CEAT marks an expansion targeting the high-performance and luxury vehicle segment integrating global tyre technologies in its latest SportDrive range. The launch brings ZR-rated tyres, Calm Technology for noise reduction, and Run-Flat Technology (RFT) tyres to Indian roads. We had a chat with Lakshmi Narayanan B, CMO of CEAT, and Renji Isaac, Senior VP and Head of R&D and Technology, on how these innovations position CEAT as a serious contender in the premium and high-speed tyre segment.
Straight out of the bat, according to Narayanan, this development is part of CEAT’s broader strategy, “Our investments in R&D extend from Europe to India, allowing us to leverage European expertise while optimising manufacturing in India. This combination helps us deliver high-quality tyres at competitive prices.”
ZR-Rated Tyres
The introduction of ZR-rated tyres addresses a growing demand for high-performance vehicles in India. These tyres, capable of handling speeds above 220–240 km/h, are crucial for performance-oriented SUVs and sedans.
Features of ZR-rated SportDrive SUV tyres:
- Dual-layer high-denier nylon overlay to reduce tyre growth at high speeds, improving stability and grip.
- High-denier polyester fabric to withstand high torque and provide durability.
- Available in larger sizes, including 315/40ZR21, 275/45ZR21, and 285/45ZR21 for the super-premium segments.
With Germany’s Autobahns as a testing ground, these tyres are designed to meet global standards while being optimised for Indian driving conditions.
Calm Technology
One of CEAT’s most anticipated innovations is Calm Technology, designed to reduce in-cabin noise and enhance driving comfort, particularly for luxury sedans and SUVs. “Our Calm Technology ensures that even at high speeds, noise reduction remains a priority. The goal is to provide an in-cabin experience that feels more refined and premium,” says Isaac.
This technology is already being implemented in EVs like the Tata Punch EV and will likely extend to other luxury sedans in the coming years. Calm Technology works by using specialised foam inserts to absorb noise and vibrations, reducing pass-by noise and in-cabin resonance, making long-distance travel quieter, whilst maintaining consistent performance across varying temperatures and road conditions. Tests have demonstrated a reduction of up to six decibels in cabin noise, a significant improvement over conventional tyres.
Run-Flat Technology (RFT)
Although RFT has been around, CEAT’s introduction of this technology is a first by an Indian manufacturer. Designed primarily for luxury sedans, these tyres allow vehicles to continue driving even after a puncture, eliminating the immediate need for a tyre change.
These indigenously developed run-flat inserts offer extended durability. These tyres have been tested in extreme environments in Finland and Germany to ensure reliability. Limited release sizes include 225/40RF18 and 225/55RF17, with more options expected in future releases.
EV-Ready Tyres For The Future
The consumer market may have low knowledge of how EV tyres are different from ICE vehicle tyres, but since there is a considerable engineering difference, CEAT is also making strides in the EV segment, ensuring its tyres are compatible with both electric and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. The company has consolidated its EV-specific learnings into a universal tyre design, optimised for high torque handling, low rolling resistance, and extended durability.
As Isaac explains, “Our future tyres will be EV-ready by default. We have integrated EV tyre features into our mainstream products, offering higher life, lower noise, and superior durability for both EV and ICE applications.”
CEAT’s EnergyDrive range, already popular in electric two-wheelers and buses, is now expanding to premium electric passenger vehicles.
Competitive Pricing
CEAT’s approach to pricing these high-tech tyres remains “fair and competitive”, according to Narayanan. While competing against global brands like Michelin, Bridgestone, and Pirelli, CEAT aims to balance affordability with premium quality.
“We believe in value pricing rather than aggressive pricing. The goal is to provide world-class tyres at a cost that makes sense for Indian and global markets,” says Narayanan.
The export potential is also significant, particularly in Europe and the Middle East, where the demand for 21-inch high-performance tyres continues to grow.
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