New Michelin solutions division launches with Effifuel

A new division within the Michelin Group dedicated to improving its customers’ fleet fuel efficiency has launched with what it claims is a unique offer for truck and trailer fleets. The Effifuel solution, targeted at both hauliers and own-account operators, is designed to help customers contain and reduce their fuel costs. Through the new initiative Michelin solutions will work with fleets to define a contractual commitment based on fuel savings and the resources to be deployed to attain them. The savings generated by the solution will be shared by the partners.

Michelin solutions explains that it can access an array of services, including eco-driving training courses, monitoring of drivers’ at-the-wheel behaviour based on individual eco-scores and the installation of telematics display units. Fuel analysts from within Michelin solutions can assist in gathering and studying data on the influences of fuel consumption, whilst also optimising tyre management through pence-per-kilometre tyre pricing and a fitment strategy aimed at reducing fuel consumption. This can include the installation of tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) to improve the safety of the driver, vehicle and its cargo.

“Some of these services already exist individually,” explains Franck Estoquié, chief marketing officer, Michelin solutions. “What’s new is to be able to package them together in the same solution, manage them efficiently and make a long-term commitment.”

The first stage of working with a new fleet will see Michelin solutions conduct a detailed audit of vehicle types, current tyres, itineraries, vehicle operating weights and driver habits, before helping to define an objective efficiency savings target, measured in litres per 100 km. Once a savings structure is in place, Michelin solutions can offer fleets commitments to meet those targets over periods of up to four years.

Throughout the contract period Michelin solutions’ own fuel analysts conduct in-depth studies and regular fleet reports. “The idea is not to replace fleet managers but to provide them with resources, visibility and advice to optimise their operations and involve us in the process,” says Estoquié. “If the joint fuel saving goal is met, we share the gains. If it is not, Michelin solutions reimburses a portion of the expenses incurred on a pro rata basis.”

Michelin solutions says this makes the operation risk-free for fleets, and may enable the customer to reduce considerably its vehicle running costs, which in turn has a positive impact on operating margins.

Effifuel is being offered to single marque or mixed fleets, and across all brands of truck. Michelin says it aims to deploy the new unit in most European countries, including the UK, throughout 2013, before moving to North America, South America and China in 2014 and 2015. Michelin solutions also says it wants to launch initiatives to meet the needs of other fleets, including passenger cars, vans and earthmover equipment.

Michelin solutions replaces the division previously known in the UK as Michelin Fleet Solutions, and currently employs more than 800 people globally. It is responsible for more than 500,000 vehicles currently on contract.