Pirelli and BKT Join Hands to Manufacture Premium Car Tyres in India

 Italian tyre manufacturer Pirelli has partnered with Indian company Balkrishna Industries Limited (BKT) to expand passenger-car tyre manufacturing in India. Under the initial arrangement, BKT plans to manufacture up to 8 lakh Pirelli-branded tyres annually by 2030 at its upcoming facility in Bhuj, Gujarat.

The partnership aims to combine Pirelli’s premium tyre technology with BKT’s manufacturing capabilities. Production is expected to begin in the next financial year, with tyres manufactured according to Pirelli’s technical specifications and quality standards.

Proposed joint venture

The companies are also planning a second phase involving a proposed 50:50 joint venture. The venture is intended to establish a manufacturing facility for premium passenger-car radial tyres under both companies’ brands, subject to the finalisation of agreements and business plans.

The proposed facility is expected to serve the Indian market and potentially international customers. The final structure and implementation details of the joint venture remain subject to further decisions by the companies.

What the partnership means for the tyre industry

Pirelli brings experience in premium tyre technology, while BKT contributes an established manufacturing base in India. BKT is known for off-highway tyres used in agriculture, construction, mining and industrial applications.

For Pirelli, local manufacturing could strengthen its presence in India’s passenger-car tyre market. For BKT, the arrangement offers an opportunity to expand into the premium passenger-car segment.

The partnership reflects manufacturers’ interest in India’s automotive market and the potential for domestic production to support both local demand and exports. However, the announcement does not by itself confirm any immediate reduction in retail tyre prices.