The expansion strengthens the plant’s ability to manufacture advanced, premium products for customers in India as well as key international markets including Europe and North America, the company said in the statement.
Among the key products manufactured at the 163-acre plant, located in Sriperumbudur, Kanchipuram near Chennai, is 4SeasonDrive+, which brings European standard all season tyre capability to India, with performance designed around changing weather conditions and a particular focus on wet grip.
The plant also manufactures CrossDrive RT, CEAT’s rugged terrain tyre developed around the requirements of the US rugged and off road tyre market. The product combines rugged terrain capability with the versatility required for regular road use and expands CEAT’s premium SUV offering for Indian customers.
CEAT has also developed the manufacturing capability for SportDrive SUV ZR22, making it the first Indian tyre company to manufacture 22 inch tyres in India. Designed for large rim, ultra premium SUV applications, the range also features CEAT CALM technology and is being introduced for sale in India.
“The Chennai plant is an important part of CEAT’s growth in India and international markets. The expanded capabilities allow us to manufacture increasingly sophisticated products across passenger vehicles, two wheelers and commercial vehicles, while responding to the distinct requirements of customers in markets such as Europe and North America. This investment strengthens our ability to compete in premium segments with products developed and manufactured in India,” Arnab Banerjee, Managing Director & CEO, CEAT Limited, said.
The company has also expanded the plant’s Truck and Bus Radial (TBR) manufacturing capability to address the changing requirements of commercial vehicle fleets in Europe, North America and other advanced markets.
The plant can now manufacture seven advanced TBR sizes that will cater to some of the fastest growing premium TBR segments in Europe and North America, it said.
Fleet requirements are moving beyond durability and mileage to include lower fuel consumption, improved ride comfort, better handling and readiness for electric mobility, according to the company.
The newer wide base tyres developed, can replace the traditional two tyre arrangement on each wheel, making the vehicles lighter, improving fuel efficiency and freeing up additional capacity for carrying more load. The low profile sizes are designed for applications including modern tractors, regional haul, trailers and urban distribution fleets, where good stability, control and ride comfort are important, it said.
Alongside its heavy commercial vehicle portfolio, the Chennai facility is scaling up manufacturing capacity for Ceat’s light truck steel radial tyres in 15 inch, 16 inch and 17.5 inch sizes. The segment is seeing increased adoption in India and overseas as vehicle manufacturers introduce newer-generation light trucks and buses.
The Chennai facility also supports Ceat’s investment in advanced two wheeler tyre technology and premium performance segments.
Ceat’s latest SportRad Racing Slick range has been developed for racing applications and tested under demanding track conditions by expert riders. The tyres are engineered to deliver high levels of grip and performance on the racetrack.
The company’s premium portfolio also includes SportRad ST, a sport touring range designed for motorcycles above 650cc. The tyres are developed for long distance and high performance touring, with a focus on high speed stability and cornering grip.
The expanded capabilities across categories strengthen the Chennai plant’s role in Ceat’s manufacturing operations and increase the range of premium, technology led products that can be developed and manufactured in India for domestic and international markets.
