The tyre industry is navigating a transformative phase, driven by evolving regulations, environmental priorities and advanced vehicle technologies. At the helm of this change in India is the International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT), which is aiding manufacturers in meeting current standards while preparing them for future global requirements.

The tyre industry is undergoing a dynamic shift, shaped by evolving regulations, sustainability goals and technological advancements. As one of India’s premier automotive testing bodies, the International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) aims to play a crucial role in enabling manufacturers to adapt to these changes. It wants to not only meet the current needs but is also investing in ensuring that tyre makers in India are able to keep up with global future trends.

In recent years, tyre testing has seen significant changes, especially with the introduction of new regulations such as AIS 142 in 2024. These regulations have set the benchmark for tyre performance in India, compelling tyre makers to align their products with evolving standards.

“In 2024, the AIS 142 tyre performance regulation was introduced into Indian regulations. As Indian tyre regulations are rapidly evolving, the tyre industry must stay abreast of these changes,” says Saurabh Dalela, Director, ICAT.

At present ICAT is helping tyre makers meet the AIS 142 requirements, including rolling resistance, rolling sound emission and wet grip index measurements. But going forward, it is investing for future testing to cover broader areas such as STAR labelling, worn-out tyre performance and Tyre and Road Wear Particles (TRWP) emissions. This, it says, aligns with global trends, particularly in Europe, where further stringent regulations on tyre emissions are expected by 2029.

Then there is the trend of electric and alternative energy vehicles, which is also influencing testing needs. These vehicles demand tyres that can handle unique challenges, such as higher torque and quieter operations. Although Dalela notes that certification requirements for these vehicles remain unchanged, he acknowledges the growing importance of TRWP emissions, stating, “Tyre and Road Wear Particles (TRWP) may become increasingly significant for these types of vehicles.”

Capabilities and future expansion

ICAT’s tyre testing facilities are extensive, offering services ranging from endurance and load-speed performance tests to rolling resistance and wet grip index measurements. These capabilities support the industry’s diverse needs, including BIS certification and STAR labelling, both of which are crucial for compliance with national and international standards.

Highlighting its current offerings, Dalela explains, “Currently, ICAT has tyre test facilities for the following tests: Endurance Test, Load Speed Performance Test, Plunger Test/Strength Test, Bead Unseating Test, Dynamic Growth Test, Rolling Resistance Test, Rolling Sound Emission Test, Wet Grip Index Measurement Test, Mu-slip Benchmarking Test, Fuel Economy Benchmarking Test, STAR labelling and BIS certification.”

Looking ahead, ICAT is planning significant upgrades and expansions to its facilities. This includes adding two new tyre traction trailers for wet grip and benchmarking tests, establishing a BIS regulatory test facility for cycle tyres and tubes and upgrading endurance and rolling resistance machines.

Furthermore, ICAT aims to achieve ISO 17025 (NABL) accreditation for global regulations, enabling Indian manufacturers to meet international standards. These advancements reflect the agency’s proactive approach to addressing the future needs of the tyre industry.

He further acknowledges the growing importance of environmental concerns, particularly tyre emissions and particulate matter testing. While these capabilities are not currently part of its portfolio, he reveals, “We are exploring opportunities to add such facilities in the future,” signalling ICAT’s commitment to sustainability.

Challenges facing tyre makers

Despite the progress in testing and regulations, tyre manufacturers in India face several challenges. A significant hurdle is aligning with European standards, which often do not account for the unique characteristics of the Indian market. BIAS tyres, for example, initially struggled to meet European-derived performance requirements, prompting adjustments to Indian regulations.

Material costs and availability add another layer of complexity. Natural rubber, a key raw material, is subject to price volatility and high import duties, significantly increasing production costs. As Dalela notes, “The availability and cost of natural rubber, a crucial raw material, pose significant challenges. High import duties on raw materials further increase production costs.”

Additionally, the rising demand for unique tyre sizes, driven by the diverse range of vehicles in the Indian market, presents difficulties in development and testing. Testing facilities for these uncommon sizes are often unavailable, further complicating the process.

The lack of a formal tyre recycling or scrapping mechanism is another pressing issue. With the growing volume of discarded tyres, the absence of environmentally friendly disposal methods poses a significant challenge. Dalela’s insights highlight the need for innovation in this area. “Tyre scrapping also presents a significant challenge, as there is no proper method for scrapping or recycling tyres,” he adds.

It is important to understand that the tyre industry stands at the confluence of regulatory demands, sustainability goals and market challenges. Dalela is optimistic that ICAT’s comprehensive testing services and forward-looking initiatives will be instrumental in enabling manufacturers to navigate this complex landscape. From ensuring compliance with AIS 142 to preparing for emerging trends such as TRWP emissions and tyre labelling, the agency aims to be a leading partner to drive the future of tyre testing in India.

With planned expansions and upgrades, ICAT looks to be well positioned to support the tyre industry’s journey towards excellence and global competitiveness. As the tyre industry continues to adapt to the regulatory and customer needs, Dalela is confident of ICAT’s role as a vital partner in driving progress.

