The Yokohama Rubber has developed a proprietary system that utilises AI to predict the physical properties of rubber compounds. The system is already being used to design rubber compounds for Yokohama tyres. The company is expecting the system’s ability to conduct a large number of virtual experiments will enable it to accelerate compound development, reduce development costs, and develop better performing products. The system also will make it easier for less-experienced engineers to create new compounds.

The system was developed under Yokohama’s new AI utilisation concept, HAICoLab, which was launched in October 2020. The system uses AI to predict a rubber compound’s physical properties based on the rubber compound design parameters input by an engineer. In addition, to facilitate engineers’ ability to confirm predicted results, the system includes a function that displays the certainty of predicted physical properties and one that searches for a compound composition that will achieve physical properties closest to the targeted ones. The new system enables collaborations between humans and AI that will lead to the acquisition of new knowledge. Going forward, Yokohama Rubber will expand the use of this new system for developing rubber compounds for use in tyres to a wide range of the company’s other products, including hoses and conveyor belts.

HAICoLab is an acronym for “Humans and AI ColLaborate” for digital innovation. It also has the meaning of a laboratory for joint research by humans and AI. The new concept aims at fostering digital innovations by facilitating collaborative efforts that merge human inspiration and creativity with the enormous data processing capability of AI. Yokohama aims to acquire new knowledge by creating and collecting data based on hypothetical conditions set by humans and then applying AI to predict, analyze and then search for the most optimal result. Yokohama Rubber has been advancing technological developments by using AI in its material and tire design and development processes. For example, in 2017 Yokohama Rubber unveiled a new rubber material development technology that applies materials informatics and a tyre design technology that applies informatics technology. Under its new HAICoLab concept, Yokohama Rubber is now using AI to develop innovative products and services as well as processes. Through this effort, Yokohama Rubber will contribute to the realisation of “Society 5.0,” a future society that will enhance people’s experiences and take advantage of innovative technologies such as AI and IoT, as advocated by the Japanese government’s Cabinet Office.

Wider range of AI utilisation

Tyre Trends spoke with Dr Eng. Masataka Koishi, Executive Fellow, Head of AI Laboratory, The Yokohama Rubber Co.,Ltd, for more details on the new development.

What led to the development of HAICoLab concept? Will this be extended to other areas of R&D?

 

We have been pursuing a number of AI initiatives, but they are limited to certain areas. Moving forward, our desire to use AI in a wide range of fields led us to create HAICoLab as a framework to support more widespread use of AI in the future.

In addition to serving as the foundation of our future future efforts, I think it will also help communicate Yokohama Rubber’s stance on AI utilisation.

We believe that people will play the key role in achieving digital innovation, which will be achieved by applying AI to real and virtual data that is based on hypothesis setting that is derived from human inspiration and eliminates cognitive bias. This collaboration between humans and AI is what we are calling HAICoLab.

Prior to formulating HAICoLab, we were proceeding with technological developments using AI in our material and tyre design and development processes. In 2017 we announced a rubber material development technology that applies materials informatics and a tyre design technology that uses informatics technology. We are now working on the structures, materials, and production areas that will lead to innovative processes (design development) and products.

Developments in other areas are not yet at a stage where we can make any concrete public announcements.

Please comment on the R&D team. Is Yokohama working in association with any University, Research Institute etc?

We are applying the results of research conducted with universities and research institutes in Japan and overseas in our development of materials informatics and tyre design technology using informatics as well as to HAICoLab. Meanwhile, our effort to generate virtual data through simulations and analyse that data using machine learning is being carried out on supercomputers available through Japan’s High Performance Computing Infrastructure (HPCI) as well as our own supercomputers.

How is Yokohama proceeding to adopt AI in other areas of tyre development?

Similar to our effort with compounds, we are now making preparations for the use of AI when considering tyre design specifications. However, we are not yet at the stage where we can say anything more specific.

While developing new concepts, is Yokohama focusing on new innovations in the automotive sector? Kindly comment in detail

We believe that the tyres of the future will need to respond to the trends towards the application of CASE and IoT technologies in automobiles. Accordingly, we are developing new technologies that will accommodate CASE. For example, as previously announced at a press conference at the 46th Tokyo Motor Show held in 2019, in the CASE domain of connectivity we are conducting joint research and development with Alps Alpine with a view to creating a solution business that will supplement our existing tire air pressure detection sensor with the ability to detect tread wear and road-surface conditions and then use digital tools to process and manage the acquired data.

In addition, this February we announced our SensorTire Technology Vision, a medium- and long-term vision for developing new technologies for passenger car tyre sensors. By implementing this Vision, we aim to support people’s mobility and contribute to the safe and secure operation of motor vehicles while addressing the changes in mobility demand by providing data obtained from SensorTires (IoT tyres) fitted with sensing functions to drivers and businesses providing various automobile-related services.

Looking further into the future, we plan to connect this data collected by our SensorTires with map data and road traffic related information (traffic jams, weather conditions, etc.) to provide value-added information, such as proposals for safe driving routes, that will contribute to the safe operation of autonomous-drive vehicles as well as the operations of companies engaged in MaaS-related businesses. By anticipating the various changed being brought about by electrification of the automobile and quickly and appropriately expanding our product lineup, we hope to secure a dominant position in the evolving tire market. (TT)

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.”

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.”

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.”

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.”