Yokohama Rubber Launches FLAME GUARD ECO Conveyor Belt

Yokohama Rubber Launches FLAME GUARD ECO Conveyor Belt

The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd. has expanded its FLAME GUARD series of flame-retardant conveyor belts with the launch of the FLAME GUARD ECO, which offers improved energy-saving performance. This is in line with the company’s medium-term management plan for fiscal years 2024–2026 –Yokohama Transformation 2026 (YX2026) – and aims to solidify its leading share in Japan’s conveyor belt market.

FLAME GUARD ECO is aimed at coal transport lines at ports and thermal power plants, which need conveyor belts that are flame-retardant for fire safety. To enhance energy-saving efficiency, Yokohama Rubber created a new rubber compound utilising technology acquired during the development of its ECOTEX conveyor belts, which have reached world-class power-saving performance. As the belt moves over the rollers, this lessens rubber deformation, which is a component in energy loss. Power usage and running resistance are thereby decreased. FLAME GUARD ECO reduces energy expenses and its environmental effect by lowering carbon dioxide emissions while simultaneously improving operational safety by combining flame resistance and energy economy.

With its self-extinguishing safety feature, the FLAME GUARD series provides flame retardancy with improved wear resistance, resistance to heavy oils and resistance to medium and high temperatures, making the belts suitable for a variety of operating requirements. The FLAME GUARD ECO variant also reduces resistance during roller passing for increased efficiency.

Superteam Wheels Deepens European Presence Through Kőbánya Cycling Team Partnership

Superteam Wheels Deepens European Presence Through Kőbánya Cycling Team Partnership

Superteam Wheels, a prominent Chinese manufacturer of carbon fibre bicycle wheelsets, has entered into a significant strategic alliance with Hungary’s Kőbánya Cycling Team, a UCI Continental squad. Under this agreement, Superteam will provide custom-engineered S-ALL Carbon Ultra H2 wheelsets to support the team’s rigorous training schedule and participation in high-level competitions, including events on the UCI Europe Tour. This collaboration underscores Superteam’s commitment to expanding its footprint in international professional cycling and highlights the recognition of its advanced carbon fibre technology by European teams.

Based in Budapest, Kőbánya Cycling Team stands as a key force in Eastern European professional cycling. The squad regularly competes in prestigious races such as the Tour of Hungary and the Tour of Szeklerland, where it has achieved notable results, including a stage podium at the Tour of Hungary and multiple top-10 finishes in events like the Tour of Romania. With a diverse roster featuring riders from Hungary, Italy, Norway and beyond, the team brings a wealth of experience and tactical sophistication to the partnership, enabling strong performance across varied racing conditions.

For this collaboration, Superteam has meticulously tailored the S-ALL Carbon Ultra H2 wheelset to meet the specific demands of professional racing. The wheels have been fine-tuned for optimal stiffness, reduced weight and enhanced aerodynamics, ensuring they perform exceptionally in scenarios ranging from high-speed sprints to climbing breakaways. This bespoke engineering embodies the brand’s commitment to delivering race-ready equipment, allowing athletes to compete on wheels that mirror those available to cycling enthusiasts.

Chris Zeng, Overseas Business Manager, Superteam Wheels, said, "The professional racing arena is the ultimate test of product performance. With years of experience in European professional events, Kőbánya Cycling Team has a profound and precise understanding of professional wheelset requirements. This customised collaboration is a practice of integrating our R&D capabilities with the real needs of the professional racing stage and a testament to our brand strength being recognised by the European professional cycling community. In the future, we will continue to refine our products to the stringent standards of UCI events, enabling more professional riders and cycling enthusiasts to experience the elevated riding performance brought by high-quality carbon fibre wheelsets."

Tana Oy Appoints Vest Assistanse As New Aftermarket Partner In Norway

Tana Oy Appoints Vest Assistanse As New Aftermarket Partner In Norway

Tana Oy, a Finnish environmental technology company specialising in manufacturing mobile solid waste shredders, screens and landfill compactors, is expanding its customer support in Norway. The company has entered into a partnership with Vest Assistanse, designating them as a new aftermarket service provider.

