The MICHELIN Pilot Sport Cup 2 R K1 tyre showcases Michelin’s engineering excellence, delivering unmatched dry-surface performance for the Ferrari F80. Developed in just 15 months, this tyre benefited from advanced virtual simulation and Michelin’s proprietary C3M manufacturing process, reducing physical prototypes by 20-30 percent and accelerating production while minimising environmental impact.

Michelin and Ferrari leveraged cutting-edge simulation tools – typically reserved for motorsport – to optimise the tyre’s design before physical testing. Five virtual trials, including dynamic simulations at Ferrari’s Maranello facility, ensured perfect alignment with the F80’s extreme performance demands.

To withstand the car’s immense power, torque and aerodynamic forces, Michelin engineered a breakthrough rubber compound using a motorsport-derived mixing process, now adapted for road use. The tyre also features a reinforced twin-layer radial casing and innovative shoulder belt reinforcement, enhancing grip and stability while reducing centrifugal effects. These advancements make it the first road tyre to combine such high-performance technologies in a single design. Available in unique sizes (285/30R20 front, 345/30R21 rear), the Pilot Sport Cup 2 R K1 is exclusively tailored for the Ferrari F80.

Precision manufacturing is achieved through Michelin’s C3M process, which ensures consistent, high-accuracy production akin to 3D printing. Additionally, Michelin’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in the tyre’s development, which prioritised reduced carbon emissions. It is developed at the carbon-neutral Gravanches facility in Clermont-Ferrand, a site recognised for its low water consumption.

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Kia has selected NEXEN TIRE’s N’Blue S high-performance summer tyre as original equipment for the new Kia PV5, an adaptable purpose-built vehicle (PBV) developed on the dedicated Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). This model is designed for a wide array of uses, from personal and recreational activities to commercial logistics, positioning it as a cornerstone for the future of urban mobility. The supply agreement underscores NEXEN TIRE's advanced technological capabilities in developing tyres specifically engineered for the demands of electric commercial vehicles.

The N’Blue S tyre, sized 215/65R16 102H, is engineered to meet strict European environmental standards, emphasising high efficiency and minimised rolling resistance to extend electric vehicle range. A key innovation featured in this model is Sidewall Aero Dynamic technology, which functions to reduce pass-by noise and improve overall energy efficiency. The tyre’s tread design incorporates a simplified groove pattern that enhances water drainage, providing superior wet traction and stable braking performance. These attributes ensure excellent durability and reliability, which are critical for the repetitive stop-and-go patterns characteristic of urban commercial operations.

This partnership with Kia is part of a broader strategic trajectory for NEXEN TIRE, which has established itself as a trusted original equipment supplier for major global automakers. The company leverages over 80 years of technical expertise to provide tyres for a growing portfolio of electric vehicles, including Kia's EV3, EV4, EV6 and EV9 models, alongside global strategic vehicles like the PV5 and Tasman. This latest supply agreement for the innovative PV5 further solidifies NEXEN TIRE's reputation and demonstrates its commitment to supporting the evolving needs of the electric mobility industry.

John Bosco (Hyeon Suk) Kim, CEO, NEXEN TIRE, said, “The supply of OE tyres for the Kia PV5 demonstrates our technological competitiveness in the future mobility market, driven by electrification and personalisation. We will continue to strengthen our partnerships with global automakers to contribute to the expansion of the future mobility ecosystem.”

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The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., is supplying its ultra-high-performance ADVAN Sport V107 tyres as original equipment for the BMW 7 Series sedan, including the all-electric i7 model. The tyres – 255/45R20 105Y size for front axle and 285/40R20 108Y for rear axle – are the product of a joint development effort with the BMW Group. This collaboration has resulted in a tyre engineered to meet the exacting demands of a high-power luxury vehicle.

The ADVAN Sport V107 incorporates a specially formulated compound and an optimised tread pattern to deliver exceptional steering stability and a quiet ride. It has also earned the highest possible ‘A’ grade for rolling resistance under the EU labelling system. The application of Yokohama's proprietary mound profile technology ensures even contact pressure distribution, which enhances both dry performance and wear resistance. The tyre’s sidewall features BMW’s star mark, a designation granted only to suppliers that meet the automaker's strict standards for technology, quality and reliability.

This partnership aligns with Yokohama Rubber's medium-term management plan, YX2026, which prioritises increasing sales of high-value-added products. A core initiative of this strategy is expanding the placement of its global flagship ADVAN and GEOLANDAR brand tyres as original equipment on new vehicles.

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Dacia has chosen Continental to supply original equipment tyres for its new Duster SUV, approving three specific models in 16- to 18-inch sizes. This selection highlights a focus on quality and performance, offering drivers the energy-efficient EcoContact 6 Q summer tyre, the versatile AllSeasonContact and the robust CrossContact RX.

The CrossContact RX is engineered for heavier vehicles, using an innovative sipe design to provide excellent comfort, traction and wet road performance. The EcoContact 6 Q features a low-rolling-resistance compound, making it an ideal choice for hybrid models by helping to extend their electric range without compromising on safety or tread wear.

For year-round reliability, the AllSeasonContact offers a balanced solution. Its optimised tread reduces fuel consumption across various temperatures and weather conditions by effectively combining a specialised compound with a versatile tread pattern.

All three tyres deliver the signature safety and performance characteristics expected from Continental. This includes short braking distances, stable cornering and dependable grip on both dry and wet road surfaces, ensuring a secure and efficient driving experience for Duster owners.

The tyres have been approved in the following sizes:

EcoContact 6 Q, 215/60 R18 98H
EcoContact 6 Q, 215/65 R17 99H
AllSeasonContact, 215/60 R18 98H
AllSeasonContact, 215/65 R17 99H
CrossContact RX, 215/60 R18 98H FR
CrossContact RX, 215/65 R17 99H FR
CrossContact RX, 215/70 R16 100H FR

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Hankook Tire has launched its new e-Vantra FlexClimate all-season tyre as original equipment for the popular Volkswagen Crafter van. Supplied in the size 205/75 R16C 113/111R, this development marks a significant expansion of the company's portfolio within the light commercial vehicle sector. While debuting on the Crafter with conventional drive technology, the tyre was engineered to address the specific demands of both electric and internal combustion engine vans. A release on the replacement market is also planned for the near future.

The tyre’s design prioritises core commercial vehicle requirements, including high load capacity, exceptional durability and resistance to wear. A key feature is its reinforced sidewall, which is constructed to reliably absorb high transverse forces and ensure stable and safe handling, even when the vehicle is fully loaded. This structural integrity is further enhanced by a multi-reinforced bead structure and an optimised bead filler height, providing outstanding stability across diverse driving conditions.

Performance is augmented by a tread compound with a high silica content, functionalised polymers and special resins. This combination is engineered to deliver excellent wet braking performance, high durability and reduced rolling resistance. The tread pattern itself incorporates advanced 3D sipe technology to improve block rigidity, promote a uniform wear pattern and ensure reliable traction. An innovative zigzag sipe pattern provides added grip on snow and mud. Consequently, the Hankook e-Vantra FlexClimate carries the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) certification, confirming its suitability for use in severe winter conditions.

Jongho Park, President and COO, Hankook Tire Europe, said, “With our appointment as an original equipment manufacturer for the VW Crafter, we are underlining our commitment to continuing to expand our product portfolio in the van segment and to offering innovative solutions to meet the diverse requirements of our commercial customers. The Hankook e-Vantra FlexClimate combines numerous characteristics that make it ideal for demanding everyday use. This product focuses on state-of-the-art technologies that enhance efficiency and safety, ensuring it is well equipped to meet changes in the sector.”

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