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Maxion Wheels, a global leader in wheel manufacturing, has inaugurated a 499kW on-site solar photovoltaic system at its steel wheel plant for light and commercial vehicles in San Luis Potosi. The plant, spanning 70,000m2 and operating since 1996, supplies steel wheels to a wide range of international automotive manufacturers. Installed by Iberdrola México, the system is expected to generate approximately 919MWh of clean energy annually, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by around 617 t/y, equivalent to the carbon captured by more than 10,200 trees over a decade. 

The San Luis Potosi project marks Maxion Wheels’ ninth solar installation worldwide and follows a similar 499 kW system inaugurated in Chihuahua in 2024, which generates approximately 960MWh annually and avoids 420t of CO₂ emissions each year, equivalent to planting and growing 6,930 trees annually. Additionally, another photovoltaic project in Castaños, Coahuila, is scheduled to begin operations in the coming months.

The investment supports Maxion Wheels’ global sustainability strategy, Roadmap Zero, which aims for net-zero emissions across all operations by 2040. The distributed generation system will cover part of the plant’s electricity demand while providing greater cost stability and reducing environmental impact across the value chain.

“Through this partnership, we support Maxion Wheels in its transition toward cleaner and more environmentally responsible processes. On-site photovoltaic energy allows operations with lower emissions, greater cost stability, and a direct positive impact across the entire value chain. It is a tangible benefit for both the industry and the planet, driving us to continue growing together,” said Alfonso Campos, Commercial Director, Iberdrola México. 

Alexandre Becker, President, Maxion Wheels’ Americas Business Unit, added that the inauguration of the solar panel system at the San Luis Potosí plant represents a decisive step in the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, innovation, and environmental responsibility. “This project is the result of a collective effort by multiple teams united by a common purpose and vision,” he stated.

The initiative is part of a broader strategic partnership between Iochpe-Maxion and Iberdrola México. Maxion Wheels operates 32 facilities across 15 countries, producing around 50 million wheels annually. Iberdrola México maintains a generation portfolio exceeding 2,600MW in the country, including wind, photovoltaic, combined-cycle, and cogeneration assets, offering industrial clients solutions for decarbonization and distributed generation.

The San Luis Potosi system complements existing and planned installations in Chihuahua and Castaños, reinforcing Maxion Wheels’ commitment to reducing the carbon footprint of its manufacturing operations and advancing renewable energy adoption across its global network.

Iochpe-Maxion Commits to Carbon Neutrality by 2040 with ROADMAP ZERO

Iochpe-Maxion, the parent company of Maxion Wheels, has set a target to become carbon neutral by 2040 through its ROADMAP ZERO initiative. The strategy covers the full life cycle of its products, from material procurement to design and manufacturing, with measures including increased use of recycled and green materials, on-site renewable energy generation, energy efficiency improvements, and the development of lightweight, low-emission products.

The company has committed to the UN Global Compact and sustainability-linked financial instruments, including US$400 million in sustainability bonds. Targets include a 30% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 CO₂ emissions by 2025 versus 2019, 70% CO₂ reductions by 2030, and sourcing 90% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030. ROADMAP ZERO also integrates social programs aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including education initiatives in Brazil and Mexico through the Iochpe Foundation.