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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RuLa-BRW GmbH, a prominent independent retreader of commercial vehicle tyres, a longstanding partner in the AZuR network and a key component of the German tyre circular economy, is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Based in Königs Wusterhausen near Berlin, the company is marking this milestone by launching a significant growth initiative focused on modernising its production capabilities and broadening its market reach.

Since its establishment a quarter-century ago, the company has evolved from a regional supplier into a recognised specialist in tyre retreading. Throughout this period, its core mission has centred on the economical reuse of high-quality tyre casings. This approach not only delivers substantial cost reductions for fleet operators but also plays a vital role in conserving raw materials, reinforcing the company’s longstanding commitment to sustainable practices within the commercial vehicle sector.

Looking forward, the company is undertaking substantial investments in state-of-the-art production technology. This strategic move is designed to elevate retreading quality, enhance operational efficiency and ensure robust competitiveness in the evolving market. This focus on technological advancement comes in response to several converging industry trends, including escalating raw material prices, stringent climate change regulations and the persistent pressure on fleet operating costs. These factors are collectively driving heightened demand for retreaded tyres as a viable, economical alternative to new tyres.

In conjunction with its production upgrades, RuLa-BRW is actively expanding its sales network to meet this growing demand. The company’s dual-pronged strategy of investment and expansion underscores a strong vote of confidence in the future of the retreading industry. By extending the life cycle of durable tyre casings, retreaded tyres significantly reduce energy consumption, material usage and carbon dioxide emissions, solidifying their role as a cornerstone of sustainable logistics and the broader circular economy.

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Falken Tyre Europe GmbH is embarking on a new brand initiative designed to put its all-terrain capabilities to the test in a practical, real-world environment. The Falken Adventure Camp, set to take place in New York State from 28 May to 7 June 2026, will place the Falken WILDPEAK A/T AT3WA tyre at the heart of an immersive driving experience. Participants will navigate a curated route through a diverse range of landscapes, from bustling urban settings to serene forests, gravel paths and remote countryside trails, showcasing the tyre’s adaptability.

The WILDPEAK A/T AT3WA is engineered for drivers whose journeys frequently shift between paved roads and unpaved terrain. This event aims to make that transition tangible, demonstrating the tyre’s competence in both everyday commuting and more rugged off-road conditions. Its selection for the camp is bolstered by a recent industry accolade; in September 2025, the tyre secured first place overall in a prestigious off-road tyre test, outperforming six competing all-terrain models. It was specifically praised for its exceptional performance on loose surfaces, including reliable traction, short braking distances and consistent lateral grip.

The Adventure Camp’s philosophy steers clear of extreme off-road challenges, instead focusing on authentic driving scenarios that highlight the tyre’s versatility. The planned journey is intended to illustrate how modern mobility can harmoniously coexist with nature-focused exploration. Enthusiasts interested in participating can submit their applications through the dedicated campaign website until the end of March 2026.

This initiative represents Falken’s broader strategic shift towards more experiential marketing. By moving beyond traditional product presentations, the company seeks to create memorable encounters where drivers can directly experience product performance. The goal is to make the tyre’s strengths tangible within genuine, relatable driving contexts, fostering a deeper connection between the consumer and the brand.

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The Association of Natural Rubber Producing Countries (ANRPC) hosted representatives from NOMURA JIMUSHO, INC. at its Kuala Lumpur Secretariat on 12 February 2026. The visit facilitated strategic discussions between ANRPC Secretary-General Dr Suttipong Angthong, his team and the firm’s Yoshiyuki Hosaka and Taichi Nomura.

Deliberations focused on ANRPC’s core strategic objectives, which include boosting productivity and lowering production costs. Other key areas of discussion involved strengthening downstream value addition, creating diversified income sources and tapping into the environmental value of natural rubber. Central to the dialogue was the overarching goal of improving livelihoods for smallholder farmers.

The exchange highlighted a mutual commitment to advancing sustainable growth and circular economy models within the sector. The meeting underscored the critical role of enhanced partnerships in navigating current industry challenges and capitalising on emerging global opportunities.

The collaborative spirit of the visit reinforced a shared dedication to fostering a more sustainable, resilient, and environmentally conscious future for the natural rubber industry.

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Trelleborg Tires is set to introduce a significant performance assurance programme at the upcoming Commodity Classic in San Antonio, scheduled from 25 to 27 February. This new initiative guarantees up to 5,000 hours of certified tread wear for several of its key rear tyre ranges, including the TM1060, TM1000, TM900 and TM800 ProgressiveTraction models. The offer underscores the company’s dedication to providing durable solutions that deliver tangible value, enabling farmers to extend equipment operation, minimise downtime and safeguard their investments under rigorous field conditions.

Access to this guarantee is provided exclusively through the Trelleborg Premium Care Portal. This platform not only facilitates secure registration but also connects customers with expert support and personalised advice aimed at optimizing tyre longevity and performance.

Attendees at Booth #1171 will have the opportunity to explore the company’s latest advancements in agricultural tyres, particularly for high-horsepower tractors. Featured exhibits will include the TM1000 ProgressiveTraction in size VF800/70R38, the TM900 ProgressiveTraction in 710/70R42 and the TM800 PowerFlex in VF650/65R38, which showcases a newly engineered tread pattern for improved roadability and field performance. Additionally, the TM200 ProgressiveTraction for vineyard and orchard applications will be on display in size VF440/65R24.

Each of these products integrates Trelleborg’s patented ProgressiveTraction technology, characterised by a distinctive double-edge lug design. This innovation enhances traction, stability and self-cleaning capabilities, effectively reducing slippage and vibration while boosting fuel efficiency and prolonging tread life. Visitors can also learn about Pressure Field Operation (PFO) technology, which allows tyres to perform optimally at lower inflation pressures in specific conditions without sacrificing load capacity. Through these farmer-centric innovations, Trelleborg continues to reinforce its leadership in the agricultural sector by helping producers achieve greater productivity and operational efficiency over the long term.

Tom Rodgers, Commercial Director, Trelleborg Tires, said, “We know that tyre replacement represents a significant operational cost for farmers. With this 5,000-hour performance guarantee, we stand firmly behind our ProgressiveTraction technology and offer a clear commitment to long-term performance.”

Andrea Masella, Marketing Director Agriculture North America, said, “With every innovation, we design our tyres from the soil up to perform where it matters most — in our customers’ fields. By combining advanced engineering with a 5,000-hour certified performance commitment, we provide farmers with solutions that maximise productivity, protect their investment and support long-term operational success.”

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