Have you ever considered the environmental impact of your car’s tires? The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) in India is reshaping not just the energy landscape but also the tyre industry. With EV sales in India growing 150% in 2023, the demand for EV-specific tyres is increasing. By 2026, the market for EV tyres is expected to grow to ₹74,000 crore, a significant portion driven by the shift to electric mobility.
Top tyre manufacturers are innovating with sustainable, high-performance tyres designed for EVs. These tyres are built for low rolling resistance, durability, and energy efficiency, and by 2030, 25% of India’s tyre market is expected to be dedicated to EV tyres. This shift to greener, more efficient tyres is crucial in reducing the carbon footprint of the automotive industry, aligning with India’s broader sustainability goals.
Electric vehicles (EVs) present new challenges for tyre manufacturers. Unlike traditional vehicles, EVs are heavier due to the inclusion of large battery packs, which places additional stress on the tyres. As EV adoption grows in India, the demand for tyres specifically designed to handle this weight is increasing.
- Grip Meets Instant Torque
EVs’ instant torque requires tyres with exceptional traction and durability. This balance ensures smooth acceleration while maintaining vehicle stability. - Low Rolling Resistance
Designed to reduce friction, EV tyres improve range and battery life, making them essential for efficient and sustainable mobility. - The Weight Challenge
Larger batteries in EVs, like the Tata Nexon EV and MG ZS EV, add up to 40% more weight than ICE vehicles. To handle this, tyres now feature thicker sidewalls and durable double-layer carcasses made of strong polymers or silica. Innovative EV tyres ensure optimal performance, safety, and sustainability, driving the future of green mobility.
A. JK Tyre: Green and Efficient Solutions for Electric Vehicles
JK Tyre has been quick to identify the growing demand for EV tyres in India, and it is leveraging its technological prowess to deliver energy-efficient solutions.
Flagship Product: JK Tyre Energy EV
Why It Leads:
- Enhanced Rubber Compound: Reduces rolling resistance for improved EV range.
- Eco-Friendly Materials: Incorporates sustainable rubber and silica-based compounds.
- Innovative Tread Design: Minimizes road noise and enhances grip for diverse driving conditions.
USP: Combines energy efficiency with sustainability, making it a top choice for eco-conscious EV owners.
B. Apollo Tyres: A Perfect Balance of Energy Efficiency and Performance
Apollo Tyres has made significant strides in meeting the needs of the Indian electric vehicle market with its range of innovative products. The company’s commitment to sustainability and performance is evident in its latest offerings.
Flagship Product: Apollo EnduKomfort EV
Why It Leads:
- Sustainable Manufacturing: Integrates bio-based and recycled materials.
- Adaptive Tread Design: Ensures optimal grip and durability for India’s varied terrains.
- Low Rolling Resistance: Extends EV battery life and driving range.
USP: Combines cutting-edge technology with sustainability to meet the needs of modern EV users.
C. CEAT Tyres: Aiming for Durability and Low Environmental Impact
CEAT, another Indian tyre manufacturer, is also developing tyres tailored to the needs of electric vehicles. The company’s innovation is focused on both performance and environmental friendliness, making them an appealing choice for Indian EV owners.
Flagship Product: CEAT FuelSmarrt EV
Why It Leads:
- High Durability: Designed for the heavier weight of EVs.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Uses silica and recycled materials to minimize environmental impact.
- Energy Efficiency: Enhances range while reducing maintenance costs.
USP: Offers a perfect blend of performance and eco-friendliness, ideal for Indian road conditions.
- BKT Tyres: Focusing on Puncture Resistance and Long-Lasting Performance
BKT, a leading Indian tyre manufacturer, is making significant strides in developing tyres specifically designed for electric three-wheelers. Their focus is on enhancing durability and ensuring minimal maintenance, while maintaining excellent performance even in tough road conditions.
Flagship Product: BKT EV Tyres
Why It Leads:
- Puncture Resistance: Designed with self-healing compounds to reduce tyre damage in urban environments.
- Durability: Engineered for the rigorous demands of electric three-wheelers, offering long-lasting performance.
- Load Capacity: Supports the higher load requirements of 3Ws without compromising on efficiency.
USP: Combines puncture-resistant technology with high durability, making it an ideal solution for the demanding conditions of Indian urban roads.
B. Goodyear TPMS Tyres for 2Ws: Smart Safety and Performance
Goodyear is revolutionizing two-wheeler tyres with Tubeless Tyres integrated with TPMS, enhancing safety by monitoring tyre pressure in real time, reducing the risk of accidents and improving performance.
Flagship Product: Goodyear TPMS Tyres for 2Ws
Why It Leads:
- Smart Sensors: Monitors tyre pressure, alerting riders to any issues.
- Durability: Built for long-lasting performance with minimal maintenance.
- Fuel Efficiency: Optimizes tyre pressure to improve fuel efficiency.
USP: A combination of tubeless design and smart sensors for a safer, more efficient ride.
- Product Innovation for EVs: Tyre manufacturers are integrating sustainable materials like natural rubber and bio-based oils, and designing tyres with low rolling resistance to meet the demands of electric vehicles (EVs) while improving energy efficiency.
- Digital Transformation: Digital tools and analytics are enabling brands like Apollo Tyres to predict demand, optimize supply chains, and personalize marketing strategies, driving growth in the EV segment.
- Sustainability Initiatives: The industry is increasingly focusing on sustainability, with companies like MRF and Nivea adopting closed-loop recycling and eco-friendly packaging, responding to consumer demand for greener practices.
- Growth of EV-Specific Tyre Market: The EV tyre market in India is projected to grow significantly as the electric vehicle market expands. By 2026, the EV tyre segment is estimated to account for approximately 25% of the total tyre market in India.
- Total Tyre Market: The overall tyre market in India is expected to grow from ₹57,000 crore in 2020 to ₹74,000 crore by 2026. The demand for EV-specific tyres is a major contributor to this growth.
- EV Sales Growth Impact on Tyre Market: The rapid increase in electric vehicle sales, which grew by 150% in 2023, is directly impacting the demand for tyres designed specifically for EVs. As more EVs hit the roads, the demand for EV-specific tyres will continue to rise.
In conclusion, the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) is revolutionising India’s tyre industry, fostering innovation and sustainability. As the EV-specific tyre market grows significantly, manufacturers like JK Tyre, Apollo Tyres, CEAT, and BKT are leading the way with solutions tailored to the unique demands of electric mobility. With an increased focus on durability, low rolling resistance, and eco-friendly materials, the future of India’s tyre industry is set to align with the nation’s broader sustainability goals.
As EVs become more mainstream, the tyre industry will continue to evolve, ensuring that every part of the vehicle, from the energy source to the tires, is optimized for both performance and environmental impact.
