Just concluded 2021 will stand out as a defining year for the tyre industry in India as it embarked upon an ambitious initiative – Charting a path to greater raw material security by attaining self-reliance in natural rubber (NR) availability.
The journey to become self-reliant is not new for the Indian tyre industry. The industry was amongst the first ones to become self-sufficient much before the slogan of being Atma Nirbhar was coined. For years, India has been producing practically all the tyres it requires making it one of the few countries that are self-dependent in tyre manufacturing. Much before a vehicle is rolled out, the tyre Industry is ready with the fitments having worked out specifications and standards to the minutest details.
While India has developed globally competitive tyre manufacturing capabilities, realising the vision of being Atma Nirbhar necessitates achieving self-sufficiency of the entire value chain in view of strong backward and forward linkages.
In this context, the ATMA NR project, launched during the year, attains all the more importance. Natural rubber is a key raw material for the Indian tyre industry. Unlike the global scenario where the ratio is skewed in favour of synthetic rubber, Indian industry stands out for its unique preference for NR.
However, NR demand has been outstripping domestic supply and the gap is widening. Going forward, the situation may become more challenging for the NR Consuming interests. Imports may not be sustainable considering the strategic importance of NR as raw material and also in view of large outflows of foreign exchange that the Government has been trying to discourage.
As one of its kind initiatives that could hold a template for several other raw material intensive sectors, the NR Project is designed to implement the scheme for developing a substantial 200,000 hectares of rubber plantations in the North Eastern states financially supported by major tyre companies, represented by ATMA with technical support and coordination by the Rubber Board.
This collaborative project in PPP mode involving tyre majors, Rubber Board and financing institutions is a landmark initiative where the consuming industry would be contributing directly to the development of plantation.
The project took off early in the year with a visit to the North East (Tripura, Meghalaya & Assam) by top leadership from ATMA Member companies along with Dr KN Raghavan, Executive Director of Rubber Board in February 2021 to get a first-hand understanding of ground level situation and connect with state leadership and policy makers.
Minister for Commerce & Industry (CIM), Government of India Piyush Goyal has been the prime motivating force, mentoring the project at every step right from the inception. A meeting convened by the Minister in the month of June 2021 discussed threadbare the launch of the project and the road ahead. The CIM proposed a meeting with the chief ministers of North-Eastern states to take them on board, seek their full support and fast track the project. The CIM even offered to speak to the CMs to inform them about the wider benefits of the NR Project for their respective states.
Since availability of planting material locally in North East states was a challenge, plans were made to transport the saplings from Kerala to the North East by rail. Few thousand saplings were initially sent as a pilot which reached Guwahati in good condition.
It was an emotional moment for all the stakeholders in natural rubber sector, when the first full consignment was sent by a special train 'Bharathappuzha - Brahmaputra Rubber Express', to Azara, Guwahati, from Thiruvalla Railway Station on 10th July 21. It carried 1.33 lakh rubber saplings packed in specially designed cartons. These saplings were distributed in the NE states for planting in the identified areas.
Eventually, Biplab Kumar Deb, Chief Minister of Tripura formally launched the NR Project under Chief Minister's Rubber Mission on 14th August 21 at Pathaliaghat in Sepahijala district of Tripura and the project is shaping up well ever since.
India has emerged as a front runner as the world pursues alternatives to China in the field of manufacturing. Given the spirit of entrepreneurship backed by the policy reforms, the country is poised to play its due role in the global supply chains.
At the same time, the need for raw material security cannot be over emphasised as India looks to become the manufacturing hub of the world. It goes to the credit of the Government that it has shown keen interest in enabling policies to encourage domestic manufacturing, including tyre and allied sectors.
The fact that the ATMA NR Project could see the light of the day under the shadow of ongoing pandemic says a lot about the commitment of all the stakeholders to fight against odds. That surely augurs well for raw material security and sustainability as we welcome the New Year.
Maxion Publishes Inaugural Global Life Cycle Assessment Across Manufacturing Footprint
- By TT News
- August 06, 2026
Maxion has released its inaugural global Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), marking a unified evaluation of environmental performance across its major product categories and two dozen manufacturing sites worldwide. This comprehensive study shifts the company from fragmented individual assessments to a cohesive global framework that covers both aluminium and steel wheel production.
The assessment, adhering to ISO standards and the Environmental Footprint 3.1 methodology, analysed 16 impact categories based on 2024 operational data. A substantial reliance on primary information from essential production phases has bolstered the study's credibility and precision. The results emphasise that raw materials, especially aluminium and steel, are the primary drivers of the product carbon footprint, pointing to material sourcing and supplier collaboration as crucial areas for future mitigation strategies.
By establishing this consistent global benchmark, Maxion enhances transparency and facilitates more informed customer discussions. The standardised data not only improves comparability across its wheel portfolio but also aids in pinpointing new opportunities for environmental reduction, supporting the sustainability requirements of clients and stakeholders alike.
Apollo Tyres Celebrates 20 Years Of Vredestein Heritage At Ennstal-Classic
- By TT News
- August 06, 2026
Apollo Tyres Ltd has marked two decades of collaboration between its Vredestein brand and the Ennstal-Classic, following the conclusion of the 2026 edition of the prestigious European historic rally. The event, held from 22 to 25 July, reinforced a partnership that has endured since the brand’s acquisition by Apollo in 2009.
