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How Michelin Uses Technology to Rethink Tire Manufacturing: Interview

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  Published in Science and Technology on Friday, September 19th 2025 at 9:33 GMT by motor1.com
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Michelin’s “State of Motion”: An Inside Look at Matthew Cabe’s Vision for the Future of Tyres

In a recent feature on Motor1.com, Michelin’s senior director of product innovation and marketing, Matthew Cabe, sat down to discuss the company’s evolving approach to tyre technology and sustainability. The interview—titled “Michelin: Matthew Cabe – Interview – State of Motion”—dives deep into Michelin’s strategy for staying ahead of the curve in a world where electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and environmental stewardship are becoming the new norm. Below is a comprehensive summary of the key themes, insights, and future initiatives that Cabe outlines.

1. Michelin’s Philosophy: “State of Motion”

The interview begins with Cabe describing Michelin’s guiding principle: “the state of motion.” For Michelin, motion is not merely about getting from point A to B; it’s about how that motion can be safer, more efficient, and less harmful to the planet. Cabe notes that this philosophy is reflected across the company—from tyre design and manufacturing to corporate sustainability goals and motorsport partnerships.

2. Innovation at the Core of Tyre Design

Low‑Rolling‑Resistance (LRR) and Energy Efficiency

One of Michelin’s primary research thrusts is reducing rolling resistance, which directly translates to fuel savings for combustion engines and range extension for electric vehicles (EVs). Cabe cites the recent Michelin Energy Efficiency line, which incorporates advanced silica composites that cut rolling resistance by up to 15 % without compromising grip.

High‑Performance Materials for Motorsports

While the focus on efficiency is paramount, Michelin is also pushing the envelope in high‑performance tyres for motorsport. The company’s M series—used across MotoGP, MotoE, and select FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) events—incorporates a new “nano‑reinforced” compound that improves heat dissipation and tread durability under extreme loads.

Smart Tyres and Autonomous Vehicle Integration

Looking ahead, Michelin is investing in “smart tyre” technologies that can communicate with vehicle systems. “The tyre is becoming a sensor platform,” Cabe explains. These sensors will provide real‑time data on pressure, temperature, and wear, feeding into the vehicle’s predictive maintenance algorithms and enabling a more seamless integration with autonomous driving software.

3. Sustainability – A Multi‑Faceted Approach

Carbon‑Neutral Production

Michelin’s “Carbon Neutral by 2050” pledge includes reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions across all manufacturing sites. The interview references the company’s new carbon‑offset programme that supports reforestation projects and the use of renewable energy in tyre factories.

Circular Economy & Recyclable Tyres

Beyond emissions, Michelin is tackling tyre waste head‑on. The company has begun producing “Recyclable‑Ready” tyres that can be disassembled into constituent materials with minimal contamination. This approach is expected to cut landfill use by up to 30 % over the next decade.

Bio‑Based Compounds

Another exciting development discussed is the use of bio‑ethanol derived from plant oils in tyre rubbers. Cabe notes that bio‑based compounds not only reduce the carbon footprint of the raw material but also improve the tyre’s biodegradability.

4. Motorsport Partnerships – Proof‑of‑Concept Platforms

MotoE and the Future of Electric Motorcycle Racing

Michelin’s exclusive partnership with MotoE (the electric motorcycle class of MotoGP) has proven that LRR tyres can also deliver superb traction and safety. In 2023, Michelin’s MotoE tyres outperformed competitors by an average of 4 % in lap times, all while maintaining a 12 % lower rolling resistance.

WEC and Ultra‑Long‑Range Reliability

The World Endurance Championship presents a different challenge: tyres that can last 24 hours under extreme heat. Michelin’s S1 and S2 series are being fielded in the WEC as a demonstration of tyre longevity and reliability.

Future Collaborations

Cabe hints at potential future collaborations with electric vehicle (EV) makers such as Rivian and Tesla. Michelin is exploring custom tyre solutions that cater specifically to the unique load profiles and regenerative braking of these vehicles.

5. Corporate Strategy – A Unified Vision

Michelin’s business strategy is articulated as a confluence of three priorities: performance, safety, and sustainability. In the interview, Cabe emphasizes that each new tyre family or technology is evaluated against these metrics. For example, a tyre that reduces fuel consumption by 5 % but compromises safety in wet conditions would be re‑engineered until it meets Michelin’s stringent safety standards.

6. Closing Thoughts

Matthew Cabe’s interview paints a vivid picture of Michelin’s future. The company is not merely reacting to the shift toward electric and autonomous vehicles; it is actively shaping the landscape with technology that is cleaner, smarter, and more efficient. Michelin’s “state of motion” is a commitment to continuous improvement—ensuring that every mile driven on a Michelin tyre contributes to safer roads, greener roads, and a more sustainable world.

Key Takeaways

The interview on Motor1.com provides a compelling look at Michelin’s future roadmap. By blending cutting‑edge technology with a firm commitment to sustainability, Michelin is positioning itself as the tyre partner of choice for a motoring world that is accelerating toward electric and autonomous mobility.