Page 32 - CTB n3 - 2013/3,

PRODUCTS
Michelin Solutions Launches Effifuel
Michelin solutions, the new division of the Michelin Group created with the aim of improving its customers’ fleet efficiency and profit margins, has launched a new fuel efficiency solution, which it claims is unlike any other on the market today.
The EFFIFUELTM solution, which is targeted at both hauliers and own-account operators, is purpose-designed to help customers contain and reduce their fuel costs. It sees Michelin solutions working with fleets to define a contractual commitment based on fuel savings and the resources to be deployed to attain them, with the savings generated by the solution to be shared by the partners.
To help fleets to reduce their fuel consumption Michelin solutions can access an array of services including eco-driving training courses, monitoring of drivers’ at- the-wheel behaviour based on individual eco-scores and the installation of telematics display units to give fleets complete visibility and help them remotely track fuel use. Fuel Analysts from within Michelin solutions can assist in gathering and studying data on the influences of fuel consumption, whilst also optimising tyre management through pence-per- kilometre tyre
pricing with a fitment strategy aimed at reducing fuel consumption. This can include the installation of tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) to improve the safety of the driver, vehicle and its cargo.
“Some of these services already exist individually,” explains Franck Estoquié, Chief Marketing Officer, Michelin solutions. “What’s new is to be able to package them together in the same solution, manage them efficiently and make a long-term commitment.”
The first stage of working with a new fleet will see Michelin solutions conduct a detailed audit of vehicle types, current tyres, itineraries, vehicle operating weights and driver habits, before helping to define an objective efficiency savings target, measured in litres per 100 km. Once a savings structure is in place, Michelin solutions can offer fleets commitments to meet those targets over periods of up to four years.
Throughout the contract period Michelin solutions’ own expert Fuel Analysts conduct in-depth studies and regular fleet reports. “The idea is not to replace fleet managers but to provide them with resources, visibility and advice to optimise their operations and involve us in the process,”
says Estoquié. “If the joint fuel saving goal is met, we share the gains. If it is not, Michelin solutions reimburses a portion of the expenses incurred on a pro rata basis.”
Michelin solutions’ EFFIFUELTM offering is valid for single marque or mixed fleets, and across all brands of truck. The goal is to deploy Michelin solutions in most European countries, including the UK, throughout 2013. Michelin solutions will be deployed in North America, South America and China in 2014 and 2015. While the first solution – EFFIFUELTM – is intended for
truck operators, Michelin solutions will eventually also meet the needs of other fleets, including passenger cars, vans and earthmover equipment. Michelin solutions replaces the division previously known in the UK as Michelin Fleet Solutions, and currently employs more than 800 people globally, and is responsible for more than 500,000 vehicles currently on contract.
Pirelli Adds ST:01 Base to Trailer and Semi-Trailer Line-Up
Pirelli has extended its range of tyres for medium and long haul transport with the addition of
ST:01 Base, a new tyre designed for fitment to trailers and semi- trailers.
Available in two versions - R for mainly regional use and H for predominantly motorway use, the ST:01 Base is claimed to exalt safety and minimise management costs as a result of its energy efficiency, high mileage, remouldability, reduced noise level and use of innovative materials.
The new tyre sits alongside Pirelli’s existing tyres for trailers and semi-trailers, ST:01 Neverending and Formula Trailer and has a benchmark price of 100% compared with 110% for the premium ST:01 Neverending and 85% for
Formula Trailer.
Pirelli says that the compound and structure of the ST:01 Base has been designed to optimise wear and extend tyre life while maintaining reliability and safety. The tread pattern features central grooves that prevent deformation and reduce rolling resistance, while the land-sea ratio has been increased in order to achieve higher mileage and longer life. The tread is also designed to wear evenly and features a zigzag pattern, which prevents stone retention whilst increasing resistance to lateral impacts and other intrusions.
A dual compound bead and Pirelli’s “Hexagonal Bead Wire” HBW technology guarantees
driving comfort along with flexibility and strength. HBW consists of a bead wire that aids retreadability and ensures thermal stability throughout the bead, leading to greater durability.
ST:01 Base is initially available in size 385/65 R22.5, and in the final quarter of 2013 it will also be released in size 385/55 R22.5. The new tyre has been given an ‘A’ label rating for wet grip and ‘B’ for energy efficiency, while external noise is 73 decibels.
32 Commercial Tyre Business