MRF Ltd, a leading tyre manufacturer, has made significant strides in the electric vehicle (EV) tyre market, expanding both its original equipment manufacturer (OEM) supply and replacement services. Additionally, the company continues to maintain its exclusive role as the tyre supplier for Indian defence aircraft and helicopters, while exploring new opportunities in international markets.
“We have established ourselves as a major player in the EV tyre sector, supplying tyres to prominent electric two-wheeler, three-wheeler, and vehicle manufacturers, including the Maruti eVitara,” said Arun Mammen, Vice Chairman & Managing Director of MRF Ltd, during the Bharat Mobility Expo.
MRF supplies tyres to key electric vehicle models such as the Tata Nexon, Mahindra EVs, Honda Activa Electric, Bajaj Chetak, HeroMoto Corp’s Vida, and newer electric two-wheelers from brands like Ather, Ultraviolette, and Revolt. The company also serves electric bus manufacturers like JBM and Olectra, and electric three-wheeler producers like Piaggio.
“Our EV tyres are specifically engineered with features such as low rolling resistance to enhance battery efficiency and increase vehicle range. Some models also incorporate specialized foam inside the tyre to reduce noise, which is an important feature for EVs,” Mammen explained.
With the growing adoption of electric vehicles, the replacement demand for EV tyres is also rising. EV tyres typically last between 15,000 and 20,000 kilometers, and as early EV models start reaching their replacement cycles, demand is expected to increase. “For example, the earlier models of Mahindra EVs and the Bajaj Chetak are now beginning to require new tyres,” noted Rajat K Nangia, Vice President – Sales, MRF.
Additionally, MRF is proud of its exclusive role as the supplier of tyres for India’s defence sector, including aircraft such as Sukhoi jets, Tejas fighter planes, Apache helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and other military aircraft. “While this segment makes up a small portion of our overall revenue, it is a prestigious part of our contribution to national defence and the ‘Make in India’ initiative,” Mammen added.
MRF is also expanding its defence exports, having begun supplying aircraft tyres through Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) and exploring further international opportunities in the defence sector. In terms of overall tyre exports, MRF has seen a 20–25 percent growth over the past two quarters, with exports currently accounting for 10–12 percent of the company’s total business. The goal is to increase this share to 15 percent. “We currently export to over 70 countries, including Southeast Asia, South America, Africa, and the Middle East, and we continue to expand into new markets,” Mammen stated.
To meet growing demand, MRF has been expanding its manufacturing capacity, including investing ₹2,100 crore in capital expenditures last fiscal year and an additional ₹700 crore in the first half of the current fiscal. The company plans to continue optimizing its plants to meet specific market needs, with 10 strategically located manufacturing facilities across India.
MRF Ltd. (Madras Rubber Factory) is a prominent Indian multinational company recognized as one of the largest manufacturers of tires in the world. Founded in 1946, MRF has built a legacy of quality, durability, and innovation, catering to a wide range of vehicles, including passenger cars, motorcycles, commercial trucks, and off-road equipment.
Known for its advanced tire technologies, MRF delivers products that provide superior performance, safety, and fuel efficiency. Beyond tires, the company has diversified into sports goods, paints, and conveyor belts, reinforcing its reputation as a versatile industrial leader.
MRF’s consistent focus on research and development, combined with its global presence, has positioned it as a trusted brand in both domestic and international markets. The company continues to uphold its commitment to excellence while adapting to evolving automotive and industrial trends.
