The Tire Industry Project (TIP) has announced the selection of five research proposals under its inaugural Open Call for Projects (OCP), awarding nearly USD 2 million in total funding. This initiative, designed to advance the global scientific understanding of tyre wear emissions and their mitigation, also coincides with the launch of a second funding round focused on ecological impacts.

The first OCP, which concluded in late 2024, attracted 22 submissions over a four-month period. An evaluation committee composed of TIP experts and external technical assessors selected the five awardees based on stringent criteria, including scientific relevance, methodological feasibility, innovation and potential societal impact. Three of the chosen projects will advance research into the environmental pathways and presence of tyre wear particles. These are led by institutions including Germany’s Technical University Darmstadt, which will map pollution in roadside soils; France’s Gustave Eiffel University, investigating particles in sewer systems and the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, developing a new high-throughput method for detecting particles.

The remaining two projects are focused on developing practical mitigation solutions. Washington State University will research using tyre char to treat stormwater runoff, while the non-profit Ocean Conservancy will evaluate the effectiveness of green infrastructure in urban areas to capture tyre wear pollution.

Concurrently, TIP has launched its 2025 Open Call for Projects, which will specifically address significant knowledge gaps concerning the potential ecological impacts of tyre wear emissions, including chemicals and leachates. This new focus is informed by TIP’s recent State of Knowledge paper series, which highlighted inconsistencies in the current scientific understanding. To support prospective applicants, TIP will host introductory webinars on 23 September 2025. The final deadline for proposal submissions to this global collaborative initiative is 15 January 2026.

Larisa Kryachkova, Executive Director, TIP, said, “The topic of tyre wear emissions is extremely complex – one that requires deep, evidence-based investigation and cross-stakeholder collaboration. Recognising this, we decided to complement our own research and mitigation initiatives by launching the Open Call for Projects, inviting stakeholders across the world to join us in the quest to uncover this multi-dimensional subject. The initiative reflects our long-term commitment to building a collaborative research ecosystem through public platforms. The OCP takes us one step forward in harnessing the collective brainpower of the scientific community and we look forward to evolving this further in the coming years.”

Dr John Bucher, part of TIP’s Assurance Group and a member of the OCP evaluation committee, said, “Sound science and robust evidence are essential to assessing the environmental challenges we face and to identifying the most effective solutions. Initiatives such as the OCP can act as a tremendous catalyst in this regard, opening a new world of possibilities. We are pleased with the diversity and quality of submissions received, which reaffirms the strong interest in this topic and the desire to engage in collaborative solutions.”

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Titan International, a global leader in off‑the‑road (OTR) tyre and wheel manufacturing and distribution, has entered into a significant 10-year exclusive distribution agreement with Triangle Tire USA. This strategic alliance grants Titan exclusive rights to distribute both Triangle and Diamondback branded OTR tyres across United States. By combining Triangle’s global manufacturing expertise with Titan’s extensive North American dealer network and the established recognition of the Diamondback brand, the partnership aims to deliver a comprehensive and unified portfolio of high-performance OTR solutions.

The collaboration enhances Titan’s product offering to include a diverse range of radial and bias tyres suited for the most demanding off-road environments. Customers across critical sectors such as mining, construction, earthmoving, aggregates, industrial operations and equipment rental will benefit from this expanded selection. The integrated portfolio supports a wide array of heavy machinery, including large earthmoving equipment, loaders, dozers, scrapers, haulage vehicles, mobile cranes and container handling machinery for ports, as well as industrial and rental fleets.

This initiative is designed to strengthen the market presence of the combined Titan, Triangle and Diamondback brands within the OTR sector. By leveraging Titan’s national sales and support infrastructure, the partnership aims to drive long-term performance through enhanced dealer adoption and improved customer satisfaction. The arrangement ensures that end users have access to a broader spectrum of mission-critical tyre solutions backed by reliable distribution and service support.

The initial rollout of Triangle and Diamondback OTR products is currently underway through Titan’s dealer network in United States. An expanded range of sizes and patterns is scheduled for release throughout the year, with dealers encouraged to consult their Titan representatives for detailed information on availability, specifications and ordering procedures.

Paul Reitz, CEO & President, Titan International, said, “This partnership combines Titan’s deep channel reach with Triangle’s expanding OTR portfolio to deliver a broader, more competitive offering to our customers – backed by Titan’s service, training and technical support. We’re excited to bring the Triangle and Diamondback families into our US distribution platform to improve availability, coverage, and value across critical OTR customers.”

Campbell Metcalfe, CEO, Triangle Tire USA, said, “Triangle is pleased to join forces with Titan to bring our OTR innovations to more US customers, faster. Titan’s scale, distribution strength and customer support capabilities will substantially enhance access to Triangle and Diamondback products across key industries.”

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Radar Tires, a globally recognised manufacturer known for its off-road and high-performance products, is broadening its footprint in the light truck and off-road vehicle segment with a major expansion of its popular Radar Renegade-X line. Responding directly to robust market demand and the model's sustained success among enthusiasts, the company will introduce nine new sizes featuring rim diameters from 18 to 26 inches. A key highlight of this expansion is the debut of 26-inch options, catering to the growing trend of customised and lifted trucks requiring larger wheel fitments.

Since its market introduction, the Renegade-X has built a strong reputation for delivering uncompromising off-road capability without sacrificing on-road civility. Consumer feedback consistently praises its superior traction in mud and rocky terrain, its robust durability and notably low road noise – a combination rarely achieved in the mud-terrain category. This balance of aggressive performance and refined driveability has solidified its appeal.

