Michelin's 130 years of innovation journey

“The innovation power and expertise of Michelin have profoundly changed the history of the mobility sector. Nowadays, these foundations help us face challenges in new fields and activities that change lives,” emphasized Florent Menegaux, Chairman of the Michelin Group.

What strategies has Michelin employed to maintain continuous development over the past 130 years, and what underlies these innovative initiatives?

The foundation of Michelin's future vision rests on a steadfast commitment to 'All-sustainable.' This represents a harmonious balance between humanity—people, the environment—the planet, and the economy—profit.

Expanding beyond space, Michelin is involved in the ambitious MiLAW project, which researches and develops tires for autonomous lunar exploration vehicles.

MiLAW Project – A breakthrough in space exploration

Michelin is focusing on advancing technology in lunar exploration with the MiLAW project (Michelin Lunar Airless Wheel), which is part of NASA’s Artemis program.

The company will leverage its prior experience working with NASA, combining expertise in airless tire technology and advanced materials (such as the Michelin UPTIS and Tweel tires) to develop specialized airless wheels for lunar rovers. Furthermore, the project is part of Michelin's larger goal of sustainable space exploration, paving the way for a long-term human presence on the Moon and even Mars in the future.

Michelin Lunar Airless Wheel.

One of the foremost tasks is to develop a 'Lunar Wheel' capable of performing reliably in extreme lunar conditions. These include operating in temperatures ranging from -243°C to over 100°C, enduring solar and cosmic radiation. The MiLAW wheel is designed to minimise rolling resistance on lunar regolith (lunar soil), enabling exploration vehicles to travel efficiently with greater range, conserving both energy and resources.

Michelin is also focused on high-quality manufacturing processes to ensure MiLAW wheels are built to the highest standards, minimising the risk of failure and ensuring the safety of astronauts throughout their exploration missions. Additionally, the corporation is utilising advanced simulation and testing technologies to evaluate the performance of these wheels on the moon’s surface and in zero-gravity conditions, which allows Michelin to optimise the wheel's design to reduce rolling resistance while enhancing wear resistance.

The MiLAW project is clear evidence of Michelin's ambition to go beyond technological boundaries and contribute to advancements in mobility, not just on earth but also in space.

The Michelin Lunar Airless Wheel (MiLAW) for Lunar Exploration Vehicles.

The project not only shows that Michelin is adapting to future trends but, more importantly, that the company is actively shaping the future. By focusing on improving current products and pioneering the exploration and development of new technologies, Michelin is driving toward a greener, safer, and more efficient future in mobility for everyone.

About Michelin

Drawing on its deep expertise in polymer composites, Michelin is constantly innovating to manufacture high-quality tires and components for critical applications in demanding fields as varied as mobility, construction, aeronautics, low-carbon energies, and healthcare.

The care placed on its products and deep customer knowledge inspires Michelin to offer the finest experiences.