The tyre industry is navigating a transformative phase, driven by evolving regulations, environmental priorities and advanced vehicle technologies. At the helm of this change in India is the International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT), which is aiding manufacturers in meeting current standards while preparing them for future global requirements.

The tyre industry is undergoing a dynamic shift, shaped by evolving regulations, sustainability goals and technological advancements. As one of India’s premier automotive testing bodies, the International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) aims to play a crucial role in enabling manufacturers to adapt to these changes. It wants to not only meet the current needs but is also investing in ensuring that tyre makers in India are able to keep up with global future trends.

In recent years, tyre testing has seen significant changes, especially with the introduction of new regulations such as AIS 142 in 2024. These regulations have set the benchmark for tyre performance in India, compelling tyre makers to align their products with evolving standards.

“In 2024, the AIS 142 tyre performance regulation was introduced into Indian regulations. As Indian tyre regulations are rapidly evolving, the tyre industry must stay abreast of these changes,” says Saurabh Dalela, Director, ICAT.

At present ICAT is helping tyre makers meet the AIS 142 requirements, including rolling resistance, rolling sound emission and wet grip index measurements. But going forward, it is investing for future testing to cover broader areas such as STAR labelling, worn-out tyre performance and Tyre and Road Wear Particles (TRWP) emissions. This, it says, aligns with global trends, particularly in Europe, where further stringent regulations on tyre emissions are expected by 2029.

Then there is the trend of electric and alternative energy vehicles, which is also influencing testing needs. These vehicles demand tyres that can handle unique challenges, such as higher torque and quieter operations. Although Dalela notes that certification requirements for these vehicles remain unchanged, he acknowledges the growing importance of TRWP emissions, stating, “Tyre and Road Wear Particles (TRWP) may become increasingly significant for these types of vehicles.”

Capabilities and future expansion

ICAT’s tyre testing facilities are extensive, offering services ranging from endurance and load-speed performance tests to rolling resistance and wet grip index measurements. These capabilities support the industry’s diverse needs, including BIS certification and STAR labelling, both of which are crucial for compliance with national and international standards.

Highlighting its current offerings, Dalela explains, “Currently, ICAT has tyre test facilities for the following tests: Endurance Test, Load Speed Performance Test, Plunger Test/Strength Test, Bead Unseating Test, Dynamic Growth Test, Rolling Resistance Test, Rolling Sound Emission Test, Wet Grip Index Measurement Test, Mu-slip Benchmarking Test, Fuel Economy Benchmarking Test, STAR labelling and BIS certification.”

Looking ahead, ICAT is planning significant upgrades and expansions to its facilities. This includes adding two new tyre traction trailers for wet grip and benchmarking tests, establishing a BIS regulatory test facility for cycle tyres and tubes and upgrading endurance and rolling resistance machines.

Furthermore, ICAT aims to achieve ISO 17025 (NABL) accreditation for global regulations, enabling Indian manufacturers to meet international standards. These advancements reflect the agency’s proactive approach to addressing the future needs of the tyre industry.

He further acknowledges the growing importance of environmental concerns, particularly tyre emissions and particulate matter testing. While these capabilities are not currently part of its portfolio, he reveals, “We are exploring opportunities to add such facilities in the future,” signalling ICAT’s commitment to sustainability.

Challenges facing tyre makers

Despite the progress in testing and regulations, tyre manufacturers in India face several challenges. A significant hurdle is aligning with European standards, which often do not account for the unique characteristics of the Indian market. BIAS tyres, for example, initially struggled to meet European-derived performance requirements, prompting adjustments to Indian regulations.

Material costs and availability add another layer of complexity. Natural rubber, a key raw material, is subject to price volatility and high import duties, significantly increasing production costs. As Dalela notes, “The availability and cost of natural rubber, a crucial raw material, pose significant challenges. High import duties on raw materials further increase production costs.”

Additionally, the rising demand for unique tyre sizes, driven by the diverse range of vehicles in the Indian market, presents difficulties in development and testing. Testing facilities for these uncommon sizes are often unavailable, further complicating the process.

The lack of a formal tyre recycling or scrapping mechanism is another pressing issue. With the growing volume of discarded tyres, the absence of environmentally friendly disposal methods poses a significant challenge. Dalela’s insights highlight the need for innovation in this area. “Tyre scrapping also presents a significant challenge, as there is no proper method for scrapping or recycling tyres,” he adds.

It is important to understand that the tyre industry stands at the confluence of regulatory demands, sustainability goals and market challenges. Dalela is optimistic that ICAT’s comprehensive testing services and forward-looking initiatives will be instrumental in enabling manufacturers to navigate this complex landscape. From ensuring compliance with AIS 142 to preparing for emerging trends such as TRWP emissions and tyre labelling, the agency aims to be a leading partner to drive the future of tyre testing in India.

With planned expansions and upgrades, ICAT looks to be well positioned to support the tyre industry’s journey towards excellence and global competitiveness. As the tyre industry continues to adapt to the regulatory and customer needs, Dalela is confident of ICAT’s role as a vital partner in driving progress.

