Bengaluru-headquartered engineering and R&D (ER&D) company L&T Technology Services (LTTS) has been working behind the scenes with a wide-variety of industries globally as well as in India; among them the transportation vertical is a key contributor, which also includes the automotive and tyre industry.

The tyre industry, which for long has been seen working silos, is now increasingly embracing digitalisation and external support for accelerated growth.

In an interaction with Tyre Trends, Shailendra Shrivastava, Chief Segment Officer, Mobility at L&T Technology Services, shared, “The integration of research, development, innovation and technology is set to revolutionise the tyre industry, ushering in an era of digital transformation that extends beyond traditional manufacturing.”

He believes that by leveraging digital tools, tyre makers can gather and analyse data from major fleet owners, which enables them to take more informed manufacturing decisions and strategic production planning.

PARTNERSHIPS PLAY A CRUCIAL ROLE

It is no secret that the automotive industry right now is undergoing an evolution, what’s with alternative fuels, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), consumer demand or fast-evolving regulatory framework.

LTTS shared that ER&D companies are increasingly playing a pivotal role in the digital transformation of tyre OEMs, both in India and on a global scale. These partnerships are driven by the relentless advancement in technology and competitive market.

It is not just about development of tyres but also overhauling the manufacturing and other processes.

“Engineering firms provide tyre manufacturers with cutting-edge solutions such as smart manufacturing processes, IoT integrations and predictive analytics. These collaborations help tyre OEMs to enhance their operational efficiency, reduce costs and innovate their product offerings. This alliance is not just about keeping pace with industry trends; it’s about setting the trajectory for future innovation and ensuring that tyre companies are well equipped to meet evolving consumer demands and regulatory requirements,” explained Shrivastava.

KEY TRENDS RESHAPING THE TYRE INDUSTRY

In both automotive and non-automotive industries, such as agriculture, construction and material handling, tyres play a crucial role in ensuring efficiency, safety and performance. According to Shrivastava, one of the biggest shifts in the industry is the integration of technology.

He outlined the key trends witnessed:

Smart tyres: Technology integration in tyres is on the rise. Smart tyres equipped with sensors, monitor tyre pressure, temperature and tread wear provide real-time data to enhance safety and performance. Tyre companies are progressively leveraging this data to enhance customer engagement through their proprietary applications.

Electrification: With the growing focus on electric vehicles (EVs) and their increased weight due to batteries, there is a greater emphasis on designing tyres that reduce rolling resistance, minimise road noise and improve driving distance. EV tyres also need to be more durable to withstand wear and tear.

Safety: As safety becomes a priority, there is a demand for tyres with advanced features, including improved wet-condition grip, better braking performance and superior durability.

Sustainability: The demand for sustainable materials and tyres designed to reduce rolling resistance is growing. This trend improves fuel efficiency and reduces carbon emissions.

Customisation: Consumers are showing interest in customisable tyres with unique tread patterns and sidewall designs that allow for personalisation.

Retreading & recycling: The practice of retreading tyres is gaining popularity as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to complete tyre replacement; this is also particularly significant for commercial fleet operators.

When it comes to demand trends, while there are differences between India customers and other countries, there are trends converging in the tyre industry.

“In India, consumers have traditionally prioritised cost-effectiveness and durability due to challenging road conditions and economic factors. Conversely, in other global markets, emphasis has often been placed on performance, technology integration and environmental sustainability. However, with the rapid globalisation and exposure to international standards, Indian consumers are beginning to demand more sophisticated features. This shift is fostering a convergence of consumer expectations, as companies are now striving to balance affordability with cutting-edge technology and eco-friendly options, creating a more universal demand across various regions,” alluded Shrivastava.

Despite some commonalities, there are some key differences in the markets:

Price sensitivity: Indian consumers tend to be more price-sensitive, leading to a higher demand for budget-friendly tyres.

