The 12-month trial compared a set of 315/70 R 22.5 Michelin X MultiWay 3D XZE all-position and XDE drive tyres against a premium competitor, both fitted to identical MAN TGX 6x2 tractor units.
The results showed the Michelin ‘regional’ tread pattern tyres to be 1.19% more fuel efficient than the competitor’s regional tyres – amounting to a significant saving for the business. In addition, CO2 emissions are reduced by approximately 252 tonnes annually across the fleet.
“It was staggering to see how much fuel can be saved by fitting Michelin tyres,” says Ian Cooper, vehicle maintenance unit manager at Samworth’s Leicester depot.
“The test confirmed that when it comes to tyres, you get what you pay for.”
The trial also demonstrated that Samworth’s Michelin policy means it buys 55 fewer steer axle tyres and 69 fewer drive axle tyres per year. The projected run-out mileage was more than 60,000km greater than the competitor tyres.
Samworth Brothers operates a fleet of 124 Volvo, Scania and MAN tractor units, plus 200 refrigerated Gray & Adams trailers – 56 of which are double-decks. The company currently runs Michelin tyres on 80% of its tractor fleet and 70% of its trailers, and it is now specifying Michelin tyres for all new vehicle orders.