GREENVILLE, S.C. — Michelin North America Inc. is launching a line of Michelin-branded automotive belts, tensioners and idlers that it intends to sell online initially via Amazon.com exclusively.
Michelin has engaged Steigentech Group, a Paris-based rubber and plastics engineering firm with manufacturing assets in China, to produce the range of power-transmission products under license.
Michelin said this product range supports its commitment to deliver "high-quality mobility solutions" in between tire purchases. The primary customers targeted for now are do-it-yourselfers, Michelin said, although the company does offer "business pricing" on Amazon.com for independent garages and the Michelin dealer network.
Michelin claims the belts offer a "compact, low-noise drive solution with low maintenance, higher cost effectiveness and reduced CO2 emissions," due in part to their being made of "smart stretch" ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) synthetic rubber and reinforced nylon fabric.
In addition, Michelin said the idlers and tensioners are designed to reduce vibration, wear and friction, providing proper belt tension for the same service life as OE components.
"Michelin's power transmission products are fully tested to deliver optimal efficiency and longevity," Tom Jupena, director of lifestyle products for Michelin North America, said.
Michelin said its timing belts meet all OE automotive manufacturer performance requirements. The belts, tensioners and idlers are "priced competitively" with other premium products on the market, Michelin said. They are under warranty for one year from the shipment date.