Bengaluru-headquartered engineering and R&D (ER&D) company L&T Technology Services (LTTS) has been working behind the scenes with a wide-variety of industries globally as well as in India; among them the transportation vertical is a key contributor, which also includes the automotive and tyre industry.

The tyre industry, which for long has been seen working silos, is now increasingly embracing digitalisation and external support for accelerated growth.

In an interaction with Tyre Trends, Shailendra Shrivastava, Chief Segment Officer, Mobility at L&T Technology Services, shared, “The integration of research, development, innovation and technology is set to revolutionise the tyre industry, ushering in an era of digital transformation that extends beyond traditional manufacturing.”

He believes that by leveraging digital tools, tyre makers can gather and analyse data from major fleet owners, which enables them to take more informed manufacturing decisions and strategic production planning.

PARTNERSHIPS PLAY A CRUCIAL ROLE

It is no secret that the automotive industry right now is undergoing an evolution, what’s with alternative fuels, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), consumer demand or fast-evolving regulatory framework.

LTTS shared that ER&D companies are increasingly playing a pivotal role in the digital transformation of tyre OEMs, both in India and on a global scale. These partnerships are driven by the relentless advancement in technology and competitive market.

It is not just about development of tyres but also overhauling the manufacturing and other processes.

“Engineering firms provide tyre manufacturers with cutting-edge solutions such as smart manufacturing processes, IoT integrations and predictive analytics. These collaborations help tyre OEMs to enhance their operational efficiency, reduce costs and innovate their product offerings. This alliance is not just about keeping pace with industry trends; it’s about setting the trajectory for future innovation and ensuring that tyre companies are well equipped to meet evolving consumer demands and regulatory requirements,” explained Shrivastava.

KEY TRENDS RESHAPING THE TYRE INDUSTRY

In both automotive and non-automotive industries, such as agriculture, construction and material handling, tyres play a crucial role in ensuring efficiency, safety and performance. According to Shrivastava, one of the biggest shifts in the industry is the integration of technology.

He outlined the key trends witnessed:

Smart tyres: Technology integration in tyres is on the rise. Smart tyres equipped with sensors, monitor tyre pressure, temperature and tread wear provide real-time data to enhance safety and performance. Tyre companies are progressively leveraging this data to enhance customer engagement through their proprietary applications.

Electrification: With the growing focus on electric vehicles (EVs) and their increased weight due to batteries, there is a greater emphasis on designing tyres that reduce rolling resistance, minimise road noise and improve driving distance. EV tyres also need to be more durable to withstand wear and tear.

Safety: As safety becomes a priority, there is a demand for tyres with advanced features, including improved wet-condition grip, better braking performance and superior durability.

Sustainability: The demand for sustainable materials and tyres designed to reduce rolling resistance is growing. This trend improves fuel efficiency and reduces carbon emissions.

Customisation: Consumers are showing interest in customisable tyres with unique tread patterns and sidewall designs that allow for personalisation.

Retreading & recycling: The practice of retreading tyres is gaining popularity as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to complete tyre replacement; this is also particularly significant for commercial fleet operators.

When it comes to demand trends, while there are differences between India customers and other countries, there are trends converging in the tyre industry.

“In India, consumers have traditionally prioritised cost-effectiveness and durability due to challenging road conditions and economic factors. Conversely, in other global markets, emphasis has often been placed on performance, technology integration and environmental sustainability. However, with the rapid globalisation and exposure to international standards, Indian consumers are beginning to demand more sophisticated features. This shift is fostering a convergence of consumer expectations, as companies are now striving to balance affordability with cutting-edge technology and eco-friendly options, creating a more universal demand across various regions,” alluded Shrivastava.

Despite some commonalities, there are some key differences in the markets:

Price sensitivity: Indian consumers tend to be more price-sensitive, leading to a higher demand for budget-friendly tyres.

