periods of time in their areas of operations (This includes transporters, tyre importers and distributors and tyre manufacturers). Increasingly organisational decisions are NOT taken by managers’ intuition and common sense but algorithms and data derived electronically from recording of our interactions and experiences with customers. Selling tyres has ceased to be a contact sport it has degenerated in some quarters into a Nintendo like encounter.

Intelligent organisations normally SCALE (Sense, Comprehend, Act, Learn and Explain) their environment with managers/ owners / directors ceding authority over certain decisions while acquiring new capabilities and roles for themselves. As conjoined twins, SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Timely) and SCALE goals must be matched.

Let me give illustration with a story. In Africa we love to do so. Reader’s discretion is advised!

A (SMART) priest arrived late at the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain, for a climbing expedition the following day. Exhausted, he searched for a room in the nearest inn. Only one room was available which he was requested by the motel owner to share with a beautiful lady wearing a stunning fishy (SCALEy) dress who had arrived late for the same expedition. To make matters worse, there was only one mattress. The exhausted lady prepared and slept on one side of the mattress, while the honorable  priest laid the sheet and slept on the cold floor two meters away. The following morning at the breakfast table the priest formally introduced himself to the beautiful lady as asked her where she was from. She on the other hand enquired of the priest as to his mission at the Kilimanjaro. “ I have come to climb and conquer this greatest mountain in Mother Africa,” he said proudly trying to impress her. She paused and after a sigh said to  the priest in a low voice, “Tell me exactly how you intend to climb this mountain when you cannot SCALE up a six-inch mattress?!”  Moral of the story: No matter how good your SMART goals are, you must act on SCALE-ing the heights.

2. Smart Technologies portend a smart working force

Tony Nicolini – Founder of the Budini Tyre Software and Systems, puts it beautifully when he says “Technology is only as smart as the users want it to be.”  The exponential growth of data capturing capability has not been matched by its harnessing and channeling into useful avenues largely because investments are low in the field of tyre education and  tyre infrastructure. Having experience Tyre related trainings in different parts of the world, our region receives but a trickle of the much-needed skill laced training that would sharpen their senses in order to tyre SCALE better.

The three aspects related to Smart Tyre Technology are:

Smart transporters

Zul is a transporter who runs a successful bus company. Operating from the heart of Nairobi, to most parts of Kenya. He keeps meticulous records on all his tyre records. These records were the basis for decision making for a transport company that has had the least number of fatalities in the country. Zul represents about 5% of transporters in this region who have scrupulous, readily available  data that is open to scrutiny not only by his own company but can be used by suppliers.

In 2012 I had a chance to visit Tyre Heaven, a company in Sao Paulo. They invited Nicolini (Budini) and me to visit their premises. With over 700 trucks and trailers, there were there only three persons working in the tyre department. Cradle-to-Grave tyre data is maintained for all tyres. Once or twice a year, like a pilgrimage, representatives major tyre suppliers congregate in the transport premises to tender openly for 8,000 tyres.

Smart processes

Special Sales approaches to the market determine the success or failure or a sales person. Many transporters, tyre importers or dealers approach to own products with little comprehension on the conditions of use. Mismatch between tyres and vehicles, tyre and routes, have only added to the chagrin on the end-user. Professional ethics prohibit me from dwelling too much into these sales processes to end-users and dealers, but to say the least, these methodical approaches have no substitute. As a result of tyres being treated as a commodity, where price is the only point of discussion, SMART tyres with lipstick and high-heels have found their way into a hostile market that has unpaved roads, untrained staff and uncaring drivers in some instances.

The readers of this article may have had access to better tyre optimisation processes than the ones I will mention below. Yet I can say without a doubt now will match the dedication and follow-up that is offered by the Budini Tyre Management Systems.

• The Tyre Optimisation Process is a non-patented process that was arrived at by a team of tyre experts on casing (yet not tyre optimisation) in order to achieve the lowest cost per Kilometer in a particular fleet. Pocket Suit, Survey Web and TMS are worth a glance.

Feature Benefits and Evidence (FABEs) is the way tyres were sold, sadly price has over-shadowed all three since both  the purchaser nor the seller are reluctant to discuss the matters relating to performance. Benchmarking of tyre mileages across fleets is more often than not misleading.

Smart sales people

Ajay, Yves, Mick and Tony belong to a fading rare breed of people who were tyre  fleet problem solvers. These gate-keepers and well-trained mentors in process described above played and continued to give solutions and on-site training in the harsh environments. What is common about this people in how  SMART or wise they are. It is the extremely long span of attention they dedicate in their line of duty. It is therefore worrying that today when the tyre is being treated as a commodity and not a Safety Engineering piece of equipment, Africa and Africans without secure gate keepers and anti-dumping laws will fall prey to fast talking sales persons with tik-tok attention spans. If I were to be the Chief Tyre General –  Certain Tyres would only be sold on prescriptions.