This collaboration ensures that TANA machine operators across the country will have access to reliable and efficient maintenance and technical support. Vest Assistanse brings a strong local presence and a team of experienced service professionals, positioning them to deliver swift response times and high-quality field service. Their expertise is aimed at helping customers maintain optimal machine performance and maximise operational uptime.

This strategic appointment reflects Tana’s sustained commitment to the Norwegian market. By strengthening its local service network, the company is enhancing its ability to provide comprehensive after-sales care, ultimately reinforcing its dedication to superior customer service and operational efficiency throughout the region.

Triple Test Triumph For Falken Ahead Of 2026 Summer Season

Triple Test Triumph For Falken Ahead Of 2026 Summer Season

Falken has entered the 2026 summer season with notable achievements in independent tyre evaluations, securing strong ratings for three distinct models. The high-performance AZENIS FK520, versatile ZIEX ZE320 and electric vehicle-focused e.ZIEX each demonstrated their capabilities in assessments conducted by leading automotive clubs and specialist media.

The ultra-high-performance AZENIS FK520 earned high praise in the sportauto summer tyre test, receiving an overall Very Good rating. With a total score of 8.6 out of 10 across all categories, it positions itself among top contenders in its class. The tyre achieved perfect 10 out of 10 points for exceptionally short braking distances on both wet and dry surfaces. Its handling, lateral grip and comfort also received commendable scores. The publication distinguished it as best value for money, highlighting its blend of performance and affordability.

In the Automobile Club of Germany (AvD) test, the Falken ZIEX ZE320 secured a Very Good rating and finished fifth among 15 competitors in the 215/55 R17 size. It delivered outstanding wet performance, earning high marks between 4.4 and 4.6 out of 5 for aquaplaning resistance, cornering stability and braking. The tyre maintained consistent dry performance and was noted for low noise levels. In the Greenovation category, it received a Good rating for efficient rolling resistance and low weight.

The e.ZIEX achieved a Good overall rating in the auto motor und sport summer test. With 7.2 out of 10 points in wet conditions and 8.4 on dry roads, it demonstrated balanced and secure performance. Exceptional ride comfort and very low interior noise, both scoring a perfect 10 out of 10, were particular highlights. Testers described it as an efficiency recommendation for electric vehicles, praising its quiet, predictable handling.

These test results demonstrate Falken's technical expertise and product evolution, reinforcing the brand's commitment to quality as the summer season approaches.

Kumho Tire USA Returns As Home Plate Signage Sponsor For 2026 MLB Season

Kumho Tire USA Returns As Home Plate Signage Sponsor For 2026 MLB Season

Kumho Tire USA has confirmed its return as a sponsor of the home plate signage programme for the 2026 Major League Baseball season, appearing in six stadiums nationwide. This marks the brand’s second consecutive year participating in the initiative, which aims to strengthen visibility among consumers, clients and retail partners.

The selection of ballparks was based on strategic market analysis, prioritising regions with strong growth potential for brand recognition. By securing rotational digital signage directly behind home plate, the company ensures consistent exposure to both live audiences and televised broadcasts, enhancing its presence in high-impact settings.

Kumho Tire will feature its brand at the following stadiums:

  • Angel's Stadium: Anaheim, Calif.
  • Busch Stadium: St. Louis, Miss.
  • Chase Field: Phoenix, Ariz.
  • Citizens Bank Park: Philadelphia, Penn.
  • Comerica Park: Detroit, Mich.
  • Great American Ball Park: Cincinnati, Ohio

These locations enable deeper collaboration with local dealer networks and increase the company’s footprint in areas vital to its long-term goals. Through this targeted investment, Kumho Tire reinforces its commitment to community engagement while advancing broader objectives in key US markets.

Ed Cho, CEO, Kumho Tire USA, said, “We are thrilled to continue our significant presence in America's favourite pastime, leveraging rotational stadium signage in six key markets with high growth potential. This initiative not only elevates Kumho Tire's visibility and strengthens our position as a premium brand alternative but also creates valuable opportunities for our dealer partners to capitalise on increased local recognition.”