As I speak with industry members, regulators and legislators I continue to be stunned by the lack of appreciation of the very critical role that tyres play in our societies.

Governments bleat about fuel security “investing” precious currency to prop up petroleum fuel storage and production in the face of the ever-expanding development of electric vehicles and more recently the advent of hydrogen as a viable fuel with thanks to the PV (solar) industry advancements. Tyres? What do you mean tyres? Without tyres our societies would grind to a halt in the near term. How are they not a strategic consideration?

Our industries (tyre, road freight transport, mining, public transport and leisure) are facing sufficient difficulties with COVID as well as international shipping challenges to be faced with continued ignorance and negligence by our legislators and regulators.

Please review your countries legislative requirements in regards tyre inflation for light vehicles (say <4,500 kgs) and then the same requirement for heavy vehicles (>4,500 kgs). What do you find?

Mostly I think you will find that tyre inflation pressures are regulated for light vehicles via the vehicle manufacturers tyre placard. For heavy vehicles there is little, if any, such requirement. To illustrate the yawning gap between reality and regulation one peak heavy transport regulatory body published a procedure for roller brake testing for heavy vehicles. The procedure details in minute detail the requirements of the pneumatic system on the truck under test yet merely stated “tyres should be inflated.” As everyone in the tyre industry understands a tyre can be inflated at low pressures totally unrelated to actual operating pressures. What connects the brakes to the pavement? Tyres!

I’ve spoken at length about the absolute requirement for a tyre to be appropriately inflated. This is basic physics, the air molecules captured within the tyre’s air chamber actually support the applied loads. If there are insufficient molecules of air the tyre will be overworked so overheat and so enter a failure phase. There are other requirements for the inflation being the actual shaping of the tyre to interface with the pavement at the optimum level, read traction. A wide based tyre requires special construction to maintain the tread platform shape. If the inflation pressure is not at the manufacturer’s specified level will this critical shape be maintained? Then it is not only the performance of the tyre in question but also the safety of the vehicle and that of the general public in the areas this vehicle operates in.

The extensive report produced by the TNO Organisation (TNO 2013 R10986) detailed not only the exhaust emissions as a result of inappropriately inflated tyres but also the road safety outcomes. This paper is now just over eight years old but the situation with real time pressure monitoring for heavy vehicles remains as it was, 50 years or more ago. WHY? Are our regulators asleep at the wheel (or tyre some may say) through entrenched inaction and ignorance? Or is it that there are just “no votes” in tyres and everyone just ASSuMes their tyres are “ok”?

EV tyres

With the advent of electric vehicles, the ramifications for tyres are huge. In the past internal combustion engines (ICE) built up torque over a rev range, drivelines multiplied the torque developed and for heavy vehicles there is a sweet spot for torque. The multi speed gearboxes assisted the driver to maintain forward motion within this torque sweet spot. Electric motors apply maximum torque over most of their operating range. From the instant the power is applied by the driver (be that human or robotic) the tyres are under peak stress. Any deficiency within the tyre will be magnified with detrimental results. Such a deficiency may be of a manufacturing nature but this is largely controllable by the manufacturer. What is not currently controllable is the human maintenance factor, the applied inflation pressure.

Tyre manufacturers have for as long as they have been manufacturing tyres been informative about the criticality of appropriate tyre inflation. There are untold charts and pictorials showing how a tyre is influenced by under or over inflation yet our regulators and legislators continue to keep their heads buried deep out of the light. WHY when tyres are such a critical component of our modern-day motor vehicle? I would charge ignorance and negligence on one hand but then on the other suggest that because tyres work as well as they do, are as forgiving (by nature of their fundamental flexible design) our “guiding powers” can focus on other trendy and glamorous aspects such as stability control or autonomous braking. An important question for these people to consider and respond to; “what item on the vehicle transfers the power (and so directly influence these vehicle control systems) from the vehicle to the pavement (be that power tractive or retardation)? Yes of course, the humble tyre.

So, when a government sponsored or publicly funded body involved in road safety ignores tyres (for whatever reason, ignorance or negligence) are they really serving the interests of our communities and societies or are they just -- I should stop there but you know where I’m going!

