Michelin X MaxiTrailer Makes CV Show Debut

Michelin launched its new 255/60 R19.5 X MaxiTrailer at the 2008 Commercial Vehicle Show. Designed with vehicles like low loaders in mind, the new tyre reportedly takes up no more space than a 17.5-inch tyre despite have a 19.5-inch wheel rim diameter.

According to Michelin, the new MaxiTrailer tyre simultaneously enhances safety and productivity as it can be used with disc brakes, which reduce braking distances by up to five metres in comparison with drum brakes. In Michelin’s words, this marks a breakthrough in the tyre industry, since disc brakes traditionally operate at up to 40 degree higher temperatures than conventional drum brakes, making them unsuitable for operation with most 17.5-inch tyres.

Disc brakes also reportedly reduce maintenance costs by 20 per cent compared to a vehicle fitted with drum brakes as the maintenance time for vehicles with disc brakes is significantly less, with an average technician taking approximately one hour to fit new disc brakes, compare with half a day to fit drum brakes. Disc brakes are also widely regarded as being more reliable and requiring longer service intervals.

The 255/60 R19.5 X MaxiTrailer is manufactured using Infinicoil architecture (one of Michelin’s Durable Technology package) which reportedly results in 35 per cent more mileage.

Michelin also shows its 205/65 R17.5 X MaxiTrailer tyre, following requests from the market to increase the load capacity of this size. The key benefits of this new product include: increased axle load of up to 400 kilograms; a 20 per cent increase in casing endurance plus a four per cent reduction in rolling resistance compared with the equivalent XTE2 tyre of this size.

Michelin reports that the new MaxiTrailer tyres are being fitted as original equipment by leading trailer manufacturers including Lohr, Kaessbohere and Rolfo.