Europe & CIS Ultra High-Performance (UHP) Tyre Market – Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Vehicle Type (Passenger Car, Two-wheeler), By Demand Category (OEM, Replacement), By Country, By Competition, 2020-2030F

Market Overview:

The Europe & CIS Ultra High-Performance (UHP) Tyre Market was valued at USD 731.99 Million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1045.42 Million by 2030 with a CAGR of 6.12% during the forecast period. The Europe & CIS Ultra High-Performance (UHP) tyre market is experiencing steady momentum due to the increasing adoption of performance vehicles and the growing preference among consumers for superior handling, braking, and high-speed stability. Manufacturers are responding with continuous innovation in tread design, rubber compounds, and reinforced structures to meet the evolving demands of both original equipment manufacturers and aftermarket buyers. The rise in automotive customization, motorsport participation, and tuning culture is supporting the expansion of UHP tyre installations.  

Market Drivers

Rising Demand for Performance Vehicles

The increasing global appetite for high-performance vehicles is significantly influencing the ultra high-performance (UHP) tyre market. Consumers are prioritizing cars with faster acceleration, enhanced stability, and dynamic driving experiences, which inherently require tyres that can support higher speeds, offer precise cornering capabilities, and deliver optimal traction. UHP tyres are engineered to meet these demands with specialized tread compounds, reinforced sidewalls, and advanced carcass designs. Automotive OEMs are integrating UHP tyres into their factory fittings for sports sedans, coupes, and luxury SUVs, creating a strong baseline demand. In the aftermarket, car enthusiasts and performance-focused drivers are replacing standard tyres with UHP variants to improve responsiveness and aesthetics. This shift in consumer mindset toward performance-centric mobility is fostering a consistent rise in UHP tyre installations across passenger vehicle categories. For instance, in 2024, Lexus achieved record global sales of 851,214 units, marking a 3.3% year-on-year growth, driven largely by a 20% surge in European sales to 88,184 units—its highest-ever regional premium market share at 2.5%. Electrified vehicles accounted for 91% of Lexus' European sales and 99% in Western Europe, contributing to a global electrified mix of 52%. Key European models included the NX (26,635 units), LBX (23,018), and RX (13,772), while globally, the LBX, LM, RZ, and UX 300e saw strong demand.

Advancements in Tyre Technology

Technological evolution in tyre design and materials is a primary driver behind the expansion of the UHP tyre market. Innovations such as silica-infused tread compounds, multi-layer tread zones, and adaptive contact patch technology are improving grip, reducing rolling resistance, and enhancing safety at high speeds. Modern UHP tyres are being developed with sophisticated simulation tools and digital twin testing, enabling precise tuning of performance characteristics for specific vehicle platforms. Manufacturers are also experimenting with aramid fiber reinforcements and nanomaterial additives to increase structural rigidity without adding weight. These improvements have made it possible for UHP tyres to deliver strong performance across wet and dry surfaces while maintaining acceptable levels of comfort and tread life. Another key development is the emergence of asymmetric and directional tread patterns that improve steering response and reduce hydroplaning risks.

Growth in Motorsports and Tuning Culture

The widespread popularity of motorsports and the expanding vehicle tuning culture are pivotal forces behind the rising adoption of UHP tyres. Motorsport events, including drag racing, circuit racing, and time trials, rely heavily on tyres that offer enhanced grip, thermal stability, and rapid acceleration support. UHP tyres meet these criteria, making them a standard choice for both amateur and professional racing environments. Meanwhile, the tuning community is consistently modifying stock vehicles with engine upgrades, suspension enhancements, and aesthetic overhauls that demand high-performance tyres to handle increased power output and aggressive driving styles. The visual appeal of UHP tyres, with their low-profile sidewalls and wider contact patches, also aligns with the design preferences of tuning enthusiasts. Tyre brands actively sponsor racing events and collaborate with performance tuners to showcase their products in extreme conditions, influencing buying behavior and driving aspirational demand. For instance, in July 2024, UK motorsport is set to reach new heights, with over 700,000 spectators expected at major events including the British Grand Prix, Goodwood Festival of Speed, Formula E London E-Prix, and BTCC at Croft. National Motorsport Week (11–21 July) highlights the UK’s global leadership in motorsport, backed by 4,500 companies, £9 billion in annual turnover, and 40,000 industry jobs. The country also boasts a vibrant grassroots scene, with 70,000 licensed competitors and 676 registered motor clubs, reinforcing its status as a hub for racing talent, innovation, and community engagement.

