In a candid interaction with Tyre Trends, freelance tyre testing specialist Juuli Raatikainen shares her views on the intricacies of tyre testing, the role of women in the industry, simulation and the road ahead, reports Nilesh Wadhwa.

“Women have been driving cars for decades, so why not be part of the tyre and automotive testing industry? I believe the bigger question and challenge is how the industry (tyre and automotive) can think beyond gender. The tyre testing industry is huge, but there are not many direct studies to learn about it and become part of it,” remarked Juuli Raatikainen, the 28-year-old test driver and mechanic who has been offering freelance services for tyre testing for the last four years.

INITIAL JOURNEY

It is no secret that tyre testing is not a widely known field. A simple internet search for the world’s top 10 racers or motorsport celebrities will return mostly male sports personalities.

For Raatikainen, the journey into tyre testing began as a test assistant in Lapland, Finland.

“I started my career as a test assistant. My passion for testing grew, and I was eager to learn more, working hard to gain knowledge. My efforts were noticed, and I received the necessary support. The decision to start my own company and operate as a freelancer was quite easy for me. In the first two years, I focused on gaining experience, testing time and learning as much as possible. I wanted to see tyre testing from different angles, companies and drivers. Today, I am happy to say that I have experience in tyre testing operations as a tyre mechanic, test assistant, instrumentation specialist and objective test driver. I am also engaged in testing tyres and vehicles for events and magazines,” she shared.

THE EVOLVING ROLE OF TYRE TESTING

Tyre testing has evolved over the years, from physical and mechanical assessments to indoor methods, including Tyre-in-the-Loop (TiL) testing, a form of hardware-in-the-loop (HiL) simulation. However, despite technological advancements, many tests still need to be conducted in real-world conditions to determine optimal solutions.

For example, a vehicle travelling in a sandy environment at a particular tyre pressure will have different braking times even at the same speed. The steering response, traction at different corners and slippage will also vary.

“I find simulators to be a good tool for all drivers and for hardware development. However, no one knows exactly how they will impact testing in the future. Many questions remain, and some conditions and types of tests cannot yet be simulated accurately. As a test driver, my main expertise is in winter testing. From my experience, winter conditions are particularly difficult to replicate artificially. Winter is a living, breathing element of nature, making it hard to forecast, as conditions can change very quickly,” she explained.

For tyre manufacturers, real-world testing is essential for finding the right conditions and weather. For instance, summer tyres cannot be tested in winter, nor can Nordic spike tyres be tested in warm conditions. “It is a challenge for companies to run tyre tests year-round and across different locations. Agility is key,” Raatikainen added.

Tyre testing falls into two main categories: objective and subjective. Objective testing relies on instruments to assess tyre performance, while subjective testing depends on the driver’s evaluation.

“As a freelancer, I work across different processes. Transparency with clients is my priority. It’s about what I do and how I do it. Trust is one of the key values I bring to the table,” she explained.

KEY LEARNINGS & TYRE SAFETY

As a test driver, Raatikainen has firsthand experience of how tyre choices impact performance and safety in different conditions.

“Statistics show that one of the most common mistakes drivers make is using the wrong type of tyres for their environment and weather conditions. When selecting tyres, it’s crucial to consider two key questions: Where will I be driving, and in what weather conditions? These simple considerations can significantly impact safety,” she added.

Most tyres have a wear indicator on the tread to signal when they need replacement, but these warnings are often ignored.

According to data from the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH), India recorded 461,312 road accidents in 2022, resulting in 155,781 fatal cases. Despite tyres having a significant influence on vehicular control, they are rarely cited as a primary cause of accidents.

When replacing tyres, it is also crucial to check their manufacturing date. Raatikainen emphasises that even a ‘new’ tyre must be evaluated based on its production date, as rubber degrades over time, regardless of use.

“Regularly checking tyre condition is just as important as choosing the right type. Ensure tyres have adequate tread depth, are free from cracks or bulges and are properly inflated. These simple maintenance habits can extend tyre life and improve safety,” she added.

FUTURE TRENDS IMPACTING THE TYRE INDUSTRY

New-age vehicles and tightening regulations are pushing industry players towards sustainability and reducing their carbon footprint.

For the tyre industry, environmentally friendly sourcing, production and materials remain key focus areas. From a tester’s perspective, what does the future hold?

“I am excited about advancements in simulation technology and their impact on the tyre industry. Another major trend is the growing emphasis on indoor testing for winter tyres, which addresses unpredictable weather challenges and helps distribute testing workloads more efficiently,” she said.

