Vehicle Management Corporation survived industry consolidation to dominate a USD 1.5 billion niche managing mining’s most expensive consumables.

More than 30 years after its modest beginnings, Fernie’s Vehicle Management Corporation (VMC) now leads the global independent tyre management software sector. The company oversees USD 1.5 billion in tyre and rim assets across 480 mining sites on multiple continents. With individual mining tyres costing upward of USD 50,000, VMC’s enTIRE software has become critical for operators aiming to maximise the value of their most expensive consumables.

“We don’t sell tyres or offer tyre services – software is our sole focus,” Fernie said. This specialisation has been VMC’s core competitive strength and a key reason it outlasted larger, better-funded competitors during two decades of industry consolidation.

VMC’s journey from a single-client DOS application to managing billions of dollars in assets demonstrates how even small software firms can thrive by addressing highly specialised industry needs that larger solutions often overlook.

THE CONSOLIDATION SURVIVOR

VMC’s fierce independence stands out in a tyre industry where consolidation is accelerating. While giants like Bridgestone and Michelin snapped up rivals – Otraco and Klinge, respectively – VMC has held the line, rebuffing takeover interest and prioritising customer relationships over shareholder pressure or supplier alliances.

“With Bridgestone acquiring Otraco and Michelin purchasing Klinge, VMC became the only independent, commercially viable tyre management software provider remaining,” Fernie explained. “Developing a competitive independent system today would require USD 5+ million in funding and years of field testing, making our market position difficult to replicate and any alternatives difficult to justify.”

This independence is now central to VMC’s appeal for multinational miners working with multiple suppliers. Unlike manufacturer-backed software, VMC’s enTIRE system is completely agnostic, allowing clients to base their purchasing decisions solely on performance data and cost-effectiveness.

That strategy has earned VMC unusually durable client ties. Its three-decade partnership with Freeport Indonesia – one of the world’s largest mining operations –underscores the appeal of a model that favours operational flexibility over vendor lock-in, a growing concern among customers wary of manufacturer-driven ecosystems.

“Most of our clients are long-term,” Fernie noted, emphasising how this stability has become increasingly valuable as mining companies seek to avoid the disruption and data loss that often accompanies vendor changes in manufacturer-controlled systems.

BEYOND COST CUTTING: SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

While cost reductions – often 10 percent to 30 percent within three years – drive initial adoption, VMC’s impact extends far beyond savings. In nonstop mining environments, where tyre failures can lead to life-threatening accidents, safety and uptime are equally vital.

“Operating tyres outside pressure or load specs increases blowout risks,” Fernie said, emphasising safety. enTIRE tracks rim certifications and keeps failure histories, supporting safety protocols. “Rim accidents are very dangerous, potentially fatal.”

Environmental benefits have also emerged as an increasingly important value proposition for mining companies under growing pressure to reduce their carbon footprints and waste generation. By extending tyre life and dramatically reducing premature failures, mining operations generate substantially less waste while simultaneously improving fuel efficiency through optimised tyre pressure monitoring systems.

“Optimising pressure with TPMS can extend tyre life by 20–30 percent, reduce rolling resistance and lower fuel consumption by up to three percent – a substantial saving in mining operations,” Fernie explained. In an industry where fuel costs represent significant operational expenses and environmental regulations continue to tighten, these seemingly modest percentage improvements compound into substantial savings and meaningful reductions in environmental impact.

The environmental mathematics are compelling: operators can achieve approximately 30 percent increases in tyre life through proper lifecycle management, directly reducing landfill waste, shipping requirements and manufacturing demands – collectively helping reduce the carbon footprint of tyre procurement and disposal across the mining sector.

THE TECHNOLOGY EVOLUTION

VMC’s technological evolution, from humble beginnings as a basic DOS program to advanced, cloud-based solutions, reflects the broader digitisation revolution in factory operations that began in the early 1990s. The firm’s flagship enTIRE software began as a Windows product with what Fernie recounts with clear pride as a ‘pioneering drag-and-drop interface’ in the early 1990s – a cutting-edge user experience design that was decades ahead of its time.

