Michelin launches X Multi HD D regional tyre range

Michelin has launched the X Multi HD (heavy-duty) D (drive) tyre in 315/80 R22.5 and 315/70 R22.5 sizes, expanding its range of versatile application commercial vehicle tyres. The manufacturer states the new tyre targets solid bulk, agricultural, and specialist transport operators, including milk collection and animal feed delivery fleets. It is designed to be a robust tyre for versatile applications requiring a high mileage potential and traction.

Michelin adds that the tyre’s launch represents the first time it has offered a dedicated heavy-duty regional drive tyre for operators required to travel on unpaved access roads during the final mile of their collections or deliveries. It is in these situations that operators are most likely to encounter more aggressive surfaces.

Chris Smith, sales director B2B UK and ROI at Michelin, says: “We’ve developed the Michelin X Multi HD D to cater for fleets where more than 80 per cent of their work is on highways and national roads, but where their priority is maximum robustness and resistance to accidental damage from unpaved access roads.

“Regional tread pattern tyres account for more than two-thirds of our total sales in the UK and Irish commercial vehicle tyre markets, and we’ve been gradually expanding the X Multi family to cater for the different needs of operators within this sector. The X Multi HD D gives us what we believe to be the most robust tyre on the market for versatile applications, complimenting the regular X Multi range for fleets where high mileage is the priority, and the X Multi Energy – launched 12 months ago – for businesses where fuel saving is the main focus.”

Technologies boost mileage potential

Michelin claims the X Multi HD D can be run to 1mm on all types of road surface, providing maximal mileage potential in aggressive road conditions. It adds that technologies such as Powercoil – steel casing cables which help to make each tyre lighter yet more robust – have helped it offer better endurance and reduced rolling resistance. The tyre also features optimised robust tread blocks, half depth sipes, and stone ejectors in the tread, which extend its service life protect against damage. A reinforced sipe design provides good resistance to accidental damage and traction by maintaining tread block rigidity.

The Michelin X Multi HD D carries Three Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) and M+S markings, and is suitable for regrooving. The casings will also be accepted by Michelin for retreading. Both sizes are available on the replacement market with immediate effect. The first fitments will be offered as original equipment by major truck manufacturers over the coming months, Michelin adds.