SHERIDAN, WYOMING – November 19, 2024 – Bridgestone India, a subsidiary of the global tire giant Bridgestone Corporation, is making significant investments to expand its production capacity and capabilities in the Indian market. The company announced a strategic growth investment of US$85 million focused on enhancing its Pune and Indore plants to bolster its premium-mass strategy.
Expanding Capacity and Capability
This investment is set to significantly increase Bridgestone's tire production in India. By 2029, the Pune plant is projected to increase its total production capacity by approximately 1.1 million tires annually. Additionally, the investment will be used to "improve capability to ensure premium tire production at the Indore plant".
Focus on Premium Passenger Tires
Bridgestone's investment reflects the company's recognition of the growing Indian market and its potential for premium passenger tires. The company cites recent trends, including stable economic development and an increase in vehicle ownership and production, as key factors driving this growth.
Establishing a Satellite Technology Center
In a move to further enhance its technological capabilities, Bridgestone will establish a satellite technology center at its Pune plant in 2025. This center will focus on producing "Dan-Totsu products" specifically tailored for the Indian market and incorporating Enliten technology. Enliten technology is known for creating lighter tires that reduce rolling resistance, improving fuel efficiency and vehicle handling.
The new technology center will play a crucial role in accelerating technology development across Bridgestone's engineering chain, from material planning and research to product design and manufacturing, all specifically geared towards the Indian market.
Creating Social and Customer Value in India
Bridgestone has been operating in India since 1996. This latest investment underscores the company's commitment to creating "social and customer value" in India by "contributing to its local customers, to the development of society, and to the industry".
About Bridgestone India
Bridgestone India is a subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, the world's largest tire and rubber company. With a strong presence in the Indian market, Bridgestone India is committed to providing high-quality tires and contributing to the growth and development of the Indian automotive industry.