French tire maker Michelin has inaugurated its new manufacturing facility in Michelin, South Carolina, for the production of large tires.
This project enables the company to begin production of commercially available tires in January 2014 for sale in mid-2014.
Started in April 2012, the company has invested $750m to construct the 800,000ft2 plant and expand its existing Earthmover manufacturing plant in Lexington, South Carolina.
The new plant will produce large Earthmover tires for more than 1,300 mining operations around the world. The company will export 80% of the tires manufactured at this plant through the Port of Charleston.
Michelin North America chairman and president Pete Selleck said: "Michelin continues to make investments in multiple countries around the world that will position our company for long-term growth."
South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley said: "With billions invested in our state, the creation of thousands of jobs and countless community-focused activities that have enriched the lives of South Carolinians, Michelin has set a high standard for manufacturing in our state."
