European Chemical Industry News & Insights

Toyo Tire Opens First European R&D Center

At a glance
  • The center in Germany will start operations this fall.
  • Toyo's new tire plant in Serbia will begin production in January 2022.
  • The European R&D Center will employ approximately 10 people.
  • The facility will focus on materials testing and chemical analysis.

New European R&D Center

Toyo Tire Corporation is establishing its first European R&D Center in Willich, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. The center is set to begin operations this fall, aiming to strengthen product development capabilities for next-generation mobility.

Strategic Expansion

This new center complements Toyo's existing technology development sites in the United States and Japan. The goal is to enhance the company's global R&D network by sharing knowledge and information across these locations.

Support for Serbian Plant

In line with the new R&D center, Toyo is also building a tire plant in Serbia, which will start production in January 2022. The European R&D Center will play a crucial role in supporting this plant by focusing on high-performance, high-value-added tire development.

Key Functions and Facilities

The center will employ approximately 10 people, including three assigned from Japan. Its main functions will include the survey and evaluation of raw materials, tire assessment, and information collection. The facility will cover an area of approximately 2,500 mĀ² and will be equipped with materials testing and chemical analysis facilities.

Future Plans

Toyo is already considering future expansion of its R&D functions in Europe beyond this initial site. The company aims to continuously enhance its technological foundation in tire compounding, production methods, assessment, and simulation technology.