GREENVILLE, S.C. (July 17, 2001) — By the end of the summer, Michelin North America Inc.'s new agricultural tire facility in Lexington, S.C., should be in full-scale production.
According to the company, the factory will make Michelin agricultural tires — destined for the original equipment and replacement markets in North America — that will feature “improved performance, particularly enhanced traction, flotation for minimum soil compaction, decreased irregular highway wear and long tread life in over-the-road conditions.”
Patrick Riou, vice president, marketing and sales for Michelin North America Agricultural Tires, said the new facility "will enable Michelin to meet North American demand for our agricultural tire products and have a significant impact on the market. This will enhance the quality of service to North American tractor manufacturers, tire dealers and farmers."
The tire maker opened its Lexington site in 1981 and in 1998 added its first production plant there dedicated to manufacturing earthmover tires.
Michelin North America Chairman and President Jim Micali said the new facility represents a $30 million investment in South Carolina and illustrates that the tire maker's commitment to investing in the state "remains an important aspect of our operating strategy."
The Greenville-based company introduced its line of high-performance agricultural tires for the North American market in 1997, targeting them for high-end farming equipment.