BKT Inaugurates Vehicle Dynamics & Testing Base at NATRAX to Drive Innovation in Passenger Vehicle Tyres!
By Ashutosh Arora
Balkrishna Industries Ltd. (BKT), one of India’s leading tyre manufacturers and a global force in the off-highway tyre segment, has taken a significant step forward with the inauguration of its Vehicle Dynamics & Testing (VD&T) base at the National Automotive Test Tracks (NATRAX) in Indore. This new facility is a milestone in BKT’s strategic expansion into the passenger vehicle tyre market, covering passenger car radials (PCR), commercial vehicle radials (CVR), and 2-wheeler tyres. By establishing a dedicated base at one of the most advanced testing infrastructures in Asia, BKT is signaling its strong intent to deliver world-class products that meet the evolving demands of both Indian and global consumers.
The VD&T base will serve as a critical hub for advanced tyre testing and validation, accelerating product development cycles and ensuring the highest standards of safety, performance, and reliability. Leveraging the extensive testing capabilities at NATRAX, BKT can subject its products to rigorous trials across diverse conditions and terrains. This level of comprehensive evaluation is essential not only for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) but also for the replacement market, ensuring that tyres meet stringent global benchmarks while catering to the unique road conditions of India.
Speaking at the inauguration, Satish Sharma, Sr. President & Director – Business Development and Strategy at BKT, highlighted the company’s vision: “At BKT, we are leveraging our decades of expertise in Off-Highway tyres as we expand into the on-road vehicle segment. Our entry into the consumer space is guided by a clear commitment: developing tyres that users can trust for safety, comfort, mileage, and reliability on every journey. The establishment of a dedicated VD&T base at NATRAX marks a pivotal step in our journey to deliver world-class tyres across segments.” His remarks underscore BKT’s focus on blending its proven legacy in off-highway applications with innovation-driven strategies for passenger mobility.
The facility is designed to simulate real-world driving conditions, enabling comprehensive assessments of key performance factors such as braking efficiency, ride comfort, fuel economy, noise reduction, and adaptability to varied terrains. This rigorous testing framework ensures that BKT’s upcoming range of passenger vehicle tyres can meet the high expectations of consumers while aligning with international standards. By focusing on consumer-centric concerns, BKT aims to deliver tyres that enhance the driving experience and inspire confidence in safety.
Beyond validation, the VD&T base also strengthens BKT’s research and development capabilities. With state-of-the-art machinery, advanced testing equipment, and a team of skilled professionals, the facility allows for the integration of cutting-edge technologies in tyre design and production. This emphasis on R&D will not only accelerate the launch of new products but also ensure continuous improvements in durability, efficiency, and sustainability.
The inauguration of the VD&T base at NATRAX reflects BKT’s long-term vision of becoming a trusted brand in the on-road vehicle tyre segment. By combining decades of industry expertise with forward-looking innovation, BKT is well-positioned to redefine tyre performance and reliability for both domestic and international markets. This strategic move highlights the company’s unwavering commitment to safety, quality, and innovation, reinforcing its role as a key player in shaping the future of mobility.
