A comprehensive scientific review released under the umbrella of the Tire Industry Project (TIP) has concluded that despite significant advances in understanding tyre wear emissions, current data remains insufficient to quantify their direct impact on human health. The final paper in a three-part ‘State of Knowledge’ (SoK) series, supported by TIP as part of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, analysed over 850 peer-reviewed studies to assess global research on tyre and road wear particles. The authors found that inconsistencies in sampling approaches, detection techniques and analytical methodologies across studies prevent reliable comparison and robust risk assessment. As a result, while interest in the topic has grown, the evidence linking tyre emissions to specific health outcomes remains inconclusive.

According to the review, tyre wear particles constitute only a small fraction of total airborne particulate matter, typically less than five percent of PM2.5 and PM10 in urban environments. Toxicological data from both in vivo and in vitro studies indicate that tyre and road wear particles are no more harmful than general ambient particulate matter, with effects that are similar to or less potent than those of other airborne particle types. Although chemicals used in tyre manufacturing have been detected in human body fluids, the authors stress that these substances are also widely used in other applications, making it impossible to clearly attribute exposure to tyres as the primary source.

The paper, independently authored by Kathrin Müller, Julie Panko, Kenny M Unice and Dr Stephan Wagner, identifies the lack of harmonised global methods for sampling, analysing and characterising tyre wear emissions as a major barrier to drawing firm conclusions. This call for greater methodological consistency aligns with the findings of the first two SoK papers published in 2025, which examined the characterisation, quantification and environmental impacts of tyre wear emissions. Without standardised approaches, meaningful comparison across studies and reliable exposure or risk assessment remain unattainable.

Looking forward, the authors recommend that future research prioritise the identification of potential exposure pathways and examine relevant health outcomes, including chronic effects, under realistic conditions. Such studies should cover urban and suburban populations across different global regions to ensure comprehensive and applicable findings. The SoK series, representing the most extensive review of global science on tyre wear emissions to date, underscores the need for coordinated international efforts to improve the identification, measurement, and attribution of these particles in both environmental and human health contexts.

Dr Wagner, one of the leading researchers of Paper 3, said, “Tyre wear emissions are a complex topic that we still only partly understand, especially in relation to human health. While research has advanced our understanding of TRWP, the current data simply isn’t robust enough to quantify any potential health risks specifically linked to tyre wear. Looking forward, cross-stakeholder collaboration is fundamental to making rapid progress. By aligning methods, sharing data and focusing on real-world studies, we can build a stronger, more consistent evidence base to inform future decisions.”

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Dunlop Motorcycle Europe has expanded its original equipment partnership with Beta Motorcycles, securing a deal to supply advanced Geomax tyres across the Italian brand’s trial and motocross lineups. The enhanced collaboration introduces new standard fitments for both competition disciplines.

For trial applications, the Geomax TL01 replaces the previous D803GP on Beta’s Evo and Sincro models. Engineered with a high-adhesion compound and a specialised block layout for angled terrain, the ultra-sticky tyre has already proven popular among Beta racers and now becomes factory-standard equipment.

In the motocross sector, Beta has adopted the Geomax MX34 for its entire RX range, covering both two-stroke and four-stroke 250 cc and 350 cc variants, as well as the 450 cc model. Designed primarily for intermediate ground, the versatile MX34 performs effectively across diverse surfaces, from soft mud to compacted dirt.

Donato Miglio, Race Team Manager Trial, Beta Motorcycles, said, "Geomax TL01 represents a significant step forward in performance, which is why we decided to adopt it as our original equipment trial tyre. Many of our riders already use it in competition, where it has proven its exceptional grip, stability and handling.”

Fabrizio Dini, Race Team Manager Motocross and Enduro, Beta Motorcycles, said, “In motocross, the latest generation of Dunlop MX tyres features significant performance improvements. Geomax MX34 provides excellent grip, particularly on dry surfaces, giving riders a reassuring feeling of safety and constant control. Both tyres suit our bikes perfectly.”

Miguel Morais, Original Equipment Manager, Dunlop Motorcycle Europe, said, “We are proud to deepen our partnership with Beta through the introduction of Geomax TL01 and MX34 across its latest trial and motocross models. Fitments like these are a strong endorsement of the capabilities of tyres throughout our range, and we’re excited that more and more riders will experience increased confidence and performance that helps them get the most out of their Beta motorcycles from their first ride.”

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The Tire and Rubber Association of Canada (TRAC) has launched Member Spotlight Series, a new monthly initiative designed to profile the diverse organisations and leaders within the nation's tyre and rubber sector. The programme offers comprehensive examinations of member companies, covering their business models, technological advancements, environmental strategies and corporate philosophies.

