The 2026 edition of the Dakar Rally once again pushed teams to their limits, with ultra-demanding terrain, long specials and changing conditions testing endurance and vehicle management. Following rocky tracks, dunes and fast desert sections, Team De Rooy achieved an impressive result.

Team #604 with Vaidotas Zala, Paulo Fiuza and Max van Grol, together with Team #602 featuring Ales Loprais, David Kripal and Jiri Stross, demonstrated strong teamwork and determination throughout the event, underlining Team De Rooy’s position as one of the most competitive teams in the Dakar truck category.

Throughout the rally, both crews relied on Goodyear OFFROAD 375/90R22.5 tires, designed to deliver traction, robustness and heat resistance in extreme off-road environments. Combined with Goodyear’s Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), the solution enabled continuous real-time monitoring of tire pressure and temperature, helping the crew maintain control, optimize performance and improve driving comfort across demanding stages.

By allowing timely pressure adjustments and early detection of temperature build-up, Goodyear TPMS supported consistent performance and confident decision-making, even in the most demanding conditions of the rally.

This result further reinforces the long-standing partnership between Team De Rooy and Goodyear, built proven performance and shared commitment to delivering strong results in the world’s toughest motorsport environments.

The 2026 Dakar Rally, running from January 3 to 17 on an 8,000-kilometer loop starting and ending in Yanbu, introduces a demanding blend of long specials, varied terrain and new “Marathon-Refuge” stages with limited support. With nearly 5,000 kilometers of timed sections and a rest day in Riyadh, this edition places strong emphasis on endurance, consistency and vehicle management across shifting sands and fast, technical tracks.

Team De Rooy fields a competitive lineup for this year’s rally:

• #602 Ales Loprais, David Kripal, Jiri Stross
• #604 Vaidotas Zala, Paulo Fiuza, Max van Grol

Goodyear OFFROAD tires and TPMS: mobility and control in extreme conditions

Team De Rooy relies once again on Goodyear 375/90R22.5 OFFROAD tires, engineered for traction, robustness and heat resistance across dunes, rocky surfaces and rapid transitions. Combined with Goodyear TPMS, the system enables continuous monitoring and adjustment of pressure and temperature, helping crews optimize mobility and actively manage heat buildup during demanding stages.

Drivers are trained to use the system’s real-time insights to balance speed, grip and durability — minimizing downtime and maximizing consistency in the harshest rally conditions. Their successful deployment of Goodyear tires and TPMS in previous editions, reinforces the performance advantage these solutions bring to Dakar competition.

A continued commitment to truck motorsport

Goodyear’s partnership with Team De Rooy builds on years of collaboration in the world’s toughest motorsport arenas. As title partner and sole tire supplier of the Goodyear FIA European Truck Racing Championship (ETRC), the company continues to use top-level competition as a proving ground for advancing tire technologies.

Davide Califano, Head of Brand and Value Proposition at Goodyear Commercial EMEA, said: “Our ongoing collaboration with Team De Rooy for Dakar 2026 demonstrates our commitment to supporting teams competing in the harshest conditions. With our OFFROAD tires and TPMS, we provide the control, mobility and real-time insights needed to meet the challenges of this demanding edition. We wish the team every success.”

"Our partnership with Goodyear is built on trust and results. Year after year, Goodyear OFFROAD tires and TPMS help us stay competitive across the harshest terrains. Dakar 2026 will be extremely demanding, but knowing we can rely on proven mobility solutions allows our crews to focus fully on driving and strategy." – said Gerard De Rooy, team owner, Team De Rooy.

The new range continues to deliver class-leading mileage compared to its predecessors with improved traction, while also offering up to 13% improved rolling resistance[1] and being made with at least 40%[2] sustainable materials — all while maintaining the durability fleets rely on. With a strong focus on reducing Total Cost of Ownership, using KMAX GEN-3 helps drive reduced operational costs, with potential yearly fuel saving of up to 1236€ per vehicle[3].

With continued advancements in the tread compound and tire design, Goodyear’s KMAX GEN-3 lineup brings a significant step forward in lowering rolling resistance while ensuring the highest mileage and performance within KMAX range. This allows more fleets to switch to fuel-efficient tires — without compromising on traction or durability.

The new Goodyear KMAX GEN-3 lineup includes the KMAX S GEN-3 for the steer axle, the KMAX D GEN-3 for the drive axle, and the KMAX T GEN-3 for the trailer axle.

Each tire in the range is designed to deliver exceptional mileage, now with improved efficiency compared to its predecessor thanks to reduced rolling resistance — supporting fleet performance across long haul, regional, and urban routes.

“With Goodyear KMAX GEN-3, we have taken a range known by our customers for its outstanding mileage and improved fuel efficiency without compromising performance, enabling our customers to confidently face their daily challenges,” said Xavier Fraipont, Vice President Commercial PBU EMEA at Goodyear. “By combining innovative tread compounds, EV readiness, and digital traceability, this range helps our fleet customers reduce further operating costs while moving toward more sustainable transport solutions.”

