South Korean start-up is transforming tyre safety by delivering real-time data insights that go beyond traditional TPMS, monitoring tyre pressure, temperature, wear and alignment. Targeted at fleet operators and manufacturers, BANF’s system improves vehicle safety, reduces costs and supports sustainability. With global partnerships including Volvo and Hyundai, BANF is also exploring market opportunities in India.

When it comes to vehicle safety and fuel efficiency, the role of tyres has often been underrated. Modern vehicles have undergone significant advancements over the decades, evolving from basic mechanical structures to sophisticated mechatronic and digital systems. However, for most, tyres remain largely unchanged – seemingly confined to the traditional black, rubber look without much technological upgrade.

The Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), introduced in 1986 within high-end luxury cars, has yet to achieve global standardisation. Apart from a few countries where it is mandated, TPMS remains a novelty even in modern vehicles.

BANF (Begin a New Future), a South Korean start-up focusing on software and hardware technology to fully digitalise tyre information, is determined to change this. In an exclusive conversation with Tyre Trends, Ron Yoogun Lee, VP of Global Business Development at BANF, explains the company’s purpose:

“BANF was founded to address this critical need by integrating smart sensor technology and data analytics into tyre management. Our mission is to elevate vehicle safety, enhance tyre performance and reduce environmental impact through the digitalisation of tyre data. By providing real-time insights into tyre conditions, BANF empowers fleet operators, manufacturers and drivers to optimise maintenance, lower costs and promote sustainability. This drives us to tackle industry challenges with transformative solutions, pioneering a safer and more connected future for mobility.”

Expanding beyond basic TPMS capabilities

Lee explains that one of the primary limitations of current TPMS is its restricted data scope. Traditional TPMS sensors monitor tyre pressure at low frequencies, transmitting data every few minutes but focusing solely on air pressure.

BANF’s technology, however, gathers a wider range of tyre data, including pressure, temperature, tread wear, wheel alignment and even lug nut stability. This approach goes well beyond air pressure monitoring, providing insights that make tyres ‘smarter.’

Using machine learning, BANF’s system analyses the data to offer valuable insights to drivers and fleet operators regarding not only tyre health but also cargo load measurements and road surface conditions. The data is reportedly up to 90 percent accurate.

Lee details the core of BANF’s solution, which is built on two main components:

Tyre-Mounted Sensor (iSensor): A 3-axis accelerometer-based sensor attached (glued) inside the tyre’s inner liner, the only point of contact between the vehicle and the road.

Smart Profiler (Transmitter): Mounted on the mud flap or wheel arch and connected to the vehicle’s battery, this device wirelessly powers the sensor using magnetic resonance, gathering data on the tyre's internal and external conditions.

“Unlike standard TPMS, our system collects and analyses a comprehensive range of data points, offering real-time insights into tyre health and performance. This includes not only pressure but also factors such as temperature, tread wear and load, providing a more complete picture of the tyre’s condition,” he says.

BANF considers its unique selling point to be its advanced digitalisation and data analytics capabilities. The system empowers fleet managers, manufacturers and drivers to make proactive, data-driven decisions to enhance safety, optimise tyre performance and reduce maintenance costs. This comprehensive approach to tyre monitoring addresses the limitations of traditional TPMS, meeting the rising demand for safer, smarter and more efficient mobility solutions.

Continuous power and data collection

BANF’s technology enables continuous power supply to high-speed rotating tyres using resonant wireless power transmission. This allows the internal sensors to continuously collect data while driving, capturing 3-axis (X, Y, Z) accelerometer data to support advanced algorithm development. Additionally, BANF leverages mathematical modelling expertise to ensure high efficiency and minimal error in resonant wireless power environments.

Despite TPMS technology existing for over four decades, it still lacks widespread adoption. Why is that? Is it due to cost, awareness or maturity of the technology? Lee attributes the slow adoption of basic TPMS to limited consumer awareness and the system’s restricted functionality.

While TPMS provides basic air pressure information, it does not address other crucial aspects of tyre health, such as temperature, tread wear and load. This limited capability diminishes its perceived value, especially among consumers and manufacturers seeking comprehensive solutions.

