Tyres are a huge part of the automotive industry, contributing to every vehicle’s overall safety, performance and efficiency on our roads. Have you ever considered just how big the global tyre industry is? Knowing the origin of where your tyres come from and the research behind them may have an impact on the next set of tyres you choose for your car. The main tyre giants of today’s tyre industry include Bridgestone, Continental, Goodyear, Michelin and Pirelli. These big-name tyre brands are popular not only in the UK but worldwide thanks to their global connections and extensive R&D.
Where are each of these tyre giants based and how does that affect the tyres they produce?
Bridgestone – Tokyo, Japan
Bridgestone was founded all the way back in 1930 in Japan, with its HQ being built in Tokyo in 1951. Just two years later, Bridgestone became the industry leader in Japan. Since then, thanks to lots of extensive research and development, sponsorships and significant turning points for the company, Bridgestone is now part of the world’s leading tyre manufacturers.
Some of the best cars and motorcycles are produced in Japan, so it is no surprise that one of the leading tyre giants is based in Tokyo. With an extensive history of rubber manufacture in Japan, Bridgestone is at the heart of the action when it comes to automotive development, giving them an edge when it comes to innovative tyre technologies.
Continental – Hanover, Germany
Continental was first established in 1871 in Hanover, Germany and has been at the forefront of German tyre engineering ever since. Most motorists recognise German engineering, making Continental a trusted global brand in the tyre industry, and a popular choice by many.
German engineering is renowned for its solid industrial tradition, expertly skilled workforces, technical innovation, high-quality standards and much more.
German tyre engineering has a high focus and almost cultural aspect when it comes to research and development, giving Continental the resources to test and develop their tyres like no other brand on the market. All of this combined with Germany’s global reputation makes it no surprise Continental is part of the leading global tyre giants.
Goodyear – Akron, Ohio
Goodyear has been established and based in Ohio since 1898. American-based manufacturing tends to come with a higher price tag and premium technology due to its high-quality materials. Because of this, American-made tyres are some of the best in the industry and are often made with world-leading technologies, putting them at the front of technological advancements. With Goodyear leading its tyre development in Ohio, it has access to some of the highest quality materials for their tyre manufacture, allowing the company to make trustworthy and durable tyres that motorists can rely on.
Michelin – Clermont-Ferrand, France
Michelin is the second largest tyre manufacturer in the world behind Bridgestone and has been established and based in France since 1889. Michelin has set an exceptionally high standard when it comes to tyre technology and manufacture. Michelin is recognised everywhere thanks to its iconic Michelin Man logo. The development of Michelin in France is also a contributor to the company’s Michelin Guide – which gives the world’s best restaurants Michelin stars. Developed in a country renowned for its cuisine, Michelin not only dominates the tyre industry but also has an influential dominance in the food and drink industry.
Pirelli – Milan, Italy
Tyre giant Pirelli has been on the go since 1872 and is based in Milan, Italy. Milan as a city is known for its luxury and high-end fashion links, so it is no surprise Milan is also home to a premium tyre manufacturer. Pirelli has made Italian tyre manufacturers and the overall automotive industry proud with its innovative technologies that continue to grow and evolve.
It goes without saying that every tyre giant listed in this article is at the top of its game, producing high-quality, reliable tyres that offer enhanced levels of safety, performance and fuel efficiency for motorists. The county they are developed in gives a nod to each company’s individual quirks and accomplishments, but overall, each of these tyre manufacturers is producing top-quality goods with the same tyre technologies that keep motorists safe.
Find all of these leading tyre brands plus more here at Asda Tyres to equip your car with the best possible tyres at affordable prices.