Queretaro Advances in Rubber Tech and Automotive Sustainability

The automotive industry in Queretaro, which generates US$8.5 billion annually, is experiencing significant advancements in rubber technology and sustainability. At the recent 3rd Rubber Technology Symposium, Daniel Hernández Camacho, Director, Queretaro Automotive Cluster, emphasized the critical role of rubber in automotive innovation.

“Rubber has been essential in absorbing vibrations and noise across various automotive systems, including the drivetrain, suspension, engine, and tires. With the shift towards electric vehicles, new applications and innovations in rubber manufacturing are needed to address reduced vibrations and noise while adapting to the evolving requirements of these vehicles,” said Hernández.

The symposium, organized by the Queretaro Automotive Cluster and the Latin American Rubber Technology Society (SLTC), focused on how the local industry can stay current with these technological advancements. Hernández Camacho stressed the importance of rubber in supporting innovation, particularly as companies work to enhance tire performance and durability for electric vehicles, which are heavier and require advanced solutions.

Anahís Piña, Vice President, SLTC, discussed the event’s goals: to foster connections among industry professionals and explore emerging trends. “The symposium serves as a crucial platform for discussing advancements and ensuring that local businesses are equipped with the latest knowledge,” Piña stated.

Genaro Montes Díaz, Undersecretary of Economic Development, Ministry of Sustainable Development (SEDESU), also highlighted the rubber industry’s strategic role in the automotive and aerospace sectors within Queretaro.

Michelin presented its sustainability strategy at the symposium. Carla González Salamanca, Sustainability Leader for Mexico and Central America, Michelin, delivered a keynote titled “The Recipe for a Sustainable Tire.” González Salamanca outlined Michelin’s goal to achieve full sustainability by 2050, emphasizing efforts to enhance the tire supply chain and promote recycling.

“By directly managing our rubber resources, we ensure that their environmental impact is minimized,” González Salamanca said. She highlighted Michelin's management of its own rubber plantations and reforestation projects to maintain a sustainable supply of raw materials. Additionally, Michelin collaborates with the Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR) to assess climate change impacts and develop sustainability models beyond tire production.

“The European Green Deal will eventually influence Mexico, necessitating clear traceability of rubber and its suppliers,” said Salamanca, urging suppliers to improve transparency and risk management in alignment with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards.

The company is also launching a pilot program in Mexico to collect and recycle tires from various sources, with the goal of using locally sourced materials for future tire production.