Led by CEO Flavio Farroni, the company has expanded into what he describes as a ‘MegaRide holding’, comprising multiple specialised businesses, each targeting different segments of the automotive technology sector.

“We embrace an unconventional approach to startup building: we invest in organic and gradual growth, which keeps us independent from private funding and allows us to reinvest our revenues into the team and R&D projects fully,” says Farroni, who co-founded the company after conducting tyre research at the university.

FROM ACADEMIA TO INDUSTRY DISRUPTOR

MegaRide’s journey represents a new technology transfer model from academia to industry. Farroni acknowledges that this transition wasn’t without challenges.

“The main leadership challenges we faced along our journey were, first and foremost, gaining acceptance for our role as researcher-entrepreneurs – researchpreneurs – both within academia and in the market. In the beginning, neither was sufficiently advanced to recognise such a new and competitive figure,” Farroni explains.

This ‘researchpreneur’ model has since become central to MegaRide’s competitive advantage. The company maintains close ties with universities and ensures a continuous pipeline of cutting-edge research that feeds into commercial applications.

“Our deep synergy with universities makes research and innovation our core mission. This allows us to explore methodologies and techniques that may not immediately apply to current products but lay the groundwork for future advancements,” explains Aleksandr Sakhnevych, MegaRide’s Chief Technology Officer.

ITALIAN TECH FIRM REVOLUTIONISES TYRE SCIENCE WITH PHYSICS-BASED SIMULATION

In a nondescript business park on the outskirts of Naples, a team of researchers-turned-entrepreneurs is quietly revolutionising how the world’s leading vehicle manufacturers and motorsport teams understand tyre performance. MegaRide, founded by academic researchers from the University of Naples Federico II, has grown from a university spinoff to one of the most innovative players in automotive simulation technology.

The company specialises in physics-based modelling software that predicts tyre behaviour with unprecedented accuracy – crucial information for both racing teams seeking competitive advantages measured in milliseconds and vehicle manufacturers designing safer, more efficient cars for everyday drivers.

THE TECHNOLOGY: DIGITAL TWINS FOR TYRES

These physics-based models simulate how tyres behave under different conditions, predicting temperature changes, grip levels and wear patterns in real time with an accuracy that was previously impossible.

One of its most innovative products, weaRIDE, enables real-time tyre tread wear and chemical degradation simulation. This technology is particularly significant for electric vehicles, whose instant torque delivery creates new challenges for tyre durability.

“We were the first to develop a commercial thermal model for tyres, the first to create a multiphysics Pacejka-based model, and today, we are the first to introduce a wear and degradation model, weaRIDE, internationally awarded for its innovation. We try to be always a step ahead, and scientific research is our ‘secret weapon’,” Farroni says.

Sakhnevych explains that ensuring model accuracy across varied real-world conditions requires a multifaceted approach: “MegaRide ensures the accuracy and reliability of the weaRIDE model through a multifaceted approach. First, there is a continuous effort to enhance the physical fidelity of the model, leveraging a strategic synergy with universities and research institutions.”

He adds, “Additionally, a key focus is placed on improving data processing methodologies. Tyre models often face scrutiny due to the limitations in predictive accuracy, which are strongly influenced by the quality of the calibration data.”

FROM SIMULATION TO MEASUREMENT: THE VESEVO SPINOFF

In 2018, MegaRide expanded its footprint by spinning off VESevo, a company focused on developing innovative testing equipment for tyre materials. VESevo’s flagship product enables non-destructive testing of tyre compounds, providing detailed mechanical property data previously unavailable without destroying the tyre.

Andrea Genovese, CEO of VESevo, explains how the technology has evolved from its motorsport origins: “VESevo is evolving its motorsport-derived technology to enhance industrial applications, leveraging its versatility for real-time quality control in tyre manufacturing. Its non-destructive, non-invasive and rapid-testing capabilities allow each tyre to be analysed directly on the production line.”

