Benefits roll in with new Michelin tyre range16 October 2013

Michelin has launched a range of high-grip 17.5-inch drive axle tyres for medium weight trucks and midi-coaches which, it says, are safer, more fuel-efficient, 50% quieter and more durable than its previous tyres.

The Michelin X Multi D tyres are available in four sizes – 215/75 R 17.5, 225/75 R 17.5, 235/75 R 17.5 and 245/70 R 17.5 – and have been designed to meet environmental, economic and regulatory changes introduced since the previous generation XDE2 tyres were launched, back in 2005.

Under EU tyre labelling legislation, the new drive tyres score 'D' for rolling resistance, 'C' for grip on wet surfaces and produce 69dB of noise (rated one) when rolling.

Designed for 7.5 to 16 tonne commercial vehicles, the new tyres has 3PMSF (3 Peak Mountain Snow Flake) certification – offering better handling in snowy conditions. They also have full-depth sipes for improved handling.

Pre-launch testing found the X Multi D offers 18% more tyre life than its predecessor and 12% lower rolling resistance for improved fuel consumption.

"Our biggest challenge was designing a tyre that could offer so many improvements, without compromising performance in other areas," insists Guy Heywood, commercial director of Michelin's truck tyre division in the UK and Republic of Ireland.

"One of the most notable achievements has been making these tyres 50% quieter than the previous generation," he adds.

The X Multi D range is manufactured in Michelin's factory in Karlsruhe, Germany, and is available on the original equipment and replacement markets.

Author
Laura Cork

Related Companies
Michelin Tyre plc

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