Some airlines may pay for their tyres by the retreads. There is an initial payment for the virgin tyre, and then a subsequent payment for the initial retread and further payments until the tyre account is settled. If the tyre fails prior to the final payment being made, then the tyre manufacturer wears the cost.

The secret (not so secret really!) to a successful retread programme is the pressure maintenance regime. If the appropriate pressures are applied to the tyre during its initial life, then we are able to deliver a sound virgin casing/carcass to the retreading plant.

In speaking with so many retreading facilities, they all detail a high rejection rate of casings submitted for retreading. The primary reason for rejection is the breakdown of the tyre’s structure as a result of under inflation.

So how does this affect the use of resources and subsequent emissions?

I have sighted figures purported to have been produced by the global accounting firm Ernst & Young (now EY), which detail a 70 percent reduction in natural resource extraction, 19 percent reduction in water consumption (potable water is one of the next global issues to deal with) and 21 percent reduction in air pollution. A truck tyre casing (say 11R22.5) that is retreaded will reduce oil consumption by about 50 litres – obviously more for a larger tyre.

Many tyre OEMs do promote the retreadability of their casings; it is just plain economic sense when you stop to think about it. Acquiring a product where you use 30 percent (by weight) only to then throw the rest onto the scrap pile is economic stupidity, but that is what seems to happen in most road transport organisations.

Maintaining tyre inflation pressures is too difficult, they say. Well, yes, if you are stuck in the 1950s where the only way to check inflation pressure was to use a manual gauge. In the 2000s, we started using tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) to gain real time information about tyres in operation. Now we can stream data and identify issues such as binding brakes, wheel ends in failure mode as well as inappropriately inflated tyres. We’ve tuned operating tyres so that tyres operate in unison or as a team across an axle and so over the entire vehicle. Not being able to view tyre pressures in real time is so last century.

By tuning the inflation pressure of a tyre, the structural integrity can be assured so that when the tread worn tyre is presented at the retreading facility, it is accepted rather than rejected.  Thus, a serious saving in resource use is generated; there is a substantial reduction in emissions as well as reduction in land use both from the initial growing of the natural rubber to the reduction of land fill.

A simple act can generate substantial savings. Why do so many educated people ignore this aspect? Why do bean counters not consider tyres in a holistic manner?

Purchasing a ’cheap’ tyre may appear to ‘save money’, but more often than not, the cost of operations actually rises. HOW? I hear the abacus jockeys cry!  A low-cost tyre more often than not has a higher rolling resistance than a quality casing. Research and development costs, low cost operators that have copied or cloned don’t bear these costs.   Consider the fuel burn over the life of a tyre, say 150,000 km. A two percent saving on the fuel burn equates to how much? When we consider the actual life of the low-cost tyre, more than likely it requires more maintenance, so there is more downtime, added rotations to gain the maximum wear from the tread package and then there is the disposal fee on the spent casing as it cannot be retreaded.

Considering tyres in a holistic manner is not something bean counters consider or actually even know about. Tyres directly influence the fuel burn of a vehicle, the wheel end life and the suspension life, even affecting the driver’s fatigue levels – not to consider the environmental aspects such as emissions and disposal.

So if an aircraft can take off and land safely on retreaded tyres, then why can’t on-road transport trucks use retreaded casings? It comes back to the neglect shown to the tyre during the initial life. It seems that people just don’t care; they don’t understand the criticality of appropriate tyre inflation pressures.

Within the Performance Based Standards for high performance trucks operating on Australian roads (think triple trailers running quad axles), there is a statement that succinctly details what a tyre contributes, to wit  ;

“All the forces needed to both support and guide a vehicle ultimately arise in the area of contact between the tyre and the roadway. These forces are generated at the road surface in response to the deformation of the tyre structure.”

As tyre deformation is the product of inflation levels, there is a direct relationship between tyre inflation levels and vehicle safety. Why do people choose to ignore tyre inflation when it is so easy to monitor and comes with so many positive benefits?

So installing a simple regime of monitoring tyres in real time tyre casings to evidence   that the tyres have not experienced a low pressure event (so destroying the casing’s integrity) means they can be selected for retreading. This eliminates the main excuse for not retreading, i.e. the rejection rate is too high. It is that simple!

