Hankook Tire has launched the fourth generation Ventus evo, a sporty ultra-high-performance summer tyre for changeable conditions.

Featuring a new mixture developed using artificial intelligence (AI), the tyre provides excellent wet grip and low rolling resistance. The wide drainage grooves work in tandem with the optimised tyre contact area to facilitate good evacuation of water and reduce the risk of aquaplaning, while the extra-rigid sidewalls and tread blocks provide stability during cornering and shorten the dry braking distance by six percent compared to the third-generation tyre. The innovative mixture, on the other hand, ensures low rolling resistance despite the high grip. This reduces fuel consumption and provides a 32 percent increase in mileage compared to the third-generation tyre.

Klaus Krause, Vice President and Head of Europe Technical Centre, Hankook, said, “With the fourth generation of the Ventus evo, we are setting new standards. We decided early on to leverage AI in the development of tyre mixtures and were able to successfully transform the laboratory results into high-quality industrial processes. Today, we’re seeing the benefits of that effort. With its innovative mixture ratio, the Ventus evo overcomes traditional trade-offs, delivering uncompromising excellence in performance, safety and mileage.”

The new Ventus evo and Ventus evo SUV will be available in stores in 58 sizes by this summer, with plans to expand the offering to 94 sizes – from 17 to 23 inches in widths from 205 to 325 in the 65 to 30 series and with speed indexes from V to (Y) – by the end of next year.

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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.

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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."

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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.

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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.

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