This year’s rally featured nearly 200 historic vehicles traversing a 1,000-kilometre Alpine route, attracting motoring enthusiasts from across the continent. A central feature of the ongoing affiliation is the Vredestein Youngster Trophy, a category designed to foster interest in classic cars among younger participants.
Beyond event sponsorship, Apollo Tyres continues to expand its Vredestein Classic tyre portfolio, introducing new sizes and advanced materials for contemporary safety and performance. The comprehensive range, including Sprint Classic, Sprint+, Grip Classic, Snow Classic, Transport Classic and Quatrac Classic, offers period-correct styling for a wide array of vintage passenger cars, sports cars, commercial vehicles and 4x4s.
Udyan Ghai, Group Head – Marketing, Apollo Tyres Ltd, said, “This event brings together some of Europe’s finest historic vehicles and gives us the opportunity to share our passion for automotive heritage. Through our support of the Vredestein Youngster Trophy and continued investment in our Classic tyre range, we are helping enthusiasts enjoy their classic vehicles safely in all conditions.”
Goodyear Reports Lower Q2 Sales As Volumes Decline Despite Stronger OE Market Share
- By Sharad Matade
- August 06, 2026
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company reported lower second-quarter 2026 sales and earnings as weaker tyre volumes, higher tariffs and inflation weighed on performance, although the company said market conditions showed signs of stabilising and original equipment (OE) market share improved across all regions.
Net sales fell 4.8 percent year on year to USD 4.3 billion, while tyre unit volume declined 4.0 percent to 36.5 million units. On an organic basis, sales were down 1.4 percent, primarily due to lower volumes. The company said the decline improved from the 12 percent year-on-year volume drop recorded in the first quarter as destocking pressures eased.
Goodyear reported a net loss of USD 204m, compared with net income of USD 254 million, in the same period last year. Adjusted net loss widened to USD 177 million, from USD 48 million a year earlier.
Segment operating income declined to USD 36 million from USD 159 million in the second quarter of 2025. Excluding the impact of divestments, operating income fell by USD 79 million, reflecting lower volumes, higher tariffs and other costs, and inflation. These factors were partly offset by favourable price and product mix relative to raw material costs, together with USD 95 million of benefits from the company's Goodyear Forward programme.
"We delivered second quarter results in line with our expectations, reflecting continued improvement in Asia Pacific and EMEA," said Mark Stewart, Chief Executive Officer and President.
"We're taking actions to improve performance in a competitive environment by strengthening our product lineup, building on original equipment growth across regions, and optimising our manufacturing footprint. These actions are designed to strengthen our competitive position and deliver stronger profitability over time."
In the Americas, second-quarter sales declined 10.5 percent to USD 2.4 billion, while tyre unit volume fell 8.7 percent. Replacement volumes dropped 13.0 percent, although OE volumes increased 8.7 percent as the company gained market share. The Americas business reported a segment operating loss of USD 10 million, compared with operating income of USD 141 million a year earlier.
The company said its planned closure of the Fayetteville, North Carolina facility is expected to improve Americas segment operating income by about USD 90 million in 2027 and approximately USD 270 million annually from 2028 as part of its manufacturing footprint optimisation strategy.
In Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), sales increased 2.1 percent to USD 1.4 billion, supported by favourable pricing, product mix and currency, despite lower tyre volumes. Segment operating loss improved to USD 17 million from USD 25 million in the previous year.
The Asia Pacific business delivered the strongest regional performance, with sales rising 8.1 percent to USD 496 million and tyre unit volume increasing 5.3 percent. Segment operating income rose to USD 63 million, up from USD 43 million a year earlier, supported by stronger demand, favourable price and mix, and benefits from the Goodyear Forward programme.
Giti Tire Endorses Euro 7 Tyre Abrasion Standards
- By TT News
- August 06, 2026
Giti Tire has characterised the upcoming Euro 7 emissions framework as a validation of its existing research trajectory rather than a disruptive regulatory hurdle. Historically, tyre assessments have centred on criteria such as vehicular handling, tread life and fuel economy. The updated European standards introduce a novel parameter by capping particulate matter generated from tyre degradation, thereby acknowledging this source as a major contributor to roadside pollution.
The Singaporean manufacturer, drawing upon more than seven decades of technical experience, has maintained that optimal tyre design necessitates a holistic approach. Engineering teams at the company have long prioritised the synchronisation of tread geometry, rubber chemistry and production accuracy to achieve equilibrium between conflicting demands. Present-day products are expected to deliver secure wet-weather traction, energy-saving rolling resistance, passenger comfort and sustained endurance, all while curtailing material loss over the product's usable life.
Giti’s role as an original equipment partner to global vehicle producers, including German and Chinese automotive leaders, has provided practical insight into the rigorous specifications of contemporary mobility. The company perceives the harmonised testing protocols under Euro 7 as a constructive force that stimulates technological advancement across the supply chain. By establishing clear abrasion thresholds, the legislation motivates engineers to pursue solutions that diminish ecological footprints without sacrificing the protective and responsive qualities that motorists rely upon.
Ongoing internal programmes at Giti are concentrating on next-generation elastomer blends, refined surface patterning, friction reduction for improved efficiency, extended product durability and tighter quality controls during fabrication. These developmental efforts are intended to concurrently address environmental concerns and consumer performance expectations. As the regulatory landscape evolves, the firm remains dedicated to fundamental research that supports sustainable transportation, viewing the Euro 7 mandate as a progressive milestone that reinforces its commitment to future-ready tyre engineering.
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