This represents a significant shift in quality control for tyre manufacturers. “This innovation enables mechanical property testing to be performed not just on a sample basis but on the entire production, guaranteeing comprehensive quality assessment,” Genovese adds.

However, VESevo has faced regulatory headwinds in motorsport, particularly after the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) introduced rules limiting the use of its technology in Formula 2 and Formula 3.

“Honestly, we were surprised by this regulatory change, as motorsport has always been a driving force in introducing innovations, especially when they enhance performance, spectacle and safety, benefiting all stakeholders involved,” Genovese admits.

Rather than seeing this as a setback, VESevo has focused more on industrial applications. “By broadening our reach into new applications, we are not just navigating these changes, but we are turning them into opportunities to drive innovation forward,” Genovese says.

STRATEGIC ACQUISITIONS AND GROWTH

MegaRide has augmented its technological capabilities through strategic acquisitions, including the 2022 purchase of Wriggle Solutions’ intellectual property. This acquisition bolstered MegaRide’s capabilities in real-time tyre wear monitoring.

“The acquisition of Wriggle Solutions’ intellectual property in 2022 has expanded MegaRide’s strategic line, accelerating the transition from purely simulation-based technologies to real-time, onboard vehicle sensing,” Sakhnevych explains.

This move has enabled MegaRide to develop virtual sensors that can estimate previously unmeasurable parameters like vehicle sideslip angle, tyre temperature and tread wear. These capabilities have applications for vehicle performance, safety systems and autonomous driving technologies.

MegaRide has also established key partnerships with major industry players. Its collaboration with Prometeon, an industrial tyre manufacturer, illustrates how the company’s technology is being applied beyond high-performance vehicles to commercial transport.

THE CHALLENGE OF SCALING HIGH-PERFORMANCE TECHNOLOGY

Transferring technologies developed for the extreme demands of motorsport to mass-market applications presents significant challenges. Sakhnevych outlines several hurdles: “One of the main challenges is cost, as motorsport applications rely on high-end sensors and powerful computing. To make these solutions viable for mass production, MegaRide focuses on leveraging existing vehicle sensors and optimising software to run efficiently on standard ECUs.”

He continues, “Scalability is another hurdle, as consumer vehicles operate in diverse and unpredictable conditions. Ensuring robust performance across various road surfaces and driving styles requires extensive validation and adaptive modelling.”

THE AI QUESTION

As artificial intelligence (AI) transforms industries worldwide, MegaRide maintains a measured approach to incorporating machine learning (ML) into its products. The company’s roots in physics-based modelling inform its perspective on AI’s role in tyre simulation.

“MegaRide leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning while staying true to its roots in physics-based modelling,” Sakhnevych says. “Our background in academic research, particularly in mechanical engineering, has shaped our expertise in model-based approaches."

He distinguishes their approach from purely data-driven methods: “Unlike purely data-driven methods, our approach enables prediction without extensive training datasets – simply by parametrising models using well-established physical principles.”

DATA SECURITY CONCERNS

As vehicles become increasingly connected, handling sensitive data securely becomes increasingly important. MegaRide has developed comprehensive approaches to data security, particularly relevant to its onboard sensing technologies.

“MegaRide addresses data privacy and security concerns in tyre technology through a robust combination of encryption, secure data management protocols and role-based access controls,” Sakhnevych explains.

COMPETITION FROM INDUSTRY GIANTS

As a small company operating in an industry dominated by global corporations, MegaRide faces significant competitive pressures. However, Sakhnevych sees advantages in the company’s nimble structure.

THE FUTURE: EXPANSION AND DIVERSIFICATION

Looking ahead, MegaRide plans to continue expanding through organic growth and the development of new ventures within its holding structure.

“The ‘MegaRide holding’ concept will allow us to diversify our strategies, expanding into various sectors we consider strategic,” Farroni explains.