Durability: Due to challenging road conditions, Indian consumers prioritise durable tyres that can withstand Indian roads and rough terrains.

Replacement market dominance: In India, the replacement tyre market dominates, comprising about 56 percent of total volume, unlike developed markets with balanced demand between OEM and replacement tyres.

Fuel-efficient tyres: While globally there is interest in eco-friendly tyres, this trend is more pronounced in developed markets due to stricter environmental regulations.

Brand loyalty: Brand loyalty is stronger in developed markets. In India, consumers prioritise value for money and are open to trying new brands.

While the differences in the trends remain, as the Indian tyre industry becomes more tech-advanced, we will see more convergence between the developed and emerging markets.

TESTING, DESIGNING & VALIDATION

ER&D companies like LTTS mostly work behind the scenes and most of their work revolve around co-creating Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) with their clients.

The company also provides polymer engineering innovation, wherein it enables enhancement of performance, safety and sustainability with lightweight, durable and recyclable materials.

LTTS supports tyre manufacturers worldwide by leveraging advanced composites, 3D printing and high-performance thermoplastics, which helps clients address environmental concerns and cost challenges, driving smarter, more efficient and sustainable transportation solutions.

“We provide AI/ML-based applications, reverse engineering services, embedded sensor solutions and support for advanced manufacturing. Our expertise spans areas like digital twin technology, 3D scanning and IoT integration.

“LTTS focuses on several critical areas, including AI/ML for efficiency, which optimises tyre development and reducing material wastage. Reverse engineering allows for analysing tread patterns and compositions for improvements. Embedded systems & IoT for enabling smart tyres with real-time monitoring capabilities. Manufacturing support to bring efficiency in tyre production plants. Augmented reality and mobile applications to drive digital transformation in the tyre industry.

“By integrating AI, ML and IoT with traditional engineering, we help raise industry standards while prioritising sustainability and efficiency,” said the executive.

SENSOR-BASED TYRE TECH & EMISSIONS

Smart tyres are no longer a work of fiction but a promising technology that is set to see significant uptick in various segments in the coming years. It’s no secret that tyre makers and even start-ups alike are investing heavily to bring smart tyres that not only indicate the tyre pressure but also various parameters to improve vehicle performance, fuel efficiency and safety.

A report by SNS Insider estimates that the automotive smart tyre market size was valued at USD 90.90 billion in 2023 and expected to grow with a CAGR of 8.60 percent from 2024 to 2032. Through the year 2032, it is likely to reach around USD 206.39 billion, promoted by the expanding applications in terms of several automotive segments.

This will also be due to the emergence of more sensors and connected vehicle technology.

Shrivastava said, “Advanced sensors are revolutionising the tyre industry by offering a higher degree of customisation, fundamentally changing how performance and safety are approached. At the forefront of this transformation is enhanced safety: sensors now monitor tyre pressure, temperature and tread wear in real-time, preventing accidents by alerting drivers to potential issues before they escalate. Furthermore, improved performance is achieved as real-time feedback from these sensors optimises the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and traction control, resulting in a smoother driving experience. Predictive maintenance is another benefit, with sensors anticipating maintenance needs, thereby reducing both downtime and costs, which is especially advantageous for commercial fleets. Additionally, from a sustainability perspective, smart technologies support the design of more efficient and longer-lasting tyres, reducing waste and enhancing fuel efficiency.”

Furthermore, electrification and alternative fuels at the forefront for the automotive industry also means tyre makers are expected to further cut down on emissions, especially tyre emissions (particulate matter). This means the industry is looking not only for newer chemistries and eco-friendly materials but also the way tyres are designed, friction and recyclability.

As an ER&D partner for the automotive and tyre industry, LTTS stated that addressing particulate matter emissions and enhancing sustainability requires a comprehensive approach using several key strategies.

