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Michelin Bets Big On India: Tyre Production In India With ₹686 Crore Investment
As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen its position in the Indian market, Michelin has unveiled its first made-in-India passenger car tyres. The French tyre maker has started production at its state-of-the-art factory in Tamil Nadu, marking a major milestone in its India journey.
Seeing India as a market with immense growth potential, Michelin aims to tap into the country's rapidly expanding mid-size SUV and premium vehicle segments. The new range of locally produced tyres will be available for sale in the first half of 2026.
India's Growing SUV Market
The new made-in-India Michelin tyres cater to premium cars and SUVs, with sizes ranging from 16 to 22 inches. Compact SUVs such as the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and Tata Nexon could use the 16-inch variants, while luxury models like the Mercedes-AMG G 63 can be fitted with the larger 22-inch versions.
From its extensive global portfolio, Michelin is producing the LTX Trail ST, Pilot Sport 4 SUV, Pilot Sport 5, and Primacy 5 at the Chennai plant. These tyres are known for combining high levels of grip, durability, comfort, and safety - characteristics that align with India's improving road infrastructure and rising travel speeds.
Expanding Footprint & Investment In India
Michelin has been manufacturing truck and bus tyres from its Tamil Nadu facility for over a decade. In September 2024, the company announced an investment of Rs 564 crore to expand production to include passenger vehicle tyres. With an additional ₹Rs 00 crore invested this year, the total outlay for passenger car tyre capacity now stands at Rs 686 crore. This expansion has increased the plant's overall manufacturing capacity to 54,000 tonnes, reflecting Michelin's strong commitment to India's automotive future.
The Chennai plant, which spans 22,000 square metres, is also a model for sustainable manufacturing. It operates with zero carbon footprint, zero liquid discharge, and 100 percent recycling. About 80 percent of its water requirements are met through rainwater harvesting, while nearly half of its energy needs are fulfilled through renewable sources. These initiatives place Michelin among the most environmentally responsible tyre manufacturers operating in India today.
A Growing Network
Michelin currently has 75 sales and service points across India and continues to expand its presence steadily. Last year, the company opened its first Michelin Experience Store in Nashik, Maharashtra, offering customers a closer look at the brand's premium products and services. Apart from its production facility in Chennai, Michelin also operates a global Research & Development and Digital and IT Centre in Pune, highlighting India's growing importance within its global operations.
DriveSpark Thinks
With improving infrastructure, higher average speeds, and a growing preference for premium vehicles, India represents a major opportunity for Michelin. The introduction of locally produced passenger car tyres is not just a business expansion but a reflection of the company's confidence in India's evolving mobility landscape. By combining global technology with local production, Michelin is positioning itself as a key player in the country's premium tyre segment - one ready to meet the needs of Indian roads, drivers, and aspirations.
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