MaxTouch Technology, which incorporates 27 unique innovations to improve effectiveness, enables Michelin to extend tire life, enhance grip, reduce fuel consumption and minimize CO2 emissions.
Top 100 Global Innovators
Michelin holds over 11,910 active patents worldwide and has been recognized by Clarivate™ as one of the “Top 100 Global Innovators”. They achieved the highest Brand Power Score in the tire industry in 2023, particularly in the markets of China, Spain, France, and Thailand. In the same year, Michelin’s brand value was estimated at US$7.9 billion, according to Brand Finance Top 500.
“The innovation power and expertise of Michelin has profoundly changed the history of the mobility sector. Nowadays, these foundations help us face challenges in new fields and activities that change lives,” emphasized Mr. Florent Menegaux, Chairman of the Michelin Group.
This journey began in 1891 with the invention of the first detachable tire, followed by the introduction of the radial tire in 1946 – which extended the lifespan of tires by two to four times compared to conventional tires, significantly improving safety and reducing fuel consumption. Notable initiatives with widespread global impact include the VISION concept tire, which operates without air and is made from bio-based materials, capable of connecting and regenerating tread surfaces suitable for various terrains, and tires produced from 63% sustainable materials introduced at the 2023 Le Mans race.
To this day, the company continues to pursue the goal set by its founders: To improve the quality of human mobility through solutions that allow users to travel further, more efficiently, and in an environmentally friendly manner while ensuring safety features.
Michelin’s global goal by 2030 is to reduce CO2 emissions by 50% compared to 2010, aiming to achieve 0% by 2050. Additionally, Michelin aims for over 40% of the raw materials used to produce tires to be renewable or recycled materials by 2030. Currently, the company has produced racing tires that use over 60% recycled materials.
MaxTouch technology meets diverse user needs
“Longevity” has always been synonymous with Michelin’s legacy. Each tire from the company is a complex combination of over 200 raw materials and undergoes rigorous testing—over one billion kilometers of testing each year, equivalent to circling the globe 40,000 times—to find the right balance between grip, performance, durability, and safety. In which, MaxTouch technology and improvements in compounds enable Michelin to extend the lifespan of tires without compromising other performance aspects. The company has incorporated 27 innovations to boost the efficiency of this technology.
In principle, MaxTouch technology focuses on optimizing the contact area between the tire and the road. Specifically, even pressure distribution minimizes uneven wear on the surface, which is a primary cause of rapid tire wear and reduced lifespan. A larger contact area between the tire and the road enhances grip, especially in slippery conditions or during sharp turns, providing safety and stability for the driver. An optimized tread design helps reduce rolling resistance, thereby limiting fuel consumption and reducing CO2 emissions. For users, tires equipped with MaxTouch technology last longer than conventional tires, saving on replacement costs and minimizing waste, contributing to environmental protection.
MaxTouch technology is widely applied by Michelin across various tire categories, flexible and effective to meet the diverse needs of users. In addition to improving new technologies, Michelin advises users on how to maximize tire lifespan through practical maintenance. Users should also check for tire wear by observing the wear indicator marks. When the rubber reaches the specified level of the mark, they need to replace the tire.
MaxTouch is a testament to Michelin’s innovative spirit in developing advanced tire technology, providing practical user benefits while contributing to sustainable development goals.
About Michelin
Michelin is building a world-leading producer of materials and experiences that transform the quality of life. Leveraging its expertise in polymer composite technology, Michelin continuously innovates to create high-quality tires and practical accessories in fields that demand high technological content such as mobility, construction, aviation, low-carbon energy, and healthcare.
