SHERIDAN, WYOMING – May 6, 2025 – Michelin, the iconic tire brand known for powering everything from bicycles to space shuttles, is accelerating its digital transformation with a powerful new partner. In a strategic move, Michelin has joined forces with global tech leader Thales to protect and expand its growing software business using the Thales Sentinel software monetization platform.
From Rubber to Algorithms: Michelin’s New Era of Innovation
While Michelin’s name is synonymous with world-class tires, the company is now steering into new territory—high-tech software solutions designed to improve vehicle performance and safety. Its standout offering, TameTire, is revolutionizing how car manufacturers and motorsports teams simulate real-world tire behavior.
Using advanced algorithms, TameTire predicts tire responses to forces, torques, and temperatures. This helps manufacturers design better-handling vehicles while cutting development costs. For racing teams, it means more efficient vehicle tuning—without ever leaving the garage.
“We are the clear market leader for this type of solution,” said Pierre-Yves Mauriere, product owner for TameTire at Michelin. “Partnering with Thales ensured we could not only protect this valuable software IP but also offer a new subscription business model and scale our license-based revenue stream.”
Smart Licensing Meets Global Security
To support this evolution, Michelin turned to Thales and its Sentinel software platform. Thales Sentinel provides secure, flexible licensing solutions that fit Michelin’s hybrid deployment needs—some applications run offline or locally, while others are fully cloud-based.
In addition to TameTire, Michelin uses Thales Sentinel to support:
- Canopy – A cloud-based tool offering laptime simulation and vehicle modeling, powered by cutting-edge solvers.
- SiMiX – A dataset solution for automotive manufacturers, racing teams, and supply chain partners, covering key components like tires and suspensions.
Thanks to Thales, all of these tools are protected under a unified licensing system that aligns with Michelin’s infrastructure and business goals.
“Given that Michelin’s innovative software is complex and proprietary,” said Damien Bullot, vice president of software monetization at Thales, “we recognized their need for an agile licensing platform that was both easy to deploy and able to protect against IP theft.”
Driving Customer Value with Digital Tools
For consumers, this partnership means one thing: better cars, developed faster and more affordably. Whether you’re behind the wheel of a performance vehicle or commuting in your daily driver, Michelin’s software-led innovation promises more responsive handling, safer rides, and an elevated driving experience.
The Sentinel platform also opens the door to new, flexible subscription models, allowing Michelin to offer even more value to its customers while protecting its cutting-edge intellectual property.
“Relying on the Sentinel platform allows us to focus on further innovating our software and creating value for our customers,” Mauriere added.
Available Now, with Global Reach
Michelin’s simulation software solutions—TameTire, Canopy, and SiMiX—are already available and deployed worldwide. Customers in the automotive and motorsports industries can access them via secure licensing supported by Thales Sentinel, whether on-premise or in the cloud.
Conclusion: A Smoother Road Ahead
As the automotive industry races toward a digital future, Michelin is firmly in the lead, blending legacy craftsmanship with cutting-edge software. Through its partnership with Thales, the brand is not just making better tires—it’s shaping the future of driving.
Learn more at https://www.thalesgroup.com