After being tested for more than two years on a multitude of circuits, local and national rallies, by amateur drivers as well as by professionals, MICHELIN Track Connect is evolving. MICHELIN Track Connect app has now been upgraded to three different for the users- leisure mode, expert mode and motorsports mode.
All the features introduced in the new version of MICHELIN Track Connect are perfect answers to the needs expressed directly by users, said the company.
The Leisure mode makes its debut in the latest generation of the MICHELIN Track Connect application. In this mode, it is possible to record lap times and speeds, as well as the evolution of tyre inflation pressures between the start and finish, measured manually. It also helps to analyse in detail its runs with the "Replay" mode. It also allows the users to share their results with a community of enthusiasts, as well as on social media. The users can compare their performance to that of other drivers and invite some other drivers to participate in new challenges.
With the purchase of MICHELIN Pilot Sport CUP2 Connect tyres as well as the MICHELIN Track Connect kit consisting in particular of four sensors and the central connection box, sports car owners shift into higher gear for increased driving pleasure.
In addition to the functions of Leisure mode, the MICHELIN Track Connect Expert mode allows you to monitor evolution of tyre pressures and temperatures in real-time and benefit from recommendations to improve lap times, dedicated to the vehicle, the track and the weather conditions.
Through this advice on pressures and temperatures provided by the app, the MICHELIN Track Connect solution in Expert mode allows the user to optimise the handling of its car, for more driving pleasure and better lap times. Tyre wear and consistency of performance on track are also improved, with for example a gain of 7.40 seconds after a series of 15 consecutive laps.
Michelin has always used competition as a development laboratory. On November 2019, during the FIA Formula E Championship, Michelin launched the first connected competition tyres, fitted with integrated sensors, the MICHELIN Pilot Sport with MICHELIN Track Connect.
Today, amateur and professional rally drivers also have access to a connected tyre solution, thanks to the MICHELIN Track Connect in Motorsport mode, in combination with the connection kit and the purchase of MICHELIN Connect ready competition tyres.
The benefits of the new Motorsport mode are optimisation of race performance by preparing the tyres with the correct pressure before the start. The app provides personalised advice according to the car model, use, type of tires fitted and driving conditions. It gives continuous information on tyre pressure on the smartphone screen, thereby limiting manual gestures before each special stage start. It also informs about the exploitation of the full potential of the tyres, by analysing the data recorded during a run and by proposing adjusted pressures for the next one. The automatic slow puncture warning increases safety during competitions.
The use of this innovation has just been validated by the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) for all national rally championships.
The MICHELIN Track Connect kit is sold in 18 countries in Expert mode, the app is already available in Leisure mode in 26 countries, spread over 4 continents. The app also includes more than 300 circuits recorded. In addition, for users wishing to switch to Expert mode by fitting Connect ready tires, the new MICHELIN Pilot Sport CUP2 Connect is available in a range of 47 sizes which are all Connect ready and therefore compatible. This now represents more than 270 vehicles in Expert mode and more than 6,000 vehicles present in the application in Leisure mode.
Renault Sport Racing and Michelin have joined forces on the new Clio Rally for safer and more efficient connected mobility. The latest Renault Sport Racing car is delivered from the factory with the MICHELIN Track Connect kit in Motorsport mode, consisting of a connection box directly installed in the car, and 4 sensors to be inserted into the tyres. Crews then only have to provide with connect ready MICHELIN rally tires and download the app on their smartphones to take full advantage of the connected tyres solution.
Dunlop Begins OE Supply Of GRANDTREK Tyres For Updated Lexus LX
- By TT News
- November 02, 2026
DUNLOP (company name: Sumitomo Rubber Industries) has started equipping its GRANDTREK H/T31 and GRANDTREK H/T31T SUV tyres as original fitment on the LEXUS LX, following the flagship model's October model-year refresh. The supply arrangement extends the tyre maker's long-running association with Toyota's premium SUV lineup.
Engineered to complement the LX's dual character, the GRANDTREK tyre supports a vehicle that merges serious off-road ability with polished on-road manners. The updated LX brings revised tuning for greater ride comfort and handling poise, giving drivers reassurance across widely varying surfaces and conditions worldwide.
Two distinct grades shape the tyre fitment strategy. The OVERTRAIL+ variant moves to a larger 265/70R18 size from the previous 265/65R18, paired with added minimum ground clearance for tougher terrain. Meanwhile, the newly introduced F SPORT grade targets a sharper, more engaging driving experience, wrapped in styling that reads both muscular and elegant.
The GRANDTREK H/T31, specified for F SPORT, employs a highway-terrain pattern and fresh tread compound to balance low noise, fuel efficiency and wear resistance. DUNLOP's Nano Black sidewall treatment deepens the black finish of brand logos for greater visibility and a premium look. The H/T31T, reserved for OVERTRAIL+, strengthens on-road behaviour while delivering the comfort and load-bearing toughness the LX's heavy body demands, its exclusive sidewall design projecting rugged presence and refined off-road character.
Toyota’s Lexus GX550 OVERTRAIL+ To Run On DUNLOP GRANDTREK H/T31T Tyres
- By TT News
- October 31, 2026
DUNLOP (company name: Sumitomo Rubber Industries) has confirmed that its GRANDTREK H/T31T tyres are now fitted as original equipment on the Toyota LEXUS GX550 OVERTRAIL+, a variant of the premium SUV that was refreshed for the new model year in September.
