Therefore, transitioning to a green economy has sound economic and social justification. For governments, this transition would involve levelling the playing field for greener products by replacing harmful subsidies, reforming policies and redirecting public investment among others. In the private sector, this transition would involve responding to these policy reforms and incentives through increased financing and investment, skill building and innovation capacities to realise the opportunities arising from a green economy.
Automobile industry is one of the key sectors for economic growth, where sustainability is critical to ensure access to clean and eco-friendly mode of transportation. Particularly for the rubber industry, which is largely perceived as non-environmentally friendly, it is imperative to work towards adapting the green economy; largely through development of green technology and introduction of green manufacturing practices including resource decoupling - using less land, water, energy and materials to maintain economic growth and to reduce environmental impact.
Technology innovation remains a key priority. Some of the trends for automotive and tyre industries include, sustainable tyre through introduction of green material technology with further improvement in fuel efficiency (Rolling Resistance) Safety (Dry and Wet Traction), Durability (mileage) and Comfort (Noise, Vibration, Ride & Handling). Besides above, obtaining rubber material from biomass and recyclable avenues, greater use of modelling in performance prediction and tyre design, change in tyre design to tall and thin tires, especially to suit electric vehicles are of paramount importance towards the making of a green economy. In addition, technologies that include real time simulation, virtual proving ground, self-inflation technology, electrified rubber, sensor-based tyres for health assessment and fleet management can help save fuel, reduce operating cost including increased tyre life.
Use of simulation and predictive technology - Finite Element Analysis (FEA), service life prediction, etc. – are expected to contribute towards determining the reliability aspect of tyres. With the advent of high-end software, FEA tools are now extensively used for prediction of structural durability, aquaplaning, heat generation, process simulation and Noise, Vibration & Harshness (NVH). Advanced research is underway to understand the microscopic behaviour of polymer-filler interaction using new generation simulation techniques. This in turn would help to develop ultra-high-performance tyres with reduced hysteresis, improved safety and durability.
In line with the automobile industry, tyre Industry is also looking into possibilities of implementing smart manufacturing practices, which include Big Data-driven quality control, robot assisted production, self-driving logistics vehicles, production line simulation, smart supply network, predictive maintenance, machine as a service, self-organising production, additive manufacturing of complex parts and augmented work among others.
As vehicles directly impact the environment (air quality, noise levels etc.,) and tyres are integral to its functioning, a collaborative effort is required to bring about a change of thinking and a change of culture on pursuing green economy in the rubber industry.
Linglong Tire Renews Official Tyre Partnership With Chelsea Football Club
- By TT News
- August 27, 2026
Linglong Tire has confirmed its continued role as the Official Tyre Partner of Chelsea Football Club for the 2026/2027 campaign, a season that commenced with a 3-2 away victory for the Blues over Fulham FC. The renewed agreement ensures the brand’s prominent visibility throughout the upcoming fixtures.
As a Global Tyre Partner, Linglong’s branding will feature extensively on digital perimeter boards at Stamford Bridge during all Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup home matches, alongside additional placements on static partner boards and the club’s official website. The comprehensive sponsorship package also includes regular match tickets, VIP hospitality allocations, co-branding rights and deep integration into club media content. Furthermore, the partnership extends to Chelsea Women’s home games, with joint digital activations designed to strengthen fan engagement.
Initial social media contests on Linglong’s European channels have already launched, with winners set to attend the upcoming home fixture against Brighton & Hove Albion. Founded in 1905, Chelsea stands as one of England’s most historic and decorated clubs, boasting over 30 major trophies, including six league titles, two UEFA Champions League crowns and a FIFA Club World Cup victory, underscoring the prestige of Linglong’s ongoing association.
Vittoria Secures Official Partner Role At 2026 MTB World Championships
- By TT News
- August 27, 2026
Italian bicycle tyre manufacturer Vittoria has solidified its prominent status in mountain biking by securing a role as an Official Partner of Val di Sole Bikeland for the 2026 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships. The prestigious five-day competition is being held from 26 to 30 August 2026 at the Daolasa Arena in Commezzadura, a venue renowned as one of the sport’s most iconic global destinations.
The world championships will feature a comprehensive programme of elite racing, with world titles and the coveted rainbow jerseys on the line across multiple disciplines. Events will include Cross-country Olympic, Cross-country Short Track, the Team Relay, Downhill and E-MTB Cross-country, drawing the planet’s top riders to the Trentino valley for a week of high-stakes competition.
Beyond its partnership with the event, Vittoria’s deep-rooted commitment to the sport is evidenced by its long-term support of prominent national cycling federations. The brand currently backs the Italian Cycling Federation, USA Cycling, the Royal Dutch Cycling Union and the Japan Professional Cyclist Association, underlining its dedication to fostering mountain biking at the elite level. With these four national bodies and a roster of world-class athletes relying on its products, Vittoria is poised to be a central figure throughout the championships.
At the venue, Vittoria will operate a dedicated exhibition space in the heart of the action, offering athletes, media, industry insiders and fans a chance to explore its latest technological innovations and view the equipment used by top competitors. This presence reflects Vittoria’s enduring history in international racing and its ongoing investment in developing high-performance tyres and accessories for cyclists of all levels, from professional racers to dedicated amateurs across every cycling discipline.
