CEAT Ltd has expanded manufacturing capabilities at its Chennai plant across passenger car and SUV, commercial vehicle and two-wheeler tyre categories, strengthening the facility’s role in producing premium products for India and international markets.
The expansion enables the Sriperumbudur facility to manufacture advanced tyres designed for markets including Europe and North America, as the company increases its focus on premium and technology-led segments.
European all-season tyre capability
Among the key products manufactured at the Chennai plant is the 4SeasonDrive+, an all-season tyre developed to European standards and designed to handle changing weather conditions, with particular emphasis on wet grip.
The facility also manufactures CrossDrive RT, a rugged terrain tyre developed around requirements of the US rugged and off-road tyre market. The tyre combines off-road capability with the versatility needed for regular road use, strengthening CEAT’s premium SUV portfolio in India.
CEAT has additionally developed manufacturing capability for the 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 incorporates CEAT’s CALM technology and is being introduced for sale in India.
Chennai plant targets premium TBR segment
The company has also expanded Truck and Bus Radial (TBR) manufacturing capability at the plant to address the requirements of commercial vehicle fleets in Europe, North America and other advanced markets.
The Chennai facility can now manufacture seven advanced TBR sizes targeting premium segments in these markets. Fleet requirements are increasingly extending beyond durability and mileage to include fuel efficiency, ride comfort, handling and compatibility with electric mobility.
The newer wide-base tyres can replace the traditional two-tyre arrangement on each wheel, helping reduce vehicle weight, improve fuel efficiency and potentially increase available payload capacity.
CEAT is also scaling up production of light truck steel radial tyres in 15-inch, 16-inch and 17.5-inch sizes. The segment is witnessing increased adoption in India and overseas as vehicle manufacturers introduce newer-generation light trucks and buses.
Premium two-wheeler portfolio gets a boost
The Chennai facility is also supporting CEAT’s investment in advanced two-wheeler tyre technology.
Its latest SportRad Racing Slick range has been developed for racing applications and tested under demanding track conditions by expert riders. The tyres are engineered for high grip and performance on racetracks.
The premium two-wheeler portfolio also includes SportRad ST, a sport-touring range designed for motorcycles above 650cc, with emphasis on high-speed stability, cornering grip and long-distance touring.
163-acre facility with advanced manufacturing
Located at Sriperumbudur in Kanchipuram, the 163-acre Chennai plant incorporates connected machinery, real-time data analytics and advanced automation across its manufacturing operations.
CEAT Limited Managing Director & CEO Arnab Banerjee said the Chennai plant is an important part of the company’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,” Banerjee said.
The plant is the second CEAT factory and among only four tyre factories globally to have received the Lighthouse designation from the World Economic Forum. It has also received the British Safety Council 5-Star Award and Sword of Honour for its safety practices.
Focus on renewable energy and water efficiency
The Chennai facility has 25% green cover and sources a significant share of its energy from renewable sources, including a 9 MW rooftop solar installation. It is also a zero liquid discharge facility.
With the latest expansion, CEAT is widening the range of premium tyres that can be developed and manufactured at Chennai, while positioning the plant to serve both domestic and international markets.