Fleet Extends Michelin Trial Following Promising Results

UK operator Elite Transport is set to carry out an extensive trial of two types of Michelin tyres on its newly delivered fleet of fifteen Volvo FH480 6×2 tractor units. This decision has been made in light of findings after a single tractor unit was fitted with Michelin Energy tyres for a period of fourteen months.

The tractor unit in question saw fuel economy increase from 7.99 to 8.55 mpg, while the wear rate of the energy tyres remained equivalent to that of regular ‘E’ segment tyres.

Ten of the new tractor units will be fitted with Michelin ‘E’ segment regional tyres (XZE2+ / XDE2+) and five with ‘A’ segment Energy tyres (XZA2 / XDA2) to give Elite Transport the opportunity to compare the difference in fuel economy between the two before reaching a decision on whether to switch their entire fleet of 140 vehicles to Michelin Energy.

Elite’s Operations Director Lee Redfern confirms that the initial trial has shown the potential for cost reductions. “Our vehicles typically average 75,000 miles a year, which equates to an annual saving of approximately £2,260 per vehicle.” He added that “We will be monitoring the performance of the Energy tyres closely over the next six to 12 months and a positive result could see Michelin Energy tyres being rolled out across the fleet.”