ON THE ROAD: ASHOK LEYLAND LAUNCHES INDIA’S FIRST 4-AXEL 14-WHEELER TRUCK
- By TT News
- May 05, 2021
The AVTR 4120 can operate 40.5 Ton with the lift axle down, producing revenue and payload similar to a 10X2 truck or haul 28 Ton with the lift axel up, having higher fuel efficiency comparable to a 6X2 during light/partial load. This flexibility allows owners to operate the AVTR 4120 at a large GVW band, achieving the best total operation cost.
Other notable features of the AVTR 4120 are:
• Build on a modular platform and offers three cabin option: N Cab, U Cab and M Cab
• N Cabin variant comes equipped with Suspended cab with dampers, Suspended driver seat, Anti-roll bar in the front, excellent storage spaces, Full Metal Front Facia, Music system, AC & HVAC options.
• The company is also offering maintenance-free Unitised wheel bearings, slipper ended rear suspension and so on for owners to choose from. (TT)

RENAULT TO OFFER ELECTRIC TRUCKS FOR EACH MARKET FROM 2023
Volvo Group’s subsidiary- Renault Trucks announced an all-electric truck will be available for each segment, namely distribution, construction and long-distance from 2023.
To achieve these goals, Renault Trucks is backed by dedicated units, both in Research and Development and in the sales and after-sales departments.
On the R&D side, Renault Trucks intends to meet the main technological challenges of this revolution through strategic partnerships, as well as relying on technologies within the Volvo Group to increase volumes and reduce costs.
To facilitate this sustainable transition, The French company will also have the support of its new R&D centre in Lyon – the X-Tech Arena - which will be built by the beginning of 2023 through an investment of EUR 33 million.
In March 2020, Renault Trucks began series production of its second generation of electric vehicles at the Blainville-sur-Orne plant.
Renault Trucks now boasts a comprehensive all-electric range on the market, from 3.1 to 26 tonnes. Comprising of the D Z.E., D Wide Z.E. and the Master Z.E., it meets the requirements of urban transport, delivery, distribution and waste collection. (TT)
YAMAHA R15 VERSION 3.0 LAUNCHED IN METALLIC RED
India Yamaha Motor announced another exciting update on the existing range of YZF-R15 Version 3.0. The sporty bike will now be available in the all-new ‘Metallic Red’ colour from April 1st in India.
The entry-level sports bike retains the 155cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve, fuel-injected engine equipped with innovative technologies like Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) and Assist & Slipper (A&S) Clutch.
The Metallic Red colour edition of YZF-R15 Version 3.0. is priced at Rs. 1,52,100 (Ex-showroom Delhi).
The sports motorcycle is available in 3 existing colours – Racing Blue, Thunder Grey and Darknight.
All models in the Yamaha line-up are also equipped with a Side Stand Engine Cut-off Switch which prevents engine ignition till the side stand is withdrawn & ensures convenience to riders. (TT)
Michelin Introduces XHA3 Earthmover Tyre At ConExpo 2026
- By TT News
- March 04, 2026
Michelin North America, Inc. has launched the Michelin XHA3 tyre at ConExpo 2026. The product is the next generation in the company’s loader and grader range, succeeding the XHA2 model.
The XHA3 replaces several previous lines, including the XHA2, XADN+, XAD65 and XLD. According to the company, this launch represents its most significant innovation in the earthmoving segment in over a decade.
The new tyre has been engineered to meet the requirements of modern construction machinery, which now operate with higher loads and longer duty cycles. The XHA3 features increased load capacity and improved tonne-kilometre-per-hour (TKPH) performance compared to its predecessor.
It is built to carry heavier loads for modern earthmoving equipment. A new tread pattern engineered for durability and traction in loader and grader applications. It is designed to increase TKPH performance and extend tyre life. Aimed at reducing the total cost of ownership for fleet operators.
Yahn Heurlin, VP of Marketing, Michelin North America, said, “With the Michelin XHA3 tire, we’re building on a heritage our customers trust while delivering the next level of performance they demand. Construction equipment continues to evolve with higher loads, longer duty cycles and greater productivity expectations. The XHA3 tire, is designed to help fleets unlock more ton-per-hour performance, carry heavier loads with confidence and extend tire life, all while reducing total cost of ownership.”
Michelin Becomes Official Partner Of Rocket League Championship Series 2026
- By TT News
- March 03, 2026
Michelin has announced a strategic collaboration with BLAST, the organiser behind the 2026 Rocket League Championship Series (RLCS), which serves as the premier global tournament for the popular video game Rocket League. Through this agreement, Michelin becomes an official partner of one of the most energetic and widely viewed eSports properties on the international stage.
Rocket League itself enjoys immense global popularity, attracting several million active participants on a monthly basis. The RLCS season consistently draws tens of millions of views across the world, underscoring its significant reach. This move allows Michelin to deepen its involvement in the competitive gaming sector by associating with a high-profile series known for its passionate following.
The game’s core dynamic involves vehicles competing in a fast-paced arena where precision, control and rapid execution are paramount. These very attributes closely align with Michelin’s established heritage in mobility solutions and high-performance engineering, particularly its extensive background in motorsport. The partnership therefore represents a natural extension of the brand’s core principles into a digital environment.
By entering the world of the RLCS, Michelin seeks to enhance its connection with younger demographics and solidify its relevance within the digital spaces that are increasingly defining future trends and cultural habits. This initiative builds on a foundation of over 25 years during which Michelin has cultivated partnerships within the gaming and automotive simulation spheres, consistently applying its technological know-how to support both realism and superior performance in virtual driving experiences.
- Yokohama Rubber
- Yokohama ADVAN Tyres
- Nürburgring 24-Hour Race
- Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie
- BMW M Motorsport
Yokohama Becomes BMW M Motorsport’s Official Tyre Partner For 2026 Nürburgring Events
- By TT News
- March 03, 2026
The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., has entered into a new agreement to serve as the official tyre supplier for BMW M Motorsport, the division responsible for the brand's global racing endeavours. This collaboration will debut at the prestigious Nürburgring 24-Hour Race and throughout the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie in 2026.
This renewed partnership revives a historical connection between the two companies, who previously worked together on the same iconic circuit from 1980 to 1990. During that initial decade-long stint, their combined efforts secured two overall victories. After an interval of nearly four decades, they are reuniting for the current season to compete in the premier SP9 class, fielding the BMW M4 GT3 EVO. For this campaign, Yokohama will equip the vehicle with its high-performance ADVAN racing tyres, with the shared objective of capturing another overall win.

