Continental expands its fourth Tire plant in Hefei

Hefei Planit set production capacity to increase to 18 million tires per year

Hefei, China- Continental AG., a Motor Vehicle manufacturer, has opened the fourth expansion of its Hefei plant in China, increasing annual capacity to 18 million passenger and light truck tires by 2027. The total investment of 1 billion euros will create 400 jobs and increase overall production capacity for technologically more complex Ultra High-Performance (UHP) tire production for the Asia-Pacific market. UHP tires are tires 18 inches and above, primarily designed for high driving dynamics.

Continental’s Hefei tire plant combines advanced automation technology with high sustainability standards. Equipped with automated processes like tire curing, the plant ensures a modern, ergonomic, and sustainable workplace. Solar panels generate 27 million kWh annually, covering 18% of the plant's electricity needs. The plant has earned ISCC PLUS certification and aligns with Continental’s goal of 100% climate neutrality by 2050.

Mr. Dalibor Kalina, Head of Continental’s replacement tire business in the Asia-Pacific region said, "Our latest expansion further solidifies our ‘in the market for the market’ approach. It enables us to meet the demands of our customers in the Asia-Pacific region even better. Expanding our plant in Hefei for the fourth time is a testament of our business success in these markets."

Mr. Jeff Wang, Plant Manager of Continental tire plant in Hefei, said, the tire plant in Hefei has been manufacturing tires for the APAC region since its opening in 2011. With the latest plant expansion Continental Tires further strengthens its presence in the Asia-Pacific and especially on the Chinese market. "Our Hefei plant is a cornerstone of Continental Tires’ rapid growth in China and the Asia-Pacific region. As with any project of this scale and magnitude, the Hefei plant phase 4 expansion required an extensive amount of collaboration of different parties inside and outside the company, in addition to trust from our local partners."