Trelleborg Tires has launched the TM800 PowerFlex, a high-performance tractor tyre that delivers unmatched versatility by excelling in both field operations and road transport, making it an ideal solution for today's mid- to high-powered tractors.

The TM800 PowerFlex achieves remarkable field performance through its unique combination of VF-PFO construction and ProgressiveTraction lug design. Farmers can expect 20 percent better traction than competing premium tyres, significantly reducing slippage in challenging conditions. The tyre's optimised five percent wider footprint minimises soil compaction while improved self-cleaning capabilities maintain consistent performance in wet terrain.

For transport efficiency, the tyre incorporates road-inspired technology that reduces rolling resistance by six percent, directly lowering fuel costs. Drivers benefit from enhanced stability and handling, coupled with an impressive 20 percent longer tread life compared to conventional tyres.

Trelleborg backs this innovation with industry-leading durability, offering certified performance for up to 5,000 hours of operation when registered through their Premium Care programme. Each tyre features a smart QR code system, providing instant access to technical specifications and usage recommendations right from the field. The TM800 PowerFlex is available in 650/65R38 and 540/65R28 sizes, with four additional sizes launching soon.

Luca Sabelli, Brand Director, Trelleborg Tires, said, “With the TM800 PowerFlex, we’ve reimagined what farmers can expect from a tyre. It’s the result of our deep understanding of real working conditions, where product innovation and real field results deliver practical benefits every day. It is how we turn innovation into value, helping agri professionals achieve more, with less. Designed from the soil up, it empowers our customers to go further, do more and do it better.”

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The SEMA Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC) has expanded its leadership team by appointing four industry veterans to its committee: Nicholas Cross, Jay Ehret, Joe Kubiak and Bruce Ronning. These accomplished professionals bring diverse expertise to advance the council’s goals.

Cross, a senior project engineer at Smithers, specialises in wheel and tyre testing, leveraging his engineering and quality control background. He actively contributes to SEMA, Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and Technology and Maintenance Council (TMC) initiatives. Ehret, President and co-owner of Pickup Outfitters, combines marketing acumen with business leadership, having previously served on the PRO select committee and earning the 2023 Nat Danas Person of the Year award.

Kubiak, a seasoned professional with over 30 years in automotive sales and events, currently works with Wilwood Engineering. His extensive background includes roles at BMR Suspension, Braille Battery and Summit Racing, along with prior HRIA committee experience. Ronning, CEO of Coker Group, brings three decades of global aftermarket leadership, having managed brands like Coker Tire and Corvette Central. His achievements include being named NAPA’s 2024 Vendor Partner of the Year.

They join returning committee members Brian McCroskey (Thyssenkrup BILSTEIN), Mike Messina (Brembo), Dan Ricehouse (American Racing) and Jason Weidman (The Wheel Group). WTSBC anticipates a dynamic year ahead with this strengthened leadership team driving innovation and industry growth.

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Trelleborg Tires has announced the UK debut of Tractor Driver of the Year, taking place on Thursday, 16 October 2025, in the historic surroundings of Prestwold Hall, Leicestershire. Running from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, this exciting new event brings European farming excellence to British soil following five successful seasons in Italy.

Forty of the nation's most skilled operators will battle for supremacy across four precision challenges at the LE12 5SH venue, testing real-world abilities in manoeuvring, load handling, trailer work and stability control. Behind the wheels of powerful Valtra tractors fitted with Trelleborg's premium agricultural tyres, competitors will demonstrate how cutting-edge equipment and operator skill combine in modern farming.

More than just a contest, the day offers hands-on access to Trelleborg's latest tyre innovations and expert technical advice, while allowing each participant to share the experience with a guest. With its unique fusion of competition, technology and agricultural community spirit, this debut UK event promises to become a landmark date in the farming calendar.

Aspiring champions can apply from 23 July 2025 via Trelleborg's official channels for their chance to prove their mastery of machine control and claim the inaugural British title.

David Miller, Managing Director UK, said, “Tractor Driver of the Year UK is a unique opportunity to spotlight the real heroes of modern agriculture. It’s not just about skill behind the wheel – it’s about the passion, precision and knowledge that farmers apply in their daily work. We’re proud to bring this format to the UK for the first time, showcasing not only our tyre technology but our commitment to those who drive progress in the field every day.”

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The Rubber Board will be hosting Samvaad, an interactive outreach programme by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), on 28 July 2025 at 10:30 AM at the National Institute for Rubber Training (NIRT) in Puthupally, Kottayam. The event will be inaugurated by S K Rahman, IRS, Chief Commissioner of CGST & Customs, Thiruvananthapuram Zone, with participation from senior CBIC officials, including Dr T Tiju, IRS; Dr K Kalimuthu, IRS and Gurkaran Singh Bains, IRS.

Samvaad is a CBIC initiative aimed at enhancing tax awareness, clarifying sector-specific concerns and fostering discussions on GST and Customs policies to support business growth. The programme will provide a platform for the rubber industry to engage with tax authorities, address compliance challenges and stay updated on regulatory changes.

Under the HS Code 4001, natural rubber attracts a five percent GST rate, while inputs and finished rubber products fall under different tax slabs, creating complexities for manufacturers and traders. India’s rubber trade remains significant, with USD 1,069.04 million worth of natural rubber imports and USD 4,563.31 million in rubber product exports (2024–25), according to the Rubber Board statement. Given the sector’s economic importance, Samvaad seeks to streamline tax-related issues and promote smoother trade operations for the industry.

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Giti Tire achieved a significant sustainability milestone by being named a 3 Heart Company of Good at the 2025 Company of Good Conference & Conferment in Singapore. The prestigious event, attended by Coordinating Minister of Social Policies and Minister of Health Ong Ye Kung, honoured nearly 400 organisations for their corporate social responsibility efforts.

Organised by Singapore's National Volunteer & Philanthropy Centre (NVPC), the revamped Company of Good programme evaluates businesses across five key impact areas: People, Society, Governance, Environment and Economic contribution. Unlike its predecessor, Champions of Good, which focused primarily on philanthropy, the new framework assesses how deeply corporate purpose is embedded throughout operations.

As one of only 79 companies to receive the 3 Heart distinction, Giti was recognised for its comprehensive sustainability strategy and measurable impact. The tyre manufacturer has institutionalised environmental and social responsibility at every level – from boardroom decisions to frontline operations. Its company-wide LEAN training initiative empowers employees to develop efficiency projects that reduce environmental impact while maintaining productivity.

Beyond internal operations, Giti demonstrates global leadership through biodiversity conservation, reforestation programmes and support for disadvantaged communities. The company fosters an inclusive workplace with staff from 20+ nationalities and invests heavily in workforce development. Giti also collaborates with suppliers to promote sustainable practices across the entire tire production value chain.

Dr Pang Chong Hau, Chief Sustainability Officer, Giti Tire, said “It was my privilege to stand on stage with sustainability revolutionaries and visionaries in today’s corporate landscape. We continue to look internally and externally, identifying areas of improvement and need that we can work on to address the needs of corporation, people and planet. It is truly an honour to be conferred with so many other like-minded organisations across Singapore. We will continue to take a proactive approach to leading our industry towards a greener future, starting at the highest levels of thought and following through to implement on the ground. We are dedicated to being a force of positive action and to live up to the honour of being recognised as a Company of Good.”

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