“However, with the inevitable rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous vehicles (AVs), the demands on tyres are increasing. EVs, with their heavier batteries and higher torque, place additional stress on tyres, while AVs, designed for continuous operation, further amplify this strain. Traditional tyre monitoring methods, such as visual inspection, are inadequate for autonomous vehicles. As these trends reshape the automotive landscape, the need for advanced tyre monitoring systems that go beyond basic TPMS is growing. This shift will likely increase consumer awareness and drive the adoption of more comprehensive tyre monitoring solutions,” explains Lee.

While BANF may still be relatively unknown, the Korean start-up is already collaborating with major players like CampX by Volvo Group, Hyundai Motor Group, DHL and more than 20 other global organisations.

“Our primary target clients are fleet management companies operating commercial vehicles, particularly in the Truck and Bus Radial (TBR) segment. These clients benefit most from our advanced tyre monitoring solutions due to the significant return on investment (RoI) from optimised tyre usage, enhanced safety and reduced maintenance costs. By providing real-time insights into tyre health, we enable fleet operators to make data-driven decisions that minimise downtime and maximise efficiency. We currently produce 1,000 units monthly and are expanding our manufacturing capabilities,” shares Lee.

Plans for India and tyre safety

India, traditionally a cost-conscious market, has emerged as a major manufacturing hub and one of the fastest adopters of new technologies. In response to a question on BANF’s potential interest in India, Lee reveals:

“We are currently working with several companies in India, including major tyre manufacturers, vehicle manufacturers and last-mile fleet operators. We are supported by KISED, an arm of the Ministry of SMEs of Korea and NIPA, part of the Ministry of Science and ICT. We are actively engaging with stakeholders in the Indian innovation ecosystem and will be visiting India shortly to strengthen partnerships and explore further opportunities.”

Acknowledging India’s cost-sensitive market, Lee adds, “We are considering options for a facility setup worldwide, with India being one of our top choices.”

Road safety remains a priority for both the Indian automotive industry and the world. Despite numerous initiatives and technologies, the World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that 1.19 million lives are lost in road accidents each year. Road traffic injuries are the leading cause of death for children and young adults aged 5–29 years, with 92 percent of fatalities occurring in low- and middle-income countries.

Focus areas for tyre industry safety and efficiency

Lee identifies three key areas where the tyre industry can improve safety and efficiency:

1. Advanced Materials: Developing new tyre compounds that enhance durability and reduce rolling resistance can improve safety and energy efficiency. Lightweight, high-strength materials reduce energy loss and extend tyre life, crucial for EVs demanding lower energy consumption for longer range.

2. Intelligent Monitoring Systems: Smart sensors to monitor tyre health in real-time are increasingly essential. By tracking metrics such as pressure, temperature, tread wear and load, intelligent systems can alert drivers or fleet managers to potential issues before they escalate. This proactive approach enhances safety and fuel efficiency, as well-maintained tyres contribute to better aerodynamics and lower fuel consumption.

3. Sustainable Manufacturing: Optimising production to minimise environmental impact is crucial. Using eco-friendly materials, reducing waste and recycling tyres contributes to a more sustainable industry, aligning with global trends towards green manufacturing and supporting the energy efficiency goals of the automotive industry.

INTERVIEW: Ron Yoogun Lee

What are the upcoming key trends you see in the tyre industry?

One of the key trends in the tyre industry is the increasing emphasis on safety. As vehicles become more advanced, with a growing number of electric vehicles and autonomous vehicles entering the market, the demands placed on tyres are intensifying. EVs, for instance, have heavier loads and higher torque, which increase wear and tear on tyres, while AVs require consistent, reliable performance to operate safely around the clock. These factors are driving the need for smarter tyre solutions that go beyond traditional monitoring systems.

There is a growing demand for intelligent tyre technologies that provide real-time data on various parameters like pressure, temperature, tread wear and load. Such capabilities allow fleet operators, manufacturers and individual drivers to maintain tyre safety proactively, reduce maintenance costs and ensure optimal performance under diverse conditions. Meeting the advanced requirements of EV and AV clients is crucial, as their vehicles rely on enhanced tyre performance for safety and efficiency. As a result, the industry is moving towards digitalisation and smart sensors to address these evolving needs, marking a significant shift in tyre technology and monitoring.

