Following our tour of Vitour’s production facility, we visited the impressive campus of Himile—a world-renowned tooling and machine company. Over the past 20–30 years, Himile has grown from a modest machine shop into a global powerhouse with 20,000 employees and over a billion dollars in annual revenue. Known as the gold standard in tire mold production, Himile has crafted molds for many of the world’s most prestigious racing tires.
Vitour’s status as a strategic partner with Himile granted us rare access to their tire mold facility for a private tour. This privilege is not typically extended, underscoring the strength of their partnership. Unfortunately, photography was not allowed inside the facility, so I can only share my observations.
Inside Himile’s Tire Mold Facility
The tire mold production process at Himile is a masterclass in precision and craftsmanship. It begins with high-precision CNC machining to create aluminum segments for the barrel and tread pattern, along with plates for the sidewalls. Hand finishing is often employed to ensure impeccable quality. For winter tire molds, steel inserts are used to replicate the intricate cuts in snow tire treads.
Himile’s expertise extends beyond traditional mold-making. They also manufacture advanced laser etching and metal 3D printing equipment, which play a crucial role in their process. Tire molds are just one of many products produced by Himile, but their expertise in this area is unmatched.
During our visit, we saw numerous projects underway in the tire mold workshop, including molds for globally recognized brands and some likely exclusive to markets outside the U.S.
An Exclusive Look at Himile’s Culture
Inside Himile’s VIP hosting suite and restaurant, the walls tell the story of their success, adorned with photos of partnerships with industry giants like Michelin, Goodyear, Bridgestone, and Yokohama. Here, we were treated to a traditional Chinese business dinner with Himile executives and board members.
The experience was exceptional for both Michael and me. While our Vitour executive host, Jeff, was clearly at ease among friends, Mike and I recognized that we were in the company of influential leaders. The food, hospitality, and camaraderie underscored the strength of the relationship between Vitour and Himile.
The Essence of Chinese Business Culture
Throughout the week’s activities, I gained a profound appreciation for China’s rise to global prominence and its unique approach to business. Unlike the often transactional nature of Western business, the Chinese model emphasizes relationships built on friendship and mutual trust.
Success in China isn’t just about contracts or profits; it’s about cultivating partnerships that endure. Trust is earned over time, through consistent actions, shared experiences, and mutual understanding.
This philosophy was evident in every interaction—from the hospitality extended by Jeff, Vitour, and Himile to the transparency of the factory tours and the camaraderie at the dinner table. It’s a culture that values people over profits, seeing business as a collaborative journey rooted in shared goals and respect.
Looking Ahead: Vitour’s Vision for the U.S. Market
Witnessing this firsthand has given me deeper insight into why China has achieved such remarkable economic success. The blend of pragmatism and humanity in their business culture offers valuable lessons for fostering sustainable relationships anywhere in the world.
As Vitour expands its operations in the U.S., the company is poised to become a leading force in the racing tire market. This marks the beginning of a significant shift in standards for our segment of racing tires, traditionally one of the largest expenses in motorsports.
By lowering the cost of racing and reducing barriers to entry, Vitour is creating a turning point for the sport. Their relationship with the racing community reflects their business philosophy—one focused on mutual benefit and long-term partnerships that prioritize shared success.
Vitour’s vision for the future is bright, and I’m confident it will bring lasting benefits to racers, enthusiasts, and the sport as a whole.