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KraussMaffei has appointed Xinting Ren as Managing Director of its extrusion business, effective 1 September, 2026, combining the role with his existing leadership of the group’s China operations.

Ren succeeds Ralf Benack, who left the company at his own request on 31^st August , ending a tenure of about two years.

The company said the dual appointment is intended to strengthen integration between its extrusion activities and international operations.

Ren has led KraussMaffei China for the past three years, overseeing cross-technology activities in the Chinese market. Before joining the group, he held several management roles in the chemical industry, including Assistant General Manager at KraussMaffei Company Limited, now operating as Sinochem Equipment Technology Qingdao Co., and most recently served as general manager of Shanxi China Coal Pingshuo Energy Chemical Co., Ltd.

Benack took over leadership of KraussMaffei Extrusion in 2024 and was responsible for the group’s global extrusion business. During his tenure, the company focused on operational processes and customer orientation, reducing delivery times and further developing the Technology Center at its Laatzen site.

The facility now offers 26 pilot lines for development and customer projects, and the company said it also expanded its extrusion technology portfolio.

From September, responsibility for the extrusion business and management of the China business will be combined under Ren’s leadership.

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Nokian Tyres plc has introduced a new premium summer tyre, the Powerproof E, designed for Central and Southern European markets, with A-class ratings in all three European Union tyre label categories across its full range.

The company said the tyre achieves top grades for rolling resistance, wet grip and external rolling noise, reflecting a development approach aimed at balancing efficiency, safety and comfort within a single product.

“Whether the priority is maximizing range and efficiency or achieving confidence and comfort in wet conditions, drivers should not have to compromise on safety. The new Nokian Tyres Powerproof E is designed to deliver outstanding performance in the areas that matter most to drivers,” said Tommi Alhola, Senior Vice-President for Passenger Car tyres in Central Europe.

Samu Lepistö, development manager at the company, added: “Achieving A-class ratings in all three EU tire label categories across the entire range is a significant result. These characteristics are all important to today's drivers yet improving one can often affect another. Nokian Tyres Powerproof E was developed to deliver balanced performance across all three areas.”

The tyre incorporates what the company calls Motion Control Technology, combining tread design, compound development and structural engineering to support efficiency and wet-weather performance.

Depending on size, between 40.9 percent and 42.8 percent of the tyre’s material content consists of recycled and renewable inputs, including rice husk ash, recycled carbon black and recycled steel.

Production takes place at the group’s factory in Oradea, Romania, which opened in 2024 and operates with zero direct carbon dioxide emissions, powered by renewable energy.

The Powerproof E is designed for passenger cars, sport utility vehicles and crossover vehicles, including electric, hybrid and internal combustion models. It will be available in sizes ranging from 16 to 20 inches for the 2027 summer season in Central and Southern Europe.

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Continental Tire Canada has appointed Frank Buntinx as its new Managing Director, effective 17 August 2026. In this executive capacity, he assumes comprehensive oversight of the organisation’s entire Canadian tyre portfolio, which encompasses passenger and light truck vehicles, commercial truck lines and specialised tyre segments. His leadership will guide the strategic direction and operational performance across these diverse business units.

A native of Belgium, Buntinx brings over two decades of tenure with Continental, having commenced his career there in 2003 within logistics and supply chain management. Over the years, he has accumulated a broad commercial skillset through successive roles in marketing, pricing strategy, business analytics, fleet operations and sales. His professional trajectory later elevated him to senior leadership positions in the Benelux region, where he directed marketing efforts and subsequently headed Fleet Solutions and Truck Tires, thereby acquiring multifaceted management expertise.

This transatlantic appointment signifies a pivotal career transition for Buntinx, offering him the chance to infuse the Canadian market with an international vantage point. His arrival is anticipated to bolster Continental’s regional presence, leveraging his extensive cross-functional background to navigate the complexities of the domestic tyre industry and drive organisational growth.

“I am truly excited to join Continental Tire Canada and begin this new chapter. Continental has built a strong business and reputation in the Canadian market, and I look forward to working alongside our talented team to build on that success, strengthening Continental's position while supporting the growth and success of our customers,” said Buntinx.

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Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd., which operates the Dunlop brand, will discontinue the supply of karting tyres by the end of 2027 as part of a strategic review of its business and allocation of management resources.

The company said it would continue supplying products to existing customers until December 31, 2027.

Dunlop has produced karting tyres since 1976, supplying products homologated by the Commission Internationale de Karting-FIA (CIK-FIA), under the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile, as well as tyres accredited by the Japan Automobile Federation.

The company said its products had supported a wide range of users, from recreational drivers to young drivers aiming to compete at higher levels, and had contributed to the development of karting participation.

It added that the decision followed a review of its medium- to long-term management strategy and changes in the business environment.

The group said it would continue to contribute to motorsport activities, while expressing appreciation to customers and organisations that had supported its karting tyre business.

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