Firstly, the use of sustainable materials, such as renewable and bio-based materials like natural rubber and recycled components, becomes essential. Incorporating these materials not only reduces environmental impact but also supports the circular economy. Secondly, designing tyres with reduced rolling resistance improves fuel efficiency and minimises emissions, contributing significantly to sustainability efforts.

“Additionally, advanced manufacturing processes that incorporate energy-efficient production methods and reduce the use of toxic substances are critical in lowering the carbon footprint associated with tyre production. Lastly, the efficient development of tyres through Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) optimises overall development efficiency and resource utilisation, thereby enhancing sustainability on multiple fronts. These strategies collectively form a robust framework for advancing tyre sustainability and mitigating environmental impacts. By focusing on these areas, the tyre industry can make significant strides towards sustainability and reducing its environmental footprint,” concluded an optimistic Shrivastava.

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India’s growing importance in the global tyre and rubber industry received a strong endorsement with HF Group announcing a EUR 20 million investment in a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Bengaluru.

The announcement was made during the inauguration of HF India’s new Assembly Hall Unit II, a milestone that reflects the company’s long-term commitment to India and its confidence in the country’s manufacturing future.

The proposed greenfield facility will be developed on a 10-acre site near Bengaluru Airport and is scheduled for completion by 2028. Spread across nearly 20,000 sq. metres, the new factory will be almost four times larger than the current assembly operations and will incorporate digital manufacturing, automation, smart production systems, and advanced engineering capabilities.

The upcoming facility will focus on productivity, precision engineering, sustainability, and smart manufacturing while supporting both the Indian market and HF’s global operations. The investment underlines the company’s confidence in India as a major manufacturing hub for the global tyre and rubber industry.

Ian Wilson, Managing Director & Co-CEO, HF Group, said, “This is not the end of our investment in India. It is perhaps the end of the beginning. India is entering a take-off decade and the economy runs on tyres. We see tremendous opportunities for growth and are committed to investing in the future of the Indian market.”

With more than 175 years of global experience, HF Group has steadily strengthened its presence in India. The journey began in 1995 with the establishment of Indus to serve the growing rubber processing industry. The partnership with HF Mixing Group in 2011 brought global mixing technology expertise to India, while the complete acquisition of the Indian subsidiary in 2024 marked another important milestone in the company’s India strategy.

Today, HF India manufactures and supports a broad portfolio of mixing and rubber processing equipment, including intermeshing and tangential mixers, banbury technology, mills, curing presses, and aftermarket services. The company also offers process support, training, upgrades, inspections, and spare parts under its customer-centric philosophy of ‘Holding the Customer’s Hand.’

Emphasising the importance of customer partnerships, Wilson said, “We are not here simply to sell machinery. We want to hold our customers’ hands throughout the entire lifecycle of their equipment and support them through process optimisation, performance improvements and future growth.”

As HF embarks on its next chapter in India, the new facility represents not only an investment in manufacturing capacity but also a long-term commitment to localisation, technology and customer partnerships.

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TBC Corporation (TBC), one of North America’s largest marketers of automotive replacement tyres through wholesale and franchise operations, has named Ron Harper as its new Chief Supply Chain Officer. He will report directly to President and CEO Don Byrd and assume responsibility for the company’s entire supply chain function.

Harper brings over 26 years of experience steering global supply chains for multi-billion-dollar enterprises. His most recent role was Executive Vice President of Supply Chain at PrimeSource Building Products, overseeing planning, inventory, repack operations, service metrics and analytics. He has also held senior logistics and strategy positions at Sonepar USA, Nordstrom, Samsung SEA, and JCPenney.

The new chief holds a master’s degree in supply chain management from the University of Denver and a bachelor’s in industrial management from Michigan Technological University. His appointment underscores TBC’s focus on strengthening operational efficiency and logistics performance.

Byrd said, “Ron’s depth of experience in building transformative supply chain solutions aligns with our deep commitment to providing customers with the high-level efficiency, product availability and agility they expect from TBC. As market needs change and demands fluctuate, TBC is continuing to respond by having a supply chain strategy that minimises disruptions and maximises efficiency to ensure the highest levels of customer support and satisfaction.”

