25 Aug 2025
Linglong Serbia roll-out... Lamborghini / Bridgestone... SRI recalls moto tires… Continental sustainability award… Nexen targets Australia.. Marangoni addition...
Linglong Tire is to expand its Linglong Master product family from the yearend and has presented a new tire for light commercial vehicles. The Dura Master Van features an optimised tread design and wider tread for less wear and “significantly” higher mileage, as well as a new tread compound offering optimised rolling resistance. A new sipe technology along with the silica tread compound is said to reduce wet-braking distance, while improving handling in wet and dry conditions. The Dura Master Van and Dura Master Van e will be built exclusively at Linglong's state-of-the-art tire factory in Zrenjanin, Serbia.
Bridgestone has been named sole tire partner for Lamborghini’s new limited production Fenomeno supercar – launching to mark the 20th anniversary of the first car entirely designed by the Sant’Agata Bolognese team. With a 1080 CV powertrain, the Fenomeno is Lamborghini’s fastest-ever model – both in the 0-100 km/h sprint (2.4 seconds) and 0-200 km/h sprint (6.7 seconds). Bridgestone has custom-engineered the Potenza Sport UHP tires to deliver “outstanding performance at high speeds, excellent steering responses and precision to handle the supercar’s 1080HP power output.”
Sumitomo Rubber is recalling Dunlop TT93FGP Pro and TT93FGP Pro MS motorcycle tires made in Izumiotsu, Japan due to potential defect. Produced between 7 Jan and 8 July, the tires may have been produced by a “faulty extruder” that could cause sidewall compound to contaminate the tread surface, reducing traction. The affected sizes are 120/80-12 55J and 100/90-12 49J. The NHTSA warned the defect could increase the risk of a fall “during aggressive riding.”
Continental has received Kalmar’s “sustainability award 2025” for leadership in environmental responsibility and supply chain transparency. The award recognised Continental’s data sharing and compliance under Kalmar’s supplier engagement programme. Continental supplies Kalmar with V.ply and radial tires for reach stackers, forklifts, straddle carriers and terminal tractors, alongside ContiConnect digital monitoring systems.
Nexen Tire has launched its Roadian ATX in Australia to tap strong demand for SUV and pickup truck fitments. The all-terrain tire features a wide contact patch, advanced compound, 3D kerf design and 3PMSF certification, plus stone ejectors and side biters for off-road durability. The tire is currently being supplied as OE for Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator.
Marangoni has added to its Ringtread Drive Regional line, to meet the evolving needs of fleets, with the RDR RD3: said to deliver “superior mileage and traction – backed by 3PMSF winter certification.” Features include a “robust” monodirectional tread design with asymmetric block angles for enhanced grip and even wear. An optimised profile reduces stone retention, preserving the tire casing for future retreading cycles, while reinforced shoulder bridges provide lateral stability and prevent deformation.
Giti Tire is supplying its GitiVan V61 tires as OE for the Geely Farizon SuperVan electric pickup truck.
Giti Tire has unveiled a concept tire composed of 93% sustainable materials, marking a significant development in eco-friendly tire technology. The prototype features 53% renewable materials and 40% recycled materials, Giti reported 25 July. Read more
Nexen Tire announced 11 Aug that it is supplying its N'FERA Sport high-performance summer tires as OE for Citroën C5 and C5 Aircross SUV models. The factory installation approval – under a Stellantis agreement – is a “significant milestone in Nexen Tire’s expanding presence in the European OE market.” The tires, sized 225/60R18 104V XL, are being produced at Nexen’s European plant in the Czech Republic.
Kumho Tire USA has launched the Road Venture RT, a rugged-terrain tire that bridges the gap between the all-terrain and mud-terrain segments. The tire combines “rugged terrain traction” and “enhanced off-road durability” with road comfort, according to Kumho. The tire comes with a 50,000-mile tread wear warranty.