What is BANF’s business plan (OE supplier), or you will also look at aftermarket opportunities?

BANF’s business plan primarily centres around building strong partnerships with Original Equipment (OE) manufacturers and OE suppliers. Our goal is to enhance tyre safety and efficiency directly at the manufacturing stage, ensuring that end customers benefit from high-quality, intelligent tyre solutions from the outset. Currently, our focus is on the commercial vehicle segment, where we see substantial demand for advanced tyre technology to improve safety, performance and operational efficiency.

That said, we also recognise the significant potential in the aftermarket sector and are actively exploring opportunities to expand into this space. The aftermarket offers us the chance to provide a wider range of products and services directly to end-users. By pursuing both OE partnerships and aftermarket avenues, we aim to deliver innovative tyre solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers across the entire lifecycle of their vehicles.

What are the other products or areas that you would look to focus on?

Looking ahead, we still believe there is a lot can come out from tyre. We are currently developing many other advanced features to be announced soon. In a sense of product portfolio, we are looking into two-wheeler, three-wheeler market and also airplane tyres.

JK Tyre & Industries is targeting double-digit growth in FY2027, supported by healthy commercial vehicle demand, sustained OEM traction and a growing market for premium passenger car tyres. However, rising raw material costs and elevated freight rates continue to pressure margins, prompting the company to pursue further price increases and operational efficiencies.

Anshuman Singhania, Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries, expects demand to remain stable through the second half of FY2027, with commercial vehicle tyre sales projected to record double-digit growth for the full year. While passenger vehicle demand could moderate slightly, healthy OEM order books and replacement market traction are expected to support the industry's growth momentum.

“We are very optimistic going ahead that demand would be quite stable,” Singhania said during the post-results media interaction, adding that the positive momentum was expected to continue through the third and fourth quarters.

Record Revenue in Q2 FY2027

JK Tyre reported its highest-ever consolidated quarterly revenue of INR 48.5 billion in Q2 FY2027, up 20 percent year-on-year (YoY). Consolidated EBITDA rose 28 percent sequentially to INR 3.43 billion, with an EBITDA margin of 7.1 percent. Profit after tax stood at INR 600 million.

Domestic sales grew 32 percent YoY, led by a 65 percent increase in OEM sales following the implementation of GST 2.0. Exports also gained momentum, rising 14 percent sequentially despite geopolitical uncertainties and challenging international market conditions.

Growth was broad-based across product segments. OEM volumes increased 76 percent in truck and bus radial (TBR) tyres and 35 percent in passenger car radial (PCR) tyres. The tubeless tyre portfolio grew 25 percent YoY, against estimated industry growth of 10 percent, while tipper tyre sales increased 20 percent compared with industry growth of 11–12 percent.

Sales in the two- and three-wheeler category rose approximately 85 percent YoY, driven primarily by scooters. Replacement sales increased 20 percent, reflecting continued traction across channels.

Despite the revenue growth, profitability remains under pressure as input and logistics costs rise faster than they can be recovered through pricing.

Raw Material Costs and Freight Weigh on Margins

JK Tyre's raw material basket increased approximately 9 percent sequentially in Q2, with the cumulative increase over the preceding six months estimated at around 30 percent. Singhania expects a further 4–5 percent increase in the basket during Q3.

Elevated container freight rates have added to the pressure, with increases across geographies affecting exports and shipments from India. Higher petrol and diesel prices have also contributed to rising logistics costs.

The company is seeking to offset these pressures through price increases, manufacturing efficiencies and a richer product mix. However, the timing of margin recovery will depend on the extent to which higher costs can be passed on in a price-sensitive market.

Further Price Hikes Planned

JK Tyre increased prices by approximately 4–5 percent in Q1 and a further 7 percent sequentially in Q2, taking the cumulative increase during the first half of FY2027 to around 11–12 percent. The company intends to implement another 4–5 percent increase in Q3, subject to market conditions.

“The raw material increase is putting a lot of pressure on margins. But we are steadily increasing our prices to pass through,” Singhania said.

