For more than 30 years, Haluk Kizilay has built an impressive career that spans everything from tyre design and development to strategic planning, marketing and business development, both in Turkey and overseas.

He received BSc in mechanical engineering as well as another degree in Business Management (BBA) in Turkey.

At Brisa, Bridgestone Turkey, Haluk supported executive and functional level of tyre design, material development, production, field evaluation and management. He also engaged in strategic plan development, competitive intelligence, OEM programmes and benchmarking.

In 2011, Haluk moved on to become an ‘R&D Engineering Manager’ in Cooper Tire & Rubber. He took wide-range responsibility for Truck & Bus product development as well as Field Engineering & Business Development.

In addition to design direction at Cooper, he also participated in Product Planning and Global Technology Development and Merger and Acquisition activities in China and Europe.

Haluk is one of the registered researchers of TUBITAK – The Scientific & Technological Research Council of Turkey – and he is also one of the authorised judges of EU Horizon work programme.

In 2019, he established his own consulting firm called ‘TICTire Industry Consulting’ to serve the tyre industry globally.

The global tyre market has been expanding annually at a rate of 2 to 10 percent, depending on the region. This growth is driven by global economic expansion, increased mobility demands and diversification, new business models and other factors. At the same time, the performance requirements for tyres have become more stringent than ever. As a result, the tyre industry is increasingly focused on advanced technologies, including innovative, light and green materials, enhanced modelling and testing methods, embedded systems, environmental sustainability and the development of smart tyres.

To meet these demands, the tyre industry must elevate its New Product Development (NPD) processes by intensifying research and development efforts. In the highly competitive market of the future, and in the new CASE mobility context (which stands for Connected Autonomous Shared and Electric vehicles), the new tyre technology and knowledge will be more critical than ever before.

One significant trend in NPD is the drive to reduce development time through the use of modern simulation and modelling techniques. At TIC-Tyre Industry Consulting, in partnership with Autoadmin Consulting, we emphasise the philosophy of ‘speed to market with the right modelling solutions and innovation’. Virtual modelling technologies are central to this approach, enabling companies to launch world-class products faster and more cost-effectively by eliminating the trial-and-error physical development approaches.

The role of virtual modelling technologies in smart tyre development

Virtual modelling technologies are indispensable for understanding how the various components of a tyre interact. By leveraging modelling and simulation, tyre manufacturers can predict the full range of potential outcomes, including complex and novel testing scenarios beyond what traditional mental models can anticipate.

As a critical vehicle safety component, the tyre significantly impacts overall vehicle performance and has now new ‘attributes’ like providing various data about the tyre status in real time. Therefore, designing high-quality, high-performance tyres require not only an understanding of their intrinsic properties – such as tread pattern, carcass structure, materials characteristics – but also the external running conditions like vehicle load and speed, wheel torque and road surface. Virtual tyre models, built with the FEA (finite element analysis) method, provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating and understanding the impact of these variables, particularly in the case of smart tyres applications.

Here are some examples of how tyre FEA simulation and tools can unlock the potential of virtual modelling technology:

• Component and system development: Creating models for tyre carcasses, plies, belts, reinforcements and tread patterns, including beyond tyre components (such as RFID or TMS sensors) for structural analysis.

• Predictions of footprint and stiffness characteristics: Simulating static or quasi-static footprint behaviour under normal, lateral and torsional forces.

• Predictions of force and moments: Simulating steady state rolling during braking, acceleration and cornering.

• NVH applications: Evaluating tyre cavity profile, tread block design, void areas, non-skid depth, groove angles and pitch sequencing.

• Emerging technologies applications: Addressing new tyre engineering challenges like traceable, silent, studded tyres with the integration of TMS or RFID sensors, innerliner foams or tread studs and EV-specific reinforcements requirements for high load capacity tyres.

The game changer: Adopting a 3D modelling approach first to tyre design

The tyre industry must fully transition to a 3D first mindset when designing products, just as other industries – such as automotive and aerospace – have done for parts and assemblies. Today, every component of a vehicle, whether for ICE vehicles or EVs, is first modelled in 3D space. From these models, 2D sketches, assembly and execution drawings are derived using cutting, cross-sectioning and projection techniques for manufacturing plans.

By adopting this approach, tyre designers can address the complexities of designing emerging technologies for smart tyre development, such as various sensors embedded in or glued to the tyre. Likewise for foam in tyre (FIT) and non-pneumatic tyres (NPT) technologies. This shift from traditional 2D design thinking to a comprehensive 3D space representation will enable the industry to better meet the challenges of smart tyre innovation.