The tyre’s distinctive design is the result of a collaboration with the renowned Italian design house GFG Style, blending engineering rigor with premium aesthetics. Its technical features include a high void-to-lug ratio designed for effective self-cleaning in mud, alongside a specialised rock-crawl compound for enhanced grip on varied surfaces. Durability is addressed through a three-ply sidewall construction, while a strategic combination of stone ejectors and serrations protects the tyre casing. Furthermore, sidewall lugs inspired by stealth design not only contribute to a striking visual profile but also improve lateral traction in challenging conditions.

The newly added sizes are intended for a wide range of vehicles, including Jeeps, pickup trucks and full-size SUVs. Availability is scheduled to commence through authorised dealers in February 2026, with additional sizes arriving through April of that year.

Rob Montasser, Vice President, Radar Tires, said, “The response to the Radar Renegade-X has exceeded our expectations, and our dealer partners have consistently requested additional sizes to meet customer demand. This nine-size expansion, including our first 26-inch rim diameter sizes, demonstrates our commitment to providing dealers with a comprehensive product offering that supports sustained, profitable growth while giving consumers more choices for their vehicles.”

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Nokian Tyres has formally released its climate transition plan, a comprehensive roadmap guiding the company’s decarbonisation efforts. This strategy is anchored in the company’s near- and long-term climate objectives, which received validation from the Science Based Targets initiative in 2024. Crucially, the organisation’s ambition to achieve net-zero emissions across Scope 1, 2 and 3 aligns with the stringent requirements of limiting global warming to 1.5°C, as dictated by contemporary climate science.

The company has already made significant progress, particularly within its own operations. By the close of 2025, Nokian Tyres had successfully reduced absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions by more than 38 percent relative to the 2022 baseline, edging closer to its interim target of a 42 percent reduction by 2030. The newly published plan elaborates on this trajectory, detailing the primary sources of emissions and the essential strategies for reduction both internally and across the broader value chain. These actions are designed to meet the 2030 benchmarks while maintaining a clear pathway towards the ultimate goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Endorsed by the company’s Board of Directors, the plan is a living document subject to updates as emission-reduction technologies and methodologies evolve. Further details are accessible on the corporate website. This strategic approach is already yielding tangible results and external recognition. The company’s Romanian facility stands as the world’s first full-scale tyre factory to achieve zero CO2 emissions in its own operations. Furthermore, this commitment to sustainability was acknowledged in 2025 by TIME Magazine, which named Nokian Tyres one of the World’s Most Sustainable Companies, and by CDP, which awarded the firm its sixth consecutive leadership-level score for climate action.

Paolo Pompei, President and CEO, Nokian Tyres, said, “Our work towards net-zero emissions is not only about us but also about drivers worldwide. Through our actions and innovations, we reduce the environmental impact of tyre manufacturing while delivering the safety and quality that define Nokian Tyres.”

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As temperatures drop and road conditions become increasingly unpredictable, ensuring vehicle safety demands more than cautious driving. Giti Tire, drawing on over seven decades of global expertise, offers both advanced tyre technology and practical guidance to help drivers navigate winter’s challenges with confidence. Their latest winter offerings, the Giti Winter Comfort WT26 and the Giti Winter Control WT80, cater to a wide range of vehicles with sizes spanning R15 to R22. These tyres, developed under the AdvanZtech platform with Ice Surface Adhesion Technology 3.0, demonstrate how innovation can directly enhance grip and stability in icy and snowy conditions.

However, even the most sophisticated tyres require proper maintenance to perform effectively. Giti highlights that drivers frequently overlook how colder weather affects their tyres. A significant drop of 10°C can cause tyre pressure to decrease, which in turn impacts braking and handling. Checking pressure monthly when the tyres are cold helps maintain optimal performance. Tread depth is another critical factor; once it nears the wear indicators, replacement is essential. Additionally, the condition of the rubber itself matters – prolonged exposure to moisture, harsh sunlight or road chemicals can accelerate aging. Simple habits like parking carefully and clearing debris from the tread grooves can prevent damage and extend tyre life.

When temperatures consistently hover below 7°C, or when frost and snow coat the roads, switching to dedicated winter tyres becomes a necessity rather than an option. Unlike all-season alternatives, winter tyres retain their flexibility in extreme cold, offering superior traction on slippery surfaces. This translates to more controlled acceleration, braking and cornering. The WT26, for instance, is engineered for comfort and quiet operation. Its specialised rubber compound works to absorb the thin water layer on ice, while interlocking tread blocks and dense sipes provide secure footing without compromising cabin serenity. For those who prioritise dynamic handling, the WT80 employs a bionic tread pattern and tightly packed sipes that act like brushes on ice, sharpening steering response and braking precision. Advanced groove designs also boost snow traction, while noise optimisation technology ensures a refined ride even at higher speeds.

Beyond tyres, a holistic approach to winter preparation is vital. Drivers should verify that lighting, brakes and steering systems are in peak condition before the season sets in. Choosing the right windshield washer fluid, one rated for local low temperatures, prevents freezing and maintains visibility. On the road, managing fogged windows, using lights appropriately and keeping a steady rhythm on slick surfaces are key defensive driving techniques. Electric vehicle owners face unique considerations; preserving battery health means avoiding extended parking in extreme cold with a low state of charge. Even routine car washing matters – opting for warmer parts of the day and using warm water reduces stress on paint and glass caused by rapid temperature changes.

These combined efforts, from high-tech tyre selection to mindful daily habits, form a comprehensive safety net. By attending to both the obvious and easily missed details, drivers can significantly reduce risk and maintain control throughout the winter months.

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