Our market strategy revolves around understanding customer requirements and developing products that offer a strong value proposition
Anuj Kathuria
President – India, JK Tyre
What is the significance of the Bauma this year for JK Tyres?
The bauma CONEXPO INDIA is a significant platform to showcase advancements and innovations in the industry. It allows us to highlight our products, meet customer needs, and demonstrate how our solutions address specialized requirements. The Expo also provides an opportunity to understand evolving trends, connect with stakeholders, and showcase the level of customization we are achieving in off-the-road applications. It helps us interact with customers directly and showcase how our tyres are tailored for specific use cases, like underground mining and slower-speed operations.
How are applications in the off-the-road segment evolving?
The applications in the off-the-road segment are becoming increasingly customized. Manufacturers are focusing on tailoring machines and tyres for specific applications. Earlier, standardized tyres were acceptable, but today, performance differentiation plays a key role. Material science, new compounds, and sustainability are driving this evolution. We use simulation-based validation to replicate actual road and operating conditions, reducing the time to market. We aim to launch five new products tailored for unique challenges, like underground operations, slow-speed applications, and wear resistance.
What are some of the unique features of your products?
Our tyres include features like a small cut to measure tread depth, allowing customers to monitor wear accurately. We also cater to growing automation trends, such as self-loading concrete mixers and mechanized equipment. With over 300 STUs in our portfolio for off-the-road applications, we offer a comprehensive range tailored to customer needs.
Can you tell us about your market strategy and the customization efforts for your products?
Our market strategy revolves around understanding customer requirements and developing products that offer a strong value proposition. By providing cost-effective solutions that combine performance and equipment-specific optimization, we aim to set ourselves apart. For example, we now have over 300 Stock Keeping Units (SKUs) in the OTR segment, ensuring a comprehensive portfolio for diverse customer needs.
We are also enhancing our distribution network across the country to ensure better reach. Last year, we introduced several new products, and we continue to expand our range. From vehicles with smaller payloads to large capacities, our offerings cater to a wide spectrum of applications. This includes advanced self-loading concrete mixers and other automated solutions designed to increase efficiency and reduce manual intervention.
What is the outlook for mobile tyre segments and radialisation in the market?
The mobile tyre segment has grown significantly this year, following exceptional growth last year. Currently, we see growth of about 67%. Two-thirds of the market still uses bias tyres, particularly in smaller sizes, while larger applications are transitioning to radials. India remains a price-sensitive market, and bias tyres hold relevance during economic downturns. However, mining applications will see increasing adoption of radial tyres over time.
How do you balance cost and quality in a price-sensitive market?
We never compromise on quality. Better quality does not necessarily mean higher cost; features define the cost. Factors like the amount of rubber, material science, and manufacturing processes allow us to produce high-quality products at competitive prices.
How is the TPMS business performing, and what innovations are you introducing?
The TPMS, focusing on sensor-based Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS), is thriving with several new innovations. Initially, TPMS was limited to car dashboards provided by OEMs. However, we now offer mobile-integrated TPMS systems that monitor both pressure and temperature, providing real-time data to users.
Our latest innovation involves embedding sensors directly into the inner wall of tyres, enhancing accuracy and durability. This system is validated and ready for launch in early 2025. These advancements underline our commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to improve safety and efficiency across various segments, including passenger cars, trucks, buses, and OTR vehicles.
What role do you see for underground mining in the future?
Underground mining is emerging as an efficient and cost-effective alternative to conventional open-cast mining. With advancements in technology and safety measures, underground mining is becoming more viable and less disruptive to the environment. This trend will play a critical role in the future of the mining industry.