OEM pricing is partly linked to input cost indices, allowing some increases to be recovered through contractual adjustments. In the replacement market, price increases have been implemented more gradually over the past two quarters, with further adjustments expected.

Singhania acknowledged that the industry typically experiences a lag between cost escalation and full price recovery. While the company expects margins to improve through better OEM mix, price indexation and operational efficiencies, it has not quantified the anticipated improvement.

Premium Tyres Gain Share

JK Tyre is increasing its focus on premium passenger car tyres, particularly those with rim sizes of 16 inches and above. The company said the share of these tyres in its passenger car OEM mix increased to approximately 40 percent in H1 FY2027, compared with 35 percent in FY2026. These sizes account for around 27 percent of its overall mix, including the aftermarket.

The shift towards larger rim sizes is being supported by new vehicle launches and wider adoption across passenger vehicle categories. JK Tyre has secured 10 OEM approvals during the year, eight of which involve models in the 16-inch-and-above category. These include the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Mahindra Thar, Renault Duster and Tecton, and MG Tomahawk, as cited during the media interaction.

“The market is growing, but our market is growing at a faster rate,” Singhania said, highlighting the opportunity presented by new OEM programmes and rising demand for larger rim sizes.

The company expects this segment to support product realisation and improve its sales mix, with additional capacity helping it meet evolving OEM requirements.

Expansion Continues as Exports Offer Headroom

JK Tyre is proceeding with its INR 11.3 billion capacity expansion programme, which Singhania confirmed would not be deferred. The previously announced INR 50 billion capital expenditure programme is also progressing through its initial phase.

The investments are intended to support domestic demand and create capacity for export opportunities. JK Tyre reported encouraging demand from Latin America and Africa, while some markets in Asia and Europe softened amid geopolitical uncertainty.

The company plans to continue serving established markets across Latin America, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Africa, alongside a limited presence in Europe, while prioritising domestic OEM and replacement requirements.

For the second half of FY2027, JK Tyre expects commercial vehicle demand to remain supportive and is targeting double-digit growth in the segment for the full year. Strong OEM order books, replacement demand and the increasing contribution of premium tyres are expected to underpin growth. The key challenge will be translating higher volumes into sustainable profitability as the company navigates raw material inflation, freight costs and the lag in price recovery.

American Tire Distributors (ATD), a leading independent supplier in the replacement tyre industry, has appointed Michael Broderick as Interim President, effective immediately. He takes over from Ira B Silver. ATD also announced that the company and Silver have parted ways.

Broderick, who currently sits on ATD's Board of Directors and brings extensive automotive aftermarket experience, will guide the leadership transition. Meanwhile, the Board is conducting a comprehensive search for a permanent Chief Executive Officer, evaluating both internal and external candidates.

ATD continues to hold a significant position in the North American tyre market, supported by a broad distribution network, longstanding customer relationships and a diverse portfolio of manufacturer and proprietary brands. During 2026, the company eliminated more than USD 170 million in structural costs, reinvesting a portion of the savings, while shareholders have backed further investment in the national distribution network to strengthen market position and operating performance.

Philippe Gilbert, Chairman of the Board of Directors of ATD, said, “ATD has made important progress sharpening our focus on our core tyre distribution business, improving operational efficiency and delivering outstanding service and value to our customers and partners. As we look to accelerate these efforts, we determined that now is the right time to initiate a leadership transition. Mike brings substantial experience leading complex automotive businesses, and we are pleased that he is stepping in as Interim President to help us during this transition period. He will be supported by the ATD management team, which has played a central role in the Company's operational transformation, providing continuity of leadership across its distribution operations and strategic initiatives. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Ira for his leadership and contributions to help move the Company forward during a critical time.”

Broderick said, “I’m excited to step in and work alongside ATD’s team of talented associates as we focus on enhancing our network to provide customers with high-quality products and unparalleled service. As a member of ATD’s Board and over a decade of working with ATD as a customer, I’ve witnessed firsthand the strength of the Company’s robust national distribution network, deep customer and manufacturer relationships and long-held commitment to exceptional service. I look forward to advancing our efforts to strengthen our core tyre distribution business and build a stronger, more efficient company.”