Yokohama Rubber Co. is delivering its Advan V61 tire as OE for BYD’s new Sealion 6 DM.-i SUV, launched in China in July – the first time YRC has delivered OE tires to BYD. The tire is said to provide enhanced driving performance, low fuel & power consumption, improved steering stability and quietness. The SUV is a plug-in hybrid, equipped with an 18.3kWh or 26.6kWh ‘blade battery’ and has an electric range of 93km and130 km, respectively.
Nexen Tire has launched a high-performance tire designed to deliver optimal performance for both EVs and internal combustion engine vehicles, the company announced 5 Aug. The N’Fera Supreme EV Root tire, which builds on Nexen’s premium comfort model the N’Fera Supreme, features a 'high load' rating to support the heavier weight of EVs. Read more
Cebu Pacific Air has become the first airline to adopt Bridgestone’s ‘easytrack’ tire management system, aimed at improving efficiency and accuracy in aircraft tire inventory control. Launched in April, the smartphone-based system uses QR codes to manage each aircraft tire from production to return, replacing manual, paper based checks. Read more
Bridgestone and Japanese lunar exploration company Ispace are to develop tires for small and medium-sized lunar rovers to enhance the vehicles’ performance. Ispace will install Bridgestone 'elastic wheels' on its prototypes and conduct ground-based evaluation and verification tests to assess the feasibility and business potential of future lunar surface technical demonstrations. The lunar wheel has a structure of thin metal spokes, enabling flexible deformation while maintaining durability.
SRI, in partnership with Mitsubishi Chemical, will roll out tires using resource recycled carbon black in the GT300 class at round 4 of the 2025 Autobacs Super Gt to be held 2–3 Aug. The tires will be the company’s first racing tires using rCB as part of its Towanowa circular economy initiative. Read more
A recent independent testing of GRI farm tires has proven the products to be well-within and in some parameters above industry standards, according to the Sri Lankan tire maker. Read more
From June 2025, YRC is supplying its UHP Advan Sport V107 tires in 20-inch size as OE on Mercedes AMG’s new CLE 53 4Matic+ Coupé - in addition to an existing 19-inch fitment since 2024. Developed jointly with Mercedes AMG, the V107 features proprietary “mound profile” technology to ensure “uniform surface contact pressure” and enhanced casing rigidity - for enhanced dry handling, braking, rolling resistance efficiency, wet grip and wear resistance.
Kumho Tire has been selected as the OE tire supplier for the Kia Tasman pickup. The company will supply its Crugen HT51 all season tire for the Tasman models sold in markets including South Korea, Australia, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. The tire is engineered for both on and off road use, offering a “well balanced driving experience” over long distances and in diverse weather. Its technologies include: innovative tread block design that disperses noise; optimised block stiffness and alignment to improve handling and braking.
Goodyear has unveiled the Assurance MaxLife?2, available in the US and Canada as its “longest lasting” all season tire offering. The tire maker offers an 85,000 mile limited treadlife warranty on the tire, which it says is designed for a broad range of vehicles—from sedans and hybrids to crossovers and luxury SUVs. Featuring TredLife Technology, the tire combines an enhanced tread compound and innovative pattern for sustained mileage and all season traction. It also includes four deep tread grooves, zigzag sipes for confident grip in wet or dry conditions, and a built in “Wear Gauge” to monitor tread depth.
Michelin has unveiled the Pilot Sport Cup 2 R K1, a 'road-legal' ultra-performance tire developed exclusively for the Ferrari F80. Built over 15 months using motorsport-derived simulation and C3M production, the tire features a new rubber compound, twin-layer radial casing, reinforced shoulder belts, and “extreme circumferential stiffness,” according to Michelin. Sized 285/30R20 (front) and 345/30R21 (rear), the K1 is tuned for dry grip, high-speed stability, and minimised deformation under the F80’s high aerodynamic loads.
Nexen has extended its OE supply for Kia, fitting its N’Fera Supreme S tire to North American-built EV6 units. The EV-focused tire features a low rolling resistance compound and quiet tread design, already in use on models like the EV3 and EV4. Nexen also broadened fitment of its Roadian HTX2 tire for the Kia Tasman to markets including Korea, the Middle East and Europe. The HTX2, built for SUVs and light trucks, offers durability, low noise, and all-terrain performance.
