To respond more effectively to the growing needs of the global earthmover market, Michelin announces today the construction of a new earthmover tire plant in Brazil, adjacent to its already existing Heavy Truck site in Campo Grande.

The new plant will employ up to 400 people and is expected to start production in the second half of 2007. It will produce 25- to 49-inch tires and its initial nameplate capacity will be 40,000 tons capable of going up to 55,000 tons.

This plant will allow Michelin to better serve its earthmover customers in North and South American markets. Michelin’s new earthmover plant is another expansion project that reinforces Michelin’s commitment to serving the entire earthmover market.