Michelin prepares for electric, sustainable future

LEXINGTON, S.C. — Michelin Group is preparing for an electric future, with launches of new tires and technology and a goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.

The tire maker also pointed to recent expansions in Kansas and Nova Scotia.

In May, Michelin North America Inc. announced plans to invest $100 million over five years to expand production capacity for rubber tracks at its Camso plant in Junction City, Kan. The expansion also would include adding 200 additional workers. The company did not disclose how much it expects capacity to increase.

In March, Michelin said it would invest $225 million in its Novia Scotia operations as part of a plan to speed up sustainable-mobility initiatives and improve its environmental footprint.

Michelin's plans include installing new technology and equipment at its three tire plants in Nova Scotia, with a production-capacity increase in store for the Bridgewater passenger/light truck tire factory.

The investment is in response to "market evolution" and plans call for converting production to electric vehicle (EV) tires for the growing segment and larger-rim tires for passenger and light truck vehicles, as well as truck tires with better fuel efficiency.

Also in May, Michelin announced it had found a buyer for its Russian holdings — Michelin Russia Tyre Manufacturing Co. L.L.C. — including a tire factory in Davydovo and Camso CIS L.L.C. — to Power International Tires L.L.C., a major Russian tire distributor and former business partner.

A Michelin spokesperson provided Tire Business with more details of the company's plans:

At Michelin, our research and development teams continue to launch new technologies that improve rolling resistance, maximize performance and minimize the environmental impact of mobility.

If longevity is the primary concern, look for tires with significant wear performance like the Michelin Defender 2 tire.

Knowing that quieter EV motors highlight tire noise on uneven or rough road surfaces, EV-specific tires like the Michelin Pilot Sport EV often come with acoustic dampening foam or other advanced technology designed to help reduce noise.

Lastly, EV-specific tires like the Michelin Pilot Sport EV are designed for summer wet and dry conditions that respond to the instant torque of EVs and deliver the ultra-high performance EVs are known for.

Drivers with summer tires who are concerned with all-season performances would best be served by an all-season offering like the Michelin Pilot Sport All-season 4 tire, which delivers elevated performance across climates.

Michelin is actively preparing for the automotive market transformation. The industry continues to shift with the rise of electric and zero-emission vehicles. Tires are no longer just one of many vehicle features; they are now the most important range-extending feature of an EV. Michelin's legacy of innovation and historical leadership will enable consumers to feel confident in getting the most out of their EV. It's our duty to educate consumers about tires and ease their concerns to accelerate the EV revolution.

Michelin is guided by our "all-sustainable" strategy that balances "People, Profit and Planet." We believe that an all-sustainable company balances people development, economic growth and responsible use of resources. By 2050, we are aiming for carbon neutrality across our manufacturing sites and producing our tires with 100% sustainable products.