Jyotsna came on board as the CFO and Head of IT of Bridgestone India, around two-and-a-half years ago - in April 2018. Since then, she has ensured attentive capacities are in place, thus focusing on maintaining cost control and delegating financial management. Afterall, the tyre industry is highly competitive and market-driven. And yes, digital evolution and safety of her colleagues and business partners have become one of her top priorities during the pandemic.

Raised in a modest and orthodox business family of six daughters, principles such as hard work, humility, and honesty were a natural part of growing up for her. Married at the age of twenty-one, Jyotsna wanted to be more than just a housewife. Thus, she pursued her grinding CA qualification while being a mother of a baby boy.

“I pursued further education and got a professional qualification, CA, in 1994. Not an easy call in any way. The profession itself was demanding and then to be able to garner the support of the larger family was a big task considering the social norms at the time. However, with the great support from my in-laws, my husband Rajesh, and my conviction, I managed to pursue this new path,” Jyotsna recalls.

When asked about what she would attribute to the leadership qualities she has achieved, she reflects on her family background and the formative years of her life. Marriage was the ultimate end-goal for all girls back then, she says. But, her father, who was a civil engineer, and ran a unit into precision tools manufacturing, understood the value of education. He ensured all his daughters received quality higher education. This paid off as all of Jyotsna’s sisters are highly qualified across different streams.

Jyotsna also mentions the underlying importance of financial independence that was ever-present while growing up. These values, coupled with formal education and academics, added to her versatile calibre. However, she says studies were never her cup of tea. Her interests were games, food, and fun. Having done her graduation at BMCC, life was relatively stress-free then.

However, getting married at the early age was a turning point in her life when she braved the conventional social norms at the time and pursued her CA studies. She adds that the journey from 1989-1994 was full of challenges, excitement, courage, and family support. Significant challenges to pursue her CA were to convince the in-laws to allow her to go and live in a hostel and study and to be able to meet social obligations as a newly-wed woman, and not being able to give time to her son.

 “To be able to give my 100% to the studies amidst all of this was quite difficult. However, I always kept my eye on the big picture.”

Jyotsna started her professional career at Kinetic Honda, a manufacturing organisation which, she says, was not perceived to be ideal for women and had limitations to growth. “But that made me work even harder. However, it was a role of my choice, and I worked with them for nine years, and those were my formative career years. A combination of experience at Firodiya, a well-respected business house and a Japanese business brand is great learning for any finance professional. I took additional responsibilities on multiple functions and projects to rise the ladder at a good pace as by now; I had found my Ikigai- a reason to live.”

 “Amidst all this, the family challenges continued as my husband Rajesh had moved to Singapore, and I single-handedly attended to our son”.

At the workplace, she always ensures that she works hard and does everything from grassroots and is never bothered about her designation and qualification as, for her, that is a means and not an end. “Over the years, I worked on building and strengthening relationships and never really kept any limitations to what I wanted to achieve.”

COVID has turned the auto industry upside down. New normal is becoming a part of life and businesses as well. Whereas the challenges of COVID have been unprecedented, it also brought new ways of doing businesses. Now employee safety is becoming a top priority, while digital evolution is bringing a new era ahead of the industry.

At Bridgestone, Jyotsna says, the safety of their people and safeguarding their operations have been the topmost priority. Ever since COVID first hit the country, the company took proactive measures to not only keep the people safe but, also streamline operations in the wake of new normal. Furthermore, at the back of accelerated digitisation, Bridgestone India has been able to bring the right solutions for its consumers as well as ensure the same levels of productivity within the organisation. 

When asked about how she feels about working in such a dynamic industry, Jyotsna says, “The automobile industry is where my professional career is slated. Kinetic Honda, SKF Bearings, NRB Bearings, Sandvik Asia and now Bridgestone are my performing turfs. One side of the industry, i.e., channel partners, are the same - similar channels set up requirements, risks, opportunities, and expectations of the partners. What differs is the strength of the product and strength of the competitor. Bridgestone, with its world-class Japanese technology in tyre manufacturing, is one of the leading and most trusted brands with all the strengths on the product, manufacturing, and innovation.” 

