Continental Expands MTB Tyre Lineup With Three New Models

Continental Expands MTB Tyre Lineup With Three New Models

Continental has launched three all-new MTB tyres in order to give riders better performance, longevity and maximum grip on any terrain. Every rider, from XC racers to trail fans, will find the ideal tyre for their preferred terrain thanks to the addition of the new Dubnital, Trinotal and Magnotal tyres to the well-known Gravity line.

Dubnital is designed for dry to moist environments and is best suited for rocky, hardpack and medium-loose soils. It is designed to fulfil the demands of XC and downhill riders seeking maximum speed. Dubnital, a direct successor to the 'Race King', offers unrivalled efficiency, grip and control at high speeds thanks to its cutting-edge tread and innovative rubber compositions. Trinotal, which replaces the popular 'Cross King', is meant to be versatile and perform well in both dry and wet circumstances. The tyre is designed for XC and downhill riders and provides excellent grip and stability, helping them to easily tackle a range of terrains. The all-rounder Magnotal, which replaces the 'Mountain King', is designed for aggressive all-mountain and trail riders and strikes the ideal mix of performance and control. It thrives. Magnotal provides excellent grip for riders in dry to wet situations, tackling hard, loose and muddy soils with ease.

Alexander Haenke, Product Manager – MTB & Gravel, Continental Tires, said: “With the introduction of Dubnital, Trinotal and Magnotal, we are proud to complete the overhaul of our MTB lineup, finally replacing our iconic 'Kings’. The new models now seamlessly fit into the nomenclature and logic of our Gravity range tyres, and give riders the freedom to use our portfolio as a playground to create their perfect setup. We’ve tested these tyres with gold-medal-winning athletes to ensure they perform at the highest level – now it’s your turn to push their limits. While our technology has already been proven in the world of gravity, we’re excited to see how riders take them to new heights across other disciplines”.

wdk Proposes ‘Industrial SMEs’ Parliamentary Circle To Ease Business Burdens

wdk Proposes ‘Industrial SMEs’ Parliamentary Circle To Ease Business Burdens

The German Rubber Industry Association (wdk) is advocating for the creation of a dedicated ‘Industrial SMEs’ parliamentary circle. This proposal responds to the significant challenges faced by medium-sized industrial companies, which the association believes are frequently misjudged by political decision-makers. wdk President Michael Klein emphasised that a high-performance industrial middle tier exists in Germany, positioned between major corporations and small artisanal businesses. He argues that the critical role of these firms deserves greater recognition within parliamentary proceedings, and the proposed cross-party group would be an effective measure to achieve this.

The German rubber industry itself serves as a prime example of this vital sector. Its companies are often ‘hidden champions’, leading the global market in specialised niches and supplying indispensable products that underpin diverse areas of the economy. Despite this importance, medium-sized industrial enterprises consistently fall through the cracks of policy. Legislators in both Germany and Europe often demonstrate a lack of awareness regarding the specific capacities and limitations of these businesses, leading to disproportionate bureaucratic burdens.

A dedicated parliamentary circle would establish a direct channel for dialogue, allowing committed policymakers to engage with company representatives. This forum would provide valuable, ground-level insights and act as an essential political corrective. The wdk contends that such an initiative would not only provide much-needed support to the numerous medium-sized industries but would also strengthen the national economy as a whole.

WACKER Launches PACE Programme For Cost Savings

WACKER Launches PACE Programme For Cost Savings

In response to significant economic pressures within the chemical industry, WACKER has initiated a comprehensive efficiency programme named PACE. The project, launched in October, is designed to secure substantial and permanent annual cost savings exceeding EUR 300 million. A primary focus will be on optimising fixed production costs and administrative structures.

To achieve this financial target, the company anticipates a reduction of more than 1,500 positions globally, with the majority of job cuts affecting its German sites. This workforce adjustment is expected to account for approximately half of the total savings. The company, which had previously forecast a net loss for 2025, intends to fully implement all PACE measures by the end of 2027. This strategic move aims to strengthen WACKER's operational resilience amid a challenging business climate.

Christian Hartel, President and CEO, WACKER, said, "We are currently working on measures to achieve our cost-saving targets. The aim is to reduce our costs to a competitive level through savings. This will put WACKER back on the road to success." Emphasising the need for competitive framework conditions, he added, "Particularly in Germany, the excessively high energy prices and bureaucratic obstacles continue to act as a central brake on the successful development of the chemical industry."

Bridgestone India Opens New Select Store In Punjab

Bridgestone Select Plus

Bridgestone India, a subsidiary of the Bridgestone Group, has announced the opening of its latest Bridgestone Select Store, Arora Wheel and Car Accessories, in Firozpur, Punjab.

The store was inaugurated by Rajiv Sharma, Executive Director – Integrated Consumer Business, Bridgestone India.

The Bridgestone Select stores represent the company’s retail format that delivers a comprehensive ownership experience. These outlets provide guidance, diagnostics, and infrastructure, ensuring safety, performance and driving confidence.

Rajiv Sharma, Executive Director – Integrated Consumer Business, Bridgestone India, said, “Punjab is a key market for Bridgestone, and the opening of our new Select Store in Firozpur reflects our focus on being closer to customers, through modern, high-quality retail touchpoints. At Bridgestone, we are committed to providing not just superior products but also an enhanced customer experience that combines premium products & services along with Bridgestone’s promise of safety, and trust. The Select Store format allows us to deliver the best of Bridgestone’s global expertise with a local, customer-first approach”

Arora Wheels is making available Bridgestone’s latest offerings: Turanza 6i and Dueler All-Terrain A/T002. The Turanza 6i is engineered with ENLITEN technology and delivers a driving experience. Compatible with both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicles (EVs), this tyre is EV-ready, offering efficiency, comfort and durability for mobility.

The Dueler All-terrain A/T002 is built for adventure and is a said to be a preferred choice among off-road enthusiasts. Its tread design and on- and off-road capabilities make it the choice for drivers seeking performance without compromising control or safety.

Michelin India Opens Three New Tyre Stores In Tamil Nadu

Michelin India

Michelin, a tyre technology company, has expanded its network in India with the inauguration of three new Michelin Tyres & Services (MTS) stores in Tamil Nadu.

Two stores were launched in Coimbatore: one with Covai Tyres in Sundarapuram, and another with Carzone in Goundermills. The third facility was inaugurated with Carworld Automotive in Tirupur.

Each new dealership offers Michelin’s complete range of products, along with advanced diagnostic tools and high precision equipment for alignment, balancing and car services. The new facilities were inaugurated by Prashant Sharma, National Sales Director at Michelin India.

Shantanu Deshpande, Managing Director, Michelin India, said: “The opening of three new Michelin Tyres & Services Stores in Tamil Nadu reflects our continued investment in expanding our retail network and strengthening consumer access to our products and services. These new touchpoints align with our broader strategy as we prepare to introduce our Made-in-India passenger car tyre range, ensuring we are well positioned to serve the evolving needs of our consumers.”

Tamil Nadu is a key market for Michelin, supported by the company’s production facility in Chennai. Michelin stated it is focused on delivering mobility experiences that combine safety, durability, and performance through collaboration with partners like Covai Tyres, Carzone and Carworld Automotive.