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MAXAM Tire has named Chris Rhoades as its new Zone Sales Director for the Northern region, a move that underscores the company’s dedication to expanding its footprint and enhancing customer service within the speciality tyre aftermarket. The appointment reflects a broader strategy to strengthen leadership and competitive positioning in the sector.

Rhoades brings over 25 years of international industry experience and a well-established reputation as a leading voice in the tyre business. His leadership credentials include being elected to two separate terms on the Tire Industry Association Board of Directors. Most recently at BKT Tires, he managed strategic growth in complex and highly technical off the road markets, where he aligned regional execution with global strategy, led cross functional teams and consistently delivered measurable revenue increases.

In his new capacity, Rhoades will direct all sales operations across the Northern region, collaborating closely with customers and partners to ensure performance, service and support remain synonymous with the MAXAM Tire brand. His appointment signals a focused effort to drive results through experienced leadership and deep market knowledge.

Jimmy McDonnell, Vice President – Sales and Marketing, MAXAM Tire, said, “We are excited to welcome Chris to the MAXAM team. Chris brings deep industry knowledge, proven leadership and a strong customer-first mindset that will create immediate value for our partners. His experience and vision will play an important role as we continue to grow our presence, strengthen relationships and expend the MAXAM brand across the market.”

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Bekaert’s Board of Directors has announced the appointment of Olivier Biebuyck as the company’s next Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 June 2026. He brings extensive expertise in leading, expanding and transforming global industrial enterprises through both organic growth and acquisitions, positioning him to drive Bekaert’s future strategic goals.

On that same date, the board will co-opt Biebuyck as a director. Meanwhile, current CEO and board member Yves Kerstens will conclude his mandate on 31 May 2026, having led the company in recent years. He will also step down from his directorship as of that day.

The leadership transition marks a carefully planned succession, with Biebuyck’s track record seen as critical to advancing Bekaert’s long-term ambitions. The changes take effect at the end of May and start of June 2026.

Jürgen Tinggren, Chairman of the Board of Directors, said, “I am proud to announce the appointment of Olivier Biebuyck as CEO of Bekaert. The Board is convinced that he is the right person to lead the transformation of the company in its next chapter. On behalf of the Board and the entire Bekaert team, I would like to express our sincere appreciation to Yves for his leadership, commitment and contribution to the company over the past years, and wish him the very best.”

Biebuyck said, “Bekaert has an impressive history of innovation, business expansion and evolution. I am honoured to take up the role of CEO at Bekaert. I look forward to working closely with the Board, the leadership team and all colleagues around the world to further transform and grow the company and create long term value for all our stakeholders.”

Kerstens said, “It has been a privilege to serve as CEO of Bekaert and to work alongside our colleagues around the world during the past years. I am proud of what we have achieved together and wish Olivier all the best to lead the company in building a strong future.”

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Sri Lanka-based GRI Tires has extended its limited warranty coverage for pneumatic tyres to up to 10 years, effective from 2026, as the specialty tyre manufacturer seeks to strengthen customer assurance across its agricultural, construction and material handling businesses.

The revised warranty policy applies to all GRI-branded pneumatic tyres manufactured on or after January 1, 2025, and covers customers in more than 80 countries. The company previously offered warranty coverage of up to seven years.

Under the updated policy, agricultural radial tyres will be covered for up to 10 years, while agricultural bias tyres will receive coverage of up to eight years. Construction, earthmover, industrial, material handling, port and mining tyres will be covered for up to five years, subject to terms and conditions.

GRI said warranty protection would cover qualifying defects, with credit issued on a pro-rated basis.

For qualifying failures occurring within the first three years, and where radial tyre wear does not exceed 20 per cent, customers will receive a full replacement credit.

The warranty applies exclusively to the original end-use purchaser.

“This enhanced 10-year warranty is more than a policy update — it is a statement of our conviction in the quality of every tire we manufacture,” said Barry Guildford, global commercial director at GRI.

“We build tires to perform in the most demanding conditions, and we stand behind them.”

Customers can submit warranty claims through authorised GRI dealers and distributors, or directly through the company’s customer support channels.

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Georg Nordmann Holding Aktiengesellschaft (GNH) has appointed Martin Rathke as Managing Director of its subsidiary Nordmann (Nordmann, Rassmann GmbH), effective 1 May 2026. The move marks a strategic step in the company’s ongoing leadership development.

Rathke joins with considerable leadership experience and deep knowledge of international sales and distribution within the chemical distribution sector. His career includes years of service in a family-owned enterprise, where he held senior management roles with global responsibility. He will now share leadership duties with Ulrich Cramer, who remains in his position, and together they aim to form a closely aligned team to advance Nordmann’s strategic direction.

The joint leadership will focus on accelerating global expansion through targeted strategic, organic and inorganic growth while optimising existing operations and continuously refining the company’s portfolio strategy. Backed by the commitment of its shareholders, Nordmann seeks to strengthen its international presence and evolve into a global player in the chemical distribution industry.

Irina Zschaler, CEO of Georg Nordmann Holding Aktiengesellschaft, said, “Martin brings exactly the combination of entrepreneurial mindset, international experience and leadership strength that we value in our relationships and for our path to grow. Our collaboration is based on responsibility, integrity and the aspiration to create added value together for all involved and the entire group. We are therefore very much looking forward to welcoming our full Nordmann team.”

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