“The market in India is huge, and the progressive growth and demographics of the country are definitely positive. At Bridgestone India, we are financially secure with a good product range, best manufacturing facilities, substantial market share, reliable channel partners and an ambitious and committed workforce. The biggest risk is getting complacent and losing focus on cost. The tyre industry is competitive, and market driven. Also, the capacities are in place, thus keeping focus and maintaining cost control is the financial management challenge which is exciting.”

Like everyone, COVID has influenced Jyotsna’s personal and professional life. According to her, COVID was a blessing in disguise to be able to spend all this time at home and spending time to call and check on all near and dear ones, reconnecting, rejuvenating were positives in this situation.

However, work from home bears multiple challenges and ,for her the divide between official work and domestic duties was practically invisible. As the Head of IT and CFO, Jyotsna had a great responsibility to ensure the digital solutions were up and running and without causing the loss of productivity at the same time managing concerns around security and support. “As a CFO, a time to complete FY 20 financials and audits, and the Mid-term – 3 years business plan process which were very challenging.”

“But I would say the times have tested my abilities to stay strong under all situations. I would like to say this to my fellow leaders that encourage your teams throughout and keep the work exciting as always. This will ensure a positive sentiment in these trying times.”

As much as work is refreshing with so much happening, Jyotsna does take personal time to recharge. She loves to drive and have been doing rallies like Raid the Himalaya, Desert Storm, Spice Challenge. She has also done international driving vacations.

 “Amidst the lockdown, I recently drove to Bangalore to be with my son Prateek. The memory of absolutely traffic-free roads and my car racing at 230-250 with confidence to touch Bangalore from Pune non-stop in 9 hours was wonderful. We drove through Kabini and spent a holiday together, making memories.”

“I also like to read, so I took this opportunity to download the most read books Ikigai, Atomic Habits, Just do It – the Nike story and many more.”

 “Netflix was another relaxing way to spend some time, and the most exciting watch for me was Drills apart from many others. I love to socialise and continued e-socialising as well.”

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Michelin has introduced two new high-efficiency tyres – the MICHELIN Primacy ^{5 energy} and MICHELIN Pilot Sport ^{5 energy}. These two new product families have been developed in direct response to the shifting requirements of contemporary vehicle design. With the automotive industry’s rapid transition toward electrification, manufacturers are increasingly demanding tyres that deliver an exacting balance of low rolling resistance, tenacious grip, extended durability and precise handling dynamics. Both new ranges have been engineered to fulfil these criteria, offering tangible benefits such as extended range for electric vehicles and reduced fuel consumption for internal combustion models, all while upholding uncompromising standards of safety and longevity.

The MICHELIN Primacy ^{5 energy} is distinguished by its triple A-rating for wet braking, rolling resistance and external rolling noise. Compared to its predecessor, it achieves wet braking distances that are up to eight percent shorter, both when the tyre is new and when worn down to two millimetres of tread depth. Its best-in-class longevity is enabled by Energy Passive 2.0 Technology, which employs functionalised elastomers, advanced resins and a refined architecture to deliver the highest mileage in its European segment, including on electric vehicles. Independent tests have shown it can outlast leading competitors by as much as 40 percent in comparable conditions. The efficiency gains are substantial, offering up to six percent lower fuel consumption, which translates to roughly 0.3 litres saved per 100 kilometres, along with a 10 percent increase in electric vehicle range. These figures mean substantial fuel savings and a 327 kg reduction in CO₂ emissions over the tyre’s lifespan.

