Does post-pandemic lockdowns prompt any priority change for ATMA? Will there be a campaign for greater health safeguards for tyre company workers?

Tyre companies have been at the forefront of maintaining safety standards based on guidelines /advisories during last one year. Tyre companies were perhaps the first to shut down operations when the call for lockdown was given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year. It needs to be appreciated that Tyre is a continuous process industry. Sudden shutdown results in huge losses in terms of wastage of raw material and other Work in Progress inventories. Restarting operations involves picking up several pieces involving significant effort. Being a continuous process industry, we could have argued for waiver from the lockdown. However, in appreciation of the real intent of the lockdowns and Tyre Companies being responsible Corporate citizens, aimed at safeguarding lives, went for a shutdown. ATMA has already issued Covid Compliant Standards for the benefit of all tyre plants. Health if its employees including workers has always been a priority with ATMA members, and this will continue to be so going forward.

How do you plan to take cheap tyre import issue to the next level?

Government has introduced certain much-needed measures by curbing indiscriminate import aimed at making the country ‘Aatmnirbhar.’ As we have observed, the imports from China that accounted for the lion’s share in tyre imports in India, have come down significantly after import curbs were initiated. However, it is also being observed that the percentage share of some other countries in total tyre imports in India has gone up substantially. As per the latest tyre import official data, Thailand has displaced China as the largest source of Truck & Bus radial tyres (TBR). Nearly 50% of TBR imported in India in the first three quarters of FY21 are from Thailand. Even in Passenger Car Radials (PCR) imports in India, Thailand has come to account for largest share of 35% in the Apr-Dec’20 period. We are taking up with the Government for all such indiscriminate imports about which the Government has exhorted various sectors to strengthen their domestic manufacturing capacities and capabilities, especially in the automotive space. We are also keenly looking at the measures to further boost domestic production under the PLI scheme for Automotive Sector.

As the automotive sector shows signs of resurgence, how do you foresee the growth of tyre business in India?

After two years of downward trend, things are looking up for the Auto sector in India. Different surveys point to 14 to 18% growth for the Auto sector in FY22. Tyre Industry’s growth is closely linked to Auto sector’s performance and the economic graph. Since economy is also projected to grow at upwards of 10% by different agencies, we expect growth in tyre demand to be in sync with economic and auto sector’s growth. Hopefully tyre imports will remain in check and the growth in demand will be met by Indian manufacturing. The focus on Infrastructure investment by the Government, should lead to higher demand generation in the automobile sector.

The proposed Scrappage Policy is expected to see an increase in new tyre sales. How do you foresee the development? Do you think a similar policy could be implemented for tyres as well?

The new vehicle scrappage policy is a welcome move since it is aimed at phasing out unfit and polluting vehicles from the roads paving the way of boosting the demand for new and environment-friendly vehicles No doubt, the new policy has potential to kick start the revival of the Indian auto sector and the entire automotive value chain including tyres.

The policy with in-built incentives should boost the demand for new and environment-friendly vehicles. It would lead to recovery in Medium & Heavy Commercial Vehicles and its positive demand on tyres which have remained under stress for long and, in the process, also give a fillip to Truck & Bus tyre segment.

Regarding scrappage policy for tyres, any initiative that leads to replacing of worn-out tyres beyond their useful and safe life will be a welcome move. Over the last few years, ATMA & its technical arm Indian Tyre Technical Advisory committee (ITTAC) have been intensely involved in creating awareness on Tyre Care & Road safety through On-ground activations, Tyre clinics, Safety seminars, Mass media messaging, Social media campaigns, Participation at expos, Launching of safety calendars, Animation films and other possible interfaces urging the motorists to replace worn out and poorly maintained tyres before it is too late. Tyre industry is willing to partner in any initiative that leads to replacement of risky worn-out tyres and make the road usage and conditions safer.

The Budget has also focused on bigger infrastructure development and promotion of public transport. What is your take on the readiness of Indian tyre manufacturers to exploit the bigger opportunities?

Tyre industry is ahead of the demand curve. An unprecedented amount of over Rs 50,000 crore was invested across 4-5 years before the pandemic in creating new capacities and R&D. The new capacities are now coming on stream and are geared to meet increased demand borne out of Infra development and other growth drivers. As a vibrant part of Aatmnirbhar Bharat, Tyre Industry has been conscious of its responsibility to the nation and has been investing heavily in new capacities building and research & development. India is one of the few countries that are self-reliant in manufacturing of practically all varieties of tyres.

How does ATMA look to support the uncertainties in the Natural Rubber sector? While looking for easier availability options like new rubber alternatives, will there be any further steps to support the NR sector?

A well-developed and competitive domestic NR sector is very close to Tyre Industry’s heart. The fact remains that domestic production of NR is short of its requirement by over 40%. Rubber Board has certainly made sincere efforts to increase the production and productivity of NR in the country; however significant production- consumption gap continues to exist.

A project for supporting development of new rubber plantations in North East and improving quality of processed forms of rubber has been finalised under the guidance and active mentoring of Mr Piyush Goyal, Hon’ble Minister for Commerce and Industry, Government of India. The project is designed to implement the scheme for developing 200,000 hectares (ha) of rubber plantations in the North Eastern States with financial participation by major tyre companies, represented by ATMA with technical support and coordination by the Rubber Board.

While the NR project looks towards long-term availability of NR, for the short term, Tyre Industry has urged the Rubber Board to help the industry tide over the imminent crisis. (TT)

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Smithers, a renowned provider of testing, consulting, information and compliance services, has announced that its proving ground at Treadwell Research Park in Pearsall, Texas, has achieved ISO 17025 accreditation.

