Author: RubberWorld

The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., announced that it has begun supplying its ADVAN Sport V107 tires as original equipment (OE) for the special edition RZ 600e “F SPORT Performance” model of the Lexus RZ, an SUV-type battery electric vehicle (BEV) with enhanced motor output. The RZ 600e “F SPORT Performance” went on sale starting in March 2026 in Asia, including Japan, Australia, Latin America, Africa, and other regions*. The tire sizes are 255/40ZR21 (102Y) for the front and 295/35ZR21 (107Y) for the rear.

Yokohama Tire announced that it will permanently close its manufacturing plant in Salem, VA effective March 18, 2026. Previously, the company announced a reduction in output for March and notified employees that production could cease in July. After negotiations with the United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied Industrial and Service Workers International Union and its Local Union No. 1023 (USW), the two sides have agreed to expedite the closure of the facility.

Cabot Corporation said it will increase prices globally by up to 20 percent for products sold by its specialty carbons and specialty compounds businesses, citing rising costs and market conditions.

The focus of the trade show presentation was on high-performance technologies for the precise, efficient, and reliable production of tire components, including Multiplex and Rollerhead systems. KraussMaffei Extrusion has been one of the world’s leading suppliers of multiplex systems for decades. These systems enable high-precision co-extrusion of various rubber components and make a decisive contribution to productivity and efficiency in tire production. In the area of Rollerhead systems as well, the company showcased high-performance solutions that are particularly well-suited for the cost-effective production of components for PCR and TBR tires.

Rubber Division, ACS is encouraging students interested in chemistry, polymers, elastomers and rubber technology to become student members to support their education and help prepare for careers in the industry.

Bridgestone Corporation (Bridgestone) announced its motorsports activity plans for 2026. The company will continue to support a wide range of motorsports both in Japan and abroad, from top-tier races to grassroots race events for amateur drivers. The Bridgestone “POTENZA” brand will be at the forefront of four-wheel racing, while the “BATTLAX” brand will power two-wheel competitions.