Advancing FEA for proactive tyre development

To achieve higher levels of ROI in FEA simulations and tools, the industry must integrate the latest advancements in FEA technology. These efforts should be proactive, conducted well before manufacturing begins. The outdated 2D to 3D model creation approaches, involving the solver in the model creation stage, no longer suffices, besides having many limitations. Given the increasing complexity of tyre design and the massive data exploration required for simulations and testing various load cases, automations in post-processing should also be considered.

To succeed in this environment, manufacturers must rely on expert knowledge. Virtual modelling technologies provide the tools needed to address these challenges and seize new opportunities, empowering the tyre industry to lead in innovation and performance.

Support from TIC-Tyre Industry Consulting and Autoadmin Consulting

At TIC-Tyre Industry Consulting and Autoadmin Consulting, our Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) bring extensive hands-on experience in the topics discussed above. We are ready to support R&D activities with tailored technical solutions designed to address unique challenges. We pride ourselves on adhering to the highest professional and ethical standards, a hallmark of our work for many years.

In addition to our consulting services, we offer Simulation and Modelling Technical Courses. These programmes are designed to equip your workforce with the skills, mindset and competencies needed to thrive in today’s competitive environment. Our expert trainers guide participants through an engaging learning journey, incorporating workshops, real-world case studies and cutting-edge educational technologies.

Black Swan Graphene Inc. (Black Swan) has appointed Jobin George as Technical Sales Manager for the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region with immediate effect. This significant move, which supports Black Swan's worldwide commercial team as it promotes adoption of its graphene-enhanced products, follows Dan Roadcap’s appointment as Head of Technical Sales and Business Development.

George has an MBA from ICFAI University in India, a Post Graduate Diploma from the Central Institute of Petrochemical Engineering and Technology in India and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Mahatma Gandhi University, India. He brings with him more than 20 years of global expertise in project management, business development and technical sales. George has had positions at Sands International Plastics and Sojitz Corporation in the United Arab Emirates, as well as Aquapak Polymers and H-Pack Global Ltd.

Simon Marcotte, President and Chief Executive Officer, Black Swan Graphene, said, “The addition of Jobin to our commercial team marks another important milestone in our global expansion strategy. His international experience, particularly in the EMEA region, and his proven ability to translate technical capability into commercial success make him an ideal fit as we continue scaling our graphene business.”

George said, “Black Swan is positioned at the forefront of advanced materials innovation. The opportunity to contribute to the adoption of such a transformative technology across the EMEA region is tremendously exciting. I look forward to engaging with our existing customers and partners, along with exploring opportunities for new clients as well, to showcase the performance and value of Black Swan’s graphene solutions.”

The Tire Recycling Foundation (TRF), a joint initiative led by the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA) and the Tire Industry Association (TIA), has appointed Stephanie Mull as its Executive Director.

Mull will spearhead the organisation's initiatives to promote innovation and invest in the circular tyre economy, expand the market for end-of-life tyres and support studies to fill in the gaps in the sustainability and tyre recycling supply chain in her new role at TRF. Mull brings a wealth of experience in the sustainability field and a broad understanding of fleet management and decarbonisation, including converting fleets to electric and alternative fuel vehicles. In her role as PepsiCo's Sustainability Senior Manager, she oversaw major electrification projects, obtained grant money and spearheaded efforts to lower Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions throughout Pepsi and Frito-Lay's North American fleets. Mull oversaw the local government's efforts to upgrade municipal vehicles to greener technology and volunteered to help the Red Cross electrify its fleet.

Anne Forristall Luke, TRF Board President, said, “Stephanie Mull brings the passion, in-depth expertise and history of excellence that will drive TRF and its partners to achieve critical tyre recycling and reclamation milestones. We are thrilled to have her join the Foundation as we advance tyre sustainability while tackling the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

Mull said, “I’m honoured to join the Tire Recycling Foundation and support its sustainability mission to achieve 100 percent end-of-life tyre circularity. TRF is a vital nexus of expertise and leadership, and I look forward to working with all stakeholders in developing tyre recycling solutions that pave the way for a more sustainable future.” 

The Tire Recycling Foundation is dedicated to achieving 100 percent circularity for end-of-life tires by advancing innovation, building partnerships and supporting scalable recycling and reclamation solutions. Consisting of 15 global industry leaders with expertise in the manufacturing, recycling and transportation industries, TRF’s Board primarily focuses on the acceleration and adoption of emerging end-of-life tyre market technologies like rubber-modified asphalt (RMA).

