Among other awards, Michelin’s Primacy 5 Energy received the Tire of the Year award.
Michelin received four awards at Tire Technology Expo, the global trade show for tire design, manufacturing and innovation. The event ran March 3-5, in Hanover, Germany.
“Receiving four awards at Tire Technology Expo is testament to the collective strength of our teams and to the scientific, technological and environmental depth of our innovations,” said Philippe Jacquin, executive VP of research and development for Michelin and member of the group executive committee. “From the Moon to the road, and thanks to Michelin’s deep know-how in polymer composites, we once again demonstrate our ability to push boundaries, create new experiences, transform research into real-world solutions, and accelerate the emergence of next-generation materials. These awards honor not only our advances, but also the daily commitment of everyone at Michelin who innovates to improve everyday life and drive mobility forward — for people today and for future generations.”
Concept of the Year
The Michelin Lunar Airless Wheel (MiLAW) won the Concept of the Year award. Engineers designed the airless wheel for use on a rover in future Artemis lunar missions.
MiLAW draws on more than 20 years of research into airless structures, high-tech polymers and advanced manufacturing processes such as 3D printing.
The wheel is engineered to withstand radiation, abrasive terrain and temperatures from -240°C to +100°C. It also provides traction and endurance required for lunar exploration.
Development required rigorous testing and expansion of Michelin’s digital simulation capabilities, the manufacturer said. The company said knowledge gained during development is informing future innovations on Earth, particularly in environments where robustness and endurance are critical.
Michelin Primacy 5 Energy Named Tire of the Year
The Michelin Primacy 5 Energy received the Tire of the Year award.
Michelin said around 20 major global automotive brands have selected the summer tire ahead of its launch. The tire will be fitted to more than 50 new models currently in development.
The tire carries a triple-A rating on EU labeling for wet grip, energy efficiency and noise level. Michelin said it is the number one long-lasting tire in its category.
BioButterfly Program Recognized for Environmental Achievement
The BioButterfly program received the Environmental Achievement of the Year – Industrial Contribution award. Michelin leads the program with IFP Energies Nouvelles and Axens. The French Agency for the Environment and Energy Management (ADEME) supports the project.
After more than 12 years of research and more than €80 million (approx. $93 million) in investment, an industrial demonstrator began operation in 2023 at Michelin’s Bassens site. The facility validated a process to produce bio-based butadiene from bioethanol.
The first elastomers produced using this process meet specifications for tire use. The process also reduces the carbon footprint compared with fossil-based butadiene. Michelin said the program marks a step toward a bio-based elastomer industry and a lower-carbon tire value chain.
Pascal Prost Receives Lifetime Achievement Award
Pascal Prost, Senior Fellow – Tires, received the Tire Tech 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award after 35 years at Michelin. During his career, he addressed technical challenges related to tires, including requirements with competing performance targets.
Prost collaborated with teams across the company and worked with universities and vehicle manufacturers. His work in two-wheel and passenger car tires focused on low rolling resistance and ecodesign.
The award recognizes his career and the contributions of Michelin Group employees.
These four Tire Technology Expo awards span advanced research, product innovation, environmental impact and career recognition, Michelin said.