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Key Market Challenges

High Cost and Limited Lifespan

One of the primary challenges in the UHP tyre market is the high cost of acquisition and the relatively short lifespan compared to standard passenger car tyres. UHP tyres are manufactured using premium-grade rubber compounds, advanced tread structures, and reinforced sidewalls that increase production complexity and material expenses. This drives up the retail price, making them less accessible for budget-conscious consumers or drivers of entry-level performance vehicles. Moreover, the soft compounds used to maximize traction and grip tend to wear out faster, especially under aggressive driving conditions or in high-temperature environments. Frequent replacements increase the total cost of ownership, deterring long-term usage. Drivers who use UHP tyres for daily commuting may also experience reduced value due to uneven wear patterns and decreased comfort levels on rough roads.

Performance Sensitivity to Weather Conditions

UHP tyres are engineered to perform best under specific conditions, making them sensitive to environmental variables such as temperature, road moisture, and seasonal changes. Most UHP tyres are designed for summer use, with compounds optimized for warm temperatures to maintain grip and flexibility. However, their performance tends to degrade rapidly in cold or icy conditions due to hardening of the tread material, leading to a significant drop in traction and safety. This limits their usability across different climates and seasons, requiring consumers to invest in additional tyre sets for winter driving. In wet conditions, although many UHP tyres feature water-channeling tread designs, they still carry a higher risk of hydroplaning if not properly maintained or used beyond their optimal tread depth. Such performance variability increases the burden on drivers to closely monitor usage conditions and perform frequent tyre inspections.  

Key Market Trends

Integration of Smart Tyre Technologies

The integration of smart tyre technologies is emerging as a transformative trend in the UHP tyre market. Tyres equipped with embedded sensors are capable of monitoring and transmitting real-time data on pressure, temperature, tread depth, and even road conditions. This connectivity enables proactive maintenance, improves vehicle safety, and enhances performance monitoring during high-speed driving. In UHP applications, where tyre stress is significantly higher, such technologies provide valuable feedback that helps drivers optimize handling and braking behavior based on actual tyre performance metrics. Fleet operators and performance vehicle owners can use this data to extend tyre life, detect alignment issues early, and ensure consistent performance under dynamic load conditions. The growing interest in vehicle telematics and the development of smart mobility platforms further encourage integration of sensor-enabled tyres as part of connected ecosystems.

Shift Toward Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing

Sustainability is becoming a key focus in the UHP tyre segment, leading to a shift toward the use of eco-friendly materials and greener manufacturing practices. Tyre manufacturers are exploring alternatives such as bio-based rubber, recycled carbon black, and silica derived from rice husk ash to reduce the environmental footprint of production without compromising performance. These materials offer comparable elasticity, wear resistance, and durability, enabling high-speed handling while supporting global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and non-renewable resource usage. Energy-efficient curing processes, water-based solvents, and closed-loop recycling systems are also being adopted to make the manufacturing cycle more sustainable. This trend is not only driven by regulatory pressure but also by consumer demand for products that align with environmental values.

Expansion of UHP Tyres in Electric Vehicle Segment

The rapid growth of electric vehicles (EVs) is opening new avenues for UHP tyres, as many EVs now feature high torque output, low center of gravity, and sport-oriented designs that demand advanced tyre capabilities. UHP tyres are being tailored specifically for EV applications, incorporating noise-dampening technology, optimized rolling resistance, and compounds that can withstand heavier vehicle loads without sacrificing handling. The instant torque delivery in EVs puts unique stress on tyres, requiring designs that can handle sudden acceleration without rapid tread wear. Low rolling resistance also becomes critical for preserving battery life and extending driving range, pushing UHP tyre manufacturers to innovate beyond traditional performance metrics. Many EVs, particularly premium models, are being launched with factory-fitted UHP tyres to ensure a balanced ride quality and dynamic road behavior.   For instance, In Q1 2025, battery-electric car sales in the EU rose by 23.9% year-on-year to 412,997 units, achieving a 15.2% market share. Germany (+38.9%), Belgium (+29.9%), and the Netherlands (+7.9%) drove the growth, collectively accounting for 63% of all registrations.