Innovation driving efficiency

All Goodyear KMAX GEN-3 tires include:

• Ecoready Technology: Tires made with more than 40% sustainable materials[4] are marked with the ECOREADY TECHNOLOGY logo[5]. The KMAX GEN-3 tires include Rice Husk Ash Silica (RHAS), with its sustainable content attributed through the Mass Balance approach[6].
• RFID Tags: Integrated RFID chips allow precise digital tire identification, simplifying connectivity with fleet tire management and tracking systems.

Steer and Drive tires from the new lineup feature full silica tread cap compound, which helps long-term durability by increasing resistance to abrasion and maintaining a low running temperature contributing to lower rolling resistance and then fuel consumption.

The steer and drive tires in the range are also Electric Drive Ready, making them suitable for diesel, hybrid, and electric vehicles. With enhanced load capacity and higher tread stiffness, the tires are optimized to handle the added weight and torque of EVs, while supporting extended battery autonomy through lower rolling resistance.

Introducing KMAX GEN-3 range further enhances the versatility of Goodyear’s truck tire portfolio, making it suitable for an even wider spectrum of applications and operational challenges. It reflects Goodyear’s continued commitment to staying close to its customers and offering a comprehensive, future-ready product range that meets the evolving needs of modern fleets.

“By helping to reduce total cost of ownership, Goodyear KMAX GEN-3 exemplifies our continuous commitment to evolving premium products that meet real-world fleet needs — delivering proven mileage performance with up to 13% improved rolling resistance supporting measurable fuel savings and helping to possibly reduce CO₂ emissions for fleet operators” – adds Maciej Szymański, Marketing Director Commercial PBU EMEA at Goodyear.

To explore the full KMAX GEN-3 range, including available sizes and detailed benefits, visit https://www.goodyear.eu/en_gb/truck/knowledge-centre/kmax-gen-3.html
 

[1] in comparison to predecessor, based on internal Goodyear data

[2] Except for the 445/65R22.5 size, due to its light mixed-service application requiring a specific compound.

[3] Savings per vehicles combination (tractor+semi-trailer), based on internal Goodyear calculation considering official rolling resistance values of KMAX GEN-3 vs. KMAX GEN-2 tyres. Average fuel consumption 27l/100km, fuel price 1.6€ / liter, average mileage 100,000 km/year. Actual savings may vary based on including, but not limited to vehicle condition and maintenance, traffic conditions, driver behaviour and other factors.

[4] Goodyear defines a sustainable material as bio-based (originating from biological sources); renewable (composed of replenishable biomass); or recycled (reprocessed from reclaimed materials) material as defined in ISO 14021; or one produced using or contributing to other practices designed to promote resource conservation and/or emissions reductions.

[5] All KMAX T GEN-3 trailer tires are stamped with the ECOREADY logo and one leaf, except for the 445/65R22.5 size, due to its light mixed-service application requiring a specific compound.

[6] Goodyear applies the ISCC  PLUS sustainability certification system and mass-balance approach to support transparency and accountability in tracking the sustainable materials throughout the supply chain.

Vehicle fleets with Schmitz Cargobull trailers can now benefit from Goodyear's tire monitoring and predictive analytics, as they are directly compatible with the telematics and tire pressure monitoring systems installed in Schmitz Cargobull vehicles, without the need for additional hardware or SIM cards.

Built-in intelligence, ready from the start

Goodyear TPMS Connect is a plug-and-play solution that integrates with Schmitz Cargobull's existing telematics infrastructure, providing instant access to real-time tire performance data and actionable insights. Using Goodyear's proprietary G-Predict technology, fleets can anticipate tire-related issues before they lead to unplanned downtime, helping to reduce operating costs and improve road safety.

"With this next step in our collaboration, we are combining the strengths of our proven trailer telematics with Goodyear's tire intelligence solution," says Jan Uhlenbruck, Head of Full Service Solutions, Digital Services Product Line at Schmitz Cargobull. "The seamless integration of Goodyear TPMS Connect supports our goal of providing our customers with smarter, safer and more efficient transport solutions."

Support for smart, connected fleets

For Goodyear, this partnership is another important expansion of its ecosystem for fleet mobility.

"We are delighted to deepen our collaboration with Schmitz Cargobull by integrating Goodyear TPMS Connect directly into their trailer platform," says Piotr Czyżyk, Managing Director, Fleet Mobility Europe at Goodyear. "Through this integration, fleets can benefit from Goodyear's predictive analytics and tire intelligence without having to install additional hardware - providing a smoother path to digitalisation and operational excellence."

The key benefits of Goodyear TPMS Connect are:

• Seamless integration: works with Schmitz Cargobull's integrated telematics and TPMS systems, no additional hardware required.
• Predictive maintenance: G-Predict technology helps prevent punctures through early detection of tire problems.
• Increased safety and compliance: Supports TPMS-related EU regulations and contributes to improved safety through predictive warnings.
• Full tire visibility: Provides complete data visibility, including pressure, temperature and GPS-based tracking.