Hankook is equipping the new Porsche Macan Electric with its Ventus S1 evo 3 ev tires, sized 235/55R20Y XL (front) and 285/45R20Y XL (rear). Designed to manage high torque and vehicle weight, the tires feature a custom tread compound for low rolling resistance and aramid-reinforced carcass for high-speed stability. The tires also feature a quiet tread pattern optimised for electric vehicles. The OE marking “NE0” signals Porsche approval for the high-performance summer tire, according to Hankook.
Indonesia’s Elangperdana Tyre Industry (EP Tyres) is recalling over 4,000 Accelera Omikron LT265/65R18 tires produced in Bogor, Indonesia, between March 2020 and May 2024. The recall follows NHTSA tests in the US which found sidewall separations near the bead area, violating test procedure FMVSS 139. The company says its internal testing showed no issues but is recalling the full batch as a precaution due to the risk of tire failure and crashes.
Michelin has launched the CrossClimate 3 Sport tire for sports cars, combining ‘summer performance with winter use’ certified by the 3PMSF marking. Available since 1 July in 29 sizes (205/40R18 to 315/35R20), the tire uses ‘latest-generation materials and motorsports processes’ to deliver high wet grip with an “A” rating and reliable performance over its lifespan. The tire has been specifically developed for both internal combustion and electric sports cars and will be factory-fitted to the new Alpine A390 with exclusive “A39” marking in size 245/45 R20 103V XL. Around 30 more sizes are planned for 2026.
Nexen Tire will be supplying its ‘premium comfort’ tire N’Fera Supreme S as OE fitment for Hyundai Motor’s hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) the all-new Nexo. The tire delivers “optimal performance” in terms of noise reduction, high load capacity, and driving stability. Specifically engineered for hydrogen-powered SUVs, the tire offers high durability and responsive handling and incorporates an “AI-enhanced load distribution structure” and high-rigidity sidewalls. This, according to Nexen, ensures stable grip and steering, particularly important for the heavy-load configuration of the car model. A ‘level keeping technology’ maintains consistent performance even after 50% tread wear.
Pirelli has launched the Scorpion All Season SF3, an all-season tire tailored for SUVs that builds on the Cinturato All Season SF3. Rated “A” for wet grip and certified with the 3PMSF marking for snow, it features adaptive 3D sipes and a specially formulated compound for year-round performance. Reinforced tread blocks improve stability and comfort for heavier vehicles, while Elect-marked versions are available for BEVs and PHEVs. Offered in 17–21-inch sizes, the range also includes Pirelli noise cancelling system for reduced in-cabin sound.
Bridgestone has developed Potenza Race semi-slick tires for the VW Golf GTI Edition 50, celebrating 50 years of the GTI. The 235/35 R19 tires, marked with Volkswagen’s circle/plus sidewall code, will be supplied exclusively for cars ordered with the GTI-performance package, showcasing Bridgestone’s focus on tailored ultra-high-performance solutions.
ZC Rubber’s Westlake tire brand has become the official supplier for Germany’s Red Bull Driftbrothers team, using its Sport RS tires on two 1,000 hp BMW M4 drift cars. The partnership launched at the Nuerburgring 24-hour race, where the team performed show drifts in the pre-race programme. Westlake says the collaboration will boost brand awareness in Europe and aid product development with direct feedback from the team.
UK operator John Sutch Cranes says switching to Michelin X Crane + tires has delivered 20,000km more distance per tire on average since 2020, cutting incidents of blowouts and downtime. The tire, it said, has improved all-round performance across the company’s fleet of 38 mobile cranes, supporting more reliable hire operations. Michelin recently launched the successor X Crane 2, with upgraded grip, load capacity and lower rolling resistance.
