All roads led to Delhi-NCR as automakers, component suppliers and allied ecosystem players showcased their mettle and contributed to the success of the world’s second-largest automotive show – Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025.

The six-day megaevent beginning 17 January 2025, spread across three venues had focus on nine key aspects of mobility. This included The Auto Expo Motor Show 2025, India International Tyre Show 2025, India Cycle Show 2025, Bharat Battery Show, Steel Pavillion and Mobility Tech Pavillion at Bharat Mandapam, new Delhi. The Auto Components Show 2025 at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, New Delhi; Bharat Construction Equipment Expo and Urban Mobility & Infrastructure Show at India Expo Centre & Mart, Greater Nodia, respectively. The Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 had plenty of insights and updates for everyone.

In its second year, the Bharat Mobility Show 2025 was on the theme of ‘Beyond Boundaries: Co-creating Future Automotive Value Chain’. The idea was to foster collaboration and innovation across the automotive and mobility sector. For long, the Indian automotive market has been seen as a global trend follower, but now with the focus on manufacturing, technology and software-era, the country is becoming a globally major driving force.

The event spread across 100,000 square metres is said to have attracted around 983,522 visitors in the course of six days. It also hosted over 800 exhibitors, more than 500 delegates and conducted 20-plus conference with over 2,500 delegates in the span of six days. Interestingly, exhibitors had a total of 239 launches across all the concurrent shows, which is amongst the highest-ever recorded in India or probably the world.

What’s interesting to note is that, unlike most automotive global shows, the focus on different mobility ecosystem meant that exhibitors and visitors alike could have much more fruitful interactions, discussions thus leading to significant business opportunities.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who inaugurated the Expo on 17 January 2025, had said, “The entire mobility industry, the whole government and the whole nation have come together for this expo. Driven by the aspirations of the people and energy of the youth, India’s automobile sector is witnessing an unprecedented transformation.”

One of the key industries that has been working exhaustively behind the scenes to support the future of mobility is the tyre segment, as their products are the only point of contact between a vehicle and the road. And with the focus on sustainability at the forefront, tyre makers and allied players are increasingly stepping up their game to support the future of mobility.

INTERNATIONAL TYRE SHOW 2025

The Indian tyre industry is pegged at more than USD 11 billion (2022-23) with exports of around USD 2.9 billion (2022-23). The country is home to more than 28 tyre makers operating 62 plants, showcasing the robust domestic demand and also the manufacturing prowess.

It was no surprise that a dedicated event was planned, where more than 30 companies across tyre makers and suppliers presented their solutions and services to showcase their latest offerings. Some of the companies present at the event include Amazon Web Services India, Apollo Tyres, Automotive Tyre Manufacturers’ Association, Bansal Wire Industries, Bridgestone India, Ceat, Eco Crumbs & Reclaim, Emerald Tyre Manufacturers, Epsilon Carbon, Fabhind, Fornnax Technology, GoGreen Enterprises, Goodyear, GRP, Himadri Speciality Chemical, INDAG Rubber, Indo Green Enviro, IRMI, JK Tyre & Industries, L&T Rubber Processing Machinerv, Madura Industrial Textiles, Michelin India, MRF, Neo Wheels, Parker Lord, Rajratan Global Wire, Ralson (India), Rubber Board, Rubber King Pvt Tyres, Sai Commodities, Sanathana Analytics and Recruitment Services, SRF, Tata Chemicals, Test Industry, Triton Valves and Tyreloop Intermesh.

For tyre makers, besides displaying their popular products, a key focus was seen on showcasing their innovation to support the electrification trend in the country. In addition to using sustainable materials, electric vehicle (EV) tyres with foam-in tyre technology, which absorbs noise, was a key highlight at the event. On the other hand, the focus was on introduction of premium tyres; for instance, Apollo Tyres showcased the Vredestein tyre, which was being localised and supplied to a premium car maker in India.

Bridgestone India on its part showcased the ENLITEN technology-based tyres, which the company claims offer the ‘ultimate customisation’ that provides enhanced ride comfort, lower noise, superior wear life and improved fuel efficiency. The tyres are designed for both IC-vehicles, EVs and can support a variety of formfactors such as SUVs, CUVs, sedans and hatchbacks. The ENLITEN technology is claimed to reduce raw material consumption and lower carbon emissions at both production and usage.

