In an exclusive interaction, BKT highlights the unique feature of their newly launched tires and the challenges impacting their OTR market.

What is new from you for the off-highway market?

There are three distinct types of off-highway tires, and BKT is the sole company that makes them; we don’t produce tires for any roads but for off-roads. BKT has a reach that is sufficient to fulfil Indian off-highway tire requirements. One of the three sections is constituted of industrial construction tires, earthmovers tires, and agricultural equipment. We cater to all ranges in these three divisions according to Indian requirements. At IMME, BKT displayed its top-notch, technologically advanced mining products. The Giant EARTHMAX SR 468 TL all-steel radial tire was the major emphasis. This 57″ tire’s unique tread pattern and composition were developed to reduce heat generation and increase cutting resistance. It is a fantastic option for the mining industry due to its higher casing resistance. The EARTHMAX SR 53 TL is a different tire from the EARTHMAX family on the show. Additionally, it is an all-steel radial tire created especially for low-profile dump trucks, ultra-large loaders, and dozers. Its designated deep L-5 tread is made of a cut-resistant substance, making it perfect for harsh rocky terrains. The tire’s technology gives it a prolonged wear life and excellent stability.

What are the unique features of this range of tires? And what is their load capacity?

BKT has developed the broadest range of tires in every segment. As mentioned above, we have the most comprehensive range in the three segments: agricultural tires, earthmover tires and industrial construction. Therefore, every corporation in India today can be satisfied with that range. Our business’s primary goal is constantly providing our end users with the highest possible quality. Additionally, we provide the best after-sales service to the customers from the company on their application. This helps us to satisfy every need of the client fully.

How are the supply chain and procurement challenges impacting your business?

The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia has had the most damaging effects on the market since it has affected the global economy. The difficulties include high raw material costs, availability, and transit times because we import many components. Considering that the tires must import specific components to achieve quality requirements. We are one of Europe’s leading suppliers. The highest importance is thus the standard quality element. The largest problem nowadays regarding pricing, availability, and production schedule is that we import raw materials from all over the world.

Can you talk about your manufacturing facilities, with a renewed focus on ‘Making in India’?

BKT began ‘Making in India’ long back, and the market is talking about the same today. BKT is a company that manufactures tires in India. We compete against the industry’s major players and are pretty successful. We currently have four plants, with a fifth plant being the largest deal that is at Bhuj. The Bhuj factory is a game changer for BKT because the most up-to-date machinery has been installed in Bhuj to meet high standards of product requirements, like earthmover tires. This is an elevated technology, and a customer expects the best quality standard, like 40 or 57 displayed at an IMME event, which costs nearly 24 lakhs for four tonnes. These tires are for giant machines used in the mining industry.

Looking at today’s market, what are the growth indicators?

BKT is still putting a lot of effort into environmental issues. Our primary goal is to keep clients satisfied with the availability of excellent products and our professional services. Although there are difficulties with all three of these elements, we are working extremely hard to overcome them since BKT is unstoppable and can do much more. India is rapidly growing, and as a result, we will face several growth-related issues. Looking at the following sectors, mining, infrastructural development, and high agricultural output, three development elements are what India must consider. So as of now, our product rates and all of our developments are an example for any Indian company to maximise their growth trajectory.