The past week has brought a mix of strategic launches, regulatory developments and sustainability milestones across the global tyre sector. With three new tyres unveiled, multiple announcements on circularity and material innovation, and a formal trade probe affecting Chinese imports, key trends shaping the industry’s future are clearly visible.
At least three new tyre models were revealed last week. Cosmo Tires launched the EV-ready “Touring Gold” with a 70,000-mile warranty, designed for energy efficiency and longevity in electric vehicles. Michelin followed by expanding its CrossClimate range with two new variants – one aimed at performance (CrossClimate Sport) and one tailored to EVs (CrossClimate 2 SUV). Dunlop also entered the spotlight with the Trailmax Raid, selected as the official fitment for Honda’s 2025 Adventure Roads Tour.
These launches point to an ongoing shift towards EV-compatible and versatile all-season options, with performance remaining a focus even in utility-driven tyres.
Michelin featured prominently this week, underscoring its sustainability strategy in several announcements. The company confirmed that tyres for the 2024 Le Mans race will incorporate recovered carbon black from Swedish recycler Enviro. Separately, Michelin outlined its alignment with the EU’s new environmental reporting rules, reinforcing its commitment to transparent, measurable progress.
Elsewhere, Goodyear unveiled a truck racing tyre made from 55% sustainable materials, designed for the FIA ETRC, showing how circularity is now extending to motorsport.
Business activity in the sector was equally active. Yokohama Rubber announced a significant expansion of its OTR (off-the-road) capacity by acquiring a Romanian production site. Nexen Tire launched its branded retail model in France, signalling ambitions for deeper European market penetration. Apollo Tyres partnered with Vintage Tyres for the relaunch of the Vredestein Classic line, targeting heritage vehicle owners.
Meanwhile, Oak Tyres expanded its UK operations and platform capabilities to meet digital demand, and Petlas appointed a new head of European sales to sharpen its regional strategy.
On the policy front, the European Commission opened a formal anti-dumping investigation into Chinese passenger car tyre imports. The probe could result in tariffs or trade restrictions depending on the outcome, potentially reshaping import patterns for budget tyre brands.
In other developments, Goodyear announced plans to sell a majority stake in its chemical business to Gemspring Capital, part of its previously announced restructuring and portfolio focus.
Aliya Lam was appointed UK Country Director at Delphi, with a brief to grow its aftermarket segment. Vaculug’s Chairman, Haarjeev Singh Kandhari, received the 2024 Recircle Award for Director of the Year, recognising leadership in sustainable retreading.
Tagged with: tyre launches, EV tyres, sustainable tyres, CrossClimate, Goodyear, Michelin, Cosmo Tires, anti-dumping, Nexen, OTR tyres, retreading, EU tyre imports
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