The platform has progressed steadily through several generations of technology, transitioning from Microsoft Access databases to high-performance SQL Server implementations, which have significantly improved performance and scalability. It introduced full multi-site support features in 2001 and incrementally incorporated tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) from seven sensor vendors starting in 2007. The software industry award was presented in 2005, when the system was named the Financial Review Australian Information Industry Association’s ‘Best Industrial Software Application’.

Recent development efforts focus heavily on artificial intelligence integration for enhanced analytics capabilities and predictive maintenance functionalities. “We’re actively using AI to streamline development and support,” Fernie said, outlining the company’s forward-looking technology strategy. “We expect AI will significantly enhance predictive analytics, client dashboards and user interfaces, improving how data is interpreted and acted upon.”

The integration of multiple TPMS systems represents a particular competitive advantage. “enTIRE PressureNet is sensor brand-agnostic and integrates with multiple sensor types, unlike many manufacturer-locked systems,” Fernie explained. “Our independence allows clients to choose or switch sensor brands without losing backend compatibility.”

FIGHTING FRAUD IN HIGH-STAKES OPERATIONS

In addition to optimising operations and pre-emptive maintenance, enTIRE is an advanced fraud detection and prevention solution in settings where a single tyre costs more than high-end cars. The software’s detailed tracking identifies many forms of theft, tampering and misbehaviour that afflict the high-end tyre market throughout global mining operations.

“Tyre fitters may scrap a near-new tyre (if not tracked) and then this tyre would be picked up from the scrap location and resold,” Fernie explained, detailing one common fraud scheme. “In mining, each tyre can be worth up to USD 50,000. This potential additional income is very significant in developing countries.” The financial incentives for such fraud are substantial, making comprehensive tracking systems essential for asset protection.

Beyond simple theft, the system prevents more sophisticated data manipulation during high-stakes contract negotiations. “If a tyre supply contract is worth USD 100 million, there can be significant pressure placed on operators of any tyre management system to ‘modify’ tyre performance in a supplier’s favour,” Fernie said, highlighting the system’s role in maintaining data integrity. “enTIRE has very strong internal systems to prevent internal tampering.”

Other fraud prevention features involve detecting unauthorised tyre replacement in off-site fleet operations, where drivers may sell new tyres and substitute them with less expensive ones, and preventing early scrapping of tyres that can otherwise be retreaded or reallocated for a longer service life.

ORGANIC GROWTH STRATEGY AND MARKET POSITION

VMC has achieved its market-leading position without relying on venture capital investment or large corporate sponsorship; instead, it has relied on diligent organic growth fuelled by strong customer relationships, word-of-mouth referrals and relentless reinvestment in product development. The firm purposefully reinvested earnings in automation technologies and enhanced software capabilities, rather than engaging in fervent hiring or costly promotional campaigns, while maintaining lean operations and establishing increasingly refined development capabilities.

“When large manufacturers’ systems failed with over-engineered projects, clients often came to us for reliable replacements,” Fernie said, describing a pattern that has accelerated during recent supply chain disruptions when tyre shortages made lifecycle extension critical for maintaining operational continuity.

The company’s fundamental growth strategy centres on systematic data accumulation and market share expansion. “Our strategy, early on, has always been to increase market share as we realised that the more tyre performance data our systems controlled, the more valuable we would become,” Fernie explained, articulating a network effect strategy that becomes more powerful with scale.

This field-tested software, combined with deep industry connections and vast databases, now creates major entry barriers that would require competitors years and millions to overcome.

DIVERSE APPLICATIONS AND INDUSTRY DIFFERENCES

VMC software supports significantly disparate operating models in mining and transport industries, each with dissimilar tracking demands and cost-justification criteria. Mining applications typically involve high-cost, low-volume tyres that are closely monitored by operating hours. In contrast, transport fleets manage high-volume, lower-cost tyres, which are tracked by kilometres and frequently shared across interchanging trailers pulled by various prime movers.

“Mining justifies the cost of extensive data entry based on the large cost savings, while the transport industry is more careful regarding tracking cost,” Fernie explained, highlighting how economic incentives drive different implementation approaches across industries.

