Hankook Tire announced the launch of the Smart iON AU06+ today. The Smart iON AU06+ is the first Truck and Bus Radial (TBR) tyre in the company’s iON product portfolio for premium electric vehicles (EVs) in the Korean market, claims Hankook Tire. It also happens to be the most recent addition to its iON tire family, which includes summer and winter tyres for passenger EVs.

Features of the Smart iON AU06+

In comparison to Smart City AU06
According to Hankook Tire, the Smart iON AU06+ incorporates Hankook’s innovative EV tyre technology for improved fuel efficiency, fast torque response and high load support. It is a re-branded version of Hankook’s Smart City AU06, that was launched by the company in 2020.

In order to counter characteristics like higher vehicle weight of electric buses (caused by the considerable weight of drive batteries) and high instant torque delivered to the wheels, Hankook has strengthened the grip on wet roads by about 10 percent, compared to the previous Smart City AU06 model, as per the tyre company. The load-carrying capacity has also been increased to eight tonnes, accommodating a stable driving experience even with heavy loads.

Increased mileage
Moreover, Hankook states that it has employed an abrasion resistant tread compound for improved tread life and fuel efficiency. The specially designed compound of the Smart iON AU06+ allows for uniform pressure distribution, extending the vehicle’s mileage in comparison to conventional truck and bus tyres.

In specific, when mounted on an electric bus, tests have shown that the Smart iON AU06+ increased the vehicle’s mileage by 25 percent compared to when the vehicle was fitted with the company’s regular bus tyres, claims the tyre company.

Safer driving and reduced noise
Another development goal for this new launch is to improve ride quality through optimal ride comfort and low noise. According to Hankook, in consideration of the aerodynamic aspect of the electric bus, the Smart iON AU06+ features a specifically designed tread pattern distributed along the sidewall to reduce noise. In  addition, it features a cooling system to overcome complications, such as overheating, in order to ensure a safer drive, states the tyre company.

With the launch of the Smart iON AU06+, Hankook Tire also plans to establish an extensive electric TBR tyre portfolio to include a range of tyres for different styles of driving. As per Hankook Tire, currently, there are development plans for two different electric TBR tyres in the pipeline. These also include the Hankook iON CITY designed for urban driving, and the Hankook iON FLEX for mid- to long-distance travels.

The tyre company claims that upon completion, these two new products are to be supplied in the European market. They will be available in other global markets sequentially, as further market expansions are in plan.

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Pirelli has introduced the Scorpion All Season SF3, a new all-season tyre specifically engineered for SUVs, building upon the award-winning technology of the Cinturato All Season SF3 while tailoring performance to the demands of larger, heavier vehicles.

Designed for safety and versatility across diverse weather conditions, the tyre has already earned top ratings in independent Dekra tests, excelling in cumulative braking performance. It carries an ‘A’ rating for wet grip on the European tyre label and meets the 3PMSF standard for certified snow traction. Additionally, the Scorpion All Season SF3 prioritises driving comfort, with a ‘B’ rating for external noise and class A/B efficiency in rolling resistance, ensuring long-lasting performance and lower emissions. The compound is engineered for stiffness and high-temperature stability, while new polymer blends and natural-origin resins enhance cold-weather grip without sacrificing wet traction. Pirelli leveraged AI-driven Virtual Compounder technology to refine the material composition, alongside 3D modelling to synchronise tread and compound design for optimal performance.

To enhance SUV handling, Pirelli incorporated reinforced tread blocks with a progressive entry geometry, which gradually increases the contact patch with the road. This design minimises pressure peaks, reducing vibrations and noise while improving stability and grip – particularly beneficial for heavier vehicles. The tread also features an adaptive structure with 3D sipes that evolve from straight lines to a zigzag pattern as the tyre wears, maintaining snow traction even with reduced tread depth. These sipes dynamically adjust under pressure, shifting between a winter-optimised and summer-friendly profile for balanced year-round performance.

