With a fresh onslaught of tyres for the luxury and premium performance vehicles, CEAT furthers its positioning in the PCR segment.

CEAT, the flagship company of the RPG Group, is targeting to be amongst the top 10 tyre makers globally and is outlining an ambitious growth strategy that looks to expand its product offerings across segments and the globe.

On 19 March 2025, CEAT expanded its SportDrive tyre series with the launch of new products targeted specifically for luxury and high-performance passenger vehicles. The idea, however, goes beyond just chasing volumes. The company launched Run-Flat tyres, which withstand punctures and can be safely driven at considerable speeds for up to 80 km before needing repair. This also made CEAT the first Indian tyre maker to roll out such a product in the country.

Furthermore, it has also introduced 21-inch ZR-rated tyres that are designed to handle speeds of up to 300 kmph while also being quieter due to the CALM technology, which utilises special foam inside the tyre.

The question is, what is CEAT looking to gain, given that the Indian premium luxury car market is just a fraction of total passenger vehicle sales?

For context, last year the luxury car segment crossed the 50,000-unit sales milestone for the first time in India. In total, the premium car market saw sales of around 51,200 units in CY2024, which was about six percent higher compared to 48,500 units sold last year. This translates to just about one percent of the total passenger vehicles sales in the country. In comparison, some of the Southeast Asian markets see luxury cars compromise about 5-6 percent of the total car sales, and for markets such as Taiwan, it has reached as high as 20 percent.

CEAT, however, believes that being present in the segment is important. Lakshmi Narayanan B, Chief Marketing Officer, CEAT, told Tyre Trends, “There are two main segments. One is the world of sport SUVs, which includes the 21-inch and larger tyres. Currently, this segment is dominated by imported vehicles, making it relatively small. However, our focus is on establishing our presence for brand stature. The second segment is the luxury ecosystem, where our SportDrive tyres cater specifically to high-end vehicles. This is also where the opportunity for run-flat tyres lies. While we are launching two specific sizes, we see significant potential for expansion.”

FOCUS ON R&D

CEAT has been investing significantly towards creating new patents. For instance, in FY2024, the company cumulatively filed 171 patents and spent around INR 1.73 billion in R&D expenditure.

Coming to the recently launched products, the tyre maker has been working on them for over three years. The company’s R&D Centre in Germany and India have worked in tandem to develop world-class products that can meet the needs of the Indian as well as global markets.

“We leverage European strengths while also utilising India’s manufacturing capabilities, which creates a great combination and a significant opportunity for us. Our priority is delivering value to the customer. As we continue expanding within this particular technology, we have introduced three specific deliverables. First, we have the 21-inch ZR-rated tyre, designed for both the Indian and European markets. The German market, especially the Autobahns, requires high-speed-rated tyres, and this offering allows us to cover the entire speed rating ecosystem essential for success there. Second, we have introduced Calm Technology. This technology expands our range into the existing SportDrive and SportDrive SUV segments, which we will continue to develop over time. Third, and most importantly for India, is our run-flat tyre. Our goal is to engage with consumers and provide more relevant value. As we monitor consumer adoption, we will explore opportunities for further expansion,” stated Narayanan B.

It is important to understand, as seen in global trends, that the Indian passenger vehicle segment’s shift towards SUVs is also driving demand for bigger tyre sizes. For instance, 16-inch tyres are becoming a common sight, while demand for 17-inch and 18-inch tyres are being demanded in the aftermarket segment.

But what about the recently introduced 21-inch tyres, where the demand in India remains miniscule?

“The 21-inch tyre has significant potential in Europe, particularly on Autobahns. However, cost advantages vary by region. In a competitive market with over 100 brands per country, success depends on positioning and perceived value rather than cost alone. In Italy, for example, our brand is well regarded due to historical trust in our products,” shared Narayanan B.

ENERGY-EFFICIENT & CALM TECHNOLOGY TYRES

Pollution, energy security and sustainability are pushing industries to embrace cleaner and efficient materials, processes, production and end-products.