The technology to monitor tyre pressures in real time is and has now been available for decades. The TREAD Act (USA) mandated tyre pressure monitoring (TPMS) for light vehicles in the USA in the year 2000. This year TPMS gets a key for its birthday, yes well and truly a mature product (some may say adult) and industry yet, our regulators and legislators continue to ignore the humble tyre.

The upsides of maintaining tyres at an appropriate pressure I’ve discussed previously, all positive. The same detail has been published in many papers (such as the TNO paper!) but we as an industry continue to live in the past whilst adopting hi-tech solutions for other aspects of our industries, e.g., GPS tracking, fatigue monitoring, reefer monitoring and control, real time video surveillance of the drivers and the surrounding traffic conditions. Why? To me there is little respect paid to the critical role the tyre provides for us. So many users do not consider how the tyre works for them and why the simplest of tasks will enhance the performance, yes, I speak of inflation maintenance. Without respect the tyre will never be recognised for the contribution it has made and continues to make.

I publicly and openly challenge our tyre manufacturers as a collective to mount an education campaign to enhance the level of respect the general public has about tyres. The TIA (US) and USTMA have local campaigns on behalf of their members but I consider that until the tyre manufacturers as a collective industry actual improve the level of respect for the humble tyre we will be chasing our tails on a race to the bottom. Our tyres deserve better!

What about Michelin, Bridgestone, Goodyear, Continental, BKT, Dunlop, ZC Rubber, Hankook, Pirelli, Toyo, Sumitomo, Yokohama, Kumho, MRF, Apollo, Nokian, JKTyres, Cooper, Titan, Linglong, Triangle et al?

Remember success does not reward a lack of action. (TT)

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Apollo Tyres has expanded its premiumisation strategy with the inauguration of a super-premium branded retail outlet in Jaipur. The flagship location, situated at Bhagwati Motors Nokha Pvt Ltd on New Sanganer Road in the Mansarovar Area, was officially opened by Rajesh Dahiya, the company’s Vice President and Business Head.

This retail concept transcends the traditional tyre store model by integrating high-end products, expert advisory services and digital technology with a community-centric atmosphere for car enthusiasts. Patrons can benefit from tailored tyre selections aligned with their specific vehicle and driving habits, alongside conveniences such as online scheduling, rapid installation and upscale waiting lounges.

Notable features include curated product ranges and service bundles designed for luxury and performance vehicles, alongside dedicated spaces for automotive hobbyists to participate in brand-driven events. This Jaipur facility represents the second such venture following a similar launch in Bengaluru, with Apollo Tyres planning to establish three to four additional outlets in other major cities shortly.

This new format underscores Apollo Tyres’ commitment to redefining customer engagement in the mobility sector, shifting focus from mere product sales to personalised, experience-oriented interactions. The initiative strengthens the company’s foothold in the premium mobility segment while reinforcing its ongoing journey toward elevated brand positioning across India.

Rajesh Dahiya, Vice President and Business Head, Apollo Tyres Ltd, said, "The expectation of today’s customers extend well beyond the product itself. With this new retail format, we are creating a premium destination that combines expert advice, convenience and personalised service while building stronger engagement with the automotive community."

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Triangle Tyre has secured a position on the 2026 China Auto New Supply Chain Top 100 list, released in Shanghai on 2 July alongside the Global Automotive Supply Chain Enterprise Competitiveness Analysis Report. The recognition highlights the manufacturer's sustained growth and strong overall capabilities within the domestic automotive sector.

The annual ranking evaluates companies based on business results, technological advancement, global support networks and sustainability efforts. Triangle Tyre's repeated inclusion signals industry acknowledgment of its competitive edge and international reach, reinforcing its commitment to long-term quality development.

Innovation remains central to the company's operations, supported by domestic and United States-based research centres. The firm holds 1,322 patents and has contributed to 155 national standards and 15 international standards. Research spending reached RMB 465 million (approximately USD 68.70 million) in 2025, marking a 7.62 percent increase from the prior year.

Key technological advances include an electromagnetic induction curing process that cuts energy use per unit by over 70 percent, backed by multiple patents including two from United States. The company has also introduced adhesion protection for giant OTR tyres and launched the e-Travel series for new energy vehicles, emphasising range, low noise and safety.

