CLERMONT-FERRAND, France—Michelin has acquired a pair of European suppliers of tire pressure control systems as part of its bid to become a "total solutions provider" in the agriculture segment and improve its central tire inflation systems.
Michelin acquired PTG Tire Inflation Systems of Neuss, Germany, and Teleflow SAS of Roanne, France. Both specialize in tire pressure control systems that allow users to monitor and adapt tire pressures according to the terrain and conditions of use.
Financial terms of the acquisitions were not disclosed.
The move is part of Michelin's strategy to transition from "simply manufacturing agricultural tires to being a total solutions provider for all aspects around and beyond the tire's interaction with the ground."
PTG was founded in 1991 by Martin Tigges and supplies tire inflation systems for vehicles and trailers, with expertise in the agriculture industry.
Among its products is the RDS system, which brings fully automated pressure adjustment to vehicles whilst on the move.
Teleflow was established in 1993 by Stephane Fazekas and employs 39 people. Teleflow's products allow pressures to be adapted according to the terrain by the use of special patented valves.
Michelin claims Teleflow, is "the biggest supplier of tire pressure control systems to the military sector and has a close collaboration with many OE manufacturers."
Michelin launched its "game-changing" EvoBib tire with ADT (adaptive design technology) last November, as part of its move toward becoming a solutions provider.
"Our ambition is to continue innovating to provide increasingly complete solutions, guaranteed by Michelin, that help farmers optimize the performance of their machines while protecting their soil," said Emmanuel Ladent, president of Michelin Agriculture.