Apollo launches London digital innovation center

LONDON—Apollo Tyres Ltd. has launched a "digital innovation hub" in London as part of its strategy to implement Industry 4.0 manufacturing capabilities, the Indian tire maker announced April 21.

The facility, it said, will use artificial intelligence and machine learning (ML) technologies to improve the efficiency, quality and sustainability of its operations.

Digital applications for the new center are "being engineered and architected in the (United Kingdom), and specialist companies in London are being consulted to help with complex application development."

The hub is also partnering with Glasgow University and implementing an internship program for STEM students.

"We have invested €5 million ($5.5 million) in the digital innovation hub and (it) is expected to give a fillip to our digitalization journey and other investments in cloud and data computing," said Neeraj Kanwar, vice chairman and managing director at Apollo Tyres.

Apollo's London office is the "nerve center" of a $2.5 billion global organization employing 20,000 people worldwide, added Kanwar.

With more than 130 employees, the U.K. base operates six business enterprises, ranging from advanced manufacturing, new technologies, AI and digital freight.

The "innovation hub" stems from Apollo's five-year growth plan, which involves significant investment in technology and cloud infrastructure, the company said.