“MegaRide’s models are increasingly used by OEMs, tyre manufacturers and racing teams, and the technological landscape is moving towards a greater adoption of physics-based models like ours, driven by the growing use of real-time simulations.”

Each company within the holding structure has its strategic direction. “VESevo, originally founded to produce a portable device for motorsport, is now evolving – thanks to key strategic partnerships – into a provider of non-destructive testing solutions and quality control systems for tyres, directly integrated into production lines,” says Farroni. The newest addition, RIDEsense, targets emerging opportunities in vehicle automation. “The increasing onboard computational power of vehicles has led to the creation of a new company, RIDEsense, focused on developing ‘Virtual Sensors’ – real-time algorithms capable of estimating otherwise unmeasurable quantities and providing critical insights for ADAS and autonomous driving systems, which will be pivotal in tackling the mobility challenges of the coming years,” explains Farroni. VESevo’s Genovese describes a similar approach to balancing immediate market needs with long-term innovation: “At VESevo, balancing short-term business goals with long-term research and development is part of our DNA. As an academic spinoff from the University of Naples Federico II and an innovative company, we follow the same path that MegaRide successfully pioneered, transforming cutting-edge research into commercially viable solutions while maintaining a strong focus on technological advancement.”

He elaborates on their dual-track strategy: “In the short term, we focus on delivering market-ready solutions that meet the immediate needs of our customers, particularly in motorsport and industrial applications. By working closely with teams and manufacturers, we ensure our technology provides tangible value and rapid returns, allowing us to sustain growth and reinvest in innovation.”

Meanwhile, the academic connection remains vital: “Our strong ties to the academic world allow us to act as a ‘bridge’ between research and industry. This close connection enables a constant exchange of knowledge, technology, expertise and skills, accelerating innovation while ensuring our developments translate into real-world impact,” says Genovese.

A MODEL FOR RESEARCH COMMERCIALISATION

MegaRide’s success offers a blueprint for commercialising academic research in highly technical fields. The company has carved out a unique position in the automotive technology ecosystem by maintaining close ties to academia while developing practical market applications.

The company’s ‘researchpreneur’ model provides a case study in technology transfer that may be increasingly relevant as universities worldwide seek to translate research into commercial impact. MegaRide demonstrates that deep technical expertise can be successfully paired with entrepreneurial vision when the right structures and leadership are in place.

As vehicle electrification, automation and connectivity create new challenges for tyre performance and safety, MegaRide’s physics-based approach to simulation and testing positions the company to play an increasingly important role in the future of mobility.

What began as academic research in a Naples university laboratory has evolved into a group of companies pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in understanding the complex interactions between tyres and roads – knowledge that underpins both the thrilling spectacle of motorsport and the mundane safety of everyday driving.

The European replacement tyre market displayed mixed signals in the first quarter of 2025, with consumer tyres growing modestly while truck and agricultural segments contracted, according to data released by the European Tyre and Rubber Manufacturers’ Association (ETRMA).

Consumer tyre sales grew 3 percent in the first quarter compared to the same period last year, continuing the recovery observed in the second half of 2024. The all-seasons segment emerged as the standout performer with a robust 14 percent growth, whilst winter tyres rose 5 percent. Summer tyres declined by 3 percent.

"In Consumer tyres, the recovery observed in the second half of 2024 (+8 percent) has continued in the first quarter of 2025. Volumes were close to those reached in the first quarter of 2019, before the impact of the pandemic," said Adam McCarthy, ETRMA's Secretary General.

The truck tyre segment, however, showed weakness with a 4 percent decline compared to Q1 2024 and remains 11 percent below pre-pandemic levels. Agricultural tyres mirrored this downward trend with a 4 percent reduction, whilst motorcycle and scooter tyres grew 7 percent against what the association described as "a relatively weak first quarter of 2024".

McCarthy attributed the truck segment's poor performance to "economic and political uncertainties" affecting the market.

