Japan’s Yokohama Rubber is supplying its ADVAN Sport V107 tyres as original equipment for the BMW i3 battery electric vehicle (BEV), which is sold in China and other international markets.

The company said it is providing two tyre configurations for the BMW i3 – a 19-inch set (225/45R19 96Y front and 245/40R19 98Y rear) and an 18-inch set (225/50R18 99Y front and 245/45R18 100Y rear). The model is not sold in Japan.

Part of Yokohama’s global flagship ADVAN range, the Sport V107 is an ultra-high-performance tyre jointly developed with the BMW Group. The tyres feature a specially formulated compound and a revised tread pattern designed to improve dry performance and wear resistance, while achieving the EU’s highest “A” grade for rolling resistance.

Yokohama said it used its proprietary mound profile technology, which evenly distributes surface contact pressure to enhance handling and durability. The tyres’ rigid skeleton structure is aimed at delivering precise steering response suited for high-powered premium vehicles.

As with all tyres approved by BMW, the sidewall of the ADVAN Sport V107 carries the automaker’s star mark, signifying compliance with BMW’s standards for technology, quality and reliability.

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NEXEN TIRE has secured its first original equipment supply agreement with BYD, marking a significant milestone in the global tyre manufacturer’s expansion within the electric vehicle sector. The partnership entails outfitting two distinct BYD electric models, the SEAL 6 and the Dolphin Surf, with specialised tyres, a move anticipated to elevate NEXEN TIRE’s standing among international EV producers.

For the BYD SEAL 6, destined for overseas markets including Australia, NEXEN TIRE will provide the N’FERA Sport, an ultra-high-performance summer tyre. This model is engineered for sporty handling and superior high-speed stability, having earned recognition through commendable performance in rigorous European tyre evaluations. Concurrently, the BYD Dolphin Surf, exported to Europe, will feature the N’Blue S tyre, a high-efficiency summer variant specifically developed to comply with stringent EU carbon emission standards by minimising rolling resistance while enhancing wet braking and drainage capabilities.

Since initiating its OE tyre sales to foreign automakers in 2012, NEXEN TIRE has solidified its reputation as a trusted supplier to major global manufacturers, including premium European marques. This latest collaboration with BYD underscores the company’s continued commitment to advanced technology and quality, further cementing its influence in the evolving automotive landscape.

John Bosco (Hyeon Suk) Kim, CEO, NEXEN TIRE, said, “Becoming an OE supplier for two BYD EV models demonstrates both our technological range and our quality competitiveness, as we can deliver optimised performance for both electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles. We will continue to strengthen our partnership with BYD moving forward.”

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NEXEN TIRE has secured a new original equipment supply agreement with Hyundai Motor Company, providing tyres for the recently updated version of the Korean automaker’s flagship sedan, known as The New Grandeur. This decision extends the existing partnership between the two companies, as NEXEN TIRE previously supplied tyres for the initial launch of the seventh-generation model. The renewed collaboration reinforces the tyre manufacturer’s role in supporting Hyundai’s premium passenger vehicle lineup.

The selected tyre for this application is the N'FERA Supreme S, an ultra-high-performance product engineered for premium vehicles. This model features NEXEN TIRE’s proprietary Noise Reduction System, which uses sound-absorbing materials to diminish resonance noise while driving. Furthermore, an AI-driven low-noise pattern design and advanced load distribution technology work together to minimise road vibrations and enhance overall cabin quietness, with the aerodynamic sidewall also contributing to reduced rolling resistance.

The New Grandeur distinguishes itself with a Seamless Horizon Lamp and the latest Pleos Connect infotainment system, aiming to boost its competitive standing in the luxury sedan segment. The N'FERA Supreme S is engineered to meet these elevated standards, offering robust grip and high-speed stability through a specialised 4D compound. Its durable sipe and groove structures are optimised to preserve consistent performance even as the tyre undergoes wear over time.

This latest supply deal marks a continuation of NEXEN TIRE’s broader strategic cooperation with Hyundai’s upscale vehicle range, having previously equipped models such as the Palisade SUV and the NEXO hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle. Since entering the international OE market in 2012, the manufacturer has expanded its clientele to include numerous global automotive brands, with this latest contract underscoring its acknowledged technological expertise and product reliability in a highly competitive sector.

John Bosco (Hyeon Suk) Kim, CEO, NEXEN TIRE, said, “Being selected once again to supply OE tyres for The New Grandeur demonstrates that the N'FERA Supreme S meets the high standards expected of a flagship sedan in terms of quietness and driving performance. We will continue to strengthen strategic partnerships with Hyundai Motor and other global automakers while expanding OE tyre supply for future mobility segments, including electric and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles.”

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Giti Tire has secured original equipment homologation for its GitiSynergy H3 tyre on the all-electric BMW iX1 and iX2 models. This approval represents a notable expansion of the manufacturer’s original equipment portfolio and underscores its advanced technical capabilities in the premium automotive sector.

The specified tyre, sized 245/40 R20 99Y XL, was exclusively engineered at Giti Tire’s European Research and Development Centre in Hannover to satisfy BMW Group’s stringent criteria for electric vehicle platforms. Rigorous validation took place at the company’s MIRA proving ground in the United Kingdom, supplemented by additional testing across Germany and Spain.

Engineered for optimised efficiency, the tyre achieves the highest EU Rolling Resistance label rating of A and incorporates an aerodynamic sidewall design alongside reduced noise characteristics and extended wear life. Homologation is confirmed by the * symbol on the sidewall, denoting full compliance with BMW’s original equipment specifications.

This latest nomination builds upon prior approvals for the BMW 1 Series and MINI models. The project leveraged AdvanZtech, Giti’s global research and development network, reinforcing the company’s standing as a dependable engineering partner capable of addressing the complex demands of contemporary electric mobility.

Nicolas Kluson, Key Account Manager Europe OE, Giti Tire, said, "BMW Group's homologation programme required a tyre capable of achieving very low rolling resistance without compromising handling performance. Successfully meeting these requirements highlights the advanced engineering capabilities within Giti Tire's global R&D network. This project represents another important OEM milestone for Giti Tire and reflects our commitment to developing innovative solutions that support the evolving demands of electric mobility. As sustainability becomes increasingly important for both vehicle manufacturers and drivers, we will continue to push the boundaries of tyre technology."

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Bridgestone has been named the official tyre supplier for the new Volkswagen ID. Polo GTI, the first fully electric GTI model ever produced by the German automaker. The vehicle made its public debut at the Nürburgring during the recent 24-hour race, equipped with bespoke Potenza Sport tyres.

The custom-engineered premium tyres are designed to channel the GTI’s sporting character onto the road while fulfilling critical performance criteria, including braking efficiency, tread wear life and reduced road noise. Bridgestone developed the tyres in Italy, integrating the company’s advanced ENLITEN technology.

To achieve this design, Bridgestone relied on its proprietary Virtual Tyre Development technology, which allowed for precise engineering without extensive physical prototyping. The result is a tailored tyre solution that supports the electric GTI’s unique demands while maintaining high performance standards.

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