As 2023 draws to a close, European Rubber Magazine (ERJ) has selected nine key events of the year, revealing the latest developments and trends in the rubber and tire industry.
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One of the most noticeable changes in the tire industry this year is the in-depth research and development of sustainable tire materials. Leading tire manufacturers are launching new products with a high percentage of sustainable materials, not only helping to achieve carbon neutrality, but also having a significant impact on developers and traders of bio-based and cocoa-polymer polymers. For example, Pirelli's P Zero E tyres and Continental's UltraContact NXT tyres are made from more than half of the natural and recycled materials, respectively. In addition, Michelin has incorporated 45% sustainable materials into its tires, demonstrating its determination to move towards the ambitious goal of fully sustainable production by 2050.
It is understood that although the European tire manufacturing industry is facing challenges, it is still a hot spot for investment. In November this year, Hankook Tire's expansion plan in Hungary, Qingdao Sen Kirin Tire's green tire project in Spain, and Nokia Tire's new plant in Romania demonstrate the industry's long-term commitment to the European market. At the same time, Linglong Tire is also adjusting its global production layout to better adapt to the changing international environment.
The application of artificial intelligence technology in the manufacture of tires and rubber products is also a highlight this year. Despite resource and technical challenges, large tire manufacturers are actively investing to integrate more advanced production control systems and improve efficiency.
Notably, the retirement of Goodyear's president and the company's business**, as well as China's emergence as the world's largest producer of synthetic rubber, have had a profound impact on the industry landscape. In addition, the rapid development of hydrogen energy has brought new market opportunities to the rubber industry. As the demand for hydrogen fuel applications increases, so do the technical challenges of the rubber industry, including sealing systems that need to withstand enormous pressures and adaptability over a wide temperature range.
In terms of environmental protection, the industry is looking for an alternative to 6ppd antioxidants to solve the environmental problem of tire wear particles. At the same time, the EU's proposal to ban fluoropolymers could have an impact on a number of industries, including automotive and aerospace, which has attracted widespread attention in the industry.
The restructuring of European tire production capacity has attracted widespread attention in the industry, especially the closure of tire factories in Germany and the problem of job losses, reflecting the challenges and transformation of the European market. The future development of the tire industry will continue to be driven by the electric vehicle market, with continued attention to market dynamics in Europe and the rest of the world.