Segmental Insights

Vehicle Type Insights

In 2024, the passenger car segment dominated the Europe & CIS Ultra High-Performance (UHP) tyre market by vehicle type. This dominance was driven by the rising demand for sports cars, premium sedans, and high-end SUVs equipped with powerful engines requiring enhanced handling, braking stability, and cornering precision. Consumers in this category sought tyres that deliver superior performance at high speeds, leading to greater adoption of UHP tyres both at the OEM and aftermarket levels. The increase in personal vehicle ownership with performance specifications and the growing interest in aesthetic customization contributed to the strong preference for low-profile, wide-tread UHP tyres among car owners. The rise of motorsport-inspired driving culture and the availability of performance packages in mass-market vehicles further reinforced the demand.

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Country Insights

In 2024, Germany led the Europe & CIS UHP tyre market due to its strong automotive culture, widespread use of premium cars, and high-speed road networks. For instance, Germany’s autobahn network spans over 8,000 miles (13,000 kilometers) and remains the world’s only major highway system without a general speed limit, with over 70% of routes unrestricted. While the government recommends a speed of 130 km/h (80 mph), many drivers exceed this. Drivers prioritized grip, steering precision, and stability, making UHP tyres essential. High demand was also driven by tuning trends, track participation, and OE fitments in performance vehicles.

The UK saw strong UHP tyre growth fueled by a vibrant aftermarket and vehicle personalization culture. High-performance hatchbacks and luxury cars commonly used UHP tyres for better grip and control. Motorsport popularity and enthusiast communities further boosted adoption across varied driving conditions.

France recorded growing UHP tyre adoption due to rising sales of sporty sedans and mid-tier performance cars. Consumers valued improved handling and dynamic stability. Wider access to online tyre insights and increased availability of performance trims helped position UHP tyres as practical upgrades for daily drivers.

Recent Developments

• ​In 2025, Apollo Tyres launched the Aspire 5, an ultra-high performance tyre for 17–20 inch luxury and EV vehicles. Tested across Europe and Asia, it offers improved comfort, grip, and low noise.
• In 2025, UK-based ENSO launched a premium UHP tyre range for high-performance EVs like the Tesla Model 3 and Y, offering top EU-rated efficiency, extended range, and reduced tyre wear.
• In September 2024, Bridgestone partnered with Audi to develop a bespoke ultra-high-performance "Potenza Sport A" tyre specifically for the e‑tron GT series, utilizing over 55% recycled and renewable materials.
• In April 2025, Kumho Tire announced plans to build a European plant with a capacity of 6 million units, investing up to 900 billion won. The move supports global growth, EV tech, and tariff mitigation.

Key Market Players

• Bridgestone Corporation
• Continental AG
• Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
• Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd
• Michelin Group
• Pirelli & C. S.p.A.
• Yokohama Rubber Company Limited
• Kumho Tire Co. Inc
• BFGoodrich Tyres
• Hankook Tire & Technology Co., Ltd

Report Scope:

In this report, the Europe & CIS Ultra High-Performance (UHP) Tyre Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

•           Europe & CIS Ultra High-Performance (UHP) Tyre Market, By Vehicle Type:

o    Passenger Car

o    Two-wheeler

•            Europe & CIS Ultra High-Performance (UHP) Tyre Market, By Demand Category:

o    OEM

o    Replacement

•            Europe & CIS Ultra High-Performance (UHP) Tyre Market, By Country:

o    Germany

o    Russia

o    France

o    Spain

o    Italy

o    United Kingdom

o    Poland

o    Rest of Europe & CIS

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the Europe & CIS Ultra High-Performance (UHP) Tyre Market.

Available Customizations:

Europe & CIS Ultra High-Performance (UHP) Tyre Market report with the given market data, Tech Sci Research offers customizations according to the company’s specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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