The auto wholesales for February 2025 are out, and the industry has posted numbers in the red. The latest automotive wholesales data from the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) for February showed that a total of 1.82 million units were sold last month, which was 7 percent lower as compared to 1.94 million units sold for the same period last year and 8 percent lower than that of January 2025 sales.

The de-growth was primarily driven by a slowdown in sales of two-wheelers, especially motorcycles, which dropped by 13 percent YoY.

In the passenger vehicle space, SUVs continued to drive demand, registering a healthy growth of 9 percent with sales coming at 208,795 units, compared to 191,435 units a year ago. Passenger cars, on the other hand, reported sales of 110,966 units, which was 4 percent lower compared to the same period last year.

Three-wheeler sales came to 57,788 units, which was 5 percent higher compared to 55,175 units sold last year. The sales were driven by passenger carriers and goods carriers in the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) segment, as compared to a negative growth witnessed by the E-rickshaw and E-cart segment.

Going forward, all eyes are on the Holi and the Ugadi festivals, which is expected to provide a positive fillip to the monthly sales.

Rajesh Menon, Director General, SIAM, stated that the “Upcoming festivities of Holi and Ugadi in March is likely to continue to drive demand, thereby closing FY 2024-25 on a reasonably positive note."

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Tyres Europe has announced that Brisa and Marangoni have become Full Members of the association, strengthening the European tyre manufacturing industry's collective presence.

Commenting on the development, Livio Magni, President, Tyres Europe, said, “We are pleased to welcome Brisa and Marangoni to Tyres Europe. Their joining reflects the importance of a strong and united industry voice at the European level, particularly at a time of increasing regulatory complexity and transformation for the tyre sector.”

Adam McCarthy, Secretary General, Tyres Europe, said, “The joining of Brisa and Marangoni reinforces the diversity and expertise within Tyres Europe, particularly in retreading and circular economy solutions. We look forward to working closely together on key EU policy files affecting competitiveness, sustainability and innovation in the tyre industry.”

Cenk Koçdor, Chief Growth Officer, Brisa, said, “Being part of such an influential platform that shapes the future of the industry at both European and global levels always makes us happy and proud. Through this full membership, we will contribute to the dialogue on regulations and market dynamics while strengthening our market intelligence to deliver greater value for our customers. With our capabilities, we will help reinforce the strategic role of tyres within a sustainable mobility ecosystem and support the industry’s readiness for the future.”

Vittorio Marangoni, President, Marangoni, said, “We are proud to regain our status as a Full Member and look forward to contributing to the European tyre industry during this challenging period. We will also be happy to share with Tyres Europe our specific expertise in the circular economy of tyres.”

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Toyo Tires has once again been recognised for its commitment to sustainability through its inclusion in several prominent ESG investment indices. This marks the seventh consecutive year the company has been selected as a constituent of the FTSE4Good Index Series, a global benchmark for strong environmental, social and governance practices. Furthermore, Toyo Tires continues to be listed on the FTSE JPX Blossom Japan Index for the sixth year and the FTSE JPX Blossom Japan Sector Relative Index for the fourth year, both of which highlight leading Japanese companies in ESG performance.

These indices, created by FTSE Russell, employ rigorous evaluation criteria across areas such as climate change, corporate governance, health and safety and anti-corruption. The FTSE JPX Blossom Japan Index identifies top ESG performers from the Tokyo Stock Price Index (TOPIX), while the Sector Relative Index provides a sector-neutral view, emphasising companies with relatively strong ESG engagement within their industries and a demonstrated commitment to the low-carbon transition.

This ongoing recognition stems from Toyo Tires’ foundational Sustainability Management Policy, which positions ESG at the core of all corporate activities. The company is dedicated to the integrated advancement of its business objectives and its sustainability initiatives. Through this approach, Toyo Tires strives to foster a sustainable mobility society on a global scale.

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Linglong Tire organised the Linglong Winter Experience 2026 in the Austrian Alps in early February. This event gathered nearly 40 European tyre retailers for a comprehensive programme blending professional driving with product immersion. Nestled at 1,030 metres in Salzburger Land, the scenic Stegergut winter driving park provided the ideal terrain. Its challenging handling courses, expansive dynamic areas and circular tracks formed the perfect proving ground.

Guided by expert instructors, participants took the wheel of Toyota GR Yaris and GR Supra models, chosen specifically for their drift capabilities. Embracing the playful spirit of ‘one more drift’, the agenda focused on refining advanced driving techniques and mastering controlled drifts on the icy circuits. Over 120 kilometres of driving allowed every attendee to push their limits, hone vehicle control and indulge a passion for performance driving. Each training car was equipped with the new Linglong Sport Master Winter tyre in size 225/40 R18 92W. This model marks a milestone as the first Linglong tyre developed in Germany and manufactured solely in Europe, following its ‘good’ rating from the respected German publication auto motor und sport last autumn.

Beyond the adrenaline-fuelled driving, the experience included a detailed workshop showcasing Linglong’s latest products and upcoming marketing strategies. The schedule was balanced with traditional Alpine hospitality, featuring a serene horse-drawn sleigh ride through snowy vistas and a hearty meal in a classic mountain hut.

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This week marks the return of Kumho Tire USA to competitive off-road racing during a premier event in California’s Johnson Valley. Three experienced drivers – Stephen ‘Woody’ Rose Jr, Eric Wikle and Mark Duval – will compete in a challenging contest that blends high-speed desert runs with demanding rock crawling. Their vehicles will be equipped with the company’s LT-rated KUMHO Road Venture MT71 mud-terrain tyre, putting its rugged capabilities to a severe real-world test.

The drivers bring a wealth of proven skill to the race. Stephen ‘Woody’ Rose Jr is a veteran American off-road racer and past champion of this very event. Eric Wikle arrives with a reputation built on podium finishes, showcasing expertise in both technical crawling and desert racing. Rounding out the team is Mark Duval, an accomplished amateur racer and fabricator known for his success in rock crawling and off-road motorcycling.

The tyres supporting them are engineered for extreme conditions, designed to meet the needs of both professional racers and everyday adventurers. Key to their performance is a high-void tread pattern with a specialised zig-zag and dual-pitch design, aimed at delivering maximum off-road traction. Construction features such as increased block stiffness enhance handling both on and off the pavement. Additionally, integrated mud and stone ejector bars help protect the tyre from damage and promote self-cleaning in muddy environments. Through this combination of technologies, the MT71 aims to provide improved durability, off-road grip and confident on-road manners.

Ed Cho, CEO, Kumho Tire USA, said, "We are thrilled to return to off-road racing in the US and showcase our 'Performance Without Compromise' brand motto in action. This month's participation in the California desert event marks the beginning of Kumho Tire's growing involvement in off-road motorsports and reinforces our commitment to high-performing light truck products."

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