In the automotive industry, this translates to automakers and suppliers adopting newer technologies, chemistries and improving efficiency. Electrification of vehicles is amongst one of the newer trends being seen as a significant way to cut down on carbon emissions.

CEAT on its part had introduced EnergyDrive tyre series, which was specially designed for electric vehicles. They not only provided better energy efficiency but also lower noise.

Renji Issac, Senior VP and Head of R&D and Technology, CEAT, explained, “We started with a dedicated product range for EVs called EnergyDrive. However, we realised that, over time, tyres for EVs and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles would converge. We have incorporated all our learnings from EV-specific tyre development into our standard product line, ensuring that our future tyres will be suitable for both EVs and ICE vehicles. This approach reduces manufacturing complexity while providing benefits such as extended tyre life, lower noise levels and improved durability for customers.”

Narayan B added that the company sees this trend not only in passenger cars but also scooter segment, especially in India, where electric two-wheelers is seeing significant uptick. “Our EnergyRide caters to two-wheelers, passenger cars and Winenergy supports commercial trucks and buses. We are the first company to offer a complete EV-centric platform across all vehicle categories,” he said.

Vishal Pawar, Senior Vice President – Global Sales & Supply Chain Head, CEAT, revealed that the company currently has around 25 percent market share in the electric two-wheeler segment.

“In the EV ecosystem, we are a leading player, both in OE (original equipment) fitments and the replacement market. However, many consumers do not distinguish between EV and ICE tyres when replacing them. Our marketing efforts include educating mechanics about the differences and best practices for EV tyres. For instance, the Tata Nexon EV was a significant starting point for EV adoption, and now we also supply tyres for the Tata Punch EV, incorporating Calm Technology and foam-based noise reduction. This is an evolving market, and we are positioning ourselves accordingly,” said Pawar.

Right from the start, CEAT worked upon identifying potential failure modes in early development and specifically tested the Calm Technology for such conditions. Issac explained that the adhesive and foam materials have been rigorously validated to withstand extreme conditions, including high-speed driving and water exposure.

“If a tyre requires repair, only a small portion of the foam needs to be removed, and this does not impact the performance. The Calm Technology tyre offers reduction of approximately six decibels in noise, which is a significant improvement. The noise perception is not linear in a vehicle, meaning each decibel reduction translates to a notable difference in actual experience,” said Issac.

Narayanan B added that the idea was to make “these tyres as close to conventional ones as possible, ensuring ease of use for consumers. We have rigorously tested them, and they are designed to deliver tangible value without requiring special treatment from users.”

CREATING AWARENESS

In India, most of the tyre purchase decisions in the aftermarket is heavily influenced by the tyre dealer partner. CEAT too believes that there is a lack of understanding amongst customers in India when it comes to selecting the right kind of tyre for their vehicles, especially in the passenger vehicle space.

For instance, if one asks an average consumer about the speed rating of the tyre, the ideal assumption is that a tyre which fits perfectly. The tyre speed rating is denoted as T, H, V, W, Y or Z – they basically indicate that they are designed to sustain a particular speed.

The company has introduced the ZR-rated tyres that cater to the increasing demand for high-performance vehicles in India, particularly performance-oriented SUVs and sedans that require tyres capable of handling speeds above 220–240 kmph.

The SportDrive SUV tyres feature a dual-layer high-denier nylon overlay to minimise tyre growth at high speeds, enhancing stability and grip, along with a high-denier polyester fabric for durability and the ability to withstand high torque. Available in larger sizes such as 315/40ZR21, 275/45ZR21 and 285/45ZR21, these tyres cater to the super-premium segment.

They have been tested on Germany’s Autobahns and are engineered to meet global standards while being optimised for Indian driving conditions.

CEAT sees export potential in markets such as Europe and Middle East where the demand for high-performance tyres, especially in the 21-inch segment, is quite high.

GROWTH OUTLOOK

CEAT has outlined its ambition of being the second largest tyre manufacturer in the Indian passenger car radial (PCR) segment.

