Bansal Wire Industries, India’s largest stainless steel wire manufacturing company, is charting a dynamic course in the Indian tyre market with innovative solutions aimed at enhancing performance and sustainability. Leveraging its expertise in the automotive sector, the company is introducing advanced steel cords and bead wire products designed to improve tyre efficiency, rolling resistance and fuel economy.

Bansal Wire Industries is optimistic on capitalising on the growth of the Indian tyre market as tyre makers endeavour to offer more efficient rubber wheels. The Delhi-based conglomerate is planning to introduce products within its tyre-industry portfolio that will improve performance. The company already caters to the automobile industry with products spanning outer and inner spring, circlips and washer categories.

Speaking to Tyre Trends on upcoming products, Managing Director Pranav Bansal iterated, “Our modern manufacturing setup enhances product performance; this is particularly in line with current industry trends as we move towards producing super tension and super tensile plus steel cord products. These innovations are expected to improve rolling resistance and reduce tyre weight, both of which contribute to better fuel efficiency and performance. We are actively embracing complete digitalisation and bringing more automation into our processes, helping us increase efficiency and ensure product consistency.”

He added, “We pride ourselves in being the only Indian company manufacturing steel cord for the PCR and TBR sectors with offerings in normal tensile, high tensile and super tensile (ST). Additionally, we have expanded our bead wire manufacturing capabilities with facilities in both South and North India and we continue to explore innovations to serve the evolving needs of the tyre industry.”

Alluding to the reason behind expanding into the tyre industry, he noted, “Our expansion into the tyre industry is driven by the increasing demands of durable, high-quality materials and products, as supported by industry research reports done by Invest India, among others. By diversifying our product portfolio, we aim to meet this demand for efficient materials. By focusing on high-quality steel cords and bead wires, we help improve tyre performance, which in turn enhances vehicle stability, handling and safety, especially under challenging road conditions.”

“The Indian tyre industry has witnessed a significant growth over the past few years, which is driven by an exponential increase in production, domestic sales, exports and overall revenue. An integral growth factor in this is the increase in the ownership of vehicles, which further aids the tyre industry. Additionally, the surge in demand for tyres for trucks and buses, fuelled by expanding mobility and industrialisation, has given a boost to the sector,” he added.

The company caters to over 5,000 customers, offering more than 4,000 different wire products across industries such as automotive, infrastructure and consumer durables. While its primary market is India, the manufacturer also exports products to over 50 countries. The US and Europe are among its largest markets, where it continues to see significant demand for products.

Industry talk

Bansal mentioned that the increasing demand in the automotive industry, domestically, presents tremendous opportunities for the company. “Our high-performing products allow us to constantly evolve. However, challenges like fluctuating raw material prices as well as the changing regulatory requirements could impact. Expansion internationally, specifically in regions like the US and Europe, provides significant opportunities, but geo-political risks and trade regulations could challenge the operations on a global level,” he noted.

Alluding to the strategies implemented by the company to meet the growing demands, he iterated, “In the automotive and tyre industry, collaboration with stakeholders is key to driving innovation and meeting the growing demand for high-quality wire products. We focus on building strong partnerships with manufacturers, suppliers and research institutions to align our solutions with industry needs. Regular engagement through industry forums, trade shows and feedback mechanisms allow us to understand evolving requirements and deliver solutions that enhance performance, safety and sustainability. By participating in joint development projects, sharing technical expertise and staying updated on emerging trends, we ensure our products remain at the forefront of technological advancements.”

Quality and sustainability

The company has manufacturing facilities for bead wire in both South and North India. The production capacity at its South India facility is 50 kilotonnes per year, and at the North India facility, it is 30 kilotonnes per year. Additionally, it has a pilot manufacturing site for steel cords in North India, which currently has a production capacity of 20 kilotonnes per year. The company plans to gradually scale up this capacity to meet the growing demand of the tyre industry. 

Commenting on quality measures implemented to derive industry-grade materials, he explained, “We are committed to ensuring the highest product quality and will soon be the only company in India with dedicated in-house research and development wing for both steel cord and bead wire. Our research and development facility spans 12,000 square feet and is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to drive innovation. To achieve 'First Time Right' production, we have conducted extensive gap analyses of our processes and implemented all necessary improvements. Additionally, our manufacturing facilities are equipped with cutting-edge machinery, all integrated with a complete digital interface to capture real-time data, ensuring the highest standards in production and quality.”

The company also puts focus in the principles of circularity with several initiatives. “Sustainability is a core focus area for us and we are addressing it in several ways. Our use of renewable energy has reached 70 percent in some of our plants and we are dedicatedly moving towards water positivity in many of our facilities. We are exploring the use of green steel in both our steel cord and bead wire products. To further reduce our environmental impact, we are investing in energy-efficient machinery and continuously seeking ways to minimise emissions across our operations,” said Bansal.