A third emerging trend is smart tyre technology.

“While modern vehicles are equipped with advanced systems, tyres have yet to integrate similar innovations. The questions of when this technology will arrive, how it will develop and what features it will bring are incredibly exciting. I look forward to seeing how smart tyres will enhance safety, performance and the driving experience,” Raatikainen concluded.

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From market leadership in single wire bead winding machines to advanced apexing technologies and integrated solutions, VIPO continues to shape the tyre manufacturing across India.

With a dominant presence across MCR, PCR, TBR and OTR segments, VIPO combines engineering precision, digital innovation and strong local support through VIPO INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED to deliver high-performance bead and apex solutions tailored to the evolving needs of the Indian tyre industry.

VIPO STRENGTHENS ITS TECHNOLOGICAL FOOTPRINT IN INDIA

India has emerged as one of the most dynamic tyre manufacturing hubs globally, demanding not only high production capacity but also consistent quality, process stability and long-term operational reliability. Rapid investments in manufacturing capabilities, combined with increasing performance expectations, are driving tyre producers to adapt more advanced and reliable technologies. In this environment, VIPO a.s. stands out as a trusted and forward-looking partner, recognised for its expertise in bead winding and bead apexing technologies.

Over the years, VIPO has built a dominant position in the Indian market, particularly in the segment of single wire bead winding machines, covering the full spectrum of tyre applications – from MCR and PCR to TBR and OTR. This strong market presence is not accidental; it is the result of long-term cooperation with leading tyre manufacturers and a deep understanding of their production challenges. The company’s success is rooted in its ability to deliver machines that ensure precise wire placement, optimised tension control and repeatable bead geometry, all essential factors influencing tyre safety, uniformity and overall performance.

VIPO’s bead winding machines are engineered with a focus on process stability and mechanical precision. Advanced control of wire feeding, tension regulation systems and optimised winding kinematics allow for consistent production even at high operating speeds. The machines are designed to minimise variation, reduce scrap rates and ensure long-term repeatability, which is critical in high-volume manufacturing environments. Flexibility is another key advantage, enabling manufacturers to adapt quickly to different bead sizes and tyre specifications without compromising efficiency.

Beyond bead winding, VIPO’s apexing solutions for TBR and OTR provide advanced process integration, enabling accurate and consistent application of apex profiles. By combining extrusion, material handling and application technologies into a unified system, VIPO ensures high process efficiency, strong bonding quality and reliable output, even in demanding production conditions. The precise control of apex geometry, temperature conditions and application pressure contributes to improved adhesion and structural integrity of the bead area, directly impacting tyre durability and performance under real operating conditions.

In addition, VIPO continuously enhances its apexing technologies by integrating auxiliary systems such as strip handling, profile guiding and application synchronisation. These elements ensure smooth process flow, eliminate inconsistencies and further reduce operator dependency. The result is a highly stable and repeatable process that meets the strict quality requirements of modern tyre production.

What truly differentiates VIPO is its ability to deliver complete, future-ready solutions. The company goes beyond machinery, offering integrated systems that include automation, digitalisation and intelligent process control. These solutions are designed to enhance productivity, reduce operator dependency and support data-driven manufacturing environments aligned with latest modern industrial principles. By implementing advanced control architectures and data acquisition systems, VIPO enables manufacturers to monitor key process parameters in real time, identify deviations early and optimise performance across the entire production line.

Digitalisation plays an increasingly important role in VIPO’s portfolio. The integration of diagnostics, condition monitoring and predictive maintenance tools allows customers to minimise unplanned downtime and improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). These capabilities are particularly valuable in large-scale production facilities where even small inefficiencies can lead to significant operational losses.

A crucial element of VIPO’s success in India is its strong local presence through VIPO INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED and local agency represented by POLYPLAS company. Close collaboration with customers enables continuous performance optimisation and long-term reliability of installed equipment. The local team provides end-to-end support, including service, diagnostics, installation, commissioning, operator training and ramp-up support. This hands-on approach ensures that customers achieve faster start-ups, higher efficiency and improved machine lifecycle performance.

The close proximity to customers also allows VIPO to respond quickly to operational needs, provide immediate technical assistance and adapt solutions to specific plant conditions. This level of responsiveness is highly valued in the Indian market, where production continuity and flexibility are key success factors. The cooperation extends beyond standard service activities and often evolves into long-term partnerships focused on continuous improvement and process optimisation.

