Record mileage performance for long distance owner-driver

(Stoke-on-Trent – February 2, 2006) - Carlisle based owner-driver Keith Simpson has just replaced the original drive axle tyres on his Volvo FH12 tractor unit after an impressive 616,000 km.

The Michelin 295/80 R22.5 XDE2 tyres recorded this performance during the first life of the brand new tyres, followed by a regroove which ensured an additional 20 per cent mileage. The regrooving also extended the tyres most fuel efficient state, in line with Michelin’s Stop Thirsty Tyres Campaign.

Keith Simpson, explains: “The vehicle is double shifted and covers approximately 1,370 km per day, operating from Carlisle to Leicester during the day and trunking from Carlisle to Crick by night.
“We fit Michