TTE News: Tire Manufacturer of the Year

Tire Technology International Awards for Innovation and Excellence 2019 shortlist – as supplied by organisers UKI Media & Events. Winners to be announced at gala dinner event on 6 March.

Bridgestone

High-strength rubber could have significant ramifications for EV tire development. Has also invested in partnerships with guayule R&D specialists to develop a commercially feasible high-rubber yielding plant variant.

Continental

Has had a busy 2018 – new R&D lab for dandelion rubber (December), sustainable natural rubber policy (October), new facility in Czech Republic (September), new tech concepts (electrically conductive rubber, adjustable tire pressure and rim width in Feb).

Hankook

Has set out a commitment to establishing a sustainable value chain for natural rubber, developed a number of interesting concepts (high-performance road car, EV tire), developed partnerships for high-performance synthetic rubber grades, lots of vehicle OEM fitment contracts (awarded supplier of the year by GM for 2017).

Michelin

Lots of environmental initiatives in 2018 – including being one of the few tire OEs to commit to 2048 sustainability targets. Product innovations including MRP and RF-free resin (see Environmental Achievement).

SRI

Has a forward-looking Smart Tyre Concept framework based around a number of pillars. Products such as Sensing Core (see Tire Technology) are complementary innovations that are all working towards the tire maker’s approach to design around sustainability, performance sustainability, airless tech and others.