Facility adds capabilities for 22-inch SUV tyres, advanced truck and bus radials, racing tyres and premium two-wheeler products
CEAT has expanded the manufacturing capabilities of its Chennai plant, strengthening its focus on premium tyres for passenger vehicles, SUVs, commercial vehicles and two-wheelers. The expanded facility will manufacture advanced products for the Indian market as well as key international markets, including Europe and North America.
One of the key highlights of the expansion is CEAT’s capability to manufacture the SportDrive SUV ZR22, making CEAT the first Indian tyre company to manufacture 22-inch tyres in India. Designed for large-rim, ultra-premium SUVs, the tyre also features CEAT’s CALM technology and is being introduced for sale in India.
The Chennai facility also produces the 4SeasonDrive+, an all-season tyre developed to European standards and designed to perform across changing weather conditions, with a particular focus on wet grip. Another product, the CrossDrive RT, is a rugged-terrain tyre developed around the requirements of the US rugged and off-road tyre market. It combines off-road capability with the versatility required for regular road use.
Seven new truck and bus radial tyre sizes
CEAT has also expanded its Truck and Bus Radial (TBR) manufacturing capabilities at the Chennai facility. The plant can now produce seven advanced TBR sizes aimed at premium commercial vehicle segments in Europe and North America.
Modern commercial vehicle fleets are increasingly demanding tyres that go beyond durability and mileage. Fuel efficiency, ride comfort, handling and compatibility with electric mobility are becoming increasingly important factors.
CEAT’s newer wide-base tyres can replace the traditional twin-tyre arrangement on each wheel, helping reduce vehicle weight, improve fuel efficiency and potentially increase available payload capacity. Low-profile tyres are being developed for applications such as modern tractors, regional haulage, trailers and urban distribution fleets.
The plant is also increasing production capacity for light truck steel radial tyres in 15-inch, 16-inch and 17.5-inch sizes, targeting growing demand from newer-generation light trucks and buses in India and overseas.
Premium motorcycle tyres also get focus
The Chennai facility is simultaneously expanding CEAT’s premium two-wheeler tyre portfolio. Its SportRad Racing Slick range is designed specifically for racing applications and has undergone testing under demanding track conditions.
For high-capacity motorcycles, CEAT also offers the SportRad ST sport-touring range, designed for motorcycles above 650cc. The tyres focus on high-speed stability, cornering grip and long-distance touring performance.
Chennai plant focuses on advanced manufacturing
Located in Sriperumbudur, Kanchipuram, the 163-acre Chennai facility uses connected machinery, real-time data analytics and advanced automation across its manufacturing operations.
The plant has also received the Lighthouse designation from the World Economic Forum and is one of only four tyre factories globally to have received the recognition. It has additionally received the British Safety Council’s 5-Star Award and Sword of Honour for its safety practices.
The facility has 25% green cover, a 9 MW rooftop solar installation and operates as a zero-liquid-discharge facility.
With the latest expansion, CEAT aims to strengthen the Chennai plant’s role as a manufacturing hub for technology-led premium tyres, while increasing India’s contribution to the company’s global product portfolio.