RPG Group-owned Ceat showcased its all-terrain tyres, the CrossDrive range, EnergyRide built for electric scooters, Winload Series – premium tyres for truck and tyres for the farm, mining and off-road segment. JK Tyre & Industries launched two new tubeless truck & bus tyres, JDL XM & JUM XM, in the truck category.

Ralson Tyres took the opportunity to announce its entry in the Indian commercial vehicle segment with the introduction of its globally proven technology. It was in 2023 that the company inaugurated its Indore facility to mark its foray in the commercial vehicle tyre segment. The 60,000 MTPA plant is almost running at full capacity and serves the North America, Europe, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East market.

The event provided an opportunity not only for tyre manufacturers to introduce new products but also for key suppliers and partners to showcase their latest technologies. Michelin displayed its wide range of tyres from Lunar tyres and concept tyres to tyres made of recycled materials and high-performance commercial tyres.

Indag Rubber, a leading supplier of pre-cured tread rubber (PTR) solutions, introduced Win Master, which it claims is a revolutionary PTR brand that enables one of the highest 100,000-km mileage on radial tyres. This high on sustainability solution, it believes, will reduce operational costs and provide exceptional value to fleet owners.

Epsilon Carbon, a leading supplier of carbon black, launched Terrablack, its new product line, which is said to support tyre makers drive towards sustainability.

The company shared that Terrablack used recovered Carbon Black (rCB) and Tyre Derived Oil (TDO), which offers high-performance, eco-friendly solutions to meet the needs of both the tyre and non-tyre industries. It is said to have been extensively tested for 24 months. The Terrablack portfolio includes Terrablack 3310, engineered for heavy-duty applications like tyre treads, which provides superior wear resistance and durability, whereas Terrablack 6615 was designed for flexibility and resilience, ideal for tyre sidewalls, hoses, belts and sealing systems.

The company also announced its plans to establish a fully integrated tyre recycling plant in Karnataka, which is expected to go live by FY2026. This facility will recycle 30,000 tonnes of tyres annually and generate 9,500 tonnes of recovered carbon black and 12,000 tonnes of tyre-derived oil.

AUTO SHOW 2025

One of the most prominent highlights of the Bharat Mobility Auto Show 2025 was the Auto Expo, where legacy and new-age automakers wanted to showcase not only their newest offerings but also their global range and their imagination of what the future vehicles would look like.

It is interesting to note that a total of 90 vehicles were launched at The Auto Expo Motor Show 2025. A vast majority of them being electric and in some cases flex fuel and other alternative powertrains.

In the passenger vehicle segment, Maruti Suzuki India, the country’s largest carmaker, formally marked its entry in the EV segment with the e Vitara – a pure electric SUV with a claimed range of up to 500 km. Hyundai Motor India too introduced the Creta Electric SUV, its first EV offering on its most popular product in the country. VinFast, the Vietnam-headquartered auto maker, showcased its global product offerings across passenger vehicle and two-wheeler segment, which are expected to be introduced soon in the country.

The luxury segment saw the introduction of the BMW X1 Long Wheelbase All Electric; Mercedes EQS Maybach SUV 680 ‘Night Series’ and Maybach GLS 600; JSW MG Motor India unveiled its premium affordable brand ‘MG Select’ and the first of its two offerings, the MG Cyberster and MG M9. Porsche India unveiled two groundbreaking EVs, the all-new Macan SUV and the updated Taycan sports saloon.

Tata Motors launched the new Tata Sierra, while Kia brought the new EV6. Skoda Auto India showcased its global portfolio along with concept vehicles. Other key highlights included the Suzuki Motor India’s Access electric scooter, Gixxer SF 250 Flex Fuel; Hero MotoCorp’s Xtreme 250R & Xpulse 210 motorcycles and Xoom 125, Xoom 160 scooters and Vida V2 e-scooter; Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India revealed the prices of the Activa e: and the QC1 e-scooters and Vayve Mobility showcased Eva, a solar panel integrated micro car for urban commute.

