The Darmstadt-based company is establishing its own research and development facility in Hanover, the tyre stronghold. Industry R&D expert Stefan Fischer has been appointed to lead the PRINX Europe Tech Centre with the immediate goal of producing tyres that excel in independent magazine tests.
German Tyre R&D Hub Strengthens PRINX CHENGSHAN’s European Innovation Strategy
Designed and tested in Germany, and produced using state-of-the-art technology in Thailand and Malaysia, this is PRINX Europe’s blueprint for its future product portfolio. To support this strategy, the PRINX Europe Tech Centre (ETC) opened in Hanover in December. Renowned for tyre technology and vehicle manufacturing, the region offers an innovation-friendly environment. It has close links to Leibniz University and internationally recognised research institutions.
PRINX Europe aims to strengthen brand trust further while gaining direct access to OEMs and highly qualified specialists. For PRINX CHENGSHAN, the Tech Centre is a cornerstone of global innovation and a strong commitment to Europe.
With its stringent requirements for rolling resistance, wet grip, noise emissions and rubber particle emissions, Europe is regarded as the global benchmark for tyre performance. Intense competition driven by independent test magazines further raises expectations for safety and sustainability. Products developed and proven in this demanding environment offer compelling selling points worldwide.
Stefan Fischer to Lead the German Technology Hub
Stefan Fischer is responsible for establishing the PRINX Europe Tech Centre and building its technical organisation. He brings extensive R&D and management experience from international tyre manufacturers, including Continental, Hankook and Giti. Fischer reports to European Managing Director Thomas Wohlgemuth and Li Chong Bing, Head of Global Research and Development in China.
In addition to developing new product lines across all tyre segments, the Tech Centre’s remit includes evaluating on regional test tracks, developing European original equipment programmes, undertaking innovation projects, and establishing strategic partnerships with external centres of excellence such as universities, research institutes, and material and technology suppliers. The engineers at the PRINX Europe Tech Centre also work closely with internal sales teams to incorporate market trends and customer requirements into product development at an early stage.
Clear Ambition for the European Market
“Our goal is to deliver tyres as quickly as possible that can compete with the strongest products on the European market,” says Wohlgemuth.
Initially, the focus will be on the flagship PRINX brand. By 2028, PRINX aims to rank among the top 10 brands in tests conducted by leading automotive magazines.
