WATERVILLE, Nova Scotia (Jan. 27) — Michelin North America Inc. plans to double capacity in North America for its X One wide-base truck tire this year by installing production capability for the product at its Waterville plant.
Michelin has budgeted $80 million for the project, which will create about 75 jobs at the plant. The expansion will make Waterville Michelin´s second largest truck tire plant worldwide, the firm said.
The province of Nova Scotia is contributing $9.4 million in support toward the project, Michelin said.
"This investmentàis a testament to the skills of our people and their ability to deliver and remain competitive in the global tire market," said Grant Ferguson, Waterville plant manager. "Investing in our plant helps to ensure long-term competitiveness, future employment and continued economic support for our community."
Michelin said the project will involve new equipment in addition to the new technical and manufacturing employees.
The project will have a positive effect on Michelin´s other plants in Nova Scotia, which supply Waterville with rubber compound and wire products.