Volvo FH Aero with MICHELIN X Line Energy tyres sets an 11.25mpg fuel-efficiency record, highlighting performance and long-haul reliability.
Volvo FH Aero Breaks Fuel Efficiency Records
Michelin proudly contributed to Volvo Trucks’ latest record-breaking achievement. The Volvo FH Aero achieved an impressive 11.25 mpg in Commercial Motor magazine’s demanding road test, becoming the first 44-ton truck to reach double figures on the challenging route.
Technicians fitted the Volvo FH Aero 6×2 Globetrotter XL with MICHELIN X Line Energy F 385/55 R22.5 (steer & mid axle) and X Line Energy D2 315/70 R22.5 drive axle tyres. As the truck pulled the trailer, the team equipped it with MICHELIN X Line Energy T 385/65 R22.5 boots.
It was the perfect specification to help the ultra-fuel-efficient Volvo truck surpass the manufacturer’s own previous record by nearly 1.5 mpg and set a new benchmark for real-world fuel economy.
Fuel Efficiency is a Priority for Fleet Operators
Martin Tomlinson, Head of Media, Truck Demonstration & Driver Development at Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland, says,
“For most operators, fuel efficiency is the top priority. The FH Aero features new technologies and industry-leading aerodynamics that can significantly improve a fleet’s profitability. Choosing the right tyres for these trucks is so important to maximise every litre.”
“That’s why MICHELIN X Line Energy tyres are my first choice for our long-haul demonstration fleet. They allow us to travel further using less fuel, while also delivering outstanding safety, handling and long-lasting performance.”
Advanced Truck and Tyre Technology Combine for Maximum Efficiency
Andrew French, B2B Sales Director at Michelin UK & Ireland, says,
“Our ceaseless drive to develop new tyre compounds and technologies is the reason why Volvo Trucks trusts us to perform, and it’s highly satisfying to have played our part in another extraordinary achievement.”
The Swedish manufacturer engineered the Volvo FH Aero for maximum aerodynamic efficiency, making it their most streamlined truck ever. Combined with Volvo’s advanced I-Save powertrain and the I-See predictive cruise control, the FH Aero delivers exceptional performance and drivability while keeping fuel consumption to an absolute minimum.
MICHELIN X Line Energy Tyres Optimise Long-Haul Performance
The MICHELIN X Line Energy tyre range is the perfect companion, designed to deliver maximum fuel economy (or EV battery range) while maintaining longevity and reliable wet-weather performance. Michelin designed the fitments to perform exceptionally well in long-distance transport applications.
Technologies incorporated into the tyres include Regenion, a self-regenerating tread design, and Infinicoil, a continuous steel wire wrapped around the tyre’s circumference to provide greater stability and durability.
Michelin’s X Line Energy range is a ‘multi-life’ product that reduces the cost of ownership. Technicians regroove the tyres once the tread depth reaches 3–4mm. This extends each casing’s life while keeping it in its most fuel-efficient state. When the regrooved tyres wear down, the company retreads them at its Stoke-on-Trent plant as Remix tyres. Technicians can then regroove the Remix tyres to further extend their service life.
The Commercial Motor 477-mile test route offers a comprehensive and transparent assessment of fuel efficiency, combining a demanding real-world mix of operating conditions, including motorway driving, trunk roads and steep gradients.
Real-world fuel performance depends on many factors, including tyre choice, driving speed, use of driver support systems, vehicle specification, vehicle load, topography, the driver’s experience, vehicle maintenance and weather conditions.