In the commercial vehicle space, Tata Motors, VE Commercial Vehicles, Eka Mobility, Ashok Leyland, Switch Mobility, Cummins India, SML Isuzu, JBM Auto, TI Clean Mobility, Omega Seiki Mobility and Olectra Greentech showcased their product offerings across ICE and EV offerings.

COMPONENTS SHOW 2025

Right over at the recently opened Yashobhoomi, the Auto Components Show 2025 was home to over 1,000 exhibitors showcasing their products and solutions for supporting the automakers in their quest for sustainability.

Spread across 70,000 square metres, it attracted almost 100,000 visitors with 60 new product launches, interactive forums and engaging activities. Component makers across tier-1, tier-2, tier-3 and ancillary industries took the opportunity to not only showcase products for IC-vehicles and EVs but also presented live demonstrations for manufacturing and shopfloor activities.

This state-of-the-art exhibit featured transformative solutions shaping the future of transportation, from contributors like Bosch, HCLTech, Tata Elxsi, KPIT, QuestGlobal, and Capgemini, alongside other startups and mobility service providers.

The component makers proved their mettle by showcasing not just made-in-India but also designed-in-India products. Some of the key exhibition included DGMS-compliant safety technologies by Novus Hi-Tech to revolutionary Paint Protection Films by ALP Group, advanced EV solutions by BorgWarner and ParaSafe’s Jacket and Jeans designed specifically for motorcyclists, delivery personnel and high-risk users, representing a transformative leap in personal safety and mobility.

To conclude, the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 offered a comprehensive glimpse into the future of mobility, from software-driven innovations to sustainable manufacturing practices. With its broad focus on passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, tyres and components, the event underscored India’s emergence as a global leader in the automotive sector.

As India continues to champion sustainability, technology and localisation, Bharat Mobility Global Expo is slated to play a pivotal role in shaping the global automotive landscape.

Birla Tyre has launched a new brand identity featuring a redesigned logo and corporate website, marking a major step in its transformation journey under new ownership. The company, now backed by a consortium led by Dalmia Bharat Refractories (DBRL) as Resolution Applicant, and strategic partner Himadri Speciality Chemical (HSCL), aims to position itself as a premium, high-performance and future-ready brand.

The company plans to roll out a multi-platform marketing campaign and focus on re-entering key markets, expanding distribution and strengthening its product portfolio.

The refreshed identity reflects Birla Tyre’s renewed focus on speed, innovation and excellence. The new logo includes a custom wordmark symbolising forward motion and a tiger motif – called ‘Tyger’ – representing power, agility and leadership. The blue and orange colour scheme signifies trust and optimism.

Anurag Choudhary, Chairman and Managing Director & CEO, Himadri Speciality Chemical, said, “This rebranding is more than merely a visual transformation; it is a reaffirmation of our dedication to purposeful development and progress.” 

Dr Chandra Narain Maheswari, Whole Time Director & CEO, Dalmia Bharat Refractories, said, “Our new logo encapsulates the essence of Birla Tyre, which is founded on four fundamental pillars: a legacy that motivates boldness, a product line that is prepared for the future, an unwavering commitment to continuous innovation and a oneness with world around us. As this new identity signals Birla Tyre’s readiness to meet the evolving needs of the automotive industry with energy, innovation, and purpose.”

The 2025 Rally of Poland commenced amid an atmosphere of mourning following the tragic death of Italian motorsport driver Matteo Doretto in a racing accident.

The 81st edition of Europe's second-oldest rally competition, taking place across the challenging gravel roads of the Masurian Lakes region from June 13-15, has been overshadowed by the loss of the rising Italian talent.

"His loss is a tragedy that deeply saddens us," said Terenzio Testoni, Pirelli Rally Activity Manager. "On behalf of Pirelli, I would like to extend our most heartfelt and sincere condolences to his family and friends."

Despite the sombre mood, 63 crews took to the start line for what remains one of the European Rally Championship's most demanding events. Notable competitors include Jon Armstrong driving a Pirelli-equipped Ford Fiesta, alongside Jos Verstappen and Andrea Mabellini, both piloting Skoda Fabias fitted with Pirelli tyres.