The data reveals a striking trend in tyre imports, with passenger car and light truck tyre imports into Europe surging 12 percent in the first two months of 2025 compared to the same period last year. This follows a 17 percent increase in 2024, with Chinese imports up 18 percent, Korean imports up 30 percent, and Indian imports up 34 percent.

Industry analysts suggest this import surge reflects both consumer cost pressures and production challenges facing European manufacturers.

"Pressure on household budgets has increased demand for low-cost imports whilst European tyre production costs, particularly for energy, have increased at a faster pace than in other regions," the ETRMA report noted.

In a separate trend, truck and bus tyre imports from outside Europe grew 8 percent in early 2025, with ASEAN countries now representing over 60 percent of imported volumes. Vietnam's share has grown significantly, accounting for over a quarter of imports in the period.

The association also highlighted that despite significant changes in mobility patterns, with car traffic yet to fully recover from pandemic lows, the total light vehicle fleet in Europe grew by 1.4 percent in 2024, adding more than 4 million vehicles. Light commercial vehicles showed stronger growth, driven by e-commerce and last-mile delivery expansion.

The report estimates that nearly 4.5 million tonnes of used tyres were generated across Europe in 2024, with only about 600,000 tonnes reused or retreaded.

Ralson Tire North America (RTNA) has made some strategic changes in its top management with an aim to strengthen its foundation for the future. The company has promoted Mark Roe to Vice President of Sales for the company. Roe previously served as Vice President – Sales (West) for the company. Apart from this, Christy Neito has been promoted to the role of Business Manager for RTNA.

According to the company, Roe will work closely with all RTNA sales managers to assign roles and coordinate execution, which will improve performance and focus throughout RTNA.

Neito has over 20 years of expertise in operational administration, bookkeeping and office management. She joined RTNA in 2023. Neito will be in charge of banking and accounting coordination, cash management, compliance and administrative assistance for HR services as part of her enlarged duties.

RTNA Senior Vice President Brian Sheehey, said, “Mark brings over three decades of rich experience in domestic and regional sales within the tyre industry and has been an integral part of RTNA since 2024. His deep industry expertise and leadership will be key drivers in strengthening our sales organisation.”

“Christy’s expertise and collaborative approach will be pivotal as we scale operations. We are confident that these changes will further propel RTNA’s growth trajectory and strengthen our foundations for the future,” added Sheehey.

Hyderabad-based manufacturer targets 2 million monthly units within five years

In recent years, Hyderabad-based ARL Tyres has proven to be a versatile and innovative player with ambitious strategic goals. From providing specialised rubber items to the Indian military to creating innovative solutions for the emerging electric vehicle segment, ARL Tyres has shown remarkable resilience since its inception as a family enterprise in 1983.

With production levels now crossing 150,000 units per month and ambitious goals to reach two million units per month in five years, ARL is placing itself at the cusp of conventional industrial manufacturing and future mobility solutions. Its recent appearance at the Ride Asia EV Expo showcased the company’s wide range of products and its dedication to supporting India’s developing transportation infrastructure with niche products such as Smart Tyres and terrain-specific Mud Master range.

Hyderabad-based ARL Tyres, a division of Agarwal Rubber Limited, recently showcased its products, including tyres and tubes, at the Ride Asia EV Expo held at Bharat Mandapam this year. The company has established itself as a trusted partner for the Indian Army and Indian Air Force. It offers a comprehensive range of products, including tyres for two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs). It is also known for manufacturing Smart Tyres.

Growth Plans

The types of tyres being produced at this company include those for ultra-light trucks, two-wheelers, forklifts, tractors and light trucks. The company manufactures approximately 12,000 tyres daily at its production facility, selling across different areas of the country due to a 400-strong network of exclusive dealers.

According to Gautam Ghosh, Head-West Zone at ARL Tyres, “We are very optimistic about tyre sales in 2025 as there is tremendous potential in the EV sector. So far, in 2025, we have been averaging close to 150,000 units per month. Expect us to touch 0.2 to 0.25 million units a month by the end of this year.”