VIPO’s commitment to the region is further demonstrated by its active engagement with the industry. As a lunch sponsor at the GTRC 2026 conference in Chennai, VIPO will also contribute to the technical programme, presenting its latest solutions in material stock preparation area, bead and apex manufacturing technologies. This reflects the company’s role not only as a supplier but as a partner to technological progress within the tyre manufacturing community. By sharing know-how and engaging with industry experts, VIPO actively supports the exchange of knowledge and the development of best practices across the sector.

Looking ahead, VIPO continues to invest heavily in research and development, focusing on the bead and apex solutions. The company’s R&D activities are driven by the need to respond to increasing complexity in tyre design, new material requirements and higher expectations for automation and digital integration. Key development areas include advanced automation architectures, digital process monitoring, predictive diagnostics and enhanced material processing technologies. Additional focus is placed on improving energy efficiency, reducing material waste and increasing overall process sustainability.

These innovations aim to deliver higher efficiency, improved transparency and greater operational intelligence for tyre manufacturers. By combining mechanical engineering expertise with modern digital tools, VIPO is creating solutions that are not only reliable but also adaptable to future industry requirements. The ability to integrate new functionalities and upgrade existing systems ensures long-term value for customers and protects their investment in technology.

With its combination of engineering excellence, market experience and customer-centric approach, VIPO is not only responding to the needs of the Indian tyre industry but actively shaping its future as a global BEAD and APEX equipment manufacturer. n

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Balkrishna Industries (BKT) has appointed Saroj Kumar Khuntia as chief financial officer with effect from June 18, following the retirement of Madhusudan Bajaj, who stepped down after attaining the age of superannuation.

The board approved Khuntia's appointment at its meeting on June 17, based on the recommendations of the nomination and remuneration committee and the audit committee.

Bajaj ceased to serve as chief financial officer and key managerial personnel at the close of business on June 17 in accordance with the company's retirement policy.

The company said his departure was not a resignation. Following his retirement, Bajaj will continue to assist the company as special adviser to the chairman and managing director.

The board recorded its appreciation for Bajaj's contribution and leadership during his tenure.

Khuntia assumes the role of chief financial officer and key managerial personnel from June 18. He will also serve as compliance officer.

A fellow chartered accountant, Khuntia has more than 24 years of experience in corporate finance, strategy, capital markets, treasury, taxation, governance and finance transformation.

He has previously worked with CG Power, the Mahindra & Mahindra Group, IBM and Hindustan Lever.

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As cost pressures tighten across the global tyre industry, manufacturers are increasingly turning inward to extract efficiencies from processes they can control. While raw material volatility remains unavoidable, machinery performance has emerged as a decisive lever in balancing cost and quality. Companies like Comerio Ercole position themselves as critical enablers in this shift, promising precision, consistency and waste reduction. However, the extent to which advanced machinery alone can offset broader market uncertainties warrants closer scrutiny.

It is no news that the global tyre industry is looking at every angle of its procurement to supply ecosystem for being more conservative from a price point. Nonetheless, it is a prudent reality of today’s volatile global market that certain aspects within tyre manufacturing process, such as raw material prices, cannot be controlled or influenced.

Hence, manufacturers look more inwards, and that call is being addressed by the other players of the value chain such as machine manufacturers. Italian tyre machinery maker Comerio Ercole makes machines that minimise variability in production, reducing scrap and optimising material usage.

Speaking to Tyre Trends exclusively, Managing Director Riccardo Comerio said, “Our machines derive their credibility in the market because of their high precision and long-term reliability. Our machines minimise variability in production, reducing scrap and optimising material usage. Their durability also ensures lower maintenance costs and long-term investment value.”

Comerio Ercole was founded in 1885 and headquartered in Busto Arsizio, specialising in high-end machinery for the rubber, plastics and nonwovens industries with a particularly strong global reputation in calendering technology, which is one of the most critical processes in tyre manufacturing.

It operates upstream as a key technology partner, supplying advanced calender lines, mixing systems, coating and lamination equipment and turnkey plant solutions to leading tyre manufacturers worldwide, thereby acting as an enabler of tyre production.

The company combines mechanical engineering with process expertise, digital Industry 4.0 capabilities and research and development-driven innovation, including patented systems and award-winning solutions like the ZEUS calender line, while also expanding into sustainability through recycling technologies such as devulcanisation systems.

Its last notable move being a 2022 strategic stake in Sasmac International (Saspol Technology) to expand capabilities in presses and retreading systems, recent efforts have focused on digital platforms like Hercules40, continuous product innovation and global market engagement.

“The company continuously improves mechanical precision and process stability, ensuring excellent uniformity. The combination of high-quality machine construction, advanced control systems and super precise roll geometry allows for very tight tolerances and consistent output over time,” added Comerio.  