The global tyre industry’s top manufacturers and technology suppliers met at the Tire Technology Expo 2025 in Hannover on 4-6 March to unveil technologies focused on driving sustainability, digitalisation and road safety. At the Deutsche Messe, the exhibition featured advances in tyre engineering, materials science and manufacturing technologies that will define mobility in the future.

In opening the event, expo founder Tony Robinson called on manufacturers to close the knowledge gap with consumers, highlighting how most drivers undervalue the importance of tyres in ensuring a vehicle’s safety. He mentioned that safety rests on the four small ‘footprints’ of rubber linking a car to the road, which tends to be undervalued by the general driver.

Looking to the future, Robinson saw a day when tyres contain sensors that share real-time information with other cars and roadside infrastructure. These sensors could warn drivers of dangerous road conditions like flooding or new potholes, making roads safer and avoiding crashes. He predicted that information from tyres could also feed into weather forecasting services, providing useful real-time information on road conditions.

The exhibition floor showcased innovation and high-performance solutions from more than 240 exhibitors, with Bekaert, Rockwell Automation, VMI Group, HF Group, ARP Technologies, Synthos, Nynas, Schill+Seilacher “Struktol” GmbH, Kordsa, Black Donuts and others.

SUSTAINABILITY AND MATERIAL INNOVATION TAKE CENTRE STAGE

The expo also reflected the tyre industry’s growing focus on sustainability, with manufacturers launching new materials and processes to lower environmental impact. Bekaert launched its Mega Tensile reinforcement technology, a major innovation in its Elyta range. The technology enables tyre manufacturers to produce up to 20 percent less steel and 10 percent less rubber compound in belt plies, achieving a 2-4 percent drop in rolling resistance and a huge 15-20 percent reduction in CO₂ emissions per tyre.

Kordsa introduced its REV Technologies, which are specifically tailored to electric vehicle tyres. The company’s innovations include recycled PET (rPET) cord fabric and RFID tyre tags, enabling improved lifecycle monitoring and data collection. Kordsa expects to enhance sustainability and recycling practices by combining digital identification with tyre production.

Teijin Aramid featured its Twaron para-aramid reinforcement, a material that can manufacture lighter tyres with reduced rolling resistance and eventually lower emissions.

EV AND DIGITAL INNOVATION LEAD DISCUSSIONS

As the electric vehicle (EV) market grows, tyre makers focus on creating solutions specific to the special needs of EVs and autonomous vehicles. Continental Tires unveiled an overall sustainability strategy, emphasising the environmental impact of tyres throughout their life cycle. The firm detailed plans to incorporate more sustainable raw materials, minimise waste during production and enhance tyre durability.

Michelin’s Director of Standards and Regulations for Connected Mobility, Claire Fioretti, outlined the company’s efforts around Digital Product Passports (DPP), a major initiative within the (ESPR). The regulation, enacted in 2024, aims to increase supply chain transparency by mandating that products carry a permanent, readable identifier usable throughout their life cycle. Michelin is already testing the programme in various industries, such as textiles, electronics and automotive components, with the cooperation of French, German and Swedish stakeholders.

The ESPR system, Fioretti characterised as an ‘ambitious information system’, will enable the maker, the recycler and the buyer to make environmentally informed decisions. She stressed that the movement is not so much about compliance as a transition towards the principles of the circular economy. By 2027, by the time broad adoption of the ESPR sets in, product design may improve, recycling efficiency will be elevated and buyers’ confidence will be boosted in second-hand markets.

MANUFACTURING INNOVATION AND AI TECHNOLOGY

The event showcased the latest digital manufacturing solutions to enhance efficiency, lower waste and better quality control. Rockwell Automation launched AI-driven tools to optimise tyre production, including digital thread technologies for tracking data without interruption through various manufacturing processes.

Black Donuts launched its Digital Twin Tyre Plant Simulation, a cutting-edge real-time virtual modelling tool that aids manufacturers in minimising downtime and optimising production. The company’s methodology involves end-to-end finite element analysis, enabling accurate tyre performance simulations before production.

HF dominated the manufacturing technology market with its state-of-the-art electric tyre curing presses. The company illustrated how its new electric curing technology could be applied to new and retrofit installations to minimise energy consumption and enhance process efficiency. Fischer TireTech exhibited computerised cord-cutting lines and premium extrusion technologies aimed at increasing accuracy in tyre production.