Its flexibility in covering these differing operational needs while ensuring consistent data quality and analytical functionality across both industries is possible with the software.

GLOBAL EXPANSION AND CULTURAL ADAPTATION

VMC continues to expand its global presence, with a specific emphasis on high-growth regions such as Africa, Indonesia, India, Eastern Europe and Latin America, where a large demand for advanced asset management solutions arises from growing mining activities and infrastructure projects.

The firm has local teams offering multilingual support capabilities. However, cultural adjustment remains a continuing challenge in emerging markets as they transition from legacy manual systems to online platforms.

“We adapt training and user interfaces to local literacy and workflow styles,” Fernie said. “Regional teams help bridge gaps in communication, training and change management, ensuring smoother adoption.”

Main entry barriers in emerging markets include the absence of sound local technical support, the scarcity of internet infrastructure in geographically remote mining sites, the reluctance to change due to entrenched manual systems and administrative hurdles involving payment reliability and bureaucratic delays.

FUTURE TECHNOLOGY AND INDUSTRY TRENDS

Future software updates mirror industry-wide trends towards greater automation and the integration of artificial intelligence. On the horizon are planned improvements, including richer analytical dashboards, enhanced cloud analytics capabilities, mobile inspection tools with integrated image capture capabilities and AI-driven notification systems for predictive maintenance notifications.

As autonomous and electric cars increasingly penetrate mining fleets, VMC’s strategic emphasis on tyre and rim information, rather than vehicle powertrains, places the company well-positioned to meet emerging transportation technologies without necessitating drastic system architecture adjustments.

“enTIRE tracks data independently of vehicle type, so electric vehicles are managed the same as diesel fleets,” Fernie explained. “Our focus is on tyre and rim data accuracy – not the powertrain.”

INDUSTRY CHALLENGES AND MARKET OUTLOOK

The tyre management industry faces ongoing challenges related to data accuracy and actionable insights. “The industry’s main challenge is accurate and actionable data,” Fernie observed. “Successful tyre management operations start with accurate data collection, management and transparent reporting.”

Supply chain disruptions have strengthened demand for VMC’s services as tyre shortages heighten the importance of lifecycle extension and predictive maintenance. “Our strongest growth has been when there have been tyre shortages and clients want to extend their current tyre life as much as possible,” Fernie noted.

For Fernie, who brings over 30 years of experience in tyre management software development to the industry, VMC’s continued success validates the strategic decision to remain independent in an increasingly consolidated market. “Just ‘being there’ and remaining independent will always attract customers from non-independent tyre management systems over time,” he said, expressing confidence in the company’s long-term competitive position.

In an industry where margins of operation are crucial and safety must not be compromised, VMC has established a highly profitable niche by addressing complex problems that most individuals never even consider – until a USD 50,000 tyre blows on a distant mining operation thousands of miles from the nearest replacement. For mining operators globally with billions of dollars in mobile equipment, that specialised expertise and uncompromising independence have been worth their weight in gold. 

Fornnax Technology Pvt Ltd has introduced the R-MAX3300, a new secondary shredder presented as the largest in its category. The official launch occurred on 14 October 2025 at the prominent IFAT India environmental technology exhibition in Mumbai. The unveiling ceremony was a significant industry event, attended by numerous leaders from the cement and waste management sectors. Key figures present included executives from GEPIL India, Zigma Global, Prism Johnson Ltd, Shree Cement Ltd and Mangalam Cement Ltd.

This shredder is positioned as a major technological advancement for India's recycling and waste processing infrastructure. It is designed to provide a powerful solution for Cement Alternative Fuel and Resource plants as well as waste-to-energy facilities. While the established R Series shredders are known for processing high-density materials such as tyres and cables, the R-MAX3300 is specifically engineered for low-density waste streams. These targeted materials include Municipal Solid Waste, Commercial and Industrial waste, Construction and Demolition debris, bulky items, legacy waste dumps and wood waste.

