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The new Michelin plant in Anderson will produce large Earthmover tires – which can stand up to 13 feet tall and weigh up to 5.5 tons.
The project completion is the fastest greenfield construction in Michelin's history, 17 months, and enables the company to begin production of commercially available tires in January for sale in mid-2014.
Michelin, South Carolina's largest manufacturing employer, announced a $750 million investment in April 2012 to construct the 800,000 square foot facility and expand its existing Earthmover manufacturing plant in Lexington.
"Michelin continues to make investments in multiple countries around the world that will position our company for long-term growth," said Pete Selleck, Michelin North America chairman and president. "It's a source of pride to know that what we're doing right here in South Carolina plays such an important role in our company's global business strategy. It's a testament to the business-friendly climate in the state and the dedicated, productive and skilled workforce that serves as the engine behind our success."
The new facility, known as US10, is Michelin's 19th plant in North America and ninth in South Carolina. It will produce large Earthmover tires – which can stand up to 13 feet tall and weigh up to 5.5 tons – for more than 1,300 mining operations around the world.
Eighty percent of the tires manufactured at this facility will be exported, most of it through the Port of Charleston.