Using its broadest possible definition as tyres with rim diameters of 17” or more, the ultra-high performance tyre segment is the only engine of growth within the replacement passenger car and light truck (PCLT) tyre segment in West and Central Europe, the latest data and projections from leading tyre business analyst Astutus Research demonstrates. Having withstood the Covid pandemic and accelerated out of 2021 far quicker than smaller rim diameter segments, the 18”-plus segment especially is going to help bolster what little growth there will be in the PCLT tyre market within the region, while also taking market share from smaller sizes. With the electrification of the car parc bringing EVs with generally higher rim sizes, in addition to existing trends towards larger tyres, such as the popularity of SUVs, demand for tyres in this size segment will rise rapidly over the next few years, Astutus’ projections show (see the graphs on these pages for more details).