Pirelli opens advanced tire R&D centre in Mexico

Silao, Mexico - Pirelli & C. SpA has inaugurated a $15-million (€14 million) research and development (R&D) centre at its tire production facilities in Silao.

Spanning 6,000 square metres, the unit is focused on the development and testing of tires designed for the mobility of the future in North America, primarily the US.

Equipped with 'advanced' technologies, the centre is intended to strengthen “innovation, continuous learning and development” at the Guanajuato site.

It will also serve as a training centre for the local workforce, with focus on areas such as modelling using virtual mathematical models, added a 7 Nov statement by the local government.

The testing capabilities will enhance the development of safer products as well of noise-reduction and EV tire technologies at the Mexican centre.

“Mexico represents a strategic area for Pirelli for activities in North and Central America,” said Claudio Zanardo CEO Pirelli North America.

The Silao plant, he noted, has “contributed significantly” to Pirelli's strategy of focusing on high-value products for the premium and prestige segments.

With the inauguration of this new centre, Zanardo said Pirelli aimed to increase “technological competitiveness throughout the North American area.”

The new centre will help the company to develop “premium products” using increasingly sustainable technologies,” added Enrico Verdino, CEO of Pirelli Mexico.

Opened 11 years ago, the Silao plant has been expanded from an initial capacity of 1.5 million units a year to 7.6 million units presently.