Ceat expands Chennai plant capabilities

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.

Arnab Banerjee, Managing Director & CEO, Ceat Limited, said, "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."

Advanced commercial vehicle tyre capability

Ceat 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.

Fleet requirements are moving beyond durability and mileage to include lower fuel consumption, improved ride comfort, better handling and readiness for electric mobility.

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.

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.

Expanding Ceat's premium two wheeler portfolio

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.

Located in Sriperumbudur, Kanchipuram, the 163 acre Chennai plant incorporates connected machinery, real time data analytics and advanced automation across its manufacturing operations. The facility is the second Ceat factory and one among the only four tyre factories in the world to be awarded the Lighthouse designation from WHO. It has also received the British Safety Council 5-Star Award and Sword of Honour for its safety practices.

The plant has a 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.