Continuing the expansion plan, the company intends to touch at least two million monthly units in five years. This growth is supported by its extensive network of exclusive dealers distributed across various regions of India.

Technical Expertise and Manufacturing Capabilities

In 2000, ARL Tyres gathered in-depth knowledge about all the major tyre technologies, manufacturing processes and industry standards. Apart from tyres, this ISO 9001:2015-certified company is also known for manufacturing high-quality flaps, envelopes, curing bags, bladders and butyl tubes.

Today, the company boasts an ultra-modern tube manufacturing unit that produces roughly 50,000 high-grade butyl rubber automotive tubes. While the range begins with two-wheeler sizes, it also extends to the aviation and OTR (Off-The-Road) sectors

Defence Sector Connection

Since 1996, ARL’s technical expertise in rubber has enabled it to supply tubes to the Indian defence sector. The durability and performance of its products have made ARL a preferred OEM supplier for the Indian Air Force, Indian Army, BEML (Bharat Earth Movers Limited), and HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited).

Products for E3W Segment

For the electric three-wheeler market, which includes auto-rickshaws (passenger and commercial) and e-rickshaws, ARL offers both tube-type and tubeless tyres in sizes 4.00-12 and 4.50-12. The company markets two brands for this vehicle category: the Savera and the Xtreme.

According to the company, individuals should choose the Savera for its performance, safety, and durability on urban and semi-urban roads. Its non-skid Depth (NSD) ranges from 5.5 mm to 6.5 mm, which gives it good grip and safety. It would be useful as a passenger and cargo tyre.

On the other hand, ARL Xtreme is a tube-type tyre that optimises long-lasting performance, grip and safety on various roads. It differs from the Savera in terms of design and safety. Unlike the Savera, an NSD of 9mm is available here. Engineers at ARL have created a stylish design for the Xtreme that balances aesthetics and functionality with advanced technology.

Global Reach and Partnerships

Beyond the domestic market, ARL exports its products to more than 60 countries worldwide. Over the years, ARL Tyres has forged a few partnerships with top brands and continues to do so. For example, the company partnered with Chandu Champion, cheered India at the Paris Olympics through its ‘Jeet ki Aur’ campaign, and sponsored RCB during IPL 2025.

Innovative Offerings

Among its unique propositions, ARL offers OEM test drives with new tyres at specific locations, allowing auto manufacturers to fine-tune vehicle designs according to tyres and provide targeted inputs. It also sells Smart Tyres with scientific tread designs for efficient movement. The cross sipes on these tyres differ greatly from regular tyres and help grip wet and muddy surfaces. Instead of relying on vehicle technologies, these tyres are themselves available with real-time monitoring capabilities.

Company History and Client Base

ARL was founded as a family business in 1983 and became a tyre manufacturing company. Mobility companies such as Maa Luxmi India and Ferranza Electric Vehicle Private Limited, which were present at the Ride Asia Expo EV, are clients of ARL, as are the OEM manufacturers Omaha, Arel and Yakuza. While ARL’s trials for the Thukral Electric Bike have already commenced, the dispatches have not yet begun.

The European Tyre and Rubber Manufacturers’ Association (ETRMA) has promoted Stella Mathioudaki to Director, Product Stewardship & Sustainability of the association.

Mathioudaki has a PhD in Physics – Materials Science from Université de Namur and has been associated with ETRMA since November 2023, working in the capacity of Senior Manager – Materials Stewardship. Before joining ETRMA, she worked as Senior Chemicals Policy Consultant at Acumen Public Affairs. Mathioudaki will spearhead important projects on tyre sustainability, including recycling, retreading and the wider shift to a circular economy, in addition to supervising the industry's efforts on responsible material usage and regulatory compliance in her new position at ETRMA.