Durability: Due to challenging road conditions, Indian consumers prioritise durable tyres that can withstand Indian roads and rough terrains.

Replacement market dominance: In India, the replacement tyre market dominates, comprising about 56 percent of total volume, unlike developed markets with balanced demand between OEM and replacement tyres.

Fuel-efficient tyres: While globally there is interest in eco-friendly tyres, this trend is more pronounced in developed markets due to stricter environmental regulations.

Brand loyalty: Brand loyalty is stronger in developed markets. In India, consumers prioritise value for money and are open to trying new brands.

While the differences in the trends remain, as the Indian tyre industry becomes more tech-advanced, we will see more convergence between the developed and emerging markets.

TESTING, DESIGNING & VALIDATION

ER&D companies like LTTS mostly work behind the scenes and most of their work revolve around co-creating Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) with their clients.

The company also provides polymer engineering innovation, wherein it enables enhancement of performance, safety and sustainability with lightweight, durable and recyclable materials.

LTTS supports tyre manufacturers worldwide by leveraging advanced composites, 3D printing and high-performance thermoplastics, which helps clients address environmental concerns and cost challenges, driving smarter, more efficient and sustainable transportation solutions.

“We provide AI/ML-based applications, reverse engineering services, embedded sensor solutions and support for advanced manufacturing. Our expertise spans areas like digital twin technology, 3D scanning and IoT integration.

“LTTS focuses on several critical areas, including AI/ML for efficiency, which optimises tyre development and reducing material wastage. Reverse engineering allows for analysing tread patterns and compositions for improvements. Embedded systems & IoT for enabling smart tyres with real-time monitoring capabilities. Manufacturing support to bring efficiency in tyre production plants. Augmented reality and mobile applications to drive digital transformation in the tyre industry.

“By integrating AI, ML and IoT with traditional engineering, we help raise industry standards while prioritising sustainability and efficiency,” said the executive.

SENSOR-BASED TYRE TECH & EMISSIONS

Smart tyres are no longer a work of fiction but a promising technology that is set to see significant uptick in various segments in the coming years. It’s no secret that tyre makers and even start-ups alike are investing heavily to bring smart tyres that not only indicate the tyre pressure but also various parameters to improve vehicle performance, fuel efficiency and safety.

A report by SNS Insider estimates that the automotive smart tyre market size was valued at USD 90.90 billion in 2023 and expected to grow with a CAGR of 8.60 percent from 2024 to 2032. Through the year 2032, it is likely to reach around USD 206.39 billion, promoted by the expanding applications in terms of several automotive segments.

This will also be due to the emergence of more sensors and connected vehicle technology.

Shrivastava said, “Advanced sensors are revolutionising the tyre industry by offering a higher degree of customisation, fundamentally changing how performance and safety are approached. At the forefront of this transformation is enhanced safety: sensors now monitor tyre pressure, temperature and tread wear in real-time, preventing accidents by alerting drivers to potential issues before they escalate. Furthermore, improved performance is achieved as real-time feedback from these sensors optimises the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and traction control, resulting in a smoother driving experience. Predictive maintenance is another benefit, with sensors anticipating maintenance needs, thereby reducing both downtime and costs, which is especially advantageous for commercial fleets. Additionally, from a sustainability perspective, smart technologies support the design of more efficient and longer-lasting tyres, reducing waste and enhancing fuel efficiency.”

Furthermore, electrification and alternative fuels at the forefront for the automotive industry also means tyre makers are expected to further cut down on emissions, especially tyre emissions (particulate matter). This means the industry is looking not only for newer chemistries and eco-friendly materials but also the way tyres are designed, friction and recyclability.

As an ER&D partner for the automotive and tyre industry, LTTS stated that addressing particulate matter emissions and enhancing sustainability requires a comprehensive approach using several key strategies.