NEW REQUIREMENTS

According to Comerio, the main challenges that tyre makers face today include managing complexity, ensuring precision and consistency, reducing waste and maintaining efficiency. This makes high-performance, precise and durable machinery more important than ever.

He noted that the future of tyre making technology will focus on precision, durability and efficiency, combined with automation and sustainability. “Companies like Comerio Ercole, together with complementary partners such as Saspol, are well positioned to support the evolution of the tyre industry with very reliable, high-quality solutions,” he noted.

He added that as a global leader in calenders, open mills and internal mixers for the tyre and rubber industry, their machines are designed for high performance, extreme precision and long operational life.

To meet evolving compound requirements, Comerio Ercole focuses on robust engineering, precise control of process parameters and the ability to handle increasingly complex and high-performance rubber formulations, especially for major tyre manufacturers in markets like India.

The calenders and mills are built to process high-performance and speciality compounds with stability and accuracy. Their robust design and precision allow customers to consistently achieve the required performance standards.

Moreover, automation enhances the inherent strengths of the machines such as precision and reliability by ensuring consistent operation, reducing human error and improving overall production efficiency.

Commenting on the evolving systems to process recycled and sustainable rubber materials, Comerio said, “Processing recycled materials requires even greater control and stability. Our machines are well suited to handle these challenges while maintaining product quality. We also offer compact plants for rubber devulcanisation and for the re-work of non-vulcanised rubber scraps.”

The demand from the retreading industry is also shaping the company’s market strategy. “The growing importance of retreading highlights the need for durable and reliable equipment. Through companies like Saspol, which offers long-lasting and high-quality compression presses, it is possible to address this segment effectively and complement Comerio Ercole’s core technologies,” noted the executive.

“Saspol specialises in high-quality rubber compression presses, known for their durability and reliability over time. It provides solutions for solid tyres, tyre retreading and conveyor belt presses. There is no competition between the two companies as Saspol complements Comerio Ercole’s offering, allowing us to cover additional applications in the rubber industry and serve a wider range of customers also in India,” he added.

Ultimately, while high-precision machinery offers tangible gains in efficiency and cost control, it is not a standalone solution to the tyre industry’s challenges. The real impact lies in how effectively manufacturers integrate such technologies with broader operational strategies, especially as sustainability, recycling and evolving material demands reshape the production landscape.

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India’s growing importance in the global tyre and rubber industry received a strong endorsement with HF Group announcing a EUR 20 million investment in a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Bengaluru.

The announcement was made during the inauguration of HF India’s new Assembly Hall Unit II, a milestone that reflects the company’s long-term commitment to India and its confidence in the country’s manufacturing future.

The proposed greenfield facility will be developed on a 10-acre site near Bengaluru Airport and is scheduled for completion by 2028. Spread across nearly 20,000 sq. metres, the new factory will be almost four times larger than the current assembly operations and will incorporate digital manufacturing, automation, smart production systems, and advanced engineering capabilities.

The upcoming facility will focus on productivity, precision engineering, sustainability, and smart manufacturing while supporting both the Indian market and HF’s global operations. The investment underlines the company’s confidence in India as a major manufacturing hub for the global tyre and rubber industry.

Ian Wilson, Managing Director & Co-CEO, HF Group, said, “This is not the end of our investment in India. It is perhaps the end of the beginning. India is entering a take-off decade and the economy runs on tyres. We see tremendous opportunities for growth and are committed to investing in the future of the Indian market.”

With more than 175 years of global experience, HF Group has steadily strengthened its presence in India. The journey began in 1995 with the establishment of Indus to serve the growing rubber processing industry. The partnership with HF Mixing Group in 2011 brought global mixing technology expertise to India, while the complete acquisition of the Indian subsidiary in 2024 marked another important milestone in the company’s India strategy.

Today, HF India manufactures and supports a broad portfolio of mixing and rubber processing equipment, including intermeshing and tangential mixers, banbury technology, mills, curing presses, and aftermarket services. The company also offers process support, training, upgrades, inspections, and spare parts under its customer-centric philosophy of ‘Holding the Customer’s Hand.’

Emphasising the importance of customer partnerships, Wilson said, “We are not here simply to sell machinery. We want to hold our customers’ hands throughout the entire lifecycle of their equipment and support them through process optimisation, performance improvements and future growth.”

As HF embarks on its next chapter in India, the new facility represents not only an investment in manufacturing capacity but also a long-term commitment to localisation, technology and customer partnerships.

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