Kumho Tire’s new ultra-high-performance (UHP) tyre, the ECSTA Sport, has been rated ‘Very Good’ in the latest Die Reifentester summer tyre test.

The tyre size used for testing was 225/40R18. Eight tyre manufacturers participated in the test, including well-known names like Goodyear, Bridgestone, Michelin and Continental. Bridgestone and Continental shared the top rating with Kumho's ECSTA Sport. The wet braking results were one of the test's main features. With a stopping distance of only 23.07 metres at 80 kmph, the ECSTA Sport outperformed every other tyre in the test. It was one of just two tyres – the other being the Continental SportContact 7 – to receive the ‘Very Good’ rating in wet handling. In dry weather, the ECSTA Sport also performed admirably. Die Reifentester gave it a ‘Very Good’ grade for dry handling, comparing it to three competitors of premium brands.

Drivers seeking precision handling, robust safety features and high mileage performance are the target market for the ECSTA Sport. The tyre, which comes in sizes 16 to 22 inches, features a new compound blend that improves high-speed stability and reduces stopping distances.

Matthias Bode, Head of Research and Development Europe at Kumho Tire, said, “We are delighted with this result from Die Reifentester. Kumho ECSTA Sport is designed to offer excellent performance for all motorists, including the most demanding drivers, and this test result is an excellent indication that we are on the right course.”

Tony Gangseung Lee, Head of Europe, said, “This test result demonstrates the commitment of Kumho to developing and producing exceptional tyres which offer excellent value to the driving public. I am delighted to see the team’s hard work being so well rewarded in this independent tyre test as we set new performance benchmarks.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Facing mounting pressure on the industrial sector, the German rubber industry is demanding that the federal government adopt a crisis-mode approach. Michael Klein, President of the German Rubber Industry Association (wdk), issued the warning in Frankfurt am Main, criticising policymakers in both Germany and Europe for inaction while manufacturing firms, especially mid-sized companies, are already operating at maximum alert and fighting for survival.

Klein expressed strong support for the ‘Enough with the snail's pace!’ initiative launched by the German Chemical Industry Association (VCI), which calls for accelerated reforms. He also aligned with Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s view that economic policy must move more swiftly. According to Klein, the wave of site closures and production relocations underscores the severe strain on Germany as an industrial hub. He stressed that all nationally controllable competitive disadvantages must now be eliminated without delay.

To achieve this, Klein proposed tangible steps such as lowering the national CO₂ price and temporarily suspending national emissions trading, alongside a significant and immediately noticeable reduction in bureaucratic burdens.

Addressing broader economic pressures, the wdk president warned of additional strains from the conflict involving Iran. He pointed to surging fuel prices driving up transport costs and disruptions to global container shipping routes, which are increasingly jeopardising supply chains across sectors, including the rubber industry. With multiple crises converging, Klein cautioned that without swift countermeasures, Germany’s status as a production location faces further irreversible damage.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Cooper Tires, a subsidiary of Goodyear, has unveiled a completely reimagined global brand identity aimed at increasing visibility, sharpening consumer recognition and reinforcing its position within a fiercely competitive market. The refresh speaks directly to drivers who rely on durable, dependable tyres.

Drawing on more than a century of building trust with those who expect peak performance, the new look merges Cooper’s established legacy with a contemporary aesthetic. The result conveys strength, intentionality and assurance. Central to the update are refined brand marks, an updated colour palette and a modern design approach tailored to stand out in both physical retail spaces and digital environments.

The evolution pays homage to two symbolic figures. One returns to Cooper’s history: a knight’s helm, first adopted in the 1940s following the brand’s Armored Cord tyre innovation, now reimagined with sharper lines to lead Cooper forward. Joining it is the American grey wolf, native to Ohio where Cooper is rooted. Representing adaptability, resolve and readiness for any terrain, the wolf reflects the brand’s character and the mindset of its drivers. Both icons will appear prominently across major brand materials.

The updated colour system balances heritage with visibility. Valor Green nods to Cooper’s history of crafting products for rugged conditions and natural landscapes, symbolising endurance and expertise. A heritage orange accent recalls the brand’s early days, adding energy and distinction. The overall palette draws inspiration from nature, a core element of Cooper’s identity.

Additional updates span typography, photography and illustration. Developed with Publicis P1T Crew and creatively led by BBH USA, the rollout begins in March 2026 with global website and social media updates, along with select paid media campaigns. Retail point-of-sale materials will follow gradually to ensure a consistent worldwide experience.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Titan International, Inc., a leading global manufacturer of off-highway wheels, tyres, assemblies and undercarriage products, has announced a decision to consolidate its North American manufacturing footprint. This strategic move will result in the closure of the company’s facility in Jackson, Tennessee, by the end of October 2026. The consolidation reflects Titan’s ongoing efforts to optimise operations and improve capacity utilisation across its existing network.

Production currently performed at the Jackson site is expected to be transitioned to other Titan facilities over the coming months. The closure will affect approximately 140 employees. Titan has committed to supporting these team members throughout the transition, working closely with local leadership to provide assistance that includes severance packages, continuation of benefits and job placement support.

Despite the Jackson closure, Titan will continue to operate a robust network of manufacturing facilities across North America. This network ensures the company remains well positioned to serve customers across a diverse range of off-highway end markets, including outdoor power equipment, powersports, agriculture, construction and earthmoving.

Paul Reitz, President and CEO, Titan International, said, “The decision to consolidate production and close the Jackson facility is difficult knowing the impact it has on our team members and their families. Titan continues to take deliberate actions to improve its operating efficiency while maintaining the flexibility and scale required to serve our customers.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

America's Tire has entered into a new multiyear partnership with Major League Soccer’s Philadelphia Union, marking an immediate collaboration that will extend across several future seasons. Under the three-year agreement, the tyre retailer assumes the role of the Union’s Official Tire Retailer. Its branding will be prominently displayed on the rooftop of Subaru Park, complemented by field-level signage visible during broadcasts of home games. Beyond stadium presence, the company will engage fans through a digital and social content series featuring Union players and will also lend its support to the historic Army-Navy Cup.

Having established its first Philadelphia location in 2024, America's Tire has positioned itself as a local authority on tyre safety. The company now operates three area stores, including one in Burlington, New Jersey. This alliance with the Union broadens America's Tire’s existing commitment to road safety for professional soccer supporters, building on its role as the Official Tire Retailer of Major League Soccer during the league’s 31st season – a designation that encompasses marquee events like the MLS All-Star Game and MLS Cup.

In Philadelphia and across 20 other MLS markets, America's Tire provides tyres, wheels and wiper blades through online and in-store channels, supported by expert teams for safety checks and installations. In addition to the Burlington location, fans near the Union can visit its stores in Exton and Whitehall, Pennsylvania.

Tom Williams, Chief Experience Officer, America's Tire, said, "As America's Tire continues to expand its presence in the Northeast, our objective is to exceed customer expectations by ensuring consistent, reliable support across every interaction.”

Charlie Slonaker, Chief Revenue Officer, Philadelphia Union, said, "We're excited to welcome America's Tire as a partner of the Philadelphia Union. Through this partnership, we share a commitment to helping keep our communities safe by raising awareness about tyre safety and road readiness among our fans."

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!