JK Tyres Bets Big on Aerial Work Platforms, Expands OTR Portfolio to Drive Next Growth Phase

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Key Highlights

• JK Tyres targets AWP segment with Sky Grip tyres.

• Focus on safety, stability, and lower ownership cost.

• 70% OE share in crane tyre market.

• Three new OTR tyres for mining and industrial use.

• Rs 1,400 crore investment across Indian plants.

As India’s cities grow taller with new metro corridors, commercial towers, and infrastructure projects, the demand for advanced construction equipment is rising. One such segment gaining momentum is Aerial Work Platforms (AWPs). Traditionally dominated by European and Chinese imports, this space is now seeing strong interest from Indian players, with JK Tyres positioning AWP tyres as its next growth engine.

Indian Players Challenge Import Dominance

For many years, AWP machines relied heavily on imported tyres. That trend is changing as Indian manufacturers step in with locally developed solutions. Along with JK Tyres, companies like MRF and Apollo Tyres are also actively expanding their presence in this segment, signaling a broader shift towards indigenous products.

Leveraging Strong Presence in Heavy Equipment

According to Debashish Khuntia, Head of the Off-the-Road (OTR) Business at JK Tyres and Industries, entering the AWP segment is a logical extension of the company’s existing strengths. JK Tyres already has a dominant position in the crane tyre market, holding nearly 70% share in the Original Equipment (OE) segment. Long-standing partnerships with OEMs such as Action Construction, Escorts, and Sany have helped build this leadership. Khuntia shared these insights during Excon 2025 in Bengaluru.

Tyres Designed for Safety and Stability at Height

AWP operations demand high stability rather than speed, as even minor ground-level vibrations can amplify into unsafe movement at height. To address this, JK Tyres has introduced the Sky Grip range, designed specifically for such applications. These tyres feature wider centre lugs for better ground grip and extra-thick sidewalls to handle sharp debris and steel commonly found on construction sites.

Cost Efficiency Through Smart Design

Most AWP tyres are foam-filled to prevent punctures and ensure machine stability. JK Tyres has focused on cavity optimization, reducing the internal empty space of the tyre. This lowers the amount of foam required, cutting costs for customers while also reducing downtime. This approach helps bring down the overall ownership cost of AWP equipment.

New OTR Tyres for Industrial and Mining Use

Alongside AWP tyres, JK Tyres has launched three new OTR products for industrial and mining applications. The 14.00-25 GTL PLUS is designed for backhoe loaders and offers stability and durability during frequent loading work. The 23.5-25 GTL PLUS caters to wheel loaders, providing better traction and endurance on tough surfaces. For underground mining, the 14.00-20 VEM AS-UG comes with a reinforced casing and a special compound to handle abrasive conditions and heavy-duty shuttle car operations.

Steady Performance Despite Industry Slowdown

While the overall construction equipment sector saw a 5% decline between April and October, JK Tyres managed to stay stable or post growth. This performance was supported by multiple new product launches and strong momentum in the aftermarket segment, where the company recorded high double-digit growth.

Major Investment Plans in India and Abroad

JK Tyres has announced a total investment of Rs 1,400 crore across its Indian operations. The largest share, Rs 1,025 crore, is earmarked for the Banmore plant in Madhya Pradesh. The Laksar facility in Uttarakhand will receive Rs 261 crore, while Rs 112 crore is planned for the Vikrant tyre plant in Mysuru. Production from these expansions is expected to start by the end of Q3 FY26, with full capacity ramp-up in the following year.

In addition, the company is investing $21 million in its Mexico-based subsidiary, JK Tornel. This capex will increase Passenger Car Radial tyre capacity by around 15%, with operations expected to begin in the first quarter of the next financial year.

With focused innovation, cost-effective design, and aggressive capacity expansion, JK Tyres is strengthening its position across emerging and traditional segments, making AWPs a key pillar of its future growth strategy.

Also Read: Domestic CV OEMs Master Heavy-Duty Physics for India’s Growing Infrastructure Push

CMV360 Says

JK Tyres is strengthening its growth roadmap by entering the Aerial Work Platform segment with locally engineered, cost-efficient tyre solutions. Backed by its strong leadership in the crane tyre market, focused product innovation, and major domestic and global investments, the company is well-positioned to reduce import dependence. Despite the industry slowdown, JK Tyres continues to show resilience through new launches and strong aftermarket demand.