Michelin launches made-in-India Primacy 5 tyre for passenger cars

Michelin has launched the Primacy 5 as its first locally manufactured passenger car tyre in India, starting at Rs 10,000. The tyre is available in sizes ranging from 16 to 22 inches. While the French company had been locally producing tyres in India for trucks and buses for over a decade, the Primacy 5 marks the brand’s entry into the locally produced passenger vehicle tyre segment. The Primacy 5 is the first of a range of locally made products, with Pilot Sport 4 SUV, Pilot Sport 5 and LTX Trail ST set to follow in a phased manner.

1. It’s claimed to have 8-meter shorter wet braking distance than rivals
2. Improves efficiency in ICE vehicle and range for EVs, says Michelin
3. Now available at Michelin tyres and service stores and authorised dealers across India

Michelin Primacy 5 highlights

Michelin says the Primacy 5 offers 8-meters shorter wet braking distance when new compared to rivals, and up to 9 metres shorter when worn. It also delivers up to 4 metres shorter dry braking distance when new, compared to other tyres. The other highlight, claims Michelin, is that it improves fuel efficiency in ICE vehicles (6.5 percent improvement over its predecessor, the Primacy 4ST) as well range in case of EVs. It also offers 8 percent longer lifespan compared to the Primacy 4ST, while also offering better ride comfort over other tyres, says Michelin.

It will be available in sizes ranging from 16-inches to 22-inches, meaning it will be compatible with the bulk of the mass offerings as well as premium luxury vehicles.

Speaking during the launch event in Chennai, Mr. Shantanu Deshpande, Managing Director, Michelin India, said, “The launch of the made-in-India Michelin Primacy 5 marks a significant milestone for Michelin in the country and reflects our commitment to delivering products that are tailored to the needs of Indian consumers. Manufactured in India for Indian drivers, the Primacy 5 has been developed and tested on the vehicles most driven in the country, benchmarked against leading competitors, and validated by an independent testing agency.”

Alongside the launch of the made-in-India tyre, the brand also said it intends to expand its presence beyond just Tier I and major Tier II cities. In the last one year, the brand has been expanding its distribution footprint to over 800 points of sale.

The French tyre maker sees India as the only country with true potential for exponential growth over the next decade and plans to capitalise on the growing popularity of mid-size SUVs and premium vehicles.