Iveco opts for 70-series tyres on new tractor units

Iveco has standardised on 315/70 R 22.5 tyres for new Euro VI tractor units entering service in the UK after seeing the fuel-saving potential of 70-series rubber compared with the 295/80 R 22.5 fitments previously favoured in the UK. Trials in conjunction with Michelin and a major Iveco national fleet customer recorded a 3.87 per cent improvement in fuel economy between two identical Stralis AT440S46TX/P vehicles shod with the two different sizes of tyres.

The trial compared Michelin’s current generation of fuel-saving tyres over the same 299km route for two days, with both vehicles operating at 44 tonnes in conjunction with tri-axle curtainside trailers. Martin Flach, Product Director of Iveco UK, says: “Our decision to standardise on 70-series tyres at Euro VI was largely due to this test result, combined with similar testing we undertook at Millbrook.

“Our Euro VI Stralis range has been fine-tuned to maximise efficiency and reduce total cost of ownership for operators, right down to the tyres we fit in the factory.” Guy Heywood, Commercial Director of Michelin’s truck division in the UK, adds: “Even operators who have long-favoured 295/80 R 22.5 tyres are now considering a change in their tyre buying habits to reduce running costs. Iveco’s decision to standardise on 315/70 R 22.5 tyres simply reflects its commitment to offering the most fuel-efficient vehicles to customers.” Michelin’s fuel saving ‘Energy’ tyres offer the optimum fitment solution for fleets operating primarily on motorways and major trunk roads, where vehicles cover in excess of 110,000 km a year at average speeds greater than 70 km/h and with limited stops per day.

Its 315/70 R 22.5 X Line Energy tyres combine Michelin’s lowest rolling resistance truck tyres to-date with an exceptionally long tyre life. Under EU tyre labelling, the 315/70 X Line Energy Z (multi-position) is rated ‘B’ for rolling resistance and wet grip, whilst the 315/70 X Line Energy D (drive) is rated ‘B’ for rolling resistance and ‘C’ for wet grip. This impressively low rolling resistance in no way diminishes these tyres’ other performance characteristics, such as impressive braking, a comfortable ride and precision steering. pg