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The Rubber Board of India has announced the appointment of N Hari as its new Chairman, effective for a tenure of three years. Hailing from Pallikkathode in Kottayam, Kerala, Hari brings considerable experience to the leadership role, having previously served as a Board member representing small rubber growers from the state.

His initial term on the Board commenced on 28 June 2022 and spanned three years. During this period, he also held the position of Executive Committee Member from 7 October 2023 to 6 October 2024. This progression from membership to the executive committee and now to the chairmanship reflects his sustained engagement with the organisation.

His appointment is expected to steer the Board's initiatives in supporting the rubber sector, focusing on grower welfare and industry development across India.

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The Indian automotive landscape is currently undergoing a seismic shift. Driven by the rapid rise of rural urbanisation, an aggressive government push for electrification and the development of world-class road infrastructure, the industry is witnessing a period of robust growth. With sales of both new and used vehicles touching record highs, the demand for high-quality tyres remains in a significant upswing.

At the helm of one of the market’s most prominent players is Rajarshi Moitra, Managing Director of Bridgestone India and Vice-Chairman, Automotive Tyre Manufacturers’ Association (ATMA).

In an interaction with Tyre Trends, Moitra discusses the company’s future-ready roadmap, from its substantial capacity expansions to a ‘sharp and deep’ strategic focus designed to maintain leadership in an increasingly premium and electrified market.

A BULLISH OUTLOOK ON THE SUBCONTINENT

While global economic indicators remain varied, Moitra is unequivocally optimistic about the local trajectory. “The Indian automotive industry is at an exceptionally positive juncture from a medium-to-long-term perspective,” he asserts.

This optimism is grounded in several structural tailwinds that suggest India is slated for very strong growth. Key among these factors is the sheer room for market expansion.

“Firstly, we are still significantly under-indexed in terms of car penetration, with only 50 cars per 1,000 people – well below even some smaller developing nations,” Moitra explains.

Furthermore, the geographical spread of wealth is changing. Bridgestone is observing massive growth in Tier 2, 3 and 4 towns, a phenomenon Moitra attributes to ‘rural urbanisation’.

Bridgestone India estimates a transformative half-decade ahead for the industry. “The number of affordable households – those capable of purchasing a car – will double in India over the next five year. When you couple this with the government’s massive capital outflow into road connectivity and the rise of e-commerce, it creates a very bullish environment for both passenger and commercial mobility,” Moitra says.

THE ‘SHARP AND DEEP’ STRATEGIC PILLAR

Despite India being the world’s largest two-wheeler market, Bridgestone is famously absent from that segment – and intends to stay that way for now. Moitra clarifies that the company’s philosophy is rooted in specialisation rather than horizontal expansion. “At Bridgestone, we believe in being ‘sharp and deep’ in our strategy,” he says.

Currently, Bridgestone India’s business split is heavily weighted towards the consumer segment, with 70 percent of sales coming from Passenger Car Radial (PCR), 25 percent from Truck and Bus Radial (TBR) and 5 percent from Off-the-Road (OTR) segment.

“We see enough headroom for growth within the passenger car segment across products, channels and customer experience, so we are focusing our resources on maintaining our leadership there,” Moitra notes, dismissing any near-term plans to enter the two-wheeler space.

Instead, the company is doubling down on ‘white spaces’ within the consumer car category, specifically targeting higher rim diameters and specialised compounds for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).

INVESTING IN CAPACITY AND LOCAL INTELLIGENCE

To support this growth, Bridgestone is moving aggressively on the manufacturing front. With current operations running at 90–95 percent capacity, the company is in the midst of a major investment cycle.

At present, the company’s Pune plant has a capacity to produce 4.01 million passenger car tyres and around 693,000 truck & bus radial tyres, while the Indore plant has a capacity to produce 7.11 million radial tyres for passenger cars and light trucks.