The machine integrates advanced shredding technology to efficiently produce Refuse Derived Fuel and Solid Recovered Fuel, achieving an optimal output particle size between 30 and 50 millimetres. Its construction emphasises durability, operational versatility and high performance to meet the demands of large-scale industrial applications requiring consistent fuel quality.

The R-MAX3300 is built for high-volume processing of pre-shredded or coarse materials. Its applications are expected to be crucial in producing solid recovered fuel, preparing waste for composting and reducing waste volume for more cost-effective transportation. The shredder is anticipated to be a key asset in Integrated Waste Management Projects and bio-mining operations across India and international markets.

Jignesh Kundaria, Director and CEO, Fornnax Technology, said, “The R-MAX3300 represents a monumental leap forward in our vision to become a global leader by 2030 in recycling technology through innovation. With the rising challenges of waste management in India and globally, this machine is not just a product; it’s a powerful tool for change. We engineered it to handle the most difficult waste streams with unparalleled efficiency, turning what was once considered unusable waste into a valuable resource. It directly addresses the urgent demand for effective, large-scale shredding technology that can support cement kilns and waste-to-energy facilities in achieving the desired output. Our commitment goes beyond just selling machinery; it's about empowering our customers to achieve lasting efficiency, sustainability and growth. We see ourselves as a trusted partner who stands beside them at every step – from technology deployment to ongoing support, ensuring they can rely on Fornnax not only for performance but also for consistency, dependability and long-term value.”

A new collaborative development from rFpro and Siemens Digital Industries Software (Siemens) introduces a significant advancement in simulation technology. This innovation seamlessly connects Siemens' Simcenter Tire software with rFpro's TerrainServer platform, which creates highly precise, millimetre-accurate digital replicas of real-world road surfaces. Through this integration, the sophisticated MF-Tyre and MF-Swift models within Simcenter can directly access and process the detailed terrain data. This allows for the calculation of highly realistic tyre forces and moments, which is a critical factor for virtual testing in both the automotive and motorsport industries.

The partnership was built on ensuring the solution's reliability across diverse applications, from desktop engineering to cloud-based and real-time simulator environments. This development reinforces rFpro's commitment to an open and agnostic simulation platform, providing users with the flexibility to select their preferred models and tools. This strategy of integrating best-in-class third-party technologies protects customer investments and increases their return, as digital assets can be utilised across different departments with varying modelling requirements.

The combined power of TerrainServer's high-fidelity road models and Simcenter Tire's advanced modelling enables engineers to conduct in-depth evaluations of vehicle dynamics, including handling, ride quality and grip. Performance can be assessed objectively through data and subjectively using driver-in-the-loop simulators. This comprehensive approach allows for a more informed development process, leading to better-validated designs before physical prototypes are built, thereby saving substantial time and cost. The new interface is now commercially available and is already being widely adopted by OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers globally for programmes focused on ride comfort and vehicle dynamics.

Nick Harrison, Development Director, rFpro, said, “We aim to be the most open simulation environment on the market and this integration is another key example of this. Our platform-agnostic approach means engineers can pick and choose the best tools for the job. They have the ability to combine specialised technologies from different vendors to create the most effective simulation solution for their particular development challenge.”

Willem Versteden, Senior Technical Product Manager, Siemens Digital Industries Software, said, “Tyre behaviour depends heavily on the surface it’s interacting with. By integrating our Simcenter Tire software with rFpro’s TerrainServer, engineers can now simulate that interaction with a much higher level of detail. It’s a valuable step forward for users demanding greater accuracy in virtual vehicle development.”

A groundbreaking collaboration between technology giant Continental and kitchen manufacturer nobilia is presenting a new vision for the kitchen, transforming it from a utilitarian space into an intelligent and responsive living environment. This joint innovation project, set to debut at nobilia’s international exhibition in Verl, harnesses the material science expertise of Continental’s ContiTech group, drawing directly from its advanced work in automotive interiors.

