Origins in footwear (1921–1990s)

The history of DOUBLE STAR began in Qingdao in 1921, when the enterprise was originally engaged in shoe manufacturing rather than tyre production. For much of its early existence, the company was primarily associated with footwear and apparel before gradually transitioning into the rubber and tyre sector. The shift towards tyres commenced in the 1990s, laying the groundwork for what would become its core industrial activity.

Expansion through acquisition (2001–2005)

The group strengthened its manufacturing capabilities in the tyre sector by acquiring Huaqing Tire in 2001. This was followed by the acquisition of Dongfeng Tire in 2005, which further expanded both its production capacity and product portfolio.

Strategic pivot to tyres (2008)

A definitive milestone occurred in 2008 when DOUBLE STAR divested its traditional footwear and clothing businesses. This separation marked a complete strategic shift towards tyre manufacturing, transforming the organisation from a diversified traditional manufacturer into a specialised industrial tyre group.

Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, DOUBLE STAR broadened its offerings across multiple vehicle categories. Its portfolio grew to encompass:

• PCR: Passenger Car Radial tyres
• TBR: Truck and Bus Radial tyres
• OTR: Off-the-Road tyres
• Commercial vehicle tyres
• Light truck tyres
• SUV tyres
• Specialty application tyres

While the company has historically maintained a strong position in the truck and bus segment, passenger car tyres have become an increasingly significant component of its international portfolio.

A defining feature of the modern DOUBLE STAR operation is its focus on intelligent manufacturing. In the mid-2010s, the company developed an Industry 4.0 intelligent tyre factory, which commenced production in 2016. This facility was designed around highly automated and digitally integrated processes.

The manufacturing strategy extends beyond simple automation to include:

• Automated production lines
• Digital production management systems
• Intelligent equipment integration
• Data-driven quality control
• Integrated research and development
• Industrial Internet technologies
• Advanced robotics

Consequently, the company positions itself as a leading example of intelligent tyre manufacturing within China.

In July 2018, DOUBLE STAR completed the acquisition of a 45% controlling stake in South Korea’s Kumho Tire. The transaction was valued at approximately KRW 646.3 billion (RMB 3.9 billion). This acquisition was strategically significant as it provided access to Kumho’s established global manufacturing and R&D network.

At the time of acquisition, the two brands were positioned complementarily:

• Kumho Tire focuses on mid- to high-end passenger car tyres.
• DOUBLE STAR emphasises truck and bus tyres, particularly in the mid- to lower-end segments.

It is important to note that DOUBLE STAR and Kumho Tire remain distinct brands. Kumho operates independently and retains its own branding; purchasing a DOUBLE STAR tyre is not equivalent to purchasing a Kumho product, despite the corporate ownership structure.

DOUBLE STAR covers several major vehicle categories with varying specifications depending on the market.

Passenger car tyres

The company manufactures tyres for standard passenger vehicles, including summer and all-season variants. Product families include the DH-series, DS-series, DLA-series, DSU-series and Crossleader line.

SUV and crossover tyres

Tyres for SUVs and crossovers are produced with tread patterns tailored to diverse road conditions and usage requirements.

Truck and bus tyres

This category represents one of DOUBLE STAR’s traditional strengths. The TBR range serves long-haul trucks, regional transport, buses, commercial fleets and heavy-duty applications. Specific models include the DSR128, DSR158, DSRS01, DLS918 and DLA966.

Specialty and off-road tyres

The company also develops tyres for industrial, agricultural and off-road use, though availability varies by region.

While the corporate headquarters remains in Qingdao, Shandong Province, DOUBLE STAR has expanded its manufacturing base beyond mainland China. Notably, the company operates a tyre facility in Cambodia producing both PCR and TBR tyres. As a result, the country of manufacture for a DOUBLE STAR tyre depends on the specific model and target market, and is not exclusively China.

DOUBLE STAR maintains an active export business serving markets across Asia, Southeast Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America. The company operates dedicated international sales teams and regional contacts to support these markets.

Its presence in Southeast Asia is particularly relevant to Singaporean and ASEAN readers. The company has participated in industry events such as Tyrexpo Asia Bangkok, demonstrating its commitment to developing the regional aftermarket.

DOUBLE STAR is generally positioned as a value-to-mid-market manufacturer rather than a direct competitor to premium Western or Japanese brands. Its market proposition typically combines competitive pricing, durability, broad application range and advancing manufacturing technology.

In the commercial tyre segment specifically, fleet operators often prioritise factors such as load capacity, mileage, casing durability, puncture resistance and cost per kilometre over brand prestige. In this context, DOUBLE STAR has historically been competitive. The company continues to invest in intelligent factories, R&D and international standards compliance to evolve beyond the perception of being solely a budget manufacturer.

Manufacturing and testing protocols evaluate characteristics including rolling resistance, high-speed uniformity, endurance, stiffness, noise levels, force and moment, and overall durability. International products may carry certifications required by specific destination markets, although this varies by individual tyre model.

Consumers should note that “DOUBLE STAR” is a brand umbrella rather than a single specification. Performance, construction and compound differ significantly between product lines; for instance, a DH-series passenger tyre differs substantially from a DSR-series truck tyre.

The broader Doublestar Group encompasses four primary business areas:

1. Rubber tyres
2. Artificial intelligence and high-end equipment
3. Green ecological recycling
4. Related digital and industrial services

The group’s transformation strategy emphasises digitalisation, high technology, sustainability and intelligent manufacturing. The publicly listed entity, Qingdao Doublestar Co., Ltd., trades on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange under stock code 000599.

The Chinese name 双星 (Shuāngxīng) translates literally to “Double Star” or “Two Stars”. This name has been retained throughout the company’s evolution from footwear to advanced manufacturing. Internationally, it is recognised primarily as a tyre brand, whilst in China it carries broader historical industrial associations.

DOUBLE STAR is a long-established Chinese industrial brand that successfully transitioned from footwear to become a notable tyre manufacturer. Its modern identity centres on tyres, intelligent manufacturing and industrial technology. Key historical advantages include its longevity, substantial domestic manufacturing base, expertise in commercial tyres and investment in automation. The 2018 acquisition of a controlling stake in Kumho Tire significantly enhanced its international standing.

For consumers and fleet operators, DOUBLE STAR is best understood as a value-oriented Chinese brand with particular strength in the commercial and truck segments. However, quality and performance should always be evaluated based on individual model specifications rather than brand generalisations.