Yokohama India plans to enter the two-wheeler tyre market for the first time, with the first set of products due by the end of next year — making India the first country globally to get two-wheeler tyres from the Japanese tyremaker. The move, confirmed by Managing Director and CEO Harinder Singh, coincides with the launch of the GEOLANDAR X-CV range, extending Yokohama’s flagship SUV tyre technology to smaller wheel sizes for India’s booming crossover segment.

India’s premium tyre market continues to reward companies that combine global technology with local agility. Yokohama India, already one of the country’s fastest-growing premium players, looks to tap into India’s SUV and premiumisation push, bringing global products but in a customised avatar for the domestic market.

On the other hand, India is set to become the first country in the world for Yokohama, where it will introduce two-wheeler tyres.

In an interaction with Tyre Trends, Harinder Singh, Managing Director and CEO, Yokohama India, confirmed that the company is actively working towards entering the two-wheeler tyre segment, with the first products targeted for launch by the end of next year.

“The move will require fresh capital investment and will initially focus on the premium category before expanding into mass-market offerings, along with supporting the growing Yokohama Club Network,” revealed Singh.

This development sits alongside the recent unveiling of the GEOLANDAR X-CV range, a significant extension of Yokohama’s global flagship SUV technology into India’s rapidly expanding crossover and premium SUV segment.

TWO-WHEELER ENTRY SIGNALS BROADER AMBITION

Responding to a query on the company’s plans to address the whitespace in its portfolio, Singh said, “We are actively looking to support the two-wheeler business. By the end of next year, hopefully we should be having the two-wheeler tyres also.”

It is important to note that at present Yokohama India has zero presence in the two-wheeler space. The initial thought is to begin with tyres in the premium segment and then ‘take a trickle in’ towards mass-market products.

“This is primarily to service and support our all Yokohama club networks. And we plan to sell through them. That’s the objective,” said Singh.

The decision reflects both opportunity and necessity. India’s two-wheeler market remains vast and premium tyres are gaining share as riders seek better handling, durability and safety. By channelling the new products through its branded retail network, Yokohama intends to maintain the premium experience that has defined its passenger-car strategy.

GEOLANDAR X-CV BRINGS FLAGSHIP TECHNOLOGY TO A WIDER AUDIENCE

The immediate focus, however, remains the passenger-car radial business and the newly launched GEOLANDAR X-CV. Originally engineered for luxury SUVs with wheel sizes above 18 inches, the technology has been extended downwards to 16 inches, creating what the company describes as India’s most extensive dedicated tyre range for crossover and premium SUVs. Yokohama India has planned around multiple variations spanning 16 to 20 inches.

The tyre incorporates Micro Silica technology for enhanced wet-road grip and reduced rolling resistance, an optimised asymmetric tread design with specialised inner and outer shoulder blocks, four wide circumferential grooves for water evacuation, proprietary 2D–3D Combination Sipes for improved wet traction and even wear and 5-Pitch Variation Technology to minimise pattern noise.

It uses reinforced two-ply sidewall construction and a full nylon cover to deliver durability and high-speed stability required for Indian conditions. Critically, the range is EV-compatible, engineered to handle higher vehicle weights and the instant torque characteristics of electric vehicles while remaining equally effective on internal-combustion and hybrid platforms.

Nitin Mantri, Member of the Board and Senior Managing Officer & Co-COO of Yokohama Rubber Co and Chairman of Yokohama India, framed the launch in strategic terms: “India continues to be one of Yokohama’s most strategic markets globally. Our continued investments in manufacturing, technology and premium product development reflects our confidence in the country’s long-term growth. The launch of GEOLANDAR X-CV reinforces our commitment to bringing globally proven innovations closer to Indian customers while strengthening Yokohama India’s position as one of the country’s leading premium tyre manufacturers.”

Singh added: “The crossover SUV segment is growing rapidly and the road infrastructure improving, now motorists are seeking a balance of safety, comfort, quietness and long-lasting performance. With the GEOLANDAR X-CV, we’re bringing flagship premium tyre technology to delight a wider base of crossover SUV owners.”