Beyond its tie-up with the BMW team, Yokohama Rubber continues its longstanding commitment to the Nürburgring. It will provide its tyres to numerous leading teams contesting both the endurance series and the 24-hour event this season. The company is focused on achieving an overall championship victory for a vehicle equipped with its YOKOHAMA brand tyres.
Franciscus Van Meel, CEO, BMW M GmbH, said, “We are excited to welcome YOKOHAMA as Official Partner of BMW M Motorsport for our Nürburgring programme. YOKOHAMA’s technical expertise and motorsport passion strengthen our drive for maximum performance and precision. Their support allows our team to focus fully on what defines BMW M Motorsport: pushing the limits on every lap. We look forward to a strong endurance season.”
Team: Schubert Motorsport
Class: SP9
Car: BMW M4 GT3 EVO
Tyres:
ADVAN A005 (for dry conditions); Sizes: front 300/680R18, rear 330/710R18
ADVAN A006 (for wet conditions); Sizes: front 300/680R18, rear 320/710R18
Race Schedule (as of date of this release)
March 14 (Sat): NLS Round 1
March 21 (Sat): NLS Round 2
April 11 (Sat): NLS Round 3
April 18 (Sat) –19 (Sun): Nürburgring 24-Hour Race (Qualifiers) , NLS Rounds 4 & 5
May 14 (Thu) –17 (Sun): Nürburgring 24-Hour Race
June 20 (Sat): NLS Round 6
August 1 (Sat): NLS Round 7
September 12 (Sat) –13 (Sun): NLS Rounds 8 & 9
October 10 (Sat): NLS Round 10
Second-Generation Laufenn X FIT AT2 All-Terrain Tyre Launched In US
- By TT News
- March 03, 2026
Hankook Tire has introduced the Laufenn X FIT AT2, a new addition to its all-terrain tyre lineup aimed at drivers who require durability and adaptability without compromising on everyday driving comfort. Positioned as an affordable option, this tyre is engineered to handle a mix of on-road and off-road conditions while delivering long-lasting value.
Building upon the foundation of its predecessor, the X FIT AT2 brings several performance upgrades. It features enhanced traction across varied landscapes, a 15 percent improvement in tread longevity and reliable handling in different weather conditions. The tyre is designed to fit a broad spectrum of light trucks and SUVs, with availability ranging from 15 to 22 inches to accommodate popular vehicle models in the market.
This launch reflects Laufenn’s ongoing strategy to diversify its offerings as it strengthens its presence in over 100 countries. Since its introduction in Europe, the brand has consistently expanded its range for both passenger vehicles and commercial applications, responding to shifting consumer needs. The X FIT AT2 reinforces this direction by providing a balance of rugged capability and composed road manners for those who frequently transition between highways and rougher terrain.
Engineered for resilience, the tyre incorporates a reinforced structure, including select sizes with three-ply sidewalls to resist cuts and impacts. Its tread design features directional and lateral grooves that enhance water dispersion and grip on slippery or loose surfaces. Additional protective elements such as offset shoulder blocks and rim guards help shield against debris and curb damage. A two-step deep sipe pattern promotes uniform wear, contributing to extended usability.
Certified with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol, the X FIT AT2 offers dependable performance in dry, wet and snowy winter conditions. It comes with warranty coverage tailored to its sizing, offering 60,000 miles for P-metric versions and 50,000 miles for LT-metric options. With this release, Laufenn continues to round out its portfolio alongside existing lines such as the S FIT, G FIT and I FIT series.
KC Jensen, Vice President – U.S. Passenger Car and Light Truck Sales, Hankook Tire America Corp, said, “The X FIT AT2 represents the next step forward for the Laufenn brand as we continue to deliver practical, dependable solutions for everyday drivers who also want the freedom to explore off-road. Building on the success of the original X FIT AT, this second-generation tyre offers a stronger blend of durability, versatility and everyday comfort at an accessible value.”

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