Stijn Vriends, Chairman & CEO, Vittoria, said, "Being part of the 2026 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships while also supporting some of the world's leading national cycling federations is a tremendous source of pride for us. Val di Sole is one of the true landmarks of international mountain biking and the perfect stage to celebrate our passion for this sport together with athletes, partners and fans from around the world."
Fabio Sacco, General Manager of Apt Val di Sole and Grandi Eventi Val di Sole, said, “The presence of an international brand such as Vittoria alongside the World Championships represents an important recognition for Val di Sole and for the work we have been carrying out for many years to promote and develop mountain biking. Collaborating with leading companies in the industry that share our vision and passion for this sport further strengthens the value of an event that will put Val di Sole and Trentino in the global spotlight. We are proud to welcome Vittoria to Daolasa di Commezzadura and to offer athletes, teams and fans an unforgettable experience in a region where mountain biking has become a fundamental part of its identity.”
DUNLOP Launches Joint Research On Sustainable Natural Rubber Production
- By TT News
- August 27, 2026
DUNLOP (company name: Sumitomo Rubber Industries) has formalised a collaborative research initiative in Bangkok, Thailand, under the Hevea Research Platform in Partnership. Signed on 7 August 2026, the joint agreement brings together the Rubber Authority of Thailand, the French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development and two Thai academic institutions, Khon Kaen University and Kasetsart University.
The project will examine the impact of reduced-frequency latex collection, known as low-frequency tapping systems, on the material properties and internal structural integrity of natural rubber. The research will also evaluate practical obstacles farmers encounter when transitioning to these methods, alongside enabling factors for broader uptake. The goal is to accelerate the company's commitment to sustainable raw material sourcing.
Southeast Asian rubber producers face volatile prices, climatic shifts and a critical deficit of plantation labour. Thailand, in particular, suffers from an acute shortage of skilled tappers, forcing smallholders to rely on an ageing workforce and migrant labourers. The low-frequency approach directly addresses this constraint by reducing collection frequency, offering a potential solution to a regional challenge.
Prior investigations have shown that tapping every three days, combined with a plant growth regulator, can maintain productivity and quality comparable to the conventional two-day interval. However, extended cycles of 4, 6 or 10 days remain poorly understood regarding rubber characteristics. Socioeconomic ramifications, including cost structures and physical workload, also require deeper exploration.
This project will systematically assess technical outcomes of various tapping frequencies and human dimensions of their implementation. Insights will support Sumitomo Rubber Industries' broader strategy, which pursues productivity gains through tissue culture technology for seedlings and improvements in processing facility conditions, ensuring a resilient and responsible supply chain.
Radar Tires Debuts Renegade AT And AT Trail In Northern Portugal Experience Event
- By TT News
- August 27, 2026
Radar Tires introduced its newest all-terrain offerings, the Renegade A/T and Renegade A/T Trail, during an exclusive gathering held from 24th to 27th June 2026 in northern Portugal’s Gerês region, near Peneda-Gerês National Park. The event united distributors from North and South America for an immersive introduction to the flagship products against a landscape blending performance driving with scenic exploration.
Across four days, participants navigated mountain roads, rocky sections, gravel paths and shifting terrain, evaluating on-road composure and off-road resilience. The location carries deep motorsport significance, hosting historic Rally de Portugal stages like Vieira do Minho and Fafe, providing a fitting atmosphere for an event centred on capability and partnership.
Technical seminars led by R&D head Olli Seppälä offered distributors insight into the engineering behind the new models. President and CEO G S Sareen outlined the company’s strategic vision, while recreational activities reinforced the organisation’s commitment to strong relationships alongside product excellence.
The Radar Renegade A/T is a Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certified tyre for SUVs and light trucks, combining aggressive traction with stable road manners. Dense siping, stone ejectors, side lugs and a fortified sidewall deliver wet grip and resistance to cuts and chips while minimising puncture risks. It will be offered in 89 sizes from 15- to 24-inch rims, with 44 currently available and 45 more in Q3 2026.
The Renegade A/T Trail is engineered for crossovers and SUVs, blending off-road capability with everyday comfort. It features a Trail King tread, temperature-adaptive compound, and Tri-Armor System with stone ejectors and tie bars. It comes in 42 sizes from 15 to 22 inches, with 19 ready now and 23 debuting in Q3 2026.
Both ranges include a Road Hazard Warranty and 30-Day Guarantee. P-metric sizes carry a 55,000-mile treadwear warranty, while LT sizes have 50,000 miles. Shared technologies like the Circle of Tread Life indicator and reinforced sidewalls enhance durability and personalisation, underscoring Radar Tires’ commitment to innovation and partnership.
G S Sareen, President and CEO, Radar Tires, said, "We are very confident in our new flagship range of products. We've tested them rigorously against leading premium brands, and the results speak for themselves. The Renegade A/T and A/T Trail deliver top-tier performance and durability but come without the hefty price tag, reinforcing our mission of providing premium accessibility to drivers the world over."
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