A cheap tyre is not necessarily an economic positive. A well-maintained quality tyre will generate savings upon savings and then will also be able to do it all over again after retreading.

Many governments mandate the use of retreaded tyres on utility vehicles as it is well understood there is not only an economic benefit but an environmental benefit too!

If we, the global community, continue to consume resources without considering a reduction in the rate of consumption, then we’re doomed to exhaustion. Using a resource (read tyre) at only 30 percent and then disposing it of does not make any sense (nor cents!). Retreading of tyres is a sound practice based upon sound science. Why are so many businesses throwing their hard earned cash away because the abacus jockeys don’t know and don’t care about tyres?

Success does not reward a lack of effort. How much effort are your bean counters making in respect of tyres ?

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Ironman Tires, a brand owned by Hercules Tire and Rubber Company (HTR), a wholly owned subsidiary of American Tire Distributors, has unveiled the All Country HT 4S, marking the brand's entry into the all-weather highway terrain segment. Engineered for daily drivers, this new model delivers reliable traction throughout the year, improved ride comfort and consistent performance in diverse conditions. It represents an expansion of the established All Country family, now offering a highway-focused option that integrates sophisticated tread architecture and advanced material science.

A key distinction of the All Country HT 4S is its Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certification, achieved through a specialised all-weather compound without sacrificing longevity or value. The tyre’s intricate tread pattern, developed using advanced modelling, enhances wet road handling and braking while contributing to a smoother ride. Its construction is tuned to sharpen steering response and minimise road noise thanks to a carefully arranged tread block design and simulated pitch sequencing that reduces vibration at higher speeds.

The tyre's capability is supported by four wide circumferential grooves and 3D siping, which work together to expel water and provide grip on snow and ice. Built for both daily commutes and long-distance travel, the HT 4S aims to balance comfort with all-season security. Initially launching in 27 sizes, with a total of 46 planned, it carries a 600 UTQG rating, indicating a focus on treadwear. Ironman backs the model with a comprehensive protection plan that includes a 60-month policy against defects, road hazard coverage and a 55,000-mile (approximately 88,513 km) warranty, reinforcing its commitment to dependable and affordable products.

Keith Calcagno, Chief Strategy Officer, Proprietary Brands, American Tire Distributors, said, “The All Country HT 4S brings all-weather confidence to the highway terrain segment. These tyres are designed for drivers who want a quiet, comfortable ride with dependable traction in rain and snow – all at a value they can trust.”

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Firestone AG, a division of Bridgestone Americas, has broadened its Maxi Traction and Radial Deep Tread 23° tyre portfolios with new sizes engineered specifically for the latest generation of John Deere tractors. The expanded lineup was introduced at the Commodity Classic 2026 show, reflecting a parallel development process with John Deere’s recent machinery innovations, which assures growers of reliable performance from a trusted tyre brand. Now included in the RCI Group 50, the range features the flagship VF480/95R54 size, a 90-inch-tall tyre with a load capacity of 16,100 pounds (approximately 7,302 kg).

Engineered for superior ground contact, the Radial Deep Tread 23° ensures steady traction through optimised lug-to-soil interaction. In contrast, the Maxi Traction tyre, frequently used on front axles, delivers extended tread life and increased load potential. For certain sizes, Very High Flexion technology is offered, enabling farmers to operate at lower inflation pressures. This expands the tyre's footprint, boosts traction and plays a vital role in reducing harmful soil compaction. Availability for these new sizes is scheduled to begin 1 May 2026.

Bill Durivage, Senior Agricultural Product Strategy Manager, Firestone Ag, said, “This expansion takes our most established row crop fitment and carries it forward. By strengthening load capacity and incorporating our VF technology, we’re ensuring the tyres continue to support the performance, efficiency and soil management expectations of today’s tractors.”

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Superteam Wheels, a prominent Chinese manufacturer of carbon fibre bicycle wheelsets, has entered into a significant three-year strategic alliance with GCN Italia, the Italian arm of the internationally acclaimed cycling media outlet, Global Cycling Network (GCN). This initiative follows the brand's successful partnerships with GCN's French and Spanish channels established in 2025. By now collaborating with all three major GCN platforms serving France, Spain and Italy, Superteam Wheels is strategically reinforcing its presence within core European markets. This concerted effort represents a vital step in the company's broader plan to deepen its global footprint, particularly across Southern Europe.

