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03/01/2012
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Recent research by Volvo and tyre manufacturer Michelin shows that a quick and simple measure can have a big impact on emissions, without the need for major outlay or new ways of working.
 Checking and correcting the tyre pressures and wheel alignments on commercial vehicles are the keys.
The study shows that having the right tyres, tyre pressure and wheel alignment can reduce fuel consumption – and therefore CO2 emissions – by up to 15%.
And if the environmental incentive is not enough, in financial terms that could turn into a saving up to €8,000 (£6,650) per vehicle per year.
"We know that wheel alignment, tyre type and tyre pressure all have a major impact on fuel consumption," says Arne-Helge Andreassen, business area manager for tyres and wheel alignment at Volvo Trucks' aftermarket department.
"However, there is a lack of awareness in the transport industry about the importance of checking tyres and wheel alignment on both the truck and the trailer," he adds.
"At our dealers, we can help haulage companies check the entire combination and correct any problems. If everyone did this, it would have a significant impact on carbon dioxide emissions," says Andreassen.
For the study, a range of tests were carried out on a track and in a workshop under the watchful eye of SP (the Technical Research Institute of Sweden).
The trucks were equipped not only with fuel gauges, but also with special instruments that monitored exact speed, tyre wear, tyre pressure and rolling resistance. Test engineers made adjustments in the test results for factors such as wind, rain and temperature.
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Author
John Challen
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