German autoparts maker Continental has commenced the production of its new tire making plant in Kaluga, Russia.
The company has invested EUR240m in the plant to reach an annual capacity of four million tires in the first phase until 2015.
This new tire production site in the region will contribute to meet the demand of both car producers and general car-owners through its existing dealers chain.
Tires to be produced at this plant include summer, studded and studdless winter tires for passenger cars and light trucks of the brands Continental, Gislaved and Matador.
Continental Tires RUS marketing & sales head and general director Jaron Wiedmaier said that the plant output will be sold to tire dealer chains respectively the tire replacement business as well as to the Russian car manufacturers.
"The key competitive advantage of Continental is not only the local production site but also the fact that we fulfill the highest European quality standards right from the beginning. Russian clients will get products certified by the ISO/TS 16949 standards," Wiedmaier added.
Image: Continental has started tire production at its new tire making plant in Russia. Photo courtesy: Continental AG.