For this, Narayanan B shared that the company is pursuing focus on both premium as well as mass-market segments.

“Our CrossDrive, Secura SUV and Mileage X5 tyres have been well received. Success will come from balancing premium offerings like SportDrive with high-volume products that cater to the broader market,” he shared.

But what about impact of the natural rubber shortage?

Issac shared that at present India witnesses almost 500,000 metric tonnes of natural rubber shortfall and relies on import. The country has a requirement of almost 1.3 million metric tonnes of natural rubber and growing but only around 800,000 metric tonnes is currently produced domestically.

“While initiatives like the INROADS programme aim to boost domestic production, substantial benefits will only be seen post-2030. Until then, securing supply remains a priority,” added Issac.

On the other hand, Narayanan B remains upbeat on the Indian automotive industry’s growth.

“While volume growth remains uncertain, value growth is evident. People are driving more, increasing tyre demand. Despite market fluctuations, we remain focused on moving towards a leadership position in the industry,” signed off an optimistic Narayanan B.

The Automotive Tyre Manufacturers’ Association (ATMA), the apex body representing tyre companies in India, has requested the Government of India to allow temporary duty-free imports of natural rubber under a Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) mechanism.

The request follows an increase in domestic natural rubber prices to INR 300 per kg, representing a rise of nearly 62 percent from the November 2025 average of INR 186 per kg, alongside supply shortages during the peak production season.

In a letter submitted to Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, the association proposed limiting the duty-free import quota to the assessed deficit between domestic demand and supply until market conditions stabilise.

During FY2025-26, India produced 905,000 tonnes of natural rubber against a consumption volume of 1.42 million tonnes, creating a supply gap of nearly 37 percent. Tyre manufacturers are simultaneously managing cost increases in synthetic rubber, carbon black, petroleum-based inputs and freight expenses driven by crude oil price movements linked to events in West Asia.

India's tyre industry generates an annual turnover of approximately INR 1,000 billion and exports exceeding INR 270 billion, having recorded 16 percent YoY export growth in Q1 of FY2026-27.

Arun Mammen, Chairman of ATMA, said, “Tyre manufacturers rely on the peak tapping season to secure domestic rubber for their production schedules. This year, supplies are falling short even during these months, while procurement costs have risen sharply. A temporary duty-free quota, limited to the assessed shortfall, would help manufacturers maintain production while protecting the interests of domestic rubber growers.”

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has announced that Mark Stewart has stepped down from his roles as Chief Executive Officer and President of the company and has also left its board of directors, effective immediately. In his place, the company has installed board member Roger Wood as interim Chief Executive Officer, with Wood leading the tyre maker while a leading executive search firm helps the board identify a permanent successor.

Wood joined the board in 2023 and has spent over 30 years leading businesses in the automotive and manufacturing sectors. He was previously Co-Chief Executive of Tenneco Inc., which designs, manufactures and distributes clean air, powertrain and ride performance systems worldwide for vehicle manufacturers and the aftermarket, and he holds board seats at PHINIA Incorporated and Brunswick Corporation. As part of taking the interim role, he has given up chairing the board's human capital and compensation committee.

Earlier this year, the board set up a special committee to scrutinise the company's businesses and operations, seeking ways to lift performance and deliver more value to shareholders. Directors and management are pursuing that effort through a wide-ranging assessment of strategic and operational options, among them refining the business mix and footprint, sharpening efficiency and funding new products and capabilities that underpin long-term growth. No further updates are planned unless and until the board concludes that more disclosure is warranted or required.

In a separate announcement dated 27 October 2026, Goodyear said Jerome Rouquet will become Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer on 1 December 2026. Rouquet, now Chief Financial Officer at Visteon Corporation and formerly a senior finance executive at Tenneco and Federal-Mogul, takes over from interim Chief Financial Officer Scott Deakin, who will help ensure a smooth handover.

