The commercial vehicle tyre industry is at a crossroads, shaped by rising costs, shifting fleet demands and sustainability pressures. Apollo Tyres is betting on digital fleet solutions, energy-efficient tyres and retreading to stay ahead. Yet, challenges persist as India’s price-sensitive market slows the adoption of smart tyres, regulatory changes loom and global economic uncertainty adds pressure.

As the commercial vehicle (CV) segment evolves, tyre manufacturers are adapting to changing customer expectations, fleet optimisation needs and sustainability imperatives. Apollo Tyres is sharpening its focus on energy-efficient tyres, fleet solutions and the increasing demand for retreading.

At the recent Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, Apollo Tyres showcased its latest advancements in energy-efficient and fuel-efficient tyres. “Customers today are becoming more mature, and as tyre prices rise, fleets are looking for specialised solutions,” said Rajesh Dahiya, Vice President – Commercial.

Fleet management is seeing a shift towards outsourced solutions, where tyre manufacturers take on the responsibility of maintaining and managing tyres, allowing fleet operators to concentrate on the core business. “We are seeing a growing interest in digital solutions that allow fleets to track tyre usage remotely. Some prefer a more hands-on approach, requiring physical support and maintenance. Others are even considering pay-per-use models, where we fully manage the tyre lifecycle,” Dahiya explained.

While fleet solutions remain a nascent trend in India, the concept is well established in Europe and US. “As fleet sizes grow beyond 100-200 vehicles, operators start seeing the financial and operational benefits of working with a specialist. Even OEMs are acknowledging this shift with customers now approaching them for fleet solutions,” he added.

NEW MOBILITY TRENDS

With the rise of alternative fuel vehicles, including CNG-powered commercial vehicles, tyre manufacturers must adapt to evolving mobility trends. “Powertrains and fuel types will continue to evolve due to environmental concerns, but tyres will always be essential. What will change is their configuration and specific features,” said Dahiya. He highlighted that electric vehicles (EVs) require specialised tyres due to their higher torque and unique weight distribution.

Furthermore, the increasing cost of new tyres is pushing fleet operators towards retreading, a practice that extends the lifespan of tyres and reduces costs. “Tyres are designed to be retreaded, and when done properly, fleets can use tyres for multiple life cycles. Today, better road conditions, modern chassis and improved vehicle maintenance are making retreading a more viable option,” Dahiya stated.

Apollo Tyres is also active in the retreading sector. “We already have around 45 Apollo Retreading Zones equipped with our machinery and materials. Retreading is not just an add-on, but it is an integral part of our solutions,” he emphasised.

MARKET GROWTH

The commercial vehicle tyre market is witnessing strong growth in certain segments. “The mining and construction sectors are growing rapidly, outpacing traditional truck sales. Trailers, in particular, are seeing increased adoption,” said Dahiya. He noted that Apollo holds a market share of approximately 27-28 percent in this segment.

Smart tyres, equipped with sensors to monitor pressure, temperature and wear, are gaining traction globally. However, its adoption in India remains limited due to cost concerns. “While smart tyres represent the next step in tyre technology, widespread adoption will take time. The price sensitivity of the Indian market means that costs need to come down before mass adoption takes off. We expect significant growth in the next 5-7 years,” Dahiya predicted.

Sustainability is also becoming a key focus for the tyre industry. “We have tyres that contain 75 percent sustainable materials, but market demand for sustainable tyres is still developing. While tyre manufacturers are ready with the technology, widespread adoption will depend on customer preferences and regulatory support,” he noted.

The regulatory landscape in India is also evolving with sustainability and environmental regulations gaining momentum. “The entire industry must gear up to meet these new challenges. We are prepared for this shift and continue investing in sustainable solutions,” Dahiya stated.

CHALLENGES

Despite the growth potential, the industry faces challenges. “A slowdown in GDP growth is a concern and the adoption of EV-specific tyres is still hindered by infrastructure limitations and high costs. However, as the economy recovers and sustainability regulations take effect, the industry will adapt,” Dahiya asserted.

In response to rising raw material costs, Apollo Tyres is planning to increase tyre prices. “Cost pressures are real and price adjustments are necessary to maintain quality and innovation. However, we are still mulling over the price adjustments.” he said.

As the commercial vehicle segment continues to evolve, Apollo Tyres remains focused on providing innovative solutions that cater to fleet operators’ changing needs while staying ahead in sustainability and smart tyre technology.

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TVS Srichakra Limited has assumed contractual rights and obligations from its US subsidiary under an agreement with Bristol Motor Speedway LLC.

The Madurai-based company said in a regulatory filing that it executed an assignment and assumption agreement on April 10, 2026 with Super Grip Corporation and Bristol Motor Speedway. Under the arrangement, TVS Srichakra takes over all rights, duties and obligations previously held by Super Grip Corporation under a suite licence agreement dated February 16, 2024 and a sponsorship agreement dated April 5, 2024.

The company will pay USD 1,033,250 in instalments over the remaining term of the agreements. No consideration is payable to Super Grip Corporation for the transfer.

The original terms of the licence and sponsorship agreements remain unchanged, and the arrangements are set to run until December 31, 2028.

TVS Srichakra said the move was intended to enhance the visibility and reach of its brands in global markets.

Super Grip Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of the company, while Bristol Motor Speedway is an unrelated third party. The assignment between TVS Srichakra and Super Grip Corporation qualifies as a related party transaction and has been conducted on an arm’s length basis.