The Scorpion All Season SF3 expands Pirelli’s all-season lineup, catering to the rising demand for versatile tyres. Available in 17- to 21-inch sizes, select models include Elect technology for compatibility with electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, as well as the Pirelli Noise Cancelling System (PNCS) to reduce road noise.

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Bridgestone Corporation has agreed to transfer 66.6 percent shares of its wholly owned subsidiary, Bridgestone Logistics Co., LTD, to SBS Holdings, Inc. This move aligns with Bridgestone’s strategy to strengthen its global business by adapting to dynamic market conditions and building a foundation for sustainable growth. In Japan, the company is restructuring operations to enhance productivity and innovation across its value chain, from tire development to logistics and sales. The share transfer is part of these broader efforts to optimise business performance.

The Japanese logistics sector is experiencing major shifts due to carbon neutrality goals, sustainable supply chain demands and labour shortages. SBS Holdings, a key player in the industry, sees these challenges as growth opportunities and is implementing forward-looking strategies. By integrating Bridgestone Logistics into its operations, SBS Holdings aims to bolster the subsidiary’s business and management capabilities, positioning it for future expansion.

Bridgestone Logistics has been advancing sustainable logistics through digital solutions, including next-generation delivery systems, collaborative logistics to improve efficiency and modal shifts toward eco-friendly transport. These initiatives will support SBS Holdings’ mission to ensure safe, secure and sustainable logistics operations. Additionally, SBS Holdings’ adoption of electric vehicles, logistics technology and IT-driven systems will further enhance efficiency. The collaboration will unlock synergies by leveraging SBS Holdings’ expertise, network and resources, enabling Bridgestone Logistics to explore new business opportunities beyond the Bridgestone Group and create greater social and customer value. Moreover, by aligning with SBS Holdings’ workforce development strategies, Bridgestone Logistics will foster talent growth and organisational innovation.

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The European Commission’s Industrial Action Plan for the automotive sector included plans to publish Guidance on in-vehicle data alongside the implementation of the Data Act. In response, the European Tyre and Rubber Manufacturers’ Association (ETRMA), alongside other automotive industry groups, has developed an Automotive Sector Interpretation Guide of the Data Act to foster a common understanding ahead of the regulation’s application. This joint effort has helped clarify critical definitions and regulatory interfaces while also incorporating essential tyre-specific considerations – a step ETRMA strongly supports.

Despite this progress, the Data Act’s objectives may fall short without additional measures. Key solutions – such as human-machine interface (HMI) access for user consent and digital ID federation to enable secure, efficient data sharing within a unified European data space – require further exploration under sector-specific regulation. ETRMA remains dedicated to ensuring the Data Act’s implementation promotes fair, non-discriminatory access to in-vehicle data. The association will continue pushing for enforceable rules that guarantee real-time, secure and efficient access to relevant data, safeguarding innovation and competitiveness in the automotive and tyre industries.

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Bridgestone India, a key subsidiary of the global Bridgestone Group and a leader in tyres and mobility solutions, has expanded its premium retail network with the launch of Bridgestone Select Store – M/s Nashik Tyres and Services. The store was inaugurated by Rajarshi Moitra from Bridgestone India, reinforcing the company’s commitment to delivering innovative, customer-centric tyre retail experiences across the country.

Strategically located in Nashik, the store features modern infrastructure and a premium service setup, positioning it as a one-stop destination for tyres and related services in the region. Recognising that tyres are the sole contact point between a vehicle and the road, Bridgestone emphasises safety, performance and driving confidence through its Select stores. These outlets not only help customers choose the right tyres but also enhance their ownership experience with expert guidance and high-quality services.

With over 900 Select stores nationwide, Bridgestone India has established a premium retail network that goes beyond tyre sales to offer a superior, service-driven experience. The expansion of M/s Nashik Tyres and Services further strengthens Bridgestone’s mission to bring world-class tyre solutions closer to customers, reinforcing its pan-India presence with a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction.

Moitra said, “At Bridgestone India, we are committed to redefining the tyre buying experience through our Select stores. As we continue to expand our footprint and enhance manufacturing capabilities our goal is to provide premium products, services and customer experience.”

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