Future course

According to Bansal, the company is anticipating several key trends that will influence its business, including a strong focus on product innovation to enhance performance and quality. “We are committed to show resilience to maintain operational stability in dynamic markets. We work dedicatedly to improve the customer experience through feedback and satisfaction while also fostering diversity and inclusion within our workplace culture. Sustainability and corporate social responsibility remain priorities, alongside embracing technological advances to optimise our operations and product offerings for the future. These trends will guide our growth and ensure we stay ahead in a competitive market,” explained Bansal.

Besides, the company is also focused on significant growth opportunities through the establishment of new facilities and capacity expansions. “Our new manufacturing site in North India for both steel cord and bead wire has a current steel cord capacity of 20 kilotonnes per year with plans to scale it to 200 kilotonnes per year over the next five years. In bead wire, we now have two new state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in South and North India with a combined production capacity of 80 kilotonnes per year, ensuring that we are well positioned to meet the increasing demand from our customers in the coming years,” concluded Bansal.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Nokian Tyres has achieved a significant global milestone as its new Romanian production facility becomes the first tyre factory in the world to be awarded LEED v4 Gold certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. This prestigious designation recognises the building's incorporation of extensive sustainable features, such as high energy efficiency, an advanced water management system and the use of on-site solar panels.

The LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) framework is the foremost global rating system for sustainable construction. Certified buildings are distinguished by their reduced energy and water consumption, lower carbon emissions, minimised landfill waste and the creation of healthier indoor spaces for occupants. This accolade adds to a history of environmental leadership for Nokian Tyres; its US facility was previously the world's first tyre factory to receive LEED v4 Silver certification, and its on-site solar panels fully power the Gold-certified administration building there.

Having commenced tyre deliveries in March 2025, the Romanian plant is also notable as the world’s first full-scale tyre factory to operate with zero CO2 emissions from its direct operations. Furthermore, the company’s broader commitment to sustainability was acknowledged in 2025 when it was named one of the World’s Most Sustainable Companies by TIME Magazine.

Teppo Huovila, Vice President – Quality and Sustainability, Nokian Tyres, said, “Sustainability is not only about the products we create; it is also about the spaces where we create them. Earning the LEED certification reflects our commitment to reducing the environmental footprint of our operations while providing healthier, safer and more energy‑efficient workplaces for our employees.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Balkrishna Industries Limited (BKT Tires), already a dominant force in the Off-Highway Tyre (OHT) sector globally, has announced its strategic foray into India’s consumer tyre market. This significant expansion introduces the company’s On-Highway portfolio, marking a pivotal shift in its business trajectory. The initial product lineup is purpose-built for two-wheelers, encompassing both scooters and motorcycles, as well as Medium and Heavy Commercial Vehicles (M&HCV). This move underscores BKT’s long-term commitment to establishing a strong presence in India’s rapidly expanding consumer and replacement tyre segments. Accompanying the product launch is a new national brand campaign, ‘Elevate Your Drive’, fronted by brand ambassador Ranveer Singh, which heralds the beginning of the company’s journey as a consumer-facing brand.

To provide clarity for its evolving corporate structure, BKT has introduced a new brand architecture under its existing identity, ‘BKT – Growing Together’. This framework establishes two distinct verticals: BKT Tyres, which will encompass the company’s complete range from Off-Highway to the new On-Highway categories, and BKT Carbon, dedicated to its carbon black and industrial materials business. This dual-pillar approach reflects BKT’s transformation into a more integrated mobility enterprise.

The company’s entry into the consumer space is led by two new two-wheeler tyre lines, both manufactured in India. The BKT ZENOVA is engineered specifically for urban commuting, prioritising rider comfort, smooth handling and reliable grip. Complementing this is the BKT THYROS, designed for riders who encounter mixed terrain, offering enhanced control and confidence on both on-road and off-road surfaces. Developed with core consumer needs like comfort, safety and mileage in mind, the range has undergone rigorous validation. This includes design verification, durability trials and performance testing for braking and handling at the government’s NATRAX facility, ensuring they meet IATF 16949 standards and hold mandatory BIS certifications.

BKT’s expansion into the commercial on-road segment will follow with the introduction of its Medium & Heavy Commercial Vehicle Radial (MHCVR) tyres, slated for launch in the first quarter of FY2026-27. The initial offering will include the BKT m.Loadxpert and BKT Milexpert RG, tyres developed for demanding applications like cement transport and regional cargo logistics. Engineered for high stability and robust casing strength, each tyre undergoes over 138 in-process quality checks and more than 20 design verification tests in NABL-accredited labs. By meeting all BIS standards, the range emphasises reliability, long service life and retreadability, bringing industrial-grade validation to the commercial road sector.

The go-to-market strategy involves a phased rollout through BKT’s nationwide distributor and dealer network, beginning with key high-demand markets. Reinforcing its consumer-first approach, the company will support the new portfolio with an advanced digital platform designed for efficient service response and transparent complaint tracking. This initiative aims to set new standards in customer engagement and service responsiveness within the Indian mobility sector.