CAPACITY RUNNING NEAR FULL, EXPANSION ALREADY MAPPED

Yokohama India’s current installed capacity stands at approximately 4.5 million units a year. The capacity utilisation is already high. “We are almost full,” Singh noted.

Of the 4.5 million, roughly four million tyres serve the domestic aftermarket, with the modest surplus supporting European export requirements of the parent company. The Vizag plant has been designed with further phases in mind. “The plant is ready to be going for the next phase also. So as and when the requirement is, we will expand it,” averred Singh without giving out exact details.

Mantri elaborated on the flexible manufacturing philosophy. Buildings and long-lead equipment are already in place; additional machines will be added incrementally as demand thresholds are crossed.

The existing footprint can take capacity from 4.5 million to 6.3 million units. Beyond that, the parent company has demonstrated consistent willingness to invest. Cumulative investment in India across the Yokohama Group is already substantial, with the Vizag facility alone accounting for more than INR 30 billion in recent years and overall group investment estimated in the range of USD 700–800 million. An Odisha plant focused on off-the-road tyres is also under construction.

AFTERMARKET REMAINS THE CORE, BUT OEM SHARE IS SET TO RISE

For Yokohama India, aftermarket sales in the passenger vehicle segment still account for around 95 percent of its revenue. The company has roughly 3,000 channel partners and aims to reach 4,500 within three to four years, with particular emphasis on Tier-3 and Tier-4 towns.

A key pillar is the Yokohama Club Network of branded retail stores that deliver a premium customer experience, including a five-year worry-free warranty. “In tyre industry, you know, 80–85 percent of the customers sale happens with the influence of the channel partner. When a customer walks into those stores, he gets that premium experience,” noted Singh.

At present, for Yokohama India, the passenger vehicle OEM business contributes only about two percent, limited largely to Maruti Suzuki India. The roadmap is to raise this to 10 percent within five years, and potentially towards 10–20 percent over a longer horizon. “Indian OEMs are going to be an important part in our OE strategy,” Singh confirmed.

Adding to that, Mantri said that OEM development cycles are lengthy, typically three to four years, but multiple proposals are already under discussion. “Working hand in hand with OEMs allows us to be kind of even more successful than we are as we go forward,” he said.

LOCAL OWNERSHIP MEETS GLOBAL STANDARDS

One of Yokohama India’s distinctive features is the degree of local management autonomy. “India was the first place where Yokohama gave complete ownership to the local management. There was no Japanese chairman,” Mantri explained.

The experiment, begun in 2020, has married Japanese technology and quality culture with ‘Indian Jugaad, Indian innovation, Indian kind of hunger for growth’. The result, he said, has been ‘a wonderful recipe’.

Product strategy follows a similar hybrid logic. The Earth-1 range was designed specifically for India. Newer products such as the GEOLANDAR X-CV start from global platforms but are tuned in compound and construction for Indian roads and driving conditions.

Replying on the company’s localisation levels, Mantri said that “sourcing remains pragmatic. Yokohama seeks the highest quality at the best price, whether from India or Southeast Asia, rather than pursuing localisation for its own sake.”

Growth over the past five years has averaged 18 percent CAGR, a momentum the leadership is determined to sustain. Market share in the premium passenger-car radial segment is estimated at around 10 percent. The company continues to prioritise 16-inch and larger sizes while systematically filling remaining white spaces in the portfolio.

LOOKING BEYOND THE IMMEDIATE HORIZON

It is no secret that when it comes to digitalisation, consumers in India are exposed and are amongst the fastest adopters of the latest trends, be it product-as-a-service, online purchase or service on hire.

Many quick commerce platforms and tyre makers have taken the online route to directly engage and sell their products to the end-consumer, but for Yokohama India, online tyre sale holds little appeal.

“We are not into online business. That’s a no from our side,” Singh clarified. The preference remains for customers to experience the product and fitting process in a branded store. Marketing support is deliberately hyperlocal and digital rather than big-ticket sporting sponsorships.

As road infrastructure improves and motorists undertake longer journeys, demand is shifting towards on-road focused tyres, a trend the GEOLANDAR X-CV is positioned to capture. All-terrain products will continue for genuine off-road use, but the volume opportunity lies in the growing crossover segment. Continuous upgrades across the rest of the portfolio, including further evolution of the Earth-1 range, are already planned.

