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.

Goodyear India Limited reported higher quarterly profit despite recognising INR 1.94 million of past service costs under India’s new labour codes, as revenue declined year on year.

Revenue from operations for the quarter ended 31 December 2025 fell to INR 606.9 million, from INR 631.7 million a year earlier. Total income was INR 611.5 million, compared with INR 636.4 million.

Profit before tax rose to INR 33.4 million, up from INR 13.3 million in the corresponding quarter last year. Net profit increased to INR 24.6m, compared with INR 9.5 million. Earnings per share were INR 10.68, against INR 4.11 a year earlier.

Total expenses declined to INR 578.2 million from INR 623.2 million. Cost of materials consumed fell to INR 221.5 million from INR 257.9 million, while purchases of stock-in-trade were INR 190.3 million, broadly in line with INR 191.1 million a year earlier. Employee benefits expense rose to INR 52.2 million from INR 44.4 million.

For the nine months to December 31 2025, revenue from operations decreased to INR 1,859.6 million from INR 2,005.4 million in the same period last year. Profit before tax rose marginally to INR 69.8 million from INR 67.9 million. Net profit was INR 51.8m, compared with INR 50.3m.

The company said it had recognised past service costs of INR 1.94 million under employee benefits expense in the quarter and nine months ended December 31 2025, following notification of the Code on Wages, 2019, the Industrial Relations Code, 2020, the Code on Social Security, 2020 and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020.

Balkrishna Industries (BKT) reported a six percent rise in quarterly volumes and commissioned additional carbon black capacity, even as US tariffs and volatile commodity prices weighed on parts of its export business.

The company’s sales volumes rose to 80,620 metric tonnes in the quarter to December 2025, up six percent year on year and about 15 percent higher than the previous quarter. For the first nine months, volumes were 231,536 metric tonnes, down onepercent from a year earlier.

Standalone revenue for the quarter was INR 26.82 billion, up 4 per cent year on year, including a realised foreign exchange loss of Rs 470 million relating to sales. For the nine months, revenue was Rs 77.62 billion, broadly flat, including a realised forex loss of Rs 1.17 billion.

Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation were Rs 6.05 billion for the quarter, with a margin of 22.5 percent. For the nine months, EBITDA was INR 17.6 billion, down 11 percent year on year, with a margin of 22.7 percent. Profit after tax for the quarter was INR 3.75 billion, and INR 9.27 billion for the nine-month period.

Rajiv Poddar, Joint Managing Director of BKT, said the “geopolitical and macroeconomic environment continues to remain challenged and the situation with U.S. tariffs remain unchanged”.

In the US, sales momentum improved sequentially after a weak second quarter. Poddar said the group had regained some momentum by sharing the tariff burden with distributors. “Because of our strong brand positioning and quality and some major chunk of the tariffs to be shared between us and our channel partners, we have been able to gain some of the momentum that we had lost in the Q2,” he said.

He declined to quantify the impact of tariffs on margins, but confirmed that costs were being shared. Channel inventory in the US and Europe was “at par at where it should be”.

India remained the strongest market, supported by lower goods and services tax rates and favourable monsoon conditions. The domestic portfolio is split roughly 60 percent industrial and construction tyres and 40 percent agricultural tyres. Higher India contribution has a “slightly lower” average selling price, Poddar said, but margins have remained broadly stable.

In Europe, demand improved sequentially as earlier destocking eased. The European Union Deforestation Regulation, originally due to take effect from January 2026, has been deferred by one year. Madhusudan Bajaj, Senior President and Chief Financial Officer, said the current import duty into Europe is four percent, though the impact of the proposed free trade agreement with the EU is not yet clear.

Freight costs were about 5 percent of revenue in the quarter and are expected to remain in that range.

On raw materials, Bajaj said oil and natural rubber prices were moving higher, but it was “too early to say what will be the impact”. The average euro rate in the quarter was about INR 97.

Capital expenditure remains elevated. The company has spent about INR 22 billion in the first nine months of the financial year and expects total spending of roughly INR 25–26 billion in FY2026, with the balance of committed projects to be completed in the following year.

During the quarter, BKT commissioned a new carbon black line, taking total capacity to 265,000 metric tonnes per annum. The incremental capacity is intended for external sales rather than captive consumption. Carbon black accounted for less than 10 percent of revenue in the quarter, with margins expected to align with industry averages.

ZAFCO, a leading global manufacturer and distributor of automotive tyres, batteries and lubricants, has strengthened its corporate governance with the addition of Hee Se Ahn to its Board as an Independent Director, effective 1 January 2026. Bringing over three decades of specialised industry experience, Ahn is recognised for his extensive leadership in the global tyre sector.

His professional background is deeply rooted in international commerce, with significant achievements in overseas sales, strategic marketing and high-level management across key markets in Asia, Europe and the Americas. Prior to this appointment, his career included senior roles such as Executive Vice President at Nexen Tire and Managing Director at Hankook Tire, based in Seoul. Throughout his career, he has been instrumental in fostering international expansion and enhancing market positions while leading diverse, cross-regional teams, solidifying his status as a respected figure in the industry.

Zafar Hussain, Executive Director, ZAFCO Group, said, “We are pleased to welcome Hee Se Ahn to the Board of ZAFCO. His extensive international experience in sales, marketing and regional leadership will bring valuable perspectives to the company. His deep understanding of the global tyre industry will be a strong asset to both the Board and the management team.”

Amir Abbas, Executive Director, ZAFCO Group, said, “We are delighted to welcome Hee Se Ahn to the ZAFCO Board. He brings with him a global business mindset and rich insights into leadership and international business transformation. We look forward to his contributions as we continue to strengthen our global presence.”

Nokian Tyres has approved an updated strategy and financial targets through to the end of 2029, setting a net sales objective of €1.8 billion–€2 billion and outlining measures to strengthen profitability and reduce leverage.

The Finnish tyre maker said it would prioritise sustainable, value-driven growth following what it described as the most significant transformation in its history.

“Over the past years, Nokian Tyres has navigated the most significant transformations in its history. This period has been a complete strategic reset as we rebuilt the new Nokian Tyres platform. As we now enter the next phase of our development, we will refocus on sustainable, value-driven growth. This positions us to take better control of the unpredictable also in the future and will reduce our exposure to geopolitical risks,” said President And Chief Executive Paolo Pompei.

Under the revised targets, the company aims for segments EBITDA of more than 24 percent and segments operating profit above 15 percent. It also intends to keep net debt to segments EBITDA below 2.

Nokian Tyres will continue to use segments EBITDA as its primary profitability metric and has defined a range for net sales rather than a single figure.

The group reiterated its dividend policy, targeting distribution of at least 50 percent of net earnings.

Strategically, Nokian Tyres said it would focus on its core segments. In passenger car tyres, it aims to maintain a market-leading position in winter tyres and deliver above-market growth in the all-season and all-weather categories. In heavy tyres, it is targeting above-market growth in agricultural and forestry tyres.

Vianor will continue to serve as a European sales and service channel for both passenger car and heavy tyres.

The company said market trends including electrification, a growing car parc, increasing rim sizes and rising demand for winter tyres support development in its chosen segments.

“Our updated financial targets set a clear direction for the future and reflect our ambition to create sustainable value for our shareholders. Profitability improvement will be driven both by volume growth and by more than EUR 100 million coming from targeted performance initiatives. While maintaining strong performance in the Nordics, we aim to accelerate growth in North America and Central Europe. We will prioritize value creation through premium positioning, improved product mix and disciplined cost and operational efficiency,” Pompei said.