The MICHELIN Pilot Sport ^{5 energy} merges motorsport-derived engineering with energy-conscious design. Leveraging Dynamic Response Technology and a new Adaptive Grip Compound, it delivers the precise steering feedback and superior wet and dry grip expected from a high-performance tyre. MaxTouch Technology addresses the historically rapid wear associated with performance vehicles by optimising the contact patch for even wear distribution, while an Energy Passive compound in the shoulder areas achieves an unprecedented level of rolling resistance for this category. The result is a sport tyre that not only significantly outperforms key rivals in longevity tests but also secures an A rating for rolling resistance. Its endurance credentials were validated during the MERCEDES AMG GT CONCEPT XX world record, where it sustained a constant speed of 300 kmph for nearly eight days, demonstrating exceptional durability and energy efficiency under extreme conditions.

Both ranges are now being rolled out with a clear focus on meeting the specific demands of modern mobility. The Primacy ^{5 energy} is initially available in 33 sizes spanning 16 to 19 inches, while the Pilot Sport ^{5 energy} launches with 19 sizes across 19 to 21 inches. By addressing the dual imperatives of enhanced performance and reduced environmental impact, Michelin aims to reinforce its position in a segment that continues to dominate global tyre sales, offering solutions that cater equally to the needs of electric vehicles, hybrids and traditional internal combustion engine cars.

Jean-Claude Pats, Automobile and Two-Wheel Business Line Director and member of Michelin’s Executive Committee, said, “These innovations reflect a profound transformation in mobility. Today’s tyres must combine performance, longevity and energy efficiency while supporting the transition to electrified vehicles. With MICHELIN Primacy ^{5 energy} and MICHELIN Pilot Sport ^{5 energy}, drivers and manufacturers no longer need to compromise between performance, safety, durability and efficiency. These new ranges demonstrate Michelin’s continued investment in innovation and our ambition to deliver technologies that support the mobility needs of today and tomorrow.”

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TyreSafe, UK’s charity dedicated to raising tyre safety awareness, has formed a new alliance with TMS Consultancy, a specialist in road safety audits and training. This partnership unites two organisations dedicated to reducing casualties through the ‘Safe System’ framework, merging TMS Consultancy’s expertise in engineering with TyreSafe’s focus on vehicle safety advocacy.

With a 35-year track record that includes delivering over 19,000 Road Safety Audits and more than 2,500 training courses for clients across UK, Ireland and beyond, TMS Consultancy brings practical, tailored solutions to the collaboration. This complements TyreSafe’s longstanding mission to advance road safety through education, research and awareness, particularly regarding tyre condition and vehicle maintenance. Together, they aim to close the gap between road design and vehicle safety by embedding TyreSafe’s specialised knowledge into TMS Consultancy’s established training programmes. This equips road safety practitioners with a deeper understanding of how tyre health, braking distances and road surface interaction are critically linked.

This alliance also strengthens TyreSafe’s existing network of more than 250 supporters, which includes local authorities, transport bodies and police forces, helping to spread consistent, evidence-led tyre safety messages widely. Building on existing partnerships with the Institute of Highways Engineers and the Road Surface Treatment Association, TyreSafe continues to advance awareness of the connection between tyres and road infrastructure. By joining forces with organisations involved in road development and maintenance, TyreSafe further embeds the Safe System approach, working to mitigate human error through safer roads, vehicles, speeds and road users, alongside effective post-crash response.

Stuart Lovatt, TyreSafe Chair, said, “Road safety depends on every element of a vehicle being fit for purpose, and tyres are a critical part of that. Working with TMS Consultancy allows us to bring clear, practical tyre safety guidance to more organisations and road professionals, helping them understand how simple checks and maintenance can prevent incidents and save lives.”

Jess Waldron, Director, TMS Consultancy, said, “Partnering with TyreSafe aligns perfectly with our mission to make roads safer for everyone; increasing knowledge and sharing best practice across the sector is a responsibility we take seriously. By sharing TyreSafe’s ACT message through our training and professional networks, we can ensure that vehicle safety becomes a core consideration for road safety practitioners across the board.”