For Yokohama India, the strategy is clear – offer the best experience to Indian consumers, by introducing its globally proven products to the market without compromises, but yet in an Indian avatar. On the other hand, the company is also gearing up to enter new segment to further cater to customers in the premium two-wheeler space.  

QUALITY OVER FORCED LOCALISATION

Nitin Mantri, Member of the Board And Senior Managing Officer & Co-COO, Yokohama Rubber Co and Chairman, Yokohama India, shares his thoughts on the company’s future plans, production capacity, localisation and network expansion.

How significant is India within Yokohama’s global strategy?

India is one of our most strategic markets. It was the first place where we gave complete ownership to local management with no Japanese chairman. Combining Japanese technology and quality culture with Indian innovation and growth hunger has created a powerful combination.

India is already your fourth-largest market. Can it climb higher?

Passenger-car penetration remains much lower than in US, Japan or China. That gives us runway, but catching the very largest markets will still be challenging given the vehicles-per-person difference.

Why has OEM share stayed so low?

We were simply short of capacity. Aftermarket demand absorbed almost everything we could make. With new capacity coming on stream, we are deliberately changing that mix. We aim for 10–20 percent OEM over time. Development cycles with OEMs take three to four years, so results will appear gradually.

How do you approach product development for India?

Some products, such as Earth-1, were designed purely for India. For others, we take global platforms and carefully retune the compound and construction for Indian roads and conditions. The goal is global technology that feels native here.

What is the philosophy behind capacity expansion?

We design factories for flexibility and minimal waste. Long-lead buildings and equipment are installed first. Additional machines are added only when demand thresholds are crossed. Our current footprint can take us from 4.5 million to 6.3 million units. Beyond that, the parent company has consistently shown willingness to invest.

How do you view localisation of raw materials?

We source for the best quality and value, whether from India or elsewhere. Our specifications remain identical regardless of origin. We do not force localisation if it compromises quality or cost.

Are your tyres ready for the rise of electric vehicles?

Yes. Features such as specialised silica compounds that deliver low rolling resistance, higher load capacity and reduced noise work equally well on battery-electric, hybrid and conventional vehicles. That flexibility is deliberate.

What keeps you focused on the aftermarket network?

Channel partners still influence 80–85 percent of tyre purchases. Expanding from 3,000 to 4,500 partners, with particular attention to Tier-3 & Tier-4 towns, and strengthening the Yokohama Club branded stores remain central to our growth. n

TVS Industrial and Logistics Parks (TVS ILP) has leased 80,000 square feet of space at its facility in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, to ATC Tires AP, a subsidiary of the Yokohama Group.

The site will serve as a mother hub warehouse to support domestic distribution and export operations for Yokohama passenger vehicle tyres, alongside off-highway tyre ranges under the Alliance, Galaxy and Primex brands. The deployment links regional manufacturing operations with maritime connectivity and trade routes in South and East India.

Ramnath Subramaniam, Joint Managing Director, TVS Industrial and Logistics Parks, said, "We are delighted to support ATC Tires and the Yokohama Group as they strengthen their presence in South India with an 80,000 sq. ft. mother hub warehouse at our Visakhapatnam park. This partnership reflects how our tech-enabled, well-connected infrastructure supports customers’ evolving operational and supply-chain requirements. With its strategic location, established industrial ecosystem and favourable government incentives, Visakhapatnam is emerging as an important destination for businesses across sectors. We see significant potential for companies across e-commerce, FMCG and other industries to leverage the city’s advantages, and look forward to supporting their growth."

Jose Motha, General Manager of Supply Chain Management, Yokohama, said, "An efficient, well-connected warehousing network is integral to building a resilient supply chain. With our highly automated facility in Visakhapatnam manufacturing passenger car and off-highway tyres, our collaboration with TVS ILP in the city is a strategic step towards strengthening our logistics infrastructure and enhancing operational efficiencies. Its connectivity to key trade routes and access to markets across South and East India will enable us to better address evolving business needs and build a more agile supply chain."