Under the terms of this new partnership, Superteam Wheels intends to capitalise on GCN Italia's substantial regional influence across leading global social media networks such as YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The collaboration will drive comprehensive brand promotion and the development of co-created content tailored specifically for these platforms. The joint initiatives will focus on producing a diverse array of original material, which is set to include professional assessments of carbon fibre wheelsets designed for road and gravel cycling, authentic local riding experiences and thorough explorations of fundamental carbon fibre technologies.

The content strategy is designed to resonate with the unique perspectives and interests of Italian cycling enthusiasts, effectively demonstrating the technological expertise and intrinsic value of Superteam products. Ultimately, the partnership aims to not only bolster the brand's connection with this key audience but also to further ignite the passion for cycling among enthusiasts both within Southern Europe and across the global community.

Chris Zeng, Overseas Business Manager, Superteam Wheels, said, "Italy is the heart of global cycling, with profound heritage and discerning enthusiasts. GCN Italia is our key bridge to connect Superteam's Chinese carbon fibre expertise with local riders. Building on our 2025 partnerships with GCN France and Spain, this collaboration further strengthens our presence across Europe. We are committed to delivering high-performance, cost-effective wheelsets, enabling more cyclists to experience the exceptional performance of our carbon fibre technology and become part of the European cycling story.”

Dario Esposito, Business Director International, GCN Italia, said, "I hope this solution is appreciated by both parties and that we can expand our valuable partnership to GCN Italia.”

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Kumho Tire USA is set to intensify its commitment to the SUV and truck market by taking a prominent role in a series of off-road events throughout 2026. Following its successful appearances in 2024 and 2025, the company plans to use these gatherings as a platform to boost brand visibility, demonstrate the capabilities of its specialised Road Venture tyre line and forge stronger connections with off-road enthusiasts.

This strategy reflects a focused effort to engage with the growing community of SUV and truck owners. By participating directly in these enthusiast-driven events, the company creates a valuable opportunity to present its products firsthand. This approach allows Kumho to reinforce its standing as a premium alternative that balances exceptional quality and performance with affordability.

The 2026 tour is scheduled to commence at the Overland Expo SoCal in March. A newly designed 80-foot marketing truck and trailer will be the centrepiece of Kumho’s presence at various stops along the tour. This mobile exhibit will offer interactive displays, distribute branded merchandise and prominently feature the Road Venture lineup, which includes the RT, AT52 and MT71 models. Engineered for challenging terrain, this tyre series is recognised for its robustness, reliable performance and comprehensive warranty. Attendees will also have the chance to speak with company ambassadors on-site, who can provide personalised guidance to help drivers select the most suitable Road Venture tyre for their specific vehicle and driving needs.

Kumho Tire’s full 2026 off-road event schedule is listed below:

• Overland Expo SoCal: 14–15 March, Costa Mesa, Calif.
• Jeep Beach: 17–26 April, Daytona Beach, Fla.
• Overland Expo West: 15–17 May, Flagstaff, Ariz.
• Overland Expo PNW: 26–28 June, Redmond, Ore.
• New Jersey Jeep Invasion: 10–12 July, Wildwood, N.J.
• New Jersey Bronco Invasion: 17–19 July, Wildwood, N.J.
• The Smoky Mountain Bronco Stampede: 14–16 August, Pigeon Forge, Tenn.
• The Smoky Mountain Invasion: 20–22 August, Pigeon Forge, Tenn.
• Off-Road Expo: 3–4 October, Costa Mesa, Calif.

Ed Cho, CEO, Kumho Tire USA, said, "We are incredibly excited to bring our dedicated Road Venture product line directly to off-road enthusiasts at major events like Overland Expo and Jeep Beach in 2026. Building on our initial involvement since 2024, this year's expanded presence demonstrates our commitment to the segment and marks a significant milestone in Kumho Tire's strategy to strengthen connections with SUV and truck consumers."

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