The rally features 14 special stages covering 190.40 timed kilometres across terrain known for its technical difficulty. The Masurian Lakes route presents drivers with uneven, often sandy roads where grip proves elusive even for experienced competitors.

"It's a very difficult and high speed rally, where attention to detail is very important," commented Testoni. "With every car passage the terrain gets rougher, forming deep ruts that can challenge even the most experienced drivers."

Weather conditions are forecast to remain dry, though organisers caution that conditions can change rapidly on such challenging terrain.

The rally serves as the third round of this season's ERC Fiesta Rally3 trophy, for which Pirelli provides exclusive tyre supply. Competing crews have access to three variants from Pirelli's Scorpion gravel range: the K4A hard compound, the K6A soft compound designated as the prime choice for this event, and the K8B supersoft option.

Regulations permit each crew to utilise 16 tyres total, including those selected for qualifying sessions. Trophy category vehicles will run on Scorpion 175/70-15 specifications in both K4 hard and K6 soft compounds.

Rally Poland's reputation for difficulty stems from its unique surface characteristics, where the sandy base becomes increasingly rutted as more vehicles traverse each stage. The deteriorating conditions throughout the weekend create an additional strategic element as crews must balance speed with mechanical preservation.

The event's location in the Masurian Lakes region, known for its natural beauty, provides a stark contrast to the intense competition unfolding on its roads. The rally has maintained its position as a crucial championship round despite the technical challenges it presents to both drivers and machinery.

UK-based tyre safety watchdog TyreSafe has welcomed the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT)’s announcement highlighting Britain’s fast lane position for self-driving vehicles.

While the safety watchdog has acknowledged the potential the technology holds for enhancing road safety and reducing collisions, it maintains a caution towards the effectiveness and safety benefits of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) – and by extension, fully autonomous vehicles. This it shared are intrinsically linked to the fundamental safety and maintenance of a vehicle’s tyres.

Stuart Lovatt, Chair of TyreSafe, said, “We are incredibly optimistic about the future of mobility and the significant strides being made in self-driving technology. Anything that has the potential to save lives and dramatically reduce serious collisions on our roads is something TyreSafe wholeheartedly supports.”

“However, it is crucial to remember that even the most sophisticated ADAS systems rely on optimal vehicle performance, and tyres are the sole point of contact between the vehicle and the road. Without sound tyre safety management – ensuring correct pressure, tread depth, and condition – the integrity and performance of these advanced systems can be severely compromised,” said Lovatt.

He highlighted the persistent issues that is seen among current vehicle owners, when it comes to proper tyre maintenance. 

“For many years, tyres have consistently been identified as the primary cause of MOT failures for vehicles up to seven years old. This underscores a widespread complacency regarding tyre safety that we must collectively address,” he added.

As per the latest statistics, over 35 percent of MOT failures were attributed to previous tyre-related advisories, which translates to 768,410 drivers ignoring warnings and subsequently failed their next MOT due to tyre issues. The trend of vehicles failing MOTs on wheel and tyre-related advisories is unfortunately increasing, indicating a growing disregard for these critical safety components.

“The promise of self-driving vehicles is immense, but their safety cannot be fully realised if the foundational elements are neglected. As we move towards a more autonomous future, the importance of tyres – their condition and correct maintenance – becomes even more paramount. TyreSafe urges all stakeholders, from manufacturers to policymakers and drivers, to recognise that tyre safety is not just an advisory; it is a non-negotiable prerequisite for safe, efficient, and technologically advanced motoring,” concluded Lovatt.

Vaculug has announced the appointment of Darren C. as the company’s Regional Operations Manager for the West, overseeing key areas including Manchester, Birmingham and Wales. Darren brings with him extensive experience, knowledge and skillset and will be a valuable asset to the team, said the company.

Marcus Kirkness, Fleet Operations Manager at Vaculug, said, “These are truly exciting times at Vaculug. We’re incredibly pleased to have Darren join our team. His knowledge of the tyre industry, combined with his experience in managing customer fleets and delivering top-tier customer service, will be instrumental as we continue to expand our customer base. Darren’s expertise ensures we remain agile in addressing challenges and fulfilling our commitments swiftly and effectively."