Uzer Makina launched a high-end electric tyre curing press focused on energy efficiency and precision production. ARP Technologies showcased its Electromagnetic Heating (EMH) curing system, a more energy-efficient curing process, alongside an artificial intelligence-based inspection machine that can spot tiny defects with great accuracy.

KraussMaffei featured its multiplex extrusion technology, which enhances first-time production quality and eliminates material bleeding during tyre formation. The company showed a new head clamping technology that maximises channel cleaning effectiveness, further expanding the limits of green manufacturing.

REGULATORY DEVELOPMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

Regulatory matters were on the agenda at the expo, with leading experts discussing the changing scene for tyre production and green compliance. Adam McCarthy, Secretary General of the European Tyre and Rubber Manufacturers’ Association (ETRMA), gave a definitive overview of recent European Commission regulatory interventions impacting the sector.

A specific session on Tyre and Road Wear Particles (TRWP) collaborated with industry experts from Bridgestone, Continental and Michelin, as well as leading research institutions, to address the implications of future Euro 7 regulations. It was centred around reducing tyre wear’s environmental footprint without compromising performance levels.

FUTURE OUTLOOK AND INDUSTRY COLLABORATION

During the three-day conference, experts worldwide exchanged information, delved into future technologies and worked on crafting the mobility of the future. The event highlighted reducing carbon footprint, improving safety and customising solutions for future electric and self-driving cars.

The next edition will be held on 3 and 4 March 2026.

TIRE TECHNOLOGY INTERNATIONAL AWARDS FOR INNOVATION AND EXCELLENCE

A key highlight of the event was the prestigious Tire Technology International Awards for Innovation and Excellence 2025. Recognising achievements across 12 categories, the awards celebrate the latest advancements in tyre technology, progress towards a more sustainable industry and the outstanding contributions of individuals driving innovation. This year’s winners are as follows:

Goodyear bagged Environmental Achievement of the Year – Tire Design for its ElectricDrive Sustainable- Material (EDS) tyre.

Continental was awarded the Environmental Achievement of the Year – Manufacturing award for its CO2-neutral tyre production at the Lousado plant in Portugal.

Nokian Tyres won the Environmental Achievement – Industry Contribution award for its inauguration of the world’s first full-scale tyre factory with zero CO₂ emissions in Oradea, Romania.

Bekaert received the Materials Innovation of the Year award for its next-generation reinforcement solution, Mega Tensile.

Sumitomo Rubber Industries won the R&D Breakthrough of the Year award for its Active Tread technology.

VMI was awarded for Tire Manufacturing Innovation of the Year award for its integrated quality monitoring for the MAXX and MILEXX platforms.

ARP Technologies was selected as Industry Supplier of the Year for its many innovations in the tyre curing sector.

Bridgestone bagged Tire Concept of the Year for its Lunar concept tyre.

Michelin was awarded Tire of the Year for its Primacy 5 tyre.

Continental won the Tire Manufacturer of the Year award for the fourth time, acknowledging the scale and breadth of the company’s achievements over the last year.

Two further awards were also given for individual achievements in the industry:

Katerina Filzer, a PhD student at Twente University in the Netherlands, was awarded the 2025 Young Scientist Award for her presentation, ‘An Innovative  Method to Incorporate a Devulcanization Aid into Rubber’.

Anke Blume, head of elastomer technology and engineering at the University of Twente, received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her outstanding contributions to the tyre industry.

KENDA Europe has announced plans to expand its speciality business operations across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland (DACH region), with implementation set to begin in June 2025.

Following its recent strategic realignment revealed at The Tire Cologne 2024, the company will establish a dedicated stock facility near Hamburg to supply specialty products directly to regional distributors.

“This is a natural and strategic development driven by our commitment to being closer to our customers. In a partnership, being there matters, and our goal is to be present, accessible, and supportive of our customers. Strengthening our presence in the DACH region is about more than logistics; it’s about empowering our distributors and creating the conditions for long-term mutual growth,” said Christian de Wit, Sales Director of KENDA Europe Specialty.

The initiative will initially focus on specialty products, including trailer tyres, turf, small industrial and agricultural vehicles, ATV and UTVS, and forklifts. The company plans to eventually transform KENDA GmbH into a central European warehouse for specialty products, with potential future expansion to include additional product lines such as powersports.

The company indicated it would share further details with partners as the June launch approaches.