Pirelli is the first company to be featured, with its profile providing insight into its leadership approach and industry contributions. Subsequent spotlights will be released monthly through TRAC’s digital platforms, including its official website, newsletters and social media channels, with each instalment detailing products, strategic goals and recent achievements.

By sharing these narratives, TRAC intends to bolster member connections and highlight the sector's role in Canada's economy and ecological progress. The series further aims to encourage knowledge exchange and collaboration, allowing members to share best practices and elevate awareness of the proficiency present within the domestic tyre and rubber industry.

Carol Hochu, President and CEO, TRAC, said, “One of TRAC’s greatest strengths is the expertise and leadership found across our membership. The Member Spotlight Series celebrates the companies and people shaping our industry while helping share the stories of innovation, advanced manufacturing, sustainability and collaboration that define Canada’s tyre and rubber sector.”

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TyreSafe has announced a new alliance with Logistics UK, marking a significant step in uniting efforts to enhance road safety, promote sustainable transport and disseminate best practices within the freight and haulage industry. This collaboration formalises the mutual dedication of both organisations to address critical safety challenges facing UK's transport networks.

Logistics UK, a prominent membership association representing over 21,000 enterprises, encompasses the breadth of the supply chain, including road, rail, water and air freight. Its extensive network accounts for nearly half of the national lorry fleet, comprising more than 200,000 vehicles. Through advocacy, training and compliance support, the organisation is instrumental in maintaining secure and efficient supply chains, making it a pivotal partner for TyreSafe's safety initiatives.

The partnership underscores the growing recognition of tyre management as a cornerstone of modern logistics, impacting not only vehicular safety but also operational costs and environmental footprints. Data indicates that a majority of tyres on UK roads are underinflated, leading to approximately GBP 1 billion in annual fuel waste and accelerating tyre degradation. Furthermore, tyre defects are a primary cause of MOT failures, with over two million infractions recorded yearly, and they contribute significantly to roadside breakdowns and motorway incidents.

For commercial fleets, the stakes are particularly high, as proper inflation and tread depth are directly linked to fuel economy, emissions reduction and cost efficiency. As part of this joint effort, TyreSafe will promote its specialised, vehicle-specific safety resources, offering tailored guidance for HGVs, vans and cars. This educational push aims to empower drivers and operators with the knowledge to conduct effective tyre checks, thereby mitigating risks and supporting the logistics sector's sustainability and operational goals.

Stuart Lovatt, Chair of TyreSafe, said, “We are delighted to be partnering with Logistics UK, an organisation that shares our commitment to safer, more sustainable and more efficient transport. Tyres and their maintenance absolutely fundamental to fleet safety and performance. This partnership allows us to extend vital tyre safety messaging to a broad and influential logistics audience at a time when operators are balancing safety, compliance, cost pressures and sustainability ambitions. By working together, we can help ensure tyre safety remains firmly on the agenda across the sector.”

Arthur Gribbin, Engineering Policy Lead at Logistics UK, said, “Efficient logistics depends on vehicles operating safely, legally and reliably. Tyres play a critical role in achieving this, influencing everything from vehicle safety and fuel efficiency to downtime and environmental impact. By partnering with TyreSafe, we are helping ensure our members and the wider logistics community have access to trusted information and practical guidance to support safer and more sustainable fleet operations.”

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Continental has significantly broadened its Gravity mountain bike tyre lineup by introducing 13 new combinations, thereby offering riders extensive customisation options for aggressive trail riding, enduro racing and downhill disciplines.

The expanded portfolio now includes novel size, casing and compound pairings for the Argotal, Kryptotal Front, Kryptotal Rear and Xynotal models. Additional Trail Soft and Enduro SuperSoft variants are available for 29-inch and 27.5-inch wheels, while the trusted mixed-conditions tread remains accessible for 20-, 24- and 26-inch sizes.

This strategic enlargement underscores Continental’s dedication to providing gravity riders with tailored flexibility in balancing grip, control, durability and rolling efficiency. The Enduro casing with SuperSoft compound offers peak traction for demanding trails, whereas the Trail casing with Soft compound delivers a stable and durable option for aggressive riding.

Alexander Haenke, Product Manager for MTB & Gravel at Continental Tires, said, “MTB riders have very different needs depending on where and how they ride. With these 13 new tyre combinations, we are giving riders even more ways to find the perfect balance of grip, control and durability for their individual setup. Whether they are racing enduro, pushing their limits on technical trails or simply looking for maximum confidence on the descents, our expanded Gravity range offers the performance and flexibility they need.”

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