Yokohama-ATG recently opened the doors of its Vizag manufacturing facility in India to European agricultural content creators and members of the press. This exclusive event provided a first-hand look at the factory’s advanced technology, sustainable initiatives, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The visitors included prominent European farmers and influencers such as Olly Harrison (UK), Stefan Vogelsang (Germany), Giulia Tonello (Italy), Thierry Bailliet (France), and Miriam Delgado Barrios (Spain). During their visit, the group participated in tree-planting ceremonies, engaged with local farmers, and explored the high-tech operations at the Vizag facility.
The Vizag factory is a central component of Yokohama-ATG's global sustainability strategy. The facility is part of the company’s "Forever Forest" initiative, where each employee and visitor plants a tree. To date, over 250,000 trees have been planted globally, contributing to an annual reduction of approximately 8,000 tonnes of CO2. The company aims to plant 1.3 million trees by 2030 and reduce CO2 emissions by 30% compared to 2013 levels.
Y-ATG is also working towards achieving net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050. The factory employs eco-friendly practices such as a 32% reduction in coal consumption, the use of reclaimed rubber, bio-based oils, and silica derived from rice husk ash.
A notable highlight of the Vizag facility is its workforce composition. Women represent 40% of the employees, with an ambitious target of reaching 50% by the end of 2025. This aligns with Y-ATG’s broader goal of promoting inclusivity and gender equality within its global operations.
The Vizag plant boasts state-of-the-art automation, including robotic tyre-building machines, automated painting systems, and advanced conveyor technologies. These innovations enhance production efficiency, reduce waste, and uphold stringent safety standards.
UK farmer Olly Harrison expressed his admiration for the factory, saying:"I was surprised at the scale and size of the factory; it wouldn't have looked out of place in an industrial country such as Germany. The sheer size along with the passion of the workforce was what stood out most to me."
European farmers also had the opportunity to learn from their Indian counterparts. Despite using smaller, open-station tractors and fewer chemicals, Indian farmers achieve yields comparable to European standards and can harvest twice a year.
Italian farmer Giulia Tonello noted:"While their tractors are smaller, their focus on protecting soil integrity is something we can learn from in Europe, especially as our equipment tends to be much larger."
Spanish influencer Miriam Delgado Barrios added:"Indian farmers’ use of lighter tractors with standard tyres at optimal pressures highlights the importance of balancing weight and pressure for efficient farming. This is a principle that can be applied to farming practices in Europe as well."
The visit highlighted the critical role of tyre technology in sustainable agriculture. German farmer Stefan Vogelsang shared:"Simply paying attention to and adjusting tyre pressure will increase my wheat yields by 10-20% in wet years. It enables earlier field access, better nutrient supply, and less field damage."
This visit coincided with Y-ATG’s celebration of 70 years of the Alliance tyre brand. Additionally, the company recently achieved the production and sale of 1 million Agri Star II tyres, known for their Stratified Layer Technology (SLT), which ensures consistent traction and performance throughout the tyre's lifespan.
Yokohama-ATG's Vizag factory exemplifies the company's vision for the future of agriculture—one that balances innovation, sustainability, and community empowerment. By combining modern manufacturing techniques with a strong environmental and social conscience, Y-ATG continues to set benchmarks for the global agricultural sector.
What was the purpose of the visit to Y-ATG's Vizag factory?
European farmers and content creators visited to learn about Y-ATG’s innovative, sustainable, and inclusive manufacturing practices.
What sustainability initiatives are in place at the Vizag factory?
The factory is part of the "Forever Forest" initiative, contributing to the planting of 250,000 trees and aiming for net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050.
How does Y-ATG support gender diversity?
The Vizag facility employs 40% women, with a goal of reaching 50% by the end of 2025.
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