In  South Africa, it was uncommon for representatives of different companies to meet at a major transporter and conduct a joint scrap and claim analysis. Just like doctors conducting a post-mortem, sample casings from each brand would be analysed and reported before they would rest back for a Friday  Brae and Beer. SMART. I know this may be happening in other parts of the word any it is the reason we now have the Radial Tyre Damage Book.

RFID, push alerts, Translogic tools, TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems) are all example of Smart technologies that many sales persons, managers, owners and directors are aware of but are not capable of implementing just yet. However, training might be that essential key that unlocks the thirst for the much-needed necessities.

I end this article with the SMARTest thing I have heard this year and maybe for a long time. It comes from a great mind in Tyre Management “It does not matter how you record (label) tyres in whatever system you have….what matters is what you do with that tyre after that. A basic tyre system understood by all is the best way to involve others and come out with shining success. It beats even the tyre RFID systems - Marcio Olievera (Budini Systems – SMARTyre SCALER).

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Apollo Tyres Ltd recently marked the seventh edition of EK NAAM, its flagship programme dedicated to recognising and uplifting women entrepreneurs from underserved communities. The initiative, launched in 2019, has evolved into a significant platform that celebrates grassroots women leaders who drive community transformation and inclusive development through their resilience and vision. By spotlighting their achievements, Apollo Tyres reinforces its commitment to fostering gender equity and enabling sustainable livelihoods.

At this year’s ceremony, eight remarkable women were honoured as EK NAAM Change Agents for their outstanding leadership and entrepreneurial spirit. The awardees included Sahida Beevi, Seemamol S, Meera Appa, Pinki Ji, Manjulaben Patel, Kavita Ji, Gohil Dakshaben and Bahamuni Kisku. Their recognition followed targeted support and collaboration between Apollo Tyres and its NGO partners, underscoring the impact of structured interventions in empowering women at the grassroots level.

The event featured notable voices who enriched the discourse on equity and inclusion. Gregor Trumel, Counsellor for Cooperation and Cultural Affairs and Director of The French Institute in India, spoke on the importance of diversity in strengthening societies and international partnerships. R Mahalakshmi, Chief Human Resources Officer at Apollo Tyres, reiterated the organisation’s dedication to inclusive growth, emphasising that supporting women entrepreneurs is essential for lasting community progress. A special interaction with Anjum Chopra, former captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, offered the audience valuable perspectives on leadership and determination.

The occasion also saw Apollo Tyres Foundation reaffirm its strategic alliance with Saral Jeevan India Foundation and Frontier Markets, aimed at expanding economic opportunities for rural women through digital platforms. Ajaita Shah, Founder and CEO of Frontier Markets, highlighted the vital role of women-led enterprises in fostering grassroots economic development. Additionally, a panel discussion titled ‘Justice in Action: Advancing Equity for Inclusive Futures’ called for moving beyond conversation to concrete systemic change, ensuring fairness and access for marginalised groups by embedding equity into policy and practice.

Through EK NAAM, Apollo Tyres continues to advance its sustainability goals in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, positioning women as key drivers of change and community resilience.

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Bandag has taken a significant step forward in its UK growth strategy by welcoming Scotland’s largest independent tyre retreader into its franchise network. The new partnership with Alba Tyre Management Ltd marks a pivotal moment for both companies and strengthens Bridgestone’s footprint in the region.

Based in Kilbirnie, near Glasgow, Alba was established in 2004 and has built a strong reputation as a leading supplier of premium retreaded truck tyres and new tyres across all vehicle classes. The company manages around 60,000 tyres currently in service on Scottish roads and delivers comprehensive local, national, and mobile fitting services. With 26 employees, the business now looks to expand further after becoming a Bandag Cornerstone Franchisee.

A central element of the agreement includes the installation of new retreading equipment, such as a Bandag builder machine, which is projected to boost annual production by at least 2,000 additional retread units initially. This growth in capacity is also expected to lead to job creation in the near future.

The decision to join Bandag was largely driven by the integrated offering from Bridgestone, which combines high-quality casing supply, established fleet partnerships, and advanced mounted wheel programmes. Few manufacturers can deliver such a complete package. Furthermore, Alba will implement BASys, Bridgestone’s digital tracking system, enabling full visibility of each casing throughout its lifecycle – from collection and retreading to final refitment. This end-to-end solution positions Alba for a new phase of operational growth and service excellence.

David Wilson, Operations Director, Alba, said, “This partnership gives us a full front-to-end provision of services. From premium Bridgestone casing supply to access to their new tyre range, data, fleet programmes and mounted wheel offering, it’s a complete solution. For us, we will never get into a war about price. We’re about premium quality and delivering a circular, joined-up approach for commercial fleets. With Bandag sharing our philosophy, the growth potential is huge.”

Mike Howling, Bandag Service Operations Business Partner, said, “We are overjoyed to attract Alba to Bandag, who will play a strategic role in the success of our brand for many years to come. The only limiting factor is our imagination. We wanted a footprint in Scotland, and could not wish for a better partner than ALBA. Alba has established the marketplace in Scotland, but in working together, we both believe the business can grow significantly. We can build a very strong partnership together. We have an entrepreneur in Alba and their enthusiasm and vision for the future is something that we are all extremely excited about.