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The ZARE initiative held its 2026 partner meeting on 18 March 2026 in Schwenningen, hosted by the Bavarian used tyre disposal company Reifen Draws, which was simultaneously celebrating its 50th anniversary. Guests were given a firsthand look at the company’s modern recycling operations. For five decades, Reifen Draws has served tyre retailers, car dealerships and repair shops across a 200-kilometre radius, earning a reputation for reliable service and expert advice as a certified disposal firm.

During the meeting, partners described a strained market environment marked by declining business volumes, mounting price pressure and a growing shift towards lower-value scrap. Rising fuel costs add further strain, as these expenses can only be partially passed on. The situation underscores that maintaining stable, high-quality tyre recycling remains a persistent challenge requiring coordinated effort across the entire value chain.

On the political front, partners welcomed developments at the state level, notably the integration of used tyres into North Rhine-Westphalia’s circular economy strategy following an industry roundtable. However, ongoing discussions highlight the need to strengthen recycling markets and improve regulatory frameworks. In this context, a recent call by the European Court of Auditors to reinforce recycling markets – emphasising functioning markets, consistent implementation and reliable EU financing – was noted. The rise in export inquiries from non-OECD countries further reinforces the importance of transparent material flows and clear rules for a sustainable circular economy.

A notable highlight was a presentation by detection-X GmbH on automated tyre damage detection and sorting. A pilot project on damage analysis is already underway with one ZARE partner, aimed at enhancing process efficiency and recycling quality – a significant step towards a more effective circular economy.

For the coming year, the partners have prioritised a joint presence at THE TIRE COLOGNE trade fair, along with refining tendering standards, addressing declining online inquiries and strengthening public outreach. These efforts seek to raise the visibility of certified used tyre disposal and underscore the value of high-quality recycling.

Looking ahead, the new Waste Shipment Regulation, taking effect in May 2026 and becoming mandatory in 2027, will introduce significant organisational and documentation demands affecting international material flows. ZARE partners intend to actively incorporate this topic into relevant industry events.

Overall, the 2026 partner meeting reaffirmed that while the industry faces considerable challenges, it benefits from strong networks, innovative capacity and a clear sense of purpose. In a demanding market environment, close collaboration remains essential as the ZARE partners continue advancing sustainable, high-quality solutions for end-of-life tyres across the entire value chain.

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Toyo Tire Holdings of Americas Inc., the parent organisation of Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. and Nitto Tire U.S.A. Inc., has officially inaugurated a new tyre warehouse in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. This facility is scheduled to commence its initial outbound shipping operations on 1 April 2026, marking a significant step in the company’s efforts to strengthen its presence in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. The strategic development of this warehouse directly supports the corporation’s midterm expansion objectives while aiming to reduce service times for key dealers and customers throughout that part of the country.

Spanning 409,500 square feet, this distribution hub offers storage capacity for as many as 368,000 tyres. Its primary purpose is to elevate service and distribution capabilities across 14 states in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, creating a ripple effect that allows the company’s existing tyre warehouses to operate with greater efficiency and maintain more consistent stock levels. By alleviating pressure on other locations, the new facility helps streamline the broader supply chain network, ensuring that inventory is positioned to meet regional demand more responsively.

In addition to its regional distribution role, the Shippensburg location is set to receive product directly from Toyo’s manufacturing facility in Serbia via the Port of New York and New Jersey. Plans are already in place to convert the site into a Foreign Trade Zone during the latter half of the year, a move intended to facilitate winter delivery operations for Toyo Canada. Equipped with advanced technology tailored specifically for tyre storage, this new warehouse represents the fifth tyre production warehouse and distribution centre established by the company across the continental United States, further solidifying its logistical infrastructure.

Curtis Maggard, Chief Supply Chain Officer, Logistics, said, “This warehouse represents a significant investment by Toyo, providing improved supply and faster service levels to our valued customers in the region. The warehouse is designed specifically for high volume tyre storage and will support Toyo’s sales forecast.”

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