Continental Celebrates Major Expansion of Tire Plant in Hefei, China
Highlights
Record date: 20 June 2024
Company: Continental Tires (China) Co., Ltd. (大陆马牌轮胎（中国）有限公司)
Outbound: Germany
Location: Hefei, Anhui Province
Continental recently announced the opening of a significant expansion at their tire plant in Hefei, China. This marks the fourth expansion of the facility, solidifying Continental's commitment to the Asia-Pacific (APAC) market.
Increased Capacity and Job Creation
The expansion will boost Continental's annual production capacity to 18 million passenger and light truck tires by 2027. This significant increase reflects the growing demand for Continental tires in the region. The expansion also translates to job creation, with an expected 400 new positions added in the coming years.
Focus on High-Performance Tires
A key aspect of the expansion is the increased production of Ultra High-Performance (UHP) tires. These tires, designed for 18-inch rims and above, cater to drivers who prioritize excellent handling and driving dynamics. This aligns with Continental's strategy to cater to the evolving needs of APAC customers.
Sustainability at the Forefront
The Hefei plant is a model of sustainable manufacturing. It utilizes advanced automation technologies, creating a modern, digital, and ergonomic work environment. Additionally, the plant boasts extensive use of renewable energy, with solar panels generating 18% of its electricity needs. This commitment to sustainability is further highlighted by the plant's recent achievement of the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) PLUS.
Quotes
Dalibor Kalina, Head of Continental's Replacement Tires APAC, emphasized the strategic importance of the expansion: "Our latest expansion further solidifies our 'in the market for the market' approach. It enables us to meet the demands of our customers in the Asia-Pacific region even better."
Jeff Wang, Plant Manager of Continental's Hefei plant, echoed this sentiment: "Our Hefei plant is a cornerstone of Continental Tires' rapid growth in China and the Asia-Pacific region."
Looking Ahead
The Hefei plant expansion signifies Continental's dedication to the APAC market. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and increased production capacity, Continental is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for high-quality tires in the region.