The concept, titled ‘Evolution of Senses’, showcases how functional materials can redefine everyday experiences through comfort, safety and seamless design. The core of this innovation lies in revolutionary translucent surfaces. These specialised materials are light-permeable and serve as a host for printed electronics, enabling an array of hidden functions. This technology allows a kitchen countertop to discreetly incorporate wireless smartphone charging, create specific heating or cooling zones to keep food and drinks at their ideal temperature and feature touch-sensitive control panels. All these elements remain completely invisible when not in use, preserving a clean aesthetic. This principle of surface technology is also demonstrated in a kitchen niche, where a screen is hidden behind a translucent film with a wood-like finish, only appearing when activated.

The commitment to modern living extends to sustainability, with the use of durable and resource-efficient materials. The chairs, for instance, are upholstered in an artificial leather that is composed of over 90 percent bio-based and renewable raw materials, including organically grown cotton.

Further enhancing the kitchen's intelligence are smart AI features, engineered by AUMOVIO Engineering Solutions. Adapted from Continental's automotive technology, these systems can recognise food items, offer recipe recommendations and provide nutritional insights. They also contribute to family safety by issuing alerts for potential hazards like boiling water or objects that might be dangerous for children.

While some of these technologies are production-ready and others are still in the prototype stage, they collectively offer a concrete and exciting preview of the future, where the home environment is both intuitively connected and sustainably crafted.

Ralf Imbery, Head of Design, Marketing and Strategy for Continental’s global surface materials business, said, “For many decades, our materials and technologies have shaped modern living spaces – from vehicle interiors to home furniture. With this concept kitchen, we’re showing how our expertise can be transferred to new requirements: for greater functionality, user-oriented design and technology in everyday life. For us, cooperation projects of this kind are an important strategic tool that allow us to test innovations at an early stage and, together with partners, develop new perspectives for future living environments.”

Florian Degenhardt, Head of Innovation, nobilia, said, “The collaboration with Continental is a real game-changer. It enables us to create intuitive surfaces that respond to the user while at the same time preserving the elegant design of modern kitchens.”

NASA has launched a three-phase competition offering USD 155,000 in prizes to develop next-generation wheels for lunar rovers, as the US space agency prepares for sustained exploration missions to the Moon’s surface.

The “Rock and Roll with NASA Challenge” seeks lightweight, durable wheel designs capable of traversing the Moon’s harsh terrain of razor-sharp regolith whilst maintaining performance in extreme temperature variations and carrying substantial cargo loads at higher speeds.

The competition addresses critical mobility challenges facing future lunar missions, where traditional rover wheels have struggled with the Moon’s abrasive surface materials and temperature extremes that can plummet to minus 173 degrees Celsius during lunar nights.

“The next era of lunar exploration demands a new kind of wheel – one that can sprint across razor-sharp regolith, shrug off extremely cold nights, and keep a rover rolling day after lunar day,” NASA stated in announcing the challenge.

The programme unfolds across three distinct phases. Phase 1, which opened on 28 August and runs until 4 November 2025, will reward the best conceptual designs and analyses. Phase 2, scheduled for January through April 2026, will fund prototype development. The final phase in May-June 2026 will test leading designs through live obstacle courses simulating lunar conditions.

For the concluding phase, NASA will deploy MicroChariot, a 45-kilogram test rover, to evaluate top-performing wheel designs at the Johnson Space Centre Rockyard facility in Houston, Texas. The testing ground will simulate the challenging lunar terrain that future missions must navigate.

The competition remains open to diverse participants, from university student teams and independent inventors to established aerospace companies, reflecting NASA’s broader strategy of engaging private sector innovation for space exploration technologies.

NASA mobility engineers will provide ongoing feedback throughout the competition phases, offering participants insights from the agency’s extensive experience in planetary rover operations, including successful missions to Mars.

The challenge comes as NASA intensifies preparations for the Artemis programme, which aims to establish a sustained human presence on the Moon and serve as a stepping stone for eventual Mars exploration missions.

Current lunar rover designs have faced limitations in speed, cargo capacity, and durability when operating across the Moon’s challenging surface conditions, creating demand for breakthrough mobility solutions that can support extended surface operations.

The competition timeline positions Phase 2 prototype funding to commence in January 2026, allowing successful Phase 1 participants several months to refine their concepts before advancing to hardware development.