Bridgestone India has unveiled plans to invest approximately $85 million in expanding its manufacturing operations in the country, marking a significant step in its strategy to strengthen its market position. The investment will focus on enhancing the production capabilities of its Pune and Indore plants, which will serve as key components in Bridgestone’s premium-mass strategy. The expansion will begin in early 2025, with a notable boost to the Pune plant's production capacity, which is set to increase by 1.1 million tires annually by 2029. This expansion reflects Bridgestone's commitment to meeting the growing demand for high-quality tires in India and the region.

The investment will also focus on upgrading the Indore plant to produce more premium tires, further underscoring Bridgestone’s commitment to delivering superior products. This aligns with the company’s strategy of offering high-performance tires that cater to the increasing need for quality in the Indian market. In addition to expanding manufacturing capabilities, Bridgestone will also establish a state-of-the-art satellite technology center at its Pune facility in 2025. This center will play a critical role in the development of new “Dan-Totsu” products specifically designed for the Indian market, utilizing Bridgestone’s advanced “ENLITEN” technology.

ENLITEN technology, a core part of Bridgestone’s product design philosophy, allows for tire optimization, focusing on reducing rolling resistance while maintaining high levels of performance. This technology will enable Bridgestone to create products tailored to the unique requirements of Indian consumers, considering factors such as local driving conditions and preferences. The satellite technology center will serve as a hub for research and development, covering everything from material planning to product research and manufacturing. This move further strengthens Bridgestone's commitment to innovation and its ability to develop advanced products that are well-suited for the Indian market.

India is increasingly seen as a critical growth market for Bridgestone, especially for its premium passenger tire segment. With the country’s growing economy and the rising number of vehicles on the road, Bridgestone is optimistic about its prospects. The company aims to solidify its leadership position in the premium tire market by expanding its portfolio of high-quality products. The introduction of Dan-Totsu products will set a new benchmark for premium tires in India, and Bridgestone anticipates significant growth in the demand for High Rim Diameter (HRD) tires and other premium categories in the coming years.

Since its establishment in India in 1996, Bridgestone has focused on local production and sales, which has contributed to the country’s motorization and economic development. Bridgestone’s manufacturing approach in India has emphasized a “produce and sell” system, supported by on-site services and a strong local manufacturing presence. This new investment aligns with Bridgestone’s broader strategy to generate social and customer value while contributing to India’s industrial growth.

The expansion also supports Bridgestone’s “growth with quality” strategy, which aims for high profitability while creating value for both customers and society. This initiative is aligned with Bridgestone’s 2024-2026 Mid-Term Business Plan, which focuses on creating good tires and good business. By strengthening its premium tire business, Bridgestone aims to provide sustainable solutions that benefit its customers, society, and business partners, reinforcing its commitment to a sustainable future.