“Our Bandag model is built on three pillars: premium Bridgestone casing supply, longstanding commercial fleet partnerships and a network of experienced, locally based dealers, which is where Alba comes into its own. We’re not about quantity but quality franchise partners who share our passion and ambition for the future. With Alba now firmly embedded within the network, we have a formidable presence north of the border – and our global expertise, digital traceability and premium product engineering can only provide additional strength in the months and years to come.”

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Continental has unveiled the Terra Competition, a significant new addition to its Terra tyre line and the brand's fastest gravel tyre to date. Designed to excel across mixed surfaces, this model aims to dissolve the traditional boundaries between pure road cycling and gravel exploration, catering to riders who prioritise speed and performance on diverse terrain.

The tyre features a meticulously engineered tread pattern suited for rough pavement, compacted dirt and light gravel, particularly in dry to moderately damp conditions. A nearly solid central strip ensures minimal rolling resistance for sustained speed on straights, while pronounced shoulder knobs provide reliable traction when cornering off-road. This design reflects a dual-purpose philosophy, balancing efficiency on tarmac with capability on loose surfaces.

Recognising the varied demands of gravel riding, Continental offers the Terra Competition in two distinct casing options. The Race version, paired with the Rapid compound, is tailored for those seeking maximum velocity and swift acceleration on both flats and climbs. In contrast, the Trail casing utilises the Grip compound and a sturdier single-ply construction, delivering enhanced durability, puncture resistance and ground compliance for more technical off-road sections. Both variants incorporate a textile breaker beneath the tread for added protection and feature the brand's proprietary BlackChilli rubber compound. Furthermore, both models are designed to be Tubeless Ready and compatible with hookless rims.

For the first time in the Terra series, aerodynamic efficiency was a primary development goal. The Terra Competition offers notable performance gains, including a weight reduction of up to 16 percent – with the 35-622 Race version tipping the scales at just 345 grammes – and a decrease in rolling resistance of up to 17 percent when compared to the 35-622 Terra Speed. The tyre is available in 35, 40 and 45-millimetre widths, each offered in both Race and Trail casings to suit a wide spectrum of riding styles and surfaces.

Alexander Haenke, Product Manager – MTB and Gravel, Continental Tyres, said, “We set out to create the Terra Competition for riders who don’t want to choose between road speed and off-road capability. As more riders mix surfaces and push performance, the demand for a fast, yet versatile tyre continues to grow. Terra Competition delivers that balance, combining efficiency on tarmac with the confidence needed when the route turns to gravel.”

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ZC Rubber has announced the extension and expansion of its successful partnership with the Red Bull Driftbrothers. Through this collaboration, the Chinese tyre manufacturer, under its Westlake Performance Tyres brand, serves as the official tyre and equipment partner for the renowned German motorsport team. The partnership primarily focuses on equipping the team’s fleet of BMW vehicles used in competitions, show drifts and exhibitions. This fleet now features a newly constructed BMW M2 built for the 2026 season, alongside two 1,000-horsepower BMW M4 models and a classic BMW E30 used as a show car.

Beyond vehicle supply, the partnership is deeply rooted in joint technological development. Engineers, drivers and team members from both ZC Rubber and the Red Bull Driftbrothers work closely to enhance tyre performance. Their collaborative efforts have led to the latest innovation, the improved Westlake Sport RS2. This next-generation high-performance competition tyre offers precise handling, maximum stability and consistently high-level performance across all temperatures and throughout the entire tread depth. Enthusiasts and end customers can also look forward to this product, as it will be available through ZC Rubber’s retail partners.

The 2026 season promises an extensive programme for the Red Bull Driftbrothers, featuring selected rounds of the Drift Masters European Championship and a spectacular show as part of the supporting programme at the ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring in May. Further joint appearances are planned at major industry events, including The Tire Cologne in June and the Essen Motor Show in late November, where both partners will showcase their ongoing collaboration and innovations.

Jeffrey Zhang, General Manager – International Business Department, Zhongce Rubber Group, said, “We are excited to continue our partnership with the Red Bull Driftbrothers. The experience of Elias and the constructive exchange with his team are extremely valuable for technology and the performance of our products. This is demonstrated very clearly in the development of the Westlake Sport RS2. The demanding drift sport is also an excellent platform for illustrating the performance of our tyres. We look forward to the joint events, where we intend to activate our partnership for the European market.”

Elias Hountondji, driver and engineer of the Red Bull Driftbrothers, said, “Having a reliable and high-performance tyre partner is enormously important in our sport. With ZC Rubber, we have had such a partner at our side since last year and are very pleased to continue the cooperation. Together, we have further optimised the rubber compound of the Westlake Sport RS2. The result is a high-performance tyre that we can rely on one hundred percent, even under extreme loads, to ensure that the level of grip does not drop. The fact that the tyre will soon also be available to customers makes us even more delighted.”

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