Hankook Truck Tire Production Line to Begin Rolling in July

Why It Matters

Domestic production reduces reliance on imports amid rising tariffs and recent plant closures, strengthening Hankook’s supply chain and competitive position in a growing U.S. truck‑tire market.

Key Takeaways

• Production starts July 2026 at Clarksville, Tennessee.
• 85‑90% of US truck tires made locally by end 2027.
• Expansion adds 400 jobs, total staff 2,200.
• Fifth‑generation tires include 11‑inch trailer drive models.
• US truck tire demand projected 4.7 million units in 2026.

Pulse Analysis

Hankook’s decision to launch truck‑tire production in Clarksville comes at a time when the U.S. tire industry is shedding capacity. In the past two years, Yokohama closed plants in Virginia and South Carolina, and Bridgestone shuttered its Tennessee facility, leaving a gap in domestic supply. By moving TBR manufacturing stateside, Hankook not only fills part of that void but also signals confidence in the long‑term viability of the American truck market, even as overall demand remains flat.

The $1.6 billion Clarksville investment is a strategic hedge against the 25% tariff on South Korean tire imports that took effect earlier this year. Localizing production cuts exposure to trade‑policy volatility and shortens lead times for fleet operators. Moreover, the Phase 3 expansion creates roughly 400 new jobs, boosting the regional economy and bringing the plant’s workforce to about 2,200 employees. This labor boost aligns with broader manufacturing revitalization efforts and underscores Hankook’s commitment to U.S.‑based growth.

Demand forecasts from the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association project 4.7 million truck tires in 2026, an 8.3% rise from the previous year, suggesting a modest but steady market expansion. Hankook’s focus on fifth‑generation tires—such as 11‑inch trailer drive and steer models—positions it to capture higher‑margin segments and meet evolving OEM specifications. As competitors grapple with import costs and capacity constraints, Hankook’s localized product line could translate into increased market share and stronger brand loyalty among North American fleets.