(Laatzen/Germany, March 16, 2026). KraussMaffei Extrusion has wrapped up three intensive and successful days: At the Tire Technology Expo 2026 (March 3–5) in Hanover, the company presented innovative solutions for tire extrusion as well as an expanded range of services. Interest among international trade visitors was high, particularly in technologies for the precise, efficient, and reliable production of tire components.

“The international tire market remains dynamic,” says Dr. Gerard Nijman, Senior Technical Expert Tire & Rubber at KraussMaffei Extrusion. “We are currently seeing particularly dynamic developments in regions such as India, Korea, Eastern Europe, and increasingly in Africa as well.”

A key driver is the rising number of vehicles worldwide. “While there are currently around 600 registered vehicles per 1,000 inhabitants in Germany, this figure stands at only about 22 vehicles per 1,000 inhabitants in India - with correspondingly high growth potential,” says Dr. Gerard Nijman. At the same time, new mobility concepts such as electric mobility and car-sharing are changing the requirements for tires and their production. Another trend is the increasing shift toward regional production to reduce transport costs, delivery times, and trade barriers - an environment in which KraussMaffei Extrusion is very well positioned with its solutions.

The focus of the trade show presentation was on high-performance technologies for the precise, efficient, and reliable production of tire components, including Multiplex and Rollerhead systems. KraussMaffei Extrusion has been one of the world’s leading suppliers of multiplex systems for decades. These systems enable high-precision co-extrusion of various rubber components and make a decisive contribution to productivity and efficiency in tire production. In the area of Rollerhead systems as well, the company showcased high-performance solutions that are particularly well-suited for the cost-effective production of components for PCR and TBR tires.

In addition to new machines, the modernization of existing systems is increasingly coming into focus. Systems from KraussMaffei Extrusion (formerly Berstorff) are known for their durability and have often been in use for decades. With customized retrofit solutions, the company supports its customers in adapting existing lines to new production requirements and increasing their efficiency.

Another key focus at the trade show was the expanded range of services. Among the new features is a digital access via QR code located directly on the machine, allowing customers to contact the service department quickly and easily. Since the machine and order numbers are automatically recorded, service requests can be processed much more quickly. “Existing lines and extruders will be retrofitted with the QR code in the near future, if desired in conjunction with a system inspection by our experts (health check),” said Dr. Gerard Nijman.

The topic of sustainability in tire production also played an important role at the trade show. Dr. Gerard Nijman presented current developments in a technical presentation titled “How to make the rubber extrusion process more sustainable?” and subsequently discussed future challenges and potential solutions with industry experts.

With positive feedback from customers and partners, KraussMaffei Extrusion is optimistic about the future development of the international tire market - and is already looking forward to the next Tire Technology Expo.