Apollo Tyres has launched a new UHP tire, the Apollo Aspire 5, which is being manufactured at its Andhra Pradesh plant in India. To be sold in India and worldwide in size range from 17-20”, the EV-ready tire is said to provide “a quieter, more refined driving experience, especially with the rise of electric crossover and luxury SUVs.” Features include a ‘tri-flex’ compound for high-speed grip and stability.
Continental supplied tires to 18 of the world’s 20 highest-volume manufacturers of fully electric vehicles in 2024, the German group said. These include manufacturers such as BYD, Geely, Volkswagen, NIO, Mercedes-Benz and Renault. The manufacturer maintains that it supplies tires as OE fitment to nine out of 10 of the highest-volume EV makers in key regions of EMEA, Americas and Asia-Pacific.
Bridgestone Americas has introduced the Turanza EverDrive touring tire for sedans, CUVs and minivans, featuring a next-generation compound designed to resist irregular and premature wear. The tire incorporates Bridgestone's Enliten technology and carries an 80k-mile limited warranty. Internal tests showed that the tire offers 24% better snow braking and 2% better wet braking than key competitors. It is available in 36 fitments, covering 16- to 20-inch wheels with T, H, and V speed ratings.
HWA has debuted the HWA Evo – a modern reinterpretation of the Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evo II – at the Nuerburgring 24-hour race, with Hankook as exclusive tire partner. The limited-edition model (100 units) is factory-fitted with Hankook tires, developed with technologies transferred from motorsport. Two prototypes were showcased, one in a modernised Silver Distel finish and the other styled after a 1990s DTM race car. A racing version of the HWA Evo is also in development and will compete in the 2026 Nuerburgring 24H SP-X class using Hankook tires.
To mark the 40th anniversary of the P Zero brand, Pirelli has reissued the original P Zero tire in size 205/55 R16 under its Pirelli Collezione line. The tire combines a single tread with three functional zones: an inner shoulder for wet grip, a slick-style outer shoulder for dry performance, and an intermediate central section for balance. According to Pirelli, the tire uses modern materials and construction methods to offer enhanced safety and durability while retaining “period-correct” performance characteristics for classic vehicles.
VW has selected the Vredestein Wintrac Pro winter tire as OE for its Tiguan SUV in Europe. Apollo Tyres will supply the tires in size 215/65 R17 99H specification for fitment onto Tiguan models at VW’s production facility in Wolfsburg, Germany. Manufactured at Apollo’s Gyöngyöshalász plant in Hungary, the tire employs a patented compound enriched with high silica and resin content for enhanced grip and control in challenging conditions. Read more
Nexen Tire’s all-season tire Roadian HTX2 has been selected as OE for the Kia Tasman, the brand’s new global pickup truck model. The tire, developed for SUVs and pickup trucks, will be fitted on Tasman vehicles exported to Latin America. The tire features Nexen’s 3D Kerf pattern, with enhanced traction and snow performance. A heat-dissipating structure optimised for high-load vehicles improves high-speed durability.
Michelin unveiled the Pilot Sport Endurance 2026 range for hypercars, to be produced at its Cataroux plant in Clermont-Ferrand. The tires incorporate 50% sustainable materials, including renewable and recycled components. The range features redesigned rubber compounds and new mixing techniques to maintain performance.
The new Renault 5 E-Tech Electric is factory-fitted with Continental EcoContact 6 Q tires in 195/55 R18 93H XL size. The summer tires feature a Renault-specific "R" sidewall marking, designed for low rolling resistance and noise, enhancing energy efficiency and driving comfort for electric vehicles. The tire’s compound and tread optimise grip, braking, and handling, with increased load indices to support EV battery weight.
Linglong Tire is rebranding its Grip Master tire range to Sport Master, effective June-July 2025. The Grip Master 4S, Winter, and C/S models will be renamed Sport Master 4S, Sport Master Winter, and Sport Master C/S, respectively. The tire designs, compounds, and constructions remain unchanged. Production locations continue in China and Serbia, with the Winter profile made exclusively in Serbia. New sidewall markings and updated EAN/EPREL codes accompany the rebranding.
