Michelin's new durable technologies make CV Show debut

Michelin is using the occasion of the Commercial Vehicle Show 2006 to display a number of new tyres in its range, including a preview of the 315/80 R22.5 XDN2 Grip, due for launch in the UK this autumn.

Incorporating Michelin’s new Durable Technologies, which represent radical breakthroughs in tyre manufacturing and design, the XDN2 Grip will offer consistently high levels of traction throughout its life, without compromising mileage potential. This is achieved using a self-regenerating tread pattern which opens up new patented raindrop sipes when the tyre is two thirds worn, offering similar grip levels to that of a new tyre.

“Tests have shown the XDN2 Grip offers up to a 30 per cent increase in traction in wet conditions and a 25 per cent increase in mileage potential, compared with the previous XDN tyre,” says Paul Kendrick, Michelin’s truck product marketing manager. “This makes it particularly suited for fitment to vehicles requiring extra traction in areas of the country with difficult climatic conditions.”

Joining the line-up of new products at the NEC will be the latest addition to Michelin’s truck tyre range, the 275/70 R 22.5 XTA2 trailer tyre. Manufactured specifically for fitment to car transporters, it offers a six per cent increase in load carrying capacity combined with a 4cm increase in available space due to its innovative design, making it ideal for the needs of the car transportation sector where vehicles carried are getting longer and heavier. These improvements are made possible thanks to a reduction in the section width of the tyre, which will enable easier and faster loading of vehicles, therefore helping to reduce operators’ overheads.

Also being displayed at the NEC for the first time will be the 295/80 R 22.5 XDA2+, the latest evolution of the popular XDA2 tyre range. Benefiting from a new shoulder design, this Michelin tyre has a greater resistance to damage and its modified tread pattern offers up to a seven per cent improvement in grip compared with its predecessor.

Michelin will also be displaying tyres from its RemiX and Encore product range, and using the Show to raise awareness of its Stop Thirsty Tyres campaign, which aims to help operators improve fuel economy through better tyre management (www.stopthirstytyres.com).