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Autopromotec has officially confirmed a new management structure, appointing Dr Enrica Lazzarini as Chief Executive Officer and Dr Guido Gambassi as Chief Strategy Officer. The decision, confirmed by the Board of Directors, reflects a strategy focused on leadership continuity by promoting experienced and respected internal figures already well established in the automotive equipment and aftermarket sector. The new leadership roles take effect from May 2026.

Under the new organizational chart, Dr Lazzarini was named Secretary General of AICA, the Italian Association of Automotive Equipment Manufacturers, on 5 March 2026. AICA jointly owns the Autopromotec trade fair with AIRP, the Italian Association of Tyre Retreaders. The next edition of the biennial exhibition is scheduled to take place from 26 to 29 May 2027, at the BolognaFiere exhibition centre.

Dr Gambassi now adds the CSO role to his existing responsibilities, which include serving as CEO of EditProm, the publisher of Pneurama magazine, as well as Secretary General of both AIRP and Federpneus, the National Association of Specialist Tyre Retailers. Federpneus operates its training workshop at the Casa Autopromotec headquarters.

The outgoing CEO and former AICA Secretary General, Renzo Servadei, who stepped down for personal reasons, has fully endorsed the new appointments. He has pledged his support for the upcoming 2027 edition to ensure strategic and organisational continuity across all entities responsible for the fair.

Dr Lazzarini said, “I welcome this new challenge with great enthusiasm and am honoured by the trust placed in me. Coordinating the next edition of Autopromotec will undoubtedly be stimulating, and I am certain that with the support of this team, which has been well-established for years, we will organise an event that lives up to the expectations of our exhibitors and visitors. The automotive sector is today increasingly characterised by structural and extremely dynamic innovations, which require the ability to react and analyse. Changes are happening so rapidly that it is now essential and fundamental to see and experience all the innovations first-hand, an opportunity that arises exclusively at events such as those made possible by Autopromotec.”

Dr Gambassi said, “What makes Autopromotec the most specialised trade fair in the sector is its ability to integrate innovations and market trends, thanks to its unique nature. Having a membership base and hosting so many organisations embedded within the fabric of the sector within its premises ensures that Autopromotec continues to be an international benchmark.”

Servadei said, “It is with great emotion and deep gratitude that I step down from both roles I have held to date, confident that the new management team at Autopromotec will carry forward the traditions that make our event unique whilst incorporating all the innovations the future holds. I am delighted that internal staff have been promoted, bringing with them their wealth of connections and relationships, which are our greatest asset: the ability to identify, understand and develop the needs of our exhibitors.”

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The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has appointed Travis Parman as its new Chief Communications Officer. Parman will report directly to Chief Executive Officer and President Mark Stewart as part of the executive leadership team.

In his new role, Parman is tasked with leading all global communications functions, which encompass media relations, associate communications and corporate reputation management. A key priority will be articulating Goodyear’s ongoing transformation journey and supporting the broader business strategy as the company pursues its vision of becoming number one in tyres and service.

Parman brings extensive experience from senior communications roles at major organisations, including Nissan Motor Corporation, General Motors, Renault Group, Ally Bank and most recently PMI U.S. His background includes guiding companies through complex changes and helping leadership teams connect strategic objectives with operational performance.

Stewart said, "Travis brings deep experience leading communications for complex, global organisations, which will help us engage both internal and external audiences as we share our story – building on the momentum of Goodyear Forward with a continued focus on operational excellence, delivering products that meet customer needs and driving sustainable growth. The communications function is critical to aligning our vision, core values and shared global objectives while building and protecting Goodyear's reputation and market positioning."

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Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, a leading independent global designer and manufacturer of high-performance tyres for commercial, military and freighter aircraft, has appointed Michael ‘Mick’ Wallwork as its new Chief Executive Officer. The company operates as a portfolio holding of Liberty Hall Capital Partners.

A seasoned industry veteran with more than 25 years of experience in value creation for engineered industrial products, Wallwork joins Dunlop from Renold PLC, where he served as President of Renold Chain. In that role, he led roughly 1,250 employees across seven factories and eight service centres in Europe, China and India. His prior senior leadership positions included tenures at Manuli Hydraulics, Brammer and Trelleborg Sealing Solutions, managing multinational operations across Europe, the Americas, Middle East and Asia.

Wallwork holds a Master of Science in Engineering Business Management from Warwick University and a Bachelor of Engineering in Aeronautical Engineering and Design from Loughborough University. His extensive background in both original equipment and aftermarket industrial services positions him to lead Dunlop’s strategic growth across its global markets.

Michael Warren, Partner at Liberty Hall, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Mick to Dunlop and look forward to partnering with him as he leads the company through its next phase of growth. Mick brings an extensive track record of developing high-performing teams and driving commercial and operational excellence to successfully build and scale global organisations. His leadership will be critical as Dunlop executes on its strategic value-creation plan, advances its next phase of growth initiatives and continues to deliver the highest-quality products to customers worldwide."

Wallwork said, "I am excited to join Dunlop to build upon its century-long legacy of innovation and excellence as the company enters its next phase of growth. Dunlop's well-established market standing and reputation for quality put us in a strong position to deliver on our strategy. I look forward to partnering with the team to drive operational excellence, invest in our dedicated people and deliver long-term value for our customers and stakeholders worldwide."

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