Triangle Tyre supplies over 60 domestic manufacturers and collaborates with global names like Caterpillar and Volvo. Shipments for new energy vehicle tyres rose nearly 40 percent in 2025, while OTR tyre volumes grew more than 20 percent. Exports reach over 180 countries, with overseas production projects currently advancing.

Sustainability achievements include national Green Factory status and energy efficiency recognition from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. The company earned an EcoVadis Gold Medal with a score of 81, ranking among the top five percent worldwide. Triangle Tyre continues to integrate renewable materials and reduce emissions while strengthening ESG practices to boost future competitiveness.

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Liberty Tire Recycling, a portfolio entity under the global infrastructure investor I Squared Capital, has announced a significant expansion of its Gulf Coast footprint. The company has finalised the acquisition of three key regional players: All American Tire, Colt Tire Recycling and Genan, Inc., the United States subsidiary of Genan A/S. This strategic move consolidates Liberty’s position across Texas and Louisiana, establishing what is now the most comprehensive tyre recycling network in the area.

The unified operations of these three firms are set to dramatically increase Liberty’s existing capacity for rubber processing and tyre collection. By integrating their assets, Liberty aims to offer a seamless suite of services, encompassing collection, processing and the supply of recycled materials. This expansion is a direct response to the escalating demand for sustainable end-of-life tyre management from retailers, manufacturers and municipal governments throughout one of the nation’s most rapidly developing regions.

Each acquired company brings specialised strengths and seasoned leadership to the combined entity. All American Tire, founded by Tom and Jodi Parker in Fort Worth, is a dominant force in collection and crumb rubber production within the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Colt Tire Recycling, established by Kip and Sydney Vincent in Louisiana, is recognised for its collection leadership and innovative applications of recycled rubber in civil engineering. Meanwhile, Genan’s Houston facility is renowned for its advanced processing technology, producing high-grade rubber granules for demanding sectors like automotive parts and playground surfacing. Thomas Boehme of Genan will assume a new role with Liberty to spearhead continued US growth.

To ensure operational continuity and customer stability, senior management from All American, Colt and Genan will transition to Liberty. This integration of experienced leadership is intended to guide the future development of each business. As North America’s premier tire recycler, Liberty processes hundreds of millions of tyres annually. This latest expansion bolsters its circular-economy mission by increasing the availability of recycled rubber for infrastructure, manufacturing and high-value applications across the continent.

Thomas Womble, CEO, Liberty Tire Recycling, said, "We have always been about bringing together proven partners who have built something that enhances Liberty – and All American, Colt and Genan do just that. We look forward to combining our expertise with their proven success to provide customers across the Gulf Coast with expanded capabilities, stronger regional service and new opportunities for sustainable end-of-life tyre management."

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Citira, a Sweden-based company specialising in circular tyre management, has announced the acquisition of Gummiverkstan i Torsby, a well-established service point located in west-central Sweden. The transaction strategically bolsters Citira’s presence along the vital E45 and E16 transport corridors through the Värmland region, adding a key facility to its growing network.

Under the leadership of Karl-Johan Axelsson, Gummiverkstan has built a solid reputation over the years for reliably servicing both heavy vehicles and passenger cars within the Torsby area. The business experienced consistent growth, driven by a steadfast commitment to its loyal local clientele and a focus on dedicated automotive care.

As part of the agreement, Gummiverkstan will maintain its current operations, retaining all staff and continuing at its existing premises while gaining access to Citira’s broader resources to facilitate further expansion. Axelsson will transition into a new role as a co-owner of Citira, ensuring continuity and strategic alignment for the future.

Urban Tibbelin, Head of Sweden at Citira, said, "Gummiverkstan i Torsby is an important addition to our presence in Värmland. Karl-Johan and his team have earned a standing in Torsby that only comes from doing the job well, year after year, and that local trust is exactly the foundation we want to build on. We're glad to have them with us.”

Axelsson said, "It has been a privilege to look after Torsby's vehicles for as long as I have, and joining Citira means me and my team get to keep doing exactly that. With the addition of their backing to serve our customers well for many years to come, I'm confident we will only get better as part of the group.”

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