Joe Hinrichs, Goodyear Board of Directors Chair, said, "Goodyear has made meaningful progress in becoming a more efficient and focused company, and the board believes this is the right moment to transition leadership to accelerate that progress and capture additional opportunity. Roger brings extensive automotive and industrial CEO experience, deep operational expertise and strong relationships across OEMs and aftermarket customers. He knows Goodyear, understands the opportunities ahead and has the board's full confidence to bring heightened focus and urgency to execution while we conduct a thorough search for a permanent CEO. We thank Mark for his contributions to Goodyear.

"The board formed a special committee earlier this year to conduct a rigorous strategic review of the company to help strengthen performance and create shareholder value. The board, together with the Enterprise Transformation Office, is evaluating a broad range of strategic and operational opportunities, and we are committed to taking the right actions to position Goodyear for stronger performance and long-term success. We look forward to providing an update as this work progresses."

Wood said, "Goodyear has iconic brands, talented people and significant opportunities to improve performance and deliver long-term value. As I step into this role, my immediate priorities are to support our associates and customers, sharpen execution and build on the work already underway to advance Goodyear's transformation. I look forward to working closely with the board, leadership team and the Enterprise Transformation Office to advance the strategic review and translate that work into actions that strengthen performance and position Goodyear for long-term success."

Michelin Group has appointed Terry Redmile as Chief People Officer for Michelin North America, Inc. In his new capacity, he will direct employee-focused operations throughout the North America Region, encompassing the recruitment, growth and retention of leading talent. His appointment places a seasoned internal leader at the helm of the company's people strategy.

A veteran of over three decades with Michelin, Redmile started as a co-op student at the firm's Greenville research and development centre. His tenure has spanned roles such as quality engineer and site director at the Fort Wayne, Indiana, manufacturing plant, culminating most recently in his position as senior vice president of manufacturing operations for the Americas. He also holds an MBA from Clemson University and a mechanical engineering bachelor's degree from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Matthew Cabe, President and CEO, Michelin North America, Inc., said, “Terry understands our business, but more importantly, he understands our employees. His foundation in manufacturing and engineering gives him a firsthand understanding of where so many of our employees work every day and what they need to succeed. That perspective will be invaluable in this role.”

Redmile said, “The strength of Michelin has always been rooted in the strength of our talented teams. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside employees across our operations, and they are at the heart of what drives us forward. I want to build on that foundation and help our people continue to learn, innovate and shape what comes next for our industry.”

Apollo Tyres, one of the leading manufacturers of tyres in India, has reported its financial results for Q2 FY2027 and H1 FY2027, alongside announcing the appointment of Ravi Kumar Shingari as its new Chief Financial Officer, effective 4 November 2026.

In his new role, Shingari will be reporting directly to Vice-Chairman and Managing Director Neeraj Kanwar. He joined Apollo Tyres in 2018 as Group Head of Finance and subsequently managed functions across budgeting, accounts, investor relations, and legal affairs, following a 16-year tenure at KPMG as Partner in Tax and Regulatory.

The company announced that its consolidated revenue from operations for Q2 grew by 17 percent YoY to INR 79.68 billion, compared to INR 68.31 billion in the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year.

Operating profit for the quarter stood at INR 8.55 billion, while net profit grew 13 percent to INR 2.92 billion, as against INR 2.58 billion in Q2 FY26. The net profit figures include an estimated pre-tax restructuring cost of INR 260 million recorded as an exceptional item.

For H1 FY2027, revenue reached INR 153.66 billion, up 15 percent from INR 133.92 billion in H1 FY26, with operating profit closing at INR 17.23 billion and net profit at INR 6.41 billion.

Onkar Kanwar, Chairman, Apollo Tyres, said, "Growth across categories in India has been supported by our sustained rural expansion efforts and strategic association with cricket. In addition, the launch of new products in the commercial vehicle segment in India has strengthened performance during the past quarter. At the same time, geopolitical tensions in West Asia remain a headwind, resulting in elevated input costs and supply chain disruptions."

Also read: Apollo Tyres Appoints Abhineet Kothari As India Business Head For Vredestein