INDUSTRY NEWS
Michelin Offers New Products and a Partnership with Utility
F
rance-based tire company Michelin introduced several new products that are part of its ongoing sustainability campaign at this year’s American Trucking Association’s Technology and Maintenance Council’s 2023 Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida. Aside from its new tires, Michelin announced that the Energy Guard Lite Skirt Kit is ready and will help reduce fuel costs. The skirt kit’s new integrated rib cover is easy to install, uses three brackets compared with the standard four to five brackets. Its top fairing is compatible with all trailer configurations and doesn’t interfere with or cause damage while docking. It also boasts up to 66% higher ground clearance (15 in. vs. 9 in.) and lighter weight. “This latest edition to the Energy Guard
family is going to mean even more savings to the fleet owners and drivers on the road today who want a concise, lower-maintenance SmartWay solution,” said Karen Schwartz, B2B VP of marketing for Michelin North America. “This latest addition to fleet accessories is expected to reduce overall operational costs, saving up to 7.2 gallons for every 1,000 miles driven when paired with a 53-ft. box trailer.”
that value optimal fuel efficiency leading to improved total cost of ownership.”
Among its inventory of tires, Michelin introduced X Line Energy Z+, the newest addition to the company’s long haul product line which was launched in 2016.
“The 18/32-in.-deep tread design of the Michelin X Line Energy Z+ tire features Regenion technology, and an evolving tread design allows additional tread grooves to develop at lower tread depths,” Schwartz said.
“The Michelin X Line Energy Z+ tire’s enhanced durability and traction means you can drive with complete confidence as the miles continue to accrue on your fleet,” said Schwartz. “This product will not replace the X Line Energy Z but is an additional offer for those long-haul fleets
The Energy Z+ offers Infinicoil and Regenion sculpture technology. Infinicoil features continuous steel wire wrapped around the tire circumference to improve stability throughout the life of the tire. Regenion uses metal 3D printing to improve tread design and increase wear and grip.
Later this year, Michelin plans another offering in the X Line with a 295/75R22.5 LRH size. The tire will be part of the U.S. Department of Energy SuperTruck II Program in collaboration with Daimler Truck North America. In addition, the company announced a partnership with dry van, reefer, and flatbed provider Utility Trailer. The collaboration’s first product is the Energy Guard Mud Flap which will be standard for all of Utility’s refrigerated trailers starting in late summer. The accessory, also available for dry vans, is designed to reduce fuel and maintenance costs. "Michelin's Energy Guard Mud Flap coupled with Utility's Side Skirt and optional Trailer Tail is designed to help meet Utility's goal of making our refrigerated trailer the most aerodynamic and efficient refrigerated trailer on the market," said Steve Bennett, Utility president. "For additional fuel savings, Utility now offers a 36-lb. aluminum wheel that has an optional aerodynamic wheel cover as a retrofit option that can be provided by your local Utility dealer," added Bennett.
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April - June 2023
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