“Our last major investment was USD 85 million in October 2024, which is being ramped up in phases through 2029,” Moitra confirms. This capital is being used to scale volumes and enhance technical capabilities at the Indore factory.

The new investment is expected to further add 1.1 million tyre production capacity in Pune by CY2029, thus taking its total production capacity to around 11.1 million units in the country.

“Our strategy is two-fold: we want to be future-ready for market demand while simultaneously sweating our current assets to drive higher efficiency,” Moitra explains. Crucially, this expansion isn’t just about physical output; it’s about local autonomy. Moitra highlights that a ‘very large part’ of procurement is now local, decided by teams on the ground in India.

The launch of a Satellite Technology Centre in 2025 has further decentralised the company’s innovation engine. According to Moitra, this centre plays a pivotal role in increasing local leverage and technical presence, allowing the Indian arm to maintain a balance between local agility and global sourcing.

EVs AND PREMIUMISATION

As the Indian market matures, consumers are demanding larger wheel sizes – a trend Moitra says is led by OEMs. “We are seeing a clear market shift towards higher inches – for example, a car like the Maruti Suzuki Swift moving from 14-inch to 15-inch and others moving from 16-inch to 17-inch,” he observes.

Bridgestone’s ‘all-inch’ strategy covers the spectrum from 12 to 20 inches, but their brand strength is most potent in these premium, higher-diameter sizes.

This premiumisation dovetails with the transition to electric vehicles (EVs). Bridgestone has positioned itself with an ‘EV-ready’ portfolio, exemplified by the Turanza 6i. “It balances long-lasting durability and safety with low noise and comfort – essential for EVs,” says Moitra. To ensure they capture this nascent but fast-growing market, the company expanded the range from 36 sizes in 2024 to 72 sizes by 2025.

The OEM relationship remains the cornerstone of this technological foresight. “The OEM segment allows us to see ahead of the curve regarding future vehicle technologies,” Moitra explains.

At present, 35 percent of their consumer business is OE-based and Bridgestone is in active discussions with many of the newer automotive entrants arriving in India.

While Bridgestone is aggressively expanding its footprint in new tyre technology and premium consumer segments, it is taking a markedly more conservative approach towards the retreading sector in India. Despite the potential for material circularity, the company does not view retreading as a strategic priority for the immediate future.

Moitra clarifies that Bandag, Bridgestone’s global retreading arm, is not currently active in India, and there are no plans to introduce it in the near-term. This decision is driven largely by the unique and challenging dynamics of the local market, which is currently dominated by cold retreading.

He points out that a significant pricing challenge exists when ‘cold retreads versus biased tyres versus some of the cheaper tyres’ are compared, making the business case difficult to justify at this stage. Consequently, Bridgestone has opted to remain focused on its core segments for the next two to three years rather than entering the retreading space.

SUSTAINABILITY AND THE ‘INSTITUTION OF RESPECT’

Beyond the numbers, Bridgestone is attempting to build what Moitra calls an ‘institution of respect’. This involves a heavy commitment to environmental goals. The Pune plant already holds the distinction of being the first carbon-neutral facility in the Bridgestone group.

“Sustainability is a core agenda across our entire value chain,” Moitra explains, noting a public commitment to reduce the company’s carbon footprint by 50 percent by 2030, including Scope 3 emissions. This holistic approach ranges from manufacturing processes to material circularity in the tyres themselves.

Looking ahead, the goal is to protect a dominant market share – currently over 20 percent by volume and 23 percent by value in the passenger car aftermarket. To do this, Bridgestone plans to expand its physical reach by 30 percent over the next five years, building upon its current network of over 4,000 touchpoints.

As the company transitions its branding from the Olympics to Formula E, the focus remains clear: high performance and the next era of mobility. “It’s the perfect platform to showcase our technological edge,” Moitra concludes.

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