Operated on behalf of Discount Tyre, the facility’s accredited scope currently covers wet grip testing and tyre buffing, with plans to expand accreditation to include rolling resistance and pass-by-noise testing. The site boasts diverse paved and off-road test surfaces for comprehensive tyre performance validation. Additionally, it complies with UNECE Regulation No. 117 for Wet Grip and Pass-by Noise standards. This accreditation underscores Smithers' commitment to delivering high-quality testing services in the tyre industry.

Sean Connolly, Director of Test Track Operations at Smithers Winter Test Centre/Pearsall Test Track, said, “The tyre industry is currently focused on a variety of sustainability initiatives, such as reducing the rate of tread wear to extend the life of the tyre. Understanding tyre performance at varying levels of tread wear is critical for tyre manufacturers looking to get the most out of their designs.”

Jim Popio, PhD, Vice President, Smithers Materials Science and Engineering Division, North America, said, “We’re incredibly proud that our existing processes and procedures meet the rigorous requirements of ISO 17025 accreditation. Accurate data, on time, is central of the Smithers promise on a global scale, and we strive to go above and beyond our clients’ expectations with exceptional service as well.”

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Michelin, a leading tyre technology company, has launched its first Michelin Experience Store in India, in partnership with Bharat Tyres. The facility spread across 25,000 sqft is located in Adgaon on the Mumbai-Agra highway, Nashik and is Michelin’s largest store in the country.

It is designed not only to provide a premium experience, but also showcases the company’s global legacy through the Michelin Wall. Customers will also be to experience the Heritage Wall that visualise the heritage of both Michelin and its local dealership partner.

The Michelin Experience Store also has a Display Zone that showcases Michelin’s innovations in electric mobility, materials science and environmental responsibility.

The dealership also includes service areas for cars and trucks, PPF coating, precision wheel alignment, advanced balancing services, innovative puncture repair solutions, professional car detailing and a wide array of car accessories. 

Shantanu Deshpande, Managing Director, Michelin India, said, “We are proud to unveil Michelin’s first Experience Centre in India. The sole purpose of this store is to go beyond traditional tyre retail and provide customers an immersive experience of the brand, of our dealer partners and of the technological prowess of our tyre solutions that are safe and sustainable. Nashik, a key hub with growing premium vehicle ownership, is the first of many such centres that will further strengthen our footprint in the western region while providing state-of-the-art experience and services to evolving customers.”

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Radar Tyres, the flagship brand of Omni United, has appointed Sami Jauhojärvi, Olympic gold medallist and one of Finland’s most celebrated cross-country skiers, as its official brand ambassador.

Jauhojärvi's sporting excellence – built on resilience, performance and a profound connection with nature – mirrors Radar Tyres' commitment to delivering premium-quality tyres across all seasons and terrains at accessible prices. The brand's comprehensive range includes Summer, All Season, Winter and specialist Ice tyres, designed to meet diverse driving needs with reliable performance.

This collaboration represents a strategic alignment as Radar Tyres expands its European and UK presence. Jauhojärvi will serve as brand ambassador, featuring in marketing campaigns, digital initiatives and local events while sharing his expertise to support Radar Tyres' mission of making high-performance tyres available to all drivers.

G S Sareen, Founder and CEO of Omni United, said, “We’re excited to welcome Sami to the Radar family. Sami’s authenticity, credibility and strong connection with his audience make him an ideal partner for us. He embodies the spirit of perseverance and performance – the same qualities we build into every Radar tyre. As we continue to grow our brand across Europe, partnerships like this play a key role in building deeper connections with consumers. We’re excited to build on this momentum with more such collaborations in the near future.”

Jauhojärvi said, “I am thrilled to represent Radar Tyres, a brand that has a remarkable mission to make premium quality and performance accessible to all and also has deep-rooted values of giving back to society via various initiatives it has undertaken over the years such as supporting breast cancer research. I’m sincerely surprised about the performance and silence of my Radar Tyres and happy to deliver this feedback to all the people.”

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Kenda Tires is celebrating Dan ‘The Flying Dutchman’ Vanden Heuvel's nomination to the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame's Class of 2025, recognising his legendary 49-year career as both a champion racer and community leader.

Since entering his first race at age 15 in 1977 at Crandon International Raceway, Vanden Heuvel has become one of off-road racing's most respected figures. His aggressive driving style earned him 20+ Pro-Class wins, five Crandon World Championships and a PRO-2 title. As owner of Flying Dutchman Racing, he mentored numerous drivers including his son Mikey, who secured Kenda Tires' historic first PRO-2 victory.

Beyond competition, Vanden Heuvel's greatest impact comes from his tireless community work. He co-founded the Midwest Off-Road Racing Association, created the Short Course Kart Series for young racers and established the MORR Injured Driver Fund with his wife Nancy. His hands-on approach – from building tracks to mentoring drivers – has shaped generations of off-road enthusiasts.

Now as Kenda Tires' Product Display Manager, Vanden Heuvel continues supporting the sport, assisting drivers across multiple series while representing Kenda at events nationwide. His dedication embodies the brand's values of community and passion for motorsports.

The formal induction ceremony will be held on 2 November 2025 in Las Vegas. This honour celebrates not just Vanden Heuvel's remarkable racing achievements but his enduring legacy as an ambassador who has profoundly influenced off-road culture.

Brandon Stotsenburg, VP of Automotive Division, Kenda Tires USA, said, “Dan is more than a legend – he is a mentor, a servant-leader and the beating heart of the off-road community. He helped deliver Kenda’s first PRO championship and still shows up for others every single weekend. We are honoured to have him represent Kenda and even more proud to call him family.”

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