Firstly, the use of sustainable materials, such as renewable and bio-based materials like natural rubber and recycled components, becomes essential. Incorporating these materials not only reduces environmental impact but also supports the circular economy. Secondly, designing tyres with reduced rolling resistance improves fuel efficiency and minimises emissions, contributing significantly to sustainability efforts.

“Additionally, advanced manufacturing processes that incorporate energy-efficient production methods and reduce the use of toxic substances are critical in lowering the carbon footprint associated with tyre production. Lastly, the efficient development of tyres through Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) optimises overall development efficiency and resource utilisation, thereby enhancing sustainability on multiple fronts. These strategies collectively form a robust framework for advancing tyre sustainability and mitigating environmental impacts. By focusing on these areas, the tyre industry can make significant strides towards sustainability and reducing its environmental footprint,” concluded an optimistic Shrivastava.

Bridgestone India announced the winners of the 5th Edition of its Mobility Social Impact Awards (MSIA) 2025 in Pune, celebrating organisations that use mobility for social good.

The top honour in the Road Safety Innovation and Excellence category went to ALERT (Amenity Lifeline Emergency Response Team) from Chennai for empowering over 450,000 citizens with emergency response skills. Safety Research Foundation (SRF), based in Pune, received a Jury Commendation for its BRACE Project, which transforms school zones with safety audits and infrastructure upgrades.

In the Empowerment of Vulnerable Communities category, The Association of People with Disability (APD), Bengaluru, won the top honour for its Rehab on Wheels initiative, which provides last-mile rehabilitation services.

The winners were presented with their awards by social worker Dr. Girish Kulkarni, founder of Snehalaya.

Hiroshi Yoshizane, Group President, Bridgestone Asia Pacific and Managing Director, Bridgestone India, said: “It is a privilege to honour these changemakers who are redefining mobility for social good. Their work reflects our shared commitment to building inclusive, safe, and empowered communities.”

Jeya Padmanaban, Founding Trustee, Safety Research Foundation (SRF), said, “We are truly honoured to receive the Jury Commendation at the Bridgestone Mobility Social Impact Awards 2025. The BRACE Project reflects our belief that road safety must begin at the community level, where awareness and infrastructure meet action. This recognition strengthens our resolve to continue building safer environments for children and fostering a culture of responsibility and care on our roads.”

Category	Winner / Commendation	Organisation (Location)	Initiative Focus
Road Safety Innovation and Excellence	Winner	ALERT (Chennai)	Empowering citizens with emergency response skills
	1st Runner-up	SAFE India (Bhubaneshwar)	Improving safety through #ZoneZero Safe School Zone and Driver Training programs
	Jury Commendation	Safety Research Foundation (SRF) (Pune)	Transforming school zones via the BRACE Project
Empowerment of Vulnerable Communities	Winner	The Association of People with Disability (APD) (Bengaluru)	Providing last-mile rehabilitation services via Rehab on Wheels
	1st Runner-up	Impact Guru Foundation (IGF-India) (Delhi)	Initiatives like Empower Her and Mission I-M-Possible, focusing on healthcare, education, and skilling
	Jury Commendation	Jharkhand Vikas Parishad (JVP) (Jharkhand)	Community-led programs promoting sustainable livelihoods and women’s empowerment

Linglong Tire has announced the promotion of Alessio Iacovelli to Deputy Director of Replacement Sales for Western Europe, effective 1 September 2025. In this elevated role, Iacovelli will take on leadership of the regional sales team with a mandate to accelerate business development. His key objectives will include forging strategic alliances and implementing programmes to strengthen customer loyalty. Iacovelli will report directly to Lisa Zhao, the Director of Replacement Sales for Western Europe, and will collaborate with her to manage key markets, including Germany, the UK, Italy and Spain.

Iacovelli, who began his career with Goodyear and Nexen, first joined Linglong Tire at the end of 2022 as a Sales Manager. In that capacity, he demonstrated significant success in developing the Southern European aftermarket, where he expanded the brand's footprint, defined effective growth strategies and secured robust partnerships with distributors. This strategic appointment and the restructuring of the sales leadership underscore Linglong Tire's intensified focus on achieving its ambitious growth targets across the European continent.