With this joint offering, fleets benefit from a fully connected trailer solution that reduces tire-related downtime and contributes to informed business decisions.

When it comes to transparency and networking, Schmitz Cargobull supports hauliers in their day-to-day transport operations with the TrailerConnect® Data Management Centre (DMC). Schmitz Cargobull relies on strategic partnerships with more than 40 established providers, such as Trimble, Krone, idem, RIO, ZF Transics, CO3, etc., so that the available real-time data can be utilised even more effectively. The DMC's import function enables customers to visualise their entire fleet - across all manufacturers - on the TrailerConnect® platform.

TheTrailerConnect® Data Management Centre is ready to use for connected systems without further IT implementation. The real-time data of the entire fleet is monitored and controlled at a central location. The outgoing interfaces to common real-time visibility platforms and telematics systems can be used directly. The user manages the data release himself, actively decides which data should be selectively shared and thus retains control over the data. This means full protection for your own business and haulage network. Business-sensitive data relating to your own transport network and the subcontractors involved is protected. All vehicle and transport data is processed in compliance with the GDPR and is accessible to the entire fleet in one place. In conjunction with TrailerConnect® TourTrack, the user has access to all information in real time, has a precise overview of tours and can react quickly to changes in processes. Interactive temperature monitoring and other functions are also available on a tour and order basis (FTL/LTL).

• Fleets report a significant rise in clearly defined sustainability objectives and measures. 
• Knowledge of environmental legislation continues to rise. 
• Tires continue to play a key role in lowering fleet carbon emissions. 

An overwhelming majority of responses highlighted the importance of sustainability for their businesses, with larger fleets more likely to report implementing strategies and measures to reduce their CO2 emissions and waste material. The survey recorded a 28% increase in fleets saying that sustainability measures are not only good for environmental efforts, but also a driver of bottom-line profitability. The survey results indicate that the industry is positioned as knowledgeable and prepared to make steps forward to boost efficiency. 

Tires continue to play a key role in achieving sustainability targets 

Across the fleets that participated in the survey, 54% said that fuel-efficient tires are part of their solution, second only to deploying more efficient vehicles, therefore, they see tires as the most important transferable component. Rolling resistance plays an important role in a vehicle’s overall efficiency. In the past fleet operators had been forced to choose between durability, grip, fuel efficiency and mileage, but the latest Goodyear technologies eliminate such compromises. For example, equipping a fleet with Goodyear’s FUELMAX ENDURANCE range can result in a 2% reduction in CO2, which equates to saving 40,000 litres of fuel per year for a 100-vehicle fleet.¹ 

Maciej Szymanski, Marketing Director Commercial Europe, Goodyear, said: “Fuel efficient tires are a significant cost saver for fleets. The Goodyear FUELMAX ENDURANCE range provides high fuel efficiency with enhanced mileage and traction. It is a perfect choice for fleets that are focused on fuel-saving but demand versatility and robustness for regional use. As we endure this period of high energy prices, it’s no surprise that fleets are continuing to practise greater attention to detail when it comes to tires and other material differences that can really help boost fleet efficiency.” 

Knowledge of regional legislation stronger year-on-year 

Knowledge of environmental legislation within countries has improved since the 2021 survey. 89% of fleets said they were familiar with legislation that applies to their local transport market, meaning fleets are in a much stronger strategic position to make decisions based on government law. It also suggests that fleets are actively in tune with their respective countries’ efforts to improve sustainability. 

Cost and complexity barriers remain for many operators 

Although the overall picture is positive, there remain several key barriers to implementing sustainable solutions. For smaller fleets, in particular, the survey found that the upfront cost currently doesn’t justify the future return on investment, with 59% of fleets identifying cost as the most significant barrier to some solutions. This is supported by 74% of responses mentioning financial incentives as the most impactful encouragement to improve sustainability, confirming that fleets are feeling the impact of the current economic environment. Meanwhile, the complexities associated with installing tools that help measure and reduce environmental impact remain out of reach for many small and medium-sized fleets. 

The answer to the challenges highlighted in the survey is Goodyear Total Mobility, an integrated fleet management offering which brings together truck tires, solutions and services that support the same goal: reducing downtime and improving efficiency, helping reduce fuel costs and meet CO2 emissions targets. 

Szymanski commented: “What the survey results tell us is that the industry is on the right path to a sustainable future. The majority of fleets continue to increase their efforts, particularly those with the largest impact. Since last year’s survey, the economic landscape has changed significantly, so we can be even more encouraged by the effort of fleets during this time, particularly as the conversation shifts from a purely environmental issue to one of keeping pace with the industry and bottom-line profitability.” 

1 Based on VECTO calculation, difference between C-EU Tire label and B-EU tire label for fuel efficiency. Switching from a C-label to a fuel-efficient B- label tire represents a reduction of 2% in CO2 reduction. This translates into a saving of about 1 tonne CO2 emissions and 400L of fuel per truck, per year.