First introduced to the market in 2002, the LEXUS GX550 has been sold chiefly in North America, developing a reputation as a luxury SUV that remains comfortable even on unpaved surfaces. The latest update sharpens both ride comfort and handling stability, further elevating ride quality and delivering assured control across varied terrain. The OVERTRAIL+ grade gains larger tyres, growing from 265/65R18 to 265/70R18, together with greater minimum ground clearance, boosting off-road ability on demanding terrain while pairing a bold, muscular appearance with a quiet cabin on the road.
Developed afresh to deliver on-road capability alongside the reliability and durability cultivated across the GRANDTREK line, the H/T31T employs a highway terrain tread pattern and new tread rubber compound. These enhancements raise high-speed stability, quietness, fuel efficiency and wear resistance while the tyre balances ride comfort with the strength required to support the LEXUS GX550's hefty body. A redesigned sidewall reinforces toughness and presence, echoing the vehicle's commanding styling and merging rugged SUV solidity with urban refinement.
The GRANDTREK family comprises DUNLOP-brand tyres tailored to SUVs and pickup trucks. Its wide lineup of dependable products, proven through fitment on numerous new SUV and 4x4 models, addresses a broad range of customer requirements.
Kenda To Supply Original Equipment Tyres For The Blank Slate
- By TT News
- October 30, 2026
Kenda Tires will serve as the official original equipment tyre supplier for The Blank Slate, the electric pickup from Slate Auto. The global tyre and wheel manufacturer has been tapped to equip the vehicle with its KLEVER S/T EV, a tyre built around the performance, efficiency and durability demands of Slate's eagerly awaited truck.
Engineering personnel from both firms collaborated on the research, development and production of a tyre calibrated to the Slate truck's weight, torque output, efficiency targets, ride and handling traits and expected driving conditions. Kenda will also furnish accessory tyre lines, giving buyers room to personalise their trucks without compromising the platform's performance, safety and quality benchmarks.
Slate Auto has attracted broad industry attention for its unconventional take on electric vehicle ownership, centred on affordability, simplicity and personalisation. Bringing a dedicated OE tyre supplier on board marks a meaningful milestone as the company works toward a production-ready vehicle and supply chain.
The KLEVER S/T EV was purpose-built for the Slate application, with features that address the heft and instant torque characteristic of electric drivetrains. Its low rolling resistance design helps stretch efficiency and range, while reinforced construction bolsters durability, handling and tread life. Engineers at Kenda's American Technical Center in Akron, Ohio, supported development, collaborating closely with automakers on tailored solutions for emerging mobility platforms. The tyre debuts as original equipment on The Blank Slate when production starts in November 2026, timed to Slate Auto's schedule.
Jimmy Yang, Global President, CEO and Chairman, Kenda Industrial, said, "As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Kenda remains committed to delivering innovative tyre technologies that meet the needs of both manufacturers and its consumers. Our collaboration with Slate Auto represents an exciting opportunity to support a company that is reimagining electric mobility through accessibility, personalisation and practicality. We are proud to contribute our engineering and production expertise with our EV-focused technology to help bring The Blank Slate to market."
Brandon Stotsenburg, Vice President of Automotive for American Kenda Rubber, said, "This partnership reflects Kenda's continued growth in the original equipment automotive market and our ability to develop purpose-built solutions for next-generation vehicles. The KLEVER S/T EV was designed to address the specific challenges EVs present, from increased vehicle weight and instant torque to efficiency and ride comfort requirements. Working alongside Slate throughout the development process has allowed us to create a tyre solution that complements the vehicle's performance while supporting its affordability and personalisation goals."
FALKEN Secures Original Equipment Supply For Audi Q7 And Q9 With AZENIS FK520 (R0)
- By TT News
- October 28, 2026
FALKEN has secured original equipment supply approval from Audi for its AZENIS FK520 summer tyre, which will be fitted to the premium brand’s flagship SUVs, the Q7 and Q9. Production begins in May 2026, with the tyres carrying the R0 designation to mark the Audi-specific fitment. The deal reinforces FALKEN’s standing in the premium original equipment market.
The AZENIS FK520 (R0) comes in three sizes covering 20- to 22-inch wheel diameters, with vehicles assembled at Audi’s Bratislava plant in Slovakia. Buyers can inspect the fitted tyres and their EU tyre label data through Audi’s vehicle configurator. The ultra-high-performance tyre is built for sporty road cars, offered in reinforced Extra Load versions across all sizes and rated to Y speed specifications for up to 300 kmph, targeting drivers focused on stability, precision and safety.
FALKEN’s original equipment record with premium marques spans many years and includes Audi, Porsche and Mercedes-Benz. The AZENIS FK510A SUV gained Porsche Macan approval in 2018, and the AZENIS FK520 (NG0) followed in 2026 for the Porsche Cayenne Electric. Since 2011 the brand has maintained a motorsport presence, campaigning a Porsche 911 GT3 R in the ADAC RAVENOL Nürburgring Endurance Series and the ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring.
Christian Stolting, OE Sales Director, Dunlop Tyre Europe GmbH, said, “It is an important step for our original equipment business to fit the Q7 and Q9, two models of great importance to Audi, with the FALKEN AZENIS FK520 (R0) as a factory-fitted option. The choice of our tyres for these Audi models reflects confidence in the performance and quality of FALKEN in this segment.”
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