Underpinning this strategic expansion is a substantial investment commitment of INR 35 billion (approximately USD 400 million). These funds are earmarked for expanding manufacturing capacity, advancing research and development, supporting vertical integration through the BKT Carbon business and widening the distribution network. This investment is central to the company’s Vision 2030, which targets a consolidated revenue of approximately INR 230 billion by FY30. This future revenue mix is projected to comprise about 70 percent from its core Off-Highway tyre business, 20 percent from the newly entered On-Highway categories and 10 percent from third-party carbon black sales.

Arvind Poddar, Chairman & Managing Director, BKT, said, “Our entry into the on-highway segment is a natural extension of BKT’s purpose – to support India’s evolving mobility needs with products engineered for real world conditions. We are building on decades of manufacturing discipline to offer tyres that deliver safety, reliability and value. Guided by BKT – Growing Together, we aim to be a dependable partner for consumers, distributors and dealers.”

Rajiv Poddar, Joint Managing Director, BKT, said, “BKT’s foray into the on-highway tyre segment is a strategic milestone under our Vision 2030 – an India-led initiative to scale responsibly and expand our mobility footprint. Our approach balances ambition with discipline, where we aim to grow while protecting profitability and maintaining our engineering excellence. With a defined revenue roadmap of INR 23,000 crore (INR 230 billion) by 2030 – a 2.2x increase from FY25 levels, this measured growth, is built on clarity, capability and long-term commitment.”

Satish Sharma, Senior President and Director – Business Development and Strategy, BKT, said, “As we step into a new phase of growth, our focus remains unwavering on delivering durability, mileage, comfort and advanced performance across 2-Wheeler, Truck Bus Radial, Passenger and Light Truck categories, backed by deep customer insights and a commitment to product leadership. We are proud to pioneer industry first initiatives – whether it is pure distribution play ensuring wide reach with zero channel conflict, our ‘Journey Assistance Program’ for riders, or transformative programmes like ‘Save the Casing’ and market leading end user loyalty platforms. Our goal is clear – to achieve a five percent market share by FY30 through a disciplined, India-led strategy based on product leadership, distribution strength and consumer trust.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Hankook Tyre UK has entered a new phase of its development with the appointment of Ho Seok Chea as its Managing Director, effective from the start of 2026. Based at the company's Daventry facility, he steps into the role equipped with significant international expertise and a robust foundation in sales and marketing.

Chea brings a deep understanding of the global tyre landscape to the UK operation, having dedicated his career to the Hankook organisation since 2005. His professional journey began within the original equipment division at the company's South Korean headquarters, where he cultivated a comprehensive grasp of the industry's commercial and technical intricacies. This initial experience laid the groundwork for a career marked by analytical rigour and technical insight.

His subsequent postings across various international markets have further enriched his perspective. By holding key positions at Hankook’s European hub, in United States and most recently in the Netherlands, he has gained first-hand exposure to the nuances of different regional markets. This diverse career path has endowed him with a truly global outlook, which he will now leverage to guide the company's strategy and growth within the United Kingdom.

Jongho Park, President and COO, Hankook Tire Europe, said, “Mr Chea brings extensive experience from his previous leadership roles at Hankook across Europe, North America and the Netherlands, along with a comprehensive understanding of the tyre industry and the unique characteristics for each market. His strategic expertise in sales and marketing will support the continued development and strengthening of our brand in the United Kingdom. We have full confidence in his leadership and are pleased to announce his appointment as Managing Director for the UK.”

Chea said, “I truly believe there is great potential ahead of us. With the dedication of the UK team and the strength of Hankook’s product portfolio, I am confident we can build on our successes and further expand our presence as a premium tyre manufacturer in the UK market. Together, we will continue to deliver innovation, quality and exceptional service to our customers. Through my previous roles, I have learned that sustainable growth comes from strong collaboration, open communication and a team built on trust and mutual support. I am excited to commence my new role in the UK and look forward to working with a talented team to achieve even greater success.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

The Linglong Sport Master has received a ‘recommendable’ overall rating from the ACE Auto Club Europe following a comprehensive summer tyre test. The evaluation focused on performance in the popular 225/40 R18 XL size, suitable for models like the Volkswagen Golf and Audi A3. To ensure impartiality, the tyres were purchased anonymously from retailers, and three VW Golf 8s served as the test vehicles.

The assessment was structured around three key categories: safety in wet conditions, safety in dry conditions and environmental impact, with a maximum possible score of 170 points. The wet handling segment, which carries the greatest weight in the overall ranking, was given particular emphasis due to its critical importance for everyday driving safety in challenging weather.

In this rigorous evaluation, the Linglong tyre stood out for its exceptional performance on wet roads, matching the results of the test winner in this crucial safety discipline. It also proved to be a top contender during dry handling assessments and noise level measurements. Notably, the Sport Master achieved these high safety marks while being the most affordable option in the test group, demonstrating that cost does not have to compromise quality.

The rolling resistance tests conducted in Finland further confirmed its balanced approach to economy and environment. Its performance was so strong that it earned the ACE ‘recommendable’ rating overall. The test highlights that this budget-friendly tyre delivers premium-level safety and handling without compromise. The tyre is available in over 70 sizes ranging from 16 to 22 inches.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!