Michelin Off-Road X Force Range Expands with Launch of X Force ZL

Operators of military and civilian all-terrain trucks, including airport fire tenders, can enjoy a payload advantages with Michelin’s new X Force ZL – off-road, deep tread tyres with the highest tyre load-carrying capacity on the market.

Designed for commercial vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of 7-13 tonnes, the new X Force ZL 335/80 R 20 tyres have a load capacity of 3,350kg per tyre – an increase of 775kg over the previous generation, and at least 100kg more than competing products.

Michelin X Force ZL tyres allow payloads to increase by up to 400kg-plus per vehicle, without compromising the tyres’ speed rating of up to 68mph (110kph), and while still providing great performance in the challenging off-road conditions faced by forestry, utility and fire services. 

The tyre range’s damage resistance capabilities have also been enhanced with a new casing construction and reinforced crown area, while a series of 1mm-deep trapezoidal blocks in the shoulder and sidewall give additional support and protection, without compromising casing flexibility.

As the requirements of Euro VI emissions legislation leads to increased vehicle weight for civilian trucks, and military vehicles get heavier due to increased armour, operators have a considerable payload challenge to overcome, while still ensuring maximum mobility in extreme off-road conditions. Guaranteed mobility is essential – and immobilisation can be very costly.

The new X Force ZL meets all these challenges, providing run-flat capabilities exceeding the military protocol test requirements, by achieving more than four hours of continued mobility and a distance of more than 62 miles.