New research commissioned by eBay and conducted by OnePoll has exposed a significant knowledge gap among UK drivers regarding EU Tyre Labels. The study, which surveyed 2,000 motorists in accordance with Market Research Society guidelines, found that nearly half of all respondents were entirely unfamiliar with this critical safety information. Despite being introduced in 2012, two-thirds of drivers remain unaware of the labels' purpose.

The data shows that nearly half (47 percent) of the respondents possess no understanding of the safety information on the labels whatsoever, with a full two-thirds (66 percent) unaware of their purpose a full decade after their introduction. This ignorance translates directly into consumer behaviour, as 61 percent of motorists admit to not checking the labels before purchasing new tyres. Consequently, they miss out on essential data regarding a tyre's fuel efficiency, wet grip classification, external noise level and its performance in snowy and icy conditions.

The research further quantified this knowledge gap, demonstrating that drivers incorrectly identified the symbols on the labels two-thirds (67 percent) of the time. The icon denoting performance on ice was the most frequently misunderstood, being misinterpreted in a remarkable 92 percent of responses. This lack of independent research means three-quarters (74 percent) of UK motorists primarily rely on garage recommendations when choosing tyres. Over half of all consumers – 55 percent – do very little (30 percent) or no research at all (25 percent), a trend most prevalent among drivers over 65.

This deficiency in tyre knowledge is not merely academic; it has serious real-world consequences. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) reported that over two million MOT test failures in the 2023-24 period were directly attributed to illegal tyre defects. In response to these consumer challenges, eBay promotes its tyre fitment service, which allows buyers to research and order specific tyres for their vehicle online before selecting a local garage for installation, aiming to bridge this information gap.

Abir Tewari, UK Director of Commercial Operations, Parts & Accessories at eBay, said, "Despite existing in the UK for more than a decade, knowledge around EU tyre labels among UK motorists is still sparse. It is worrying that proper knowledge could make maintaining vital vehicle parts safer and cheaper. Using eBay’s tyre fitment service, customers can see EU tyre labels clearly indicated in listings before deciding on a purchase, helping to identify exactly what they need and safely preparing them for any season.”

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Apollo Tyres Ltd has introduced a new and more affordable range of gravel tyres under the Vredestein Aventura Core Series. This new-generation family consists of three distinct models: the Aventura Seta Core, Aventura Core and Aventura Grezzo Core. Engineered in Europe, these tyres are built for enhanced durability and dependable performance across diverse surfaces, offering riders a cost-effective upgrade for adventure biking.

The series is constructed around a streamlined Core platform, which incorporates a robust 60 TPI casing for increased puncture resistance and stable handling on uneven terrain. While utilising the proven tread patterns of existing Vredestein gravel tyres, this refined construction delivers high-end capability at a more accessible price point.

Each model is tailored for specific riding conditions. The Aventura Seta Core is designed for speed, with a race-optimised tread for fast rolling on asphalt and high-speed gravel, complemented by shoulder knobs for technical cornering. For versatile, everyday use, the Aventura Core offers a balanced blend of rolling efficiency and predictable grip across tarmac, hardpack and gravel roads. Finally, the Aventura Grezzo Core provides confidence on loose and rugged terrain, featuring an aggressive tread for enhanced traction in sand and soft surfaces, while its chained centre tread maintains efficiency on harder ground.

The Aventura Core Series will be available starting 1 February 2026. The Aventura Seta Core comes in 40, 45 and 50-622 sizes. The Aventura Core is offered in 50-584 and 40, 45, 50-622 sizes. The Aventura Grezzo Core is available in 50-584 and 40, 45, 50-622 sizes. Colour options include black/black and black/transparent sidewalls.

Nic Knippers, Division Head – Vredestein Two Wheel Tyres, Apollo Tyres Ltd, said, “The Aventura Core Series marks an important expansion of our gravel offering within the Vredestein range. By introducing three purpose-designed tyres built on a shared durable foundation, we can better support riders across the full spectrum of gravel terrain – from high-speed racing to off-road exploration and everyday mixed-surface riding.”

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Continental Tires Americas has expanded its HDR 5 and HSR 5 19.5-inch product lines with a new 245/70R19.5 size, specifically engineered for urban and regional delivery fleets.

These tyres are built to endure high-scrub environments and the demanding stop-and-go cycles typical of city routes. Key advancements include a reformulated tread compound that reduces rolling resistance for better fuel economy while also extending tread life. The redesigned sidewall enhances durability to support multiple retreads, maximising the value of each tyre casing. Furthermore, both models are validated for use on electric and hybrid vehicles, as well as traditional combustion engines.

This size extension provides a practical option for fleets seeking to improve operational cost-efficiency and tyre longevity under rigorous driving conditions, continuing the proven performance of the existing series with targeted upgrades.

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The Silver Jubilee of the National Institute for Rubber Training (NIRT) commenced on the morning of 9 January 2026 at Kottayam's Hevea Hall. Union Minister of State George Kurian formally inaugurated the event, with Member of Parliament K Francis George presiding. Attendees also heard an address from MLA Chandi Oommen.

A wide array of activities marked the inaugural programme. These included unveiling a commemorative monument, honouring former NIRT Directors and recognising student cohorts. Several publications and materials were launched, such as a Silver Jubilee souvenir and tutorial videos for stakeholders. The new jubilee logo was revealed, and a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Rubber Board and the Government of Nagaland.

The ceremony further involved prize distributions for earlier competitions and celebrated the Diamond Jubilee of Rubber magazine. The day's schedule continued with a curated panel discussion and a dedicated exhibition at the NIRT campus.

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Kumho Tire Co., Ltd. said it achieved a series of strong results in ESG evaluations in 2025, reflecting progress in sustainability, governance and risk management.

The company received a Gold medal for the second consecutive year from EcoVadis, which assesses corporate sustainability performance across environment, labour and human rights, ethics and sustainable procurement. In 2024, Kumho Tire ranked in the top 5 per cent of about 150,000 companies assessed globally. In 2025, its scores improved notably in labour and human rights and ethics, supported by stronger ethical management systems and an expanded data management scope.

Kumho Tire also secured an overall A rating in the 2025 ESG assessment by the Korea ESG Standards Institute. The company said it improved by one grade year on year after strengthening management practices, including building a human rights management framework, setting employee diversity targets, increasing information security investment and introducing board evaluations.

The company has participated in the Carbon Disclosure Project since 2022 and in 2025 received an A- rating for water security, recognising its water management capabilities. It was also placed on the highest A List in the Supplier Engagement Assessment, citing progress in climate change response and ESG management across the supply chain.

Kumho Tire has maintained an AA rating in ESG assessments by MSCI since 2022 and was included as a Yearbook member in S&P Global’s Corporate Sustainability Assessment, ranking within the top 15 per cent of the auto components sector. It was also recognised at the 2025 Korea Sustainability Conference, organised by the Korean Standards Association, ranking first for a third consecutive year in the tyre category of the Korean Sustainability Index. Its sustainability report was selected as an outstanding report for a second consecutive year in the manufacturing category of the Korean Readers’ Choice Awards.

Jung Il-taek, chief executive of Kumho Tire, said: “Kumho Tire manages issue-specific goals and initiatives in an integrated manner under its ESG management strategy. We will continue to strengthen and embed ESG management to build a solid foundation for sustainable growth and to develop into a global brand with credibility and authenticity.”

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