Where Are Sumitomo Tires Made? Sumitomo Tires, renowned globally for its commitment to top-tier tire quality driven by cutting-edge technology, is a testament to service provision excellence. What sets Sumitomo apart is its extensive tire collection, designed to cater to the diverse needs of all vehicle users.
Nevertheless, a recurring query among customers centers on the entity’s identity behind Sumitomo tires, as this brand does not divulge internal specifics like its counterparts.
In this narrative, one embarks on a journey to unearth the mastermind responsible for the comprehensive range of Sumitomo tires.
The Creator of Sumitomo Tires
Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd exclusively crafts all tires marketed under the Sumitomo tires brand. It operates as a subsidiary within the Sumitomo Group, ranking among the world’s foremost tire manufacturers.
Sumitomo Tires’ Birthplace
Sumitomo Rubber & Tire’s manufacturing division maintains production facilities across the USA, Japan, Thailand, and China. However, the lion’s share of their tire production transpires within the USA and Japan.
The Buffalo, New York manufacturing plant, previously catering to Goodyear and Dunlop tire brands, now exclusively churns out Sumitomo tires.
Are Sumitomo Tires Worth It?
Sumitomo tires have climbed to the fifth position on the global stage, surpassing industry stalwarts such as Hankook, Pirelli, and Yokohama. This accolade underscores consumers’ preference for Sumitomo over giants.
Sumitomo delivers various quality tires tailored to multiple driving styles and customer requirements. Whether in search of high-performance, sports-specific, or standard tires, Sumitomo caters to all segments.
Considering price, build quality, performance, and post-purchase service, Sumitomo offers an unbeatable package without breaking the bank.
Nonetheless, product excellence and brand reputation only flourish when a tire aligns harmoniously with the vehicle it serves. Therefore, understanding your vehicle’s unique needs and specifications remains paramount in securing the perfect tire match.
Unveiling the Sumitomo Tires Manufacturer
Let’s delve into the backstory of Sumitomo Tires’ creator:
Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd, or Sumitomo Gomu Kōgyo Kabushiki-gaisha, is a Japanese global titan in the tire and rubber industry. Originally conceived as a subsidiary under the influential Sumitomo Group, its inception traces back to 1909 when Sumitomo Group invested in Dunlop Japan, the British company Dunlop Rubber’s nascent Japanese subsidiary.
1919 Sumitomo Group birthed Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd in Osaka, Japan. The company also oversees a budget brand known as Ohtsu and produces tires under the Sumitomo moniker.
Beyond automobile tires, Sumitomo diversifies into various rubber-based products, including golf and tennis balls. Over time, a close business alliance developed between Sumitomo and Dunlop Rubber companies, culminating in Sumitomo Group gaining control of Dunlop Rubber company’s Japanese subsidiary, renamed Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd in 1963.
In 1985, during BTR plc’s acquisition of Dunlop Rubber, Sumitomo Group secured Dunlop’s automobile tire assets and the right to use the Dunlop brand name. This acquisition excluded Dunlop’s US and Australian businesses, which remained separate. Nonetheless, Sumitomo Group acquired Dunlop Tire Corporation’s US division in 1986.
Sumitomo Group expanded its tire portfolio by launching the Falken Tire brand in Japan in 1983, later debuting in North America in 1985. 1997, a joint venture with Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company materialized, leading to mutual manufacturing endeavors, including Dunlop-branded tires. This collaboration resulted in Goodyear obtaining a 75% stake in Dunlop Tires.
However, in June 2015, Goodyear announced the termination of its joint venture with Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd. In December 2013, Sumitomo Rubber Industries acquired Apollo Tyres South Africa (Pty) Ltd from Apollo Tyres and rebranded it as Sumitomo Rubber South Africa (Pty) Ltd. This strategic move stemmed from Sumitomo’s global expansion plans.
Sumitomo Rubber South Africa (Pty) Ltd produces Sumitomo-branded tires and manufactures Falken passenger car tires in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal. In July 2018, the Ladysmith plant commenced production of Dunlop truck and bus radial tires following a modernization overhaul by Sumitomo Rubber Industries.
In 2019, the Ladysmith plant’s Dunlop truck and bus radial tire production was tailored exclusively for the South African market. The Tire Business Report 2019 shows that Sumitomo Rubber Industries is the fifth-largest tire manufacturer worldwide.
Exploring Sumitomo’s Tire Categories
Sumitomo predominantly offers tires in three core categories, each branching into various products with diverse sizes and specification options. These categories are:
- SUMITOMO PASSENGER TIRES
- SUV / CUV / LIGHT TRUCK TIRES
- WINTER TIRES
Where to Procure Sumitomo Tires
Sumitomo boasts an extensive network of authorized dealers that ensures broad market access and excellent customer support. Besides Sumitomo’s authorized physical and online outlets, consumers can acquire their products at other retailers, including Walmart.
Top Picks from Sumitomo Tires
Among Sumitomo Tires brand’s extensive product range, the following options stand out as top-rated and immensely popular:
- Sumitomo HTR A/S P02 (W-Speed Rated) – Ideal for sports and high-speed driving styles.
- Sumitomo HTR Z III – A budget-friendly choice offering stable performance and impressive traction in wet and dry conditions.
- Sumitomo Touring LS T – All-season tires suitable for passenger cars, sedans, and minivans.
- Sumitomo Encounter H/T – Highway all-season tires excelling in wet and dry braking with a long-lasting tread life.
Alternatives to Sumitomo Tires
If you seek alternatives to Sumitomo tires, consider reputable brands such as Michelin, Yokohama, Bridgestone, Continental, or Happy New Year.
In Conclusion
While Sumitomo consistently delivers quality tires from high-performance to budget-friendly options, customers often wonder about the brains behind these exceptional products. This article has aimed to shed light on some lesser-known facets of the brand, striving to inform and elucidate.