Iacovelli said, "I am very pleased to have been promoted to Deputy Director Replacement Sales West Europe at Linglong Tire. We have fantastic products such as the Sport Master 4S and the Sport Master Winter, both successfully tested in the recently published tyre tests. We have a state-of-the-art development centre in Germany and a new tyre plant in Europe and are successful in original equipment – ideal conditions for achieving our ambitious goals together with my team and the colleagues in Hannover and continuing to grow, especially in Europe."

German synthetic rubber maker ARLANXEO has launched consultations with worker representatives over the potential closure of its Port Jerome facility in France, citing persistent weak demand and declining competitiveness in the European chemicals industry.

The company, which is majority-owned by Saudi Aramco, had begun an information and consultation period with the Works Council at the site, located in northern France. A final decision on the closure will be taken after the mandatory consultation process concludes and approval is obtained from the French labour authorities, DREETS.

“The European chemical industry continues to face persistent weak demand and declining competitiveness driven by rising costs, unbalanced global markets, and increased regulatory pressure,” said Stephan van Santbrink, ARLANXEO chief executive.

“These conditions have generated a significant burden on the sector across the regional value chain. ARLANXEO has not been an exception to these challenges. The Port Jerome site has remained in a structurally loss-making position. Despite numerous improvement efforts, we do not foresee a viable path to a sustained structural improvement.”

The company did not disclose how many jobs would be affected by a potential closure, nor did it provide details on the facility’s production capacity or annual output.

Van Santbrink acknowledged the impact on workers, saying: “We recognise the impact a potential closure may have on our employees, and we regret the need to consider these steps. We will continue to treat all employees with respect. If we decide to cease operations at the site, we will do our utmost to assist in finding alternative solutions for all impacted employees. In addition, we intend to provide impacted employees with a social plan which reflects their valued contribution to ARLANXEO.”

The announcement adds to a growing list of European chemical producers struggling with high energy costs, sluggish demand and competition from lower-cost producers in Asia and the United States.

ARLANXEO said it would work closely with all affected internal and external stakeholders to minimise the impact of the intended closure.

Continental's Tires group sector has strengthened its leadership team with two key internal appointments, effective 1 September 2025. Jana Striezel has been named the new head of global purchasing for Continental Tires, while Dennis Bellmund has assumed leadership of the global original equipment business for both passenger and commercial vehicles. Both executives will report directly to Christian Kötz, the member of Continental AG's Executive Board who leads the Tires group sector.

In her new capacity, Striezel will oversee worldwide strategic and operational purchasing. She brings extensive experience from the automotive industry, having previously held several procurement management roles at Renault, where she led purchasing for the Renault brand and its alliance with Nissan and Mitsubishi in Europe. Her career began at Volkswagen in 2014.

Bellmund, who has a 25-year tenure with Continental, steps into his role following the departure of his predecessor, Manja Greimeier, to the ContiTech sector. His extensive background within the company includes recent responsibility for Continental’s tyre retail operations, alongside prior leadership roles in EMEA supply chain management and sales direction for the European replacement tyre business. These appointments signal a strategic reinforcement of Continental's tyre division leadership.

Kötz said, “We’re delighted to welcome Jana Striezel, a highly skilled manager, to our team. She brings extensive expertise in international procurement and will focus on driving forward our purchasing strategy. In Dennis Bellmund, our global original equipment business has gained a highly experienced leader. Thanks to his many years at Continental, he is familiar with our company and our customers’ needs from many different angles. On behalf of the entire management team, I wish both of them every success in their new roles and look forward to working together.”

“On behalf of the entire team, I would like to thank Manja Greimeier for her successful leadership of our original equipment business and wish her all the best and continued success,” added Kötz.