Leading tyre manufacturer, Bridgestone India stated that the tyres manufactured must be suitable for the unique road-conditions and usage pattern in India.
In our recent article, Parag Satpute, managing director, Bridgestone India, gave an insight into the challenges and demands faced by the tyre industry to manufacture products suitable for the Indian road conditions.
Satpute mentioned that a tyres in India are designed based on their ability to withstand the Indian road conditions- "We have what we call the Road Severity Index, which is one very important parameter that goes into designing of the tyre," he said.
Durability and safety has become the first priority that the customers seek from a tyre manufacturer. Satpute mentioned, "It's only a very small category of consumers who are very well-versed with handling and ride comfort. The large consumer segment is looking at safety and longevity. So naturally, tyre designs and automotive company designs are leaning towards that end."
Also See:DGFT Introduces A New Clause Which Restrains Tyre Imports
"We design and produce our tyres suited to the local market needs. So, if we're going to sell a tyre in India, either to the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or in the replacement market, that is designed from scratch taking into account the Indian road conditions," said Satpute.
Despite the SUV market facing demand, Compact cars have been dominating the automobile industry. This year's top seven best selling cars are hatchbacks and compact cars. According to Tyre Manufacturers, the demand is focused more towards smaller rim sizes that are suitable for hatchbacks. "The mass market in India is still the 13- to 14-inch, and to some extent, 15-inch tyres," commented Satpute.
It is true to state that the tyre manufacturers stalled for a bit due to the lockdown. However, the ease on restrictions has led to the increase in demand of tyres. The demand is said to "come back strongly", especially in the 13- to 15-inch category, according to Bridgestone India. "So, as it stands today, I think the tyre industry is coming back to normal at a pretty fast pace," added Satpute.
