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Michelin, a global leader in tire manufacturing, continues to innovate at the intersection of mobility and technology. As part of its ongoing digital transformation journey, the company partnered with Beontag to integrate RFID technology into its tire solutions
Overview
In a project that took its first steps almost six years ago, Beontag partnered with world-leading tire manufacturer Michelin to develop and implement RFID-enabled "smart tires". The brands worked closely to design and develop a unit embedded in the tire which includes the serial number, and can help provide key information throughout its lifetime including date and location of manufacture, maintenance schedule and more.
The device, named TireTag Gen4, serves to enhance traceability, optimize lifecycle management, and meet emerging regulatory requirements. This collaboration between Michelin and Beontag represents a breakthrough in the automotive industry, demonstrating how RFID technology can revolutionize tire tracking, performance, and sustainability.
The Challenge
Since the early 1970s, tire tracking and traceability have relied on alphanumeric codes known as Tire Identification Numbers (TINs), which are molded into the sidewall of each tire. These codes, regulated by authorities such as the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the European Tyre and Rim Technical Organisation (ETRTO), provide key information on the manufacturer, plant of origin, production date, and more. However, this method has limitations: TINs require manual inspection, are prone to wear and fading over time, and do not provide real-time data.
As a result, the global tire industry has faced significant challenges in ensuring efficient supply chain management, maintaining regulatory compliance, and promoting sustainability. Some of the key challenges include:
The Solution
Through extensive R&D and testing, Beontag and Michelin jointly developed TireTag Gen4, a state-of-the-art embedded RFID solution that meets these industry challenges. Key aspects of the solution include:
Results and Benefits
The implementation of RFID technology in Michelin tires has already delivered several tangible benefits:
Looking Ahead
RFID technology in tires plays a pivotal role in optimizing operations and enhancing efficiency, says Laurent Couturier, RFID System Designer at Michelin. “This system enables precise, automated tracking of each tire from production to retreading or recycling. The RFID tire-tag improves industrial performance while addressing today’s ecological imperatives.
“In collaboration with Beontag, we have developed an RFID tag that meets both the economic and environmental challenges of the future, paving the way for new mobility solutions.”
As the global automotive sector moves toward increased digitalization and regulatory compliance combined with sustainability efforts, the Michelin-Beontag partnership sets a new standard for smart tire solutions while redefining customer experience in the automotive sector. With RFID technology paving the way for enhanced efficiency and sustainability, this collaboration represents a significant milestone in the evolution of tire manufacturing.
