MRF continues to lead the tyre industry with a strong focus on quality, innovation and customer satisfaction. With a presence in over 70 countries, MRF’s dominance spans across categories including commercial vehicles, two-wheelers, electric vehicles (EVs) and aircraft tyres. As India’s economic growth drives increased demand for commercial vehicles, MRF capitalises on this shift towards larger trucks and the expanding EV market. Additionally, the company’s technological prowess is evident in its supply of defence aircraft tyres. Despite challenges like rising rubber prices, MRF’s commitment to development and sustainable practices ensures its continued growth and global expansion.

MRF Vice Chairman and Managing Director Arun Mammen opined that India’s economic prosperity is leading to a demand for original equipment, which in turn is driving the volumes for commercial vehicle tyres upwards. Speaking to Tyre Trends on the sidelines of the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, Mammen noted, “The commercial vehicle tyre segment is primarily driven by OEM demand. India’s economic performance is increasing commercial activity, leading to a higher number of trucks being sold. A notable trend in this segment is the shift towards larger trucks. This shift is primarily due to improved road infrastructure. Additionally, these trends see tyre volumes grow even in the replacement market.”

He added, “Government policies over the last 5–6 years have also played a crucial role in shaping the industry. The transition from BS4 to BS6, changes in axle load norms and various other regulatory developments have influenced tyre design and performance requirements. We have remained ahead of these changes, ensuring our products fully comply with government guidelines.”

The company theme for this year at the expo was ‘Muscle in Motion’, which highlighted MRF’s leadership, technology, innovation and sustainability.

MRF has been a leader in the tyre industry for 37 years, covering all categories. The executive noted that while competition was close in some segments, the company continued to have a leading position in tractors, trucks, light commercial vehicles, commercial vehicles and three-wheeler tyre segments. Its market leadership was further reinforced by its financial performance in FY 2023-24 with turnover of over INR 250 billion.

The company is experiencing double-digit growth, particularly in the first half of CY25, while most of the industry had struggled to achieve similar momentum. “We have consistently grown across all tyre categories including infrastructure, farm, two-wheeler and truck tyres,” revealed Mammen.

“Our ability to maintain market dominance for nearly four decades is rooted in a simple yet powerful philosophy, which is quality, customer focus and continuous innovation. We prioritise understanding customer needs and delivering better-thanexpected performance. This relentless pursuit of excellence ensures that we provide the best value for money,” said the official.

EXPANDING PORTFOLIO

A recent media report mentioned that MRF is seeing significant progress in the EV tyre segment, covering both OEM supply and the replacement market.

Exuding confidence for its EV tyre portfolio with the evolving automobile space in India, Mammen noted, “We are actively innovating in this space and a great example is our new EV tyre, recently supplied to Mahindra for its latest EV launch. This tyre incorporates a unique foam technology that significantly reduces noise, offering a quieter and more comfortable driving experience. With the growing adoption of electric vehicles, such advancements are crucial as EVs inherently produce less mechanical noise, making tyre noise reduction even more essential.”

He added, “Our tyres are fitted on several OEM vehicles including that of Maruti, Toyota, Honda and Bajaj models. The EV space will continue to grow as charging infrastructure improves, making electric mobility more convenient for consumers. While passenger vehicles and two-wheelers are currently leading the shift, we expect commercial vehicles to gradually follow suit as fleet operators gain confidence in battery technology and cost efficiency.”

Moreover, the company exclusively supplies tyres for Indian defence aircraft and helicopters with plans to expand the portfolio. Commenting on the same lines, Mammen revealed, “MRF supplies aircraft tyres to India’s defence forces including the Air Force and Navy. The majority of defence aircraft flying today are equipped with MRF tyres. The Indian Government does not import aircraft tyres unless we do not manufacture a specific type, further reinforcing our dominant position in this critical sector.”

MARKET TALK

MRF set up a new plant in Gujarat recently and ongoing expansions across multiple facilities are in process. Mammen noted that factories were continually being upgraded to meet evolving market demands. The company’s export business contributes between 10 to 12 percent in its total revenue, said Mammen.

The company currently exports to 70 countries worldwide. When asked about exploring new regions, the executive highlighted, “We are always looking for new opportunities for growth. A key example is our dominance in rally racing. We have been European champions for two years, beating multinational competitors, and in Asia Pacific, we have been rally champions for nine consecutive years. These victories highlight our engineering excellence and performance capabilities, opening doors to further expand our brand presence.”

Another trend within the Indian tyre market is Tyre-as-a-Service. Commenting on whether MRF plans to foray in the segment, he said, “Tyre-as- a-Service currently accounts for less than a single-digit percentage of the overall business. The limited adoption is due to challenging operating conditions. While some companies initially ventured into this space, many later exited due to difficulties in scaling the model. We continue to monitor this segment and will assess its potential for expansion in the future.”

TALKING ROADBLOCKS

The official identified the rising prices of rubber as one of the largest problems facing the tyre industry. Mammen explained that raw material costs account for about 70 percent of tyre production costs. As crude oil prices increase, the cost of production also rises, which is further impacted by fluctuations in the rupeedollar exchange rate.

“The price of natural rubber has remained high for a while and this is a challenge for many tyre manufacturers including us. India does not produce enough natural rubber to meet domestic demand, so we rely on imports to supplement local supply. This dependency on imports means we are exposed to fluctuations in global rubber prices, which can impact our overall cost structure,” said Mammen.

Despite the challenges, the company’s near-term research and development focus will involve both recycling raw materials and exploring green energy solutions such as energy and water recycling while also controlling wastage.

The company had made a Capex of over INR 21 billion in the previous financial year and nearly INR 7 billion in the first six months of the current financial year. These investments are directed towards areas with growth opportunities in truck, passenger and two-wheeler markets.

When asked about retail expansion, Mammen noted that there is always room for growth, both in expanding the dealer and retailer network and in online retail.

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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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