Production time for large rim passenger tires “four times faster” with new process

Luxembourg – Goodyear has officially opened its new manufacturing facility in Dudelange, Luxembourg, where it will advance small-batch tire manufacturing with reduced lead times.

The $77-million (€73 million) facility features an industry 4.0 digital manufacturing process, making large-rim UHP and UUHP tires.

The new technology enables Goodyear to produce tires “four times faster than a standard production cycle,” according to a 5 May Goodyear statement.

The facility, it explained, can produce ‘premium tires’ in small-batch quantities “on-demand” for both replacement and OE customers.

“We needed to design this integrated product and process to deliver for the changing needs of the market," said Chris Helsel, SVP global operations and chief technology officer.

"By doing so, we are enabling a new business model to serve our customers and consumers in this important and increasingly complex part of the market,” added Helsel.

According to Goodyear, the new technology requires particular skillsets, and so far, the tire maker has hired 90 people to support the facility.

In the coming months the company expects to recruit 20 additional electromechanical technicians.