Sailun Tire Americas and US-based tire distributor Transamerica Tire are recalling 389 New Mutant X-AT Predator tires (size 265/70R17 115S) due to a potential upper sidewall puncture that could lead to air loss and increase crash risk. The issue stems from a possible drill bit left in the mould during production at Sailun’s Cambodia plant, according to NHTSA. Affected tires were made between 11 May and 27 May 2024, the agency announced 30 May.
Goodyear has partnered with Audi to create OE tires for the new A5 and S5 models, using advanced virtual simulation to refine performance before physical testing. The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 was developed with input from drivers via virtual assessments, helping reduce lead times and improve precision. Alongside this model, Audi will also fit the Eagle F1 SuperSport and UltraGrip Performance 3, covering ultra-high performance and winter driving needs. In total, Goodyear said it will be providing 10 tire variants for A5/S5 saloon and Avant models.
General Science’s Cambodia factory has celebrated a milestone with the production of its 10 millionth tire, two years after opening in May 2023. The milestone tire was a Qianlima 275/55R20 PREVAIL H/T. The Cambodia plant is the company’s second overseas base and underwent an expansion project last year. According to General Science, the second phase of the plant started production in August last year and is set for full ramp-up this year.
Nexen Tire will equip Kia’s first electric sedan, the EV4, with its N’Fera Supreme S all-season tires. Designed for EV performance, the tires offer quiet handling, braking stability, and energy efficiency. Features include a 4D compound, aerodynamic sidewalls, and pattern retention for long-term tread life. With the OE approval, Nexen now supplies OE tires across the EV3, EV4, EV6 and EV9 line-up.
Michelin is recalling 6,888 Agilis CrossClimate C-Metric tires (size 185/60R15C 94T) produced between 24 Sept 2023, and 26 April 2025, due to potential tread chunking in the shoulder area. This issue could lead to tire failure and increase the risk of a crash, according to NHTSA. No injuries or property damage have been reported due to the defect. Michelin said it is developing a remedy and will provide a schedule for recall notifications.
China's Wanli Tire's flagship EV tire SU306EV has attained the EU's 3A certification, excelling in rolling resistance, wet grip, and noise control. This marks Wanli's first product to achieve the top-tier rating, said the tire maker in a 22 May statement.
Nexe Tire's Wingaurd Sport 3 has received the 2025 Red Dot Design Award in the product design category. The winter tire features a V-shaped tread pattern inspired by bird wings, enhancing traction and steering on snowy roads. A specially formulated compound maintains flexibility at low temperatures, ensuring reliable performance in harsh winter conditions.
Prinx Chengshan has entered the FIA European Truck Racing Championship (ETRC) as a core sponsor of the Garrett Trucksport team. Its brands, Austone and Fortune, will support the team throughout the season, which comprises eight races from 17 May to 5 October. The ETRC is one of the world's largest truck racing series, featuring 16 teams from around the globe.
Michelin has unveiled the CrossClimate 3 and CrossClimate 3 Sport, the latest additions to its all-season tire lineup. The new range offers a 4% improvement in wet grip and a 15% increase in service life compared to its predecessor. Available in 64 sizes ranging from 16 to 20 inches starting July, the CrossClimate 3 is compatible with internal combustion, hybrid, and electric vehicles.
Uniroyal has launched the AllSeasonExpert 3, an all-season tire designed for optimal performance in wet, snowy, and dry conditions. Incorporating advanced "Shark Skin Technology," the tire's tread pattern mimics the micro-structure of shark skin to reduce water turbulence and the risk of aquaplaning. The tire features a stiffer shoulder area for precise dry handling and a special sipe design to enhance grip on snow-covered roads.
Pirelli has introduced the Cinturato EVO TLR, a reinforced bicycle tire marking the debut of the "road enduro" category in cycling. The tire features the SmartEVO AS compound, offering enhanced grip, vibration damping, and durability across all surfaces and weather conditions. Notably, over 50% of its materials are bio-based and recycled, with FSC-certified natural rubber included. The Cinturato EVO TLR is available in sizes ranging from 28-622 to 55-622, catering to road cycling, commuting, and gravel riding enthusiasts.
The Hankook iON FlexClimate has received a purchase recommendation in the Auto Bild EV all-season tire check with “top marks” in the safety-relevant categories. The tire was tested against two competitor tires in the size 245/45 R 19, and according to Hankook, outperformed competition in six individual categories.
Cosmo Tires has launched a new tire model ‘Kurrent’, which is claimed to offer ‘best-in-class’ noise reduction and a treadwear indicator. Two years in development, the tire features a patented technology on the centre rib allowing drivers to easily gauge remaining tread life. A ‘direct super silica’ compound delivers long life with a 70,000 mile warranty (40,000 miles for EVs).
Goodyear has launched Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 SUV tires across Asia Pacific. The sixth-generation tire offers “superior handling and braking performance,” according to Goodyear. The tire is currently available in Greater China and will debut across the rest of Asia Pacific starting from June.
Giti has improved its truck offering with low rolling-resistance Evo range of truck & bus tires. The tire maker has launched the Giti GSR237EVO and the Giti GDR675EVO, the first in a new TBR series to carry the Evo name. The Evo models, according to Giti, feature energy saving solutions through “vastly improved” rolling resistance coefficient.
EV manufacturer Polestar has selected Continental’s SportContact 7 as OE for its Polestar 3 model. The tire manufacturer has received original equipment approval in the 21-inch tire size for the electric SUV. According to Continental, the tire provides “high driving stability and excellent grip”, as well as high energy efficiency and quiet rolling noise.
Titan International has expanded its warehousing capacity for Goodyear-branded farm tires at its France headquarters in Flers, Normandy. The tire maker has ‘nearly doubled’ the logistics space to support increasing demand across Europe. The move is part of the US tire maker's broader European strategy and follows the acquisition of the Carlstar Group in February last year.
UK-based Enso has entered the car tire market: launching a ‘premium range’ for electric passenger vehicles. The range features a new line of UHP tires and follows the company’s rollouts of commercial vehicle tires. The tires are now available in the UK and are EU-labelled with the “highest ratings" for energy efficiency and wet grip.
Goodyear is recalling 170 Cooper Discoverer Stronghold AT tires due to missing the ‘four-digit’ week and year code mark in their identification number (TIN). The tires, according to the NHTSA, “fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard.”
Nexen has been selected by the VW Group to provide tires as OE fitment on the Skoda Karoq. The Korean tire maker will be supplying its flagship UHP summer tire Nexen N’Fera Sport as OE for the compact crossover SUV.
Nexen Tire has won two awards at the 2025 Green Good Design Awards, an award focused on sustainability. The N’Fera Sport R and N’Blue 4 Season 2 were recognised in the ‘green transportation’ category. N’Fera Sport features the “step groove” tread pattern. As the tire wears, the groove gradually expands the contact area, helping to maintain grip in worn conditions. The N’Blue 4Season 2 features a new compound that improves wear resistance by about 30% compared to the previous model.
Apollo has expanded its ‘excavator’ tire ranges with the addition of two new sizes to the Apollo AWE 723+. The new sizes - 280/70-22.5 and 220/80-17.5 – are intended for mid-size excavators up to 16 tonnes and compact models between 6 and 10 tonnes.
Hankook will supply its EV-exclusive all-season tire, the ‘iON evo AS SUV,’ as OE for EV brand Lucid Motors’ new electric SUV, the Lucid Gravity. The model has been designed for the North American market and was unveiled recently. The ‘iON evo AS SUV,’ is a high-performance tire engineered in collaboration with Lucid for large electric SUVs.
Firestone, a subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas, has debuted its latest touring tire, the Firestone Affinity AS tire. The tire features a tread compound to deliver ‘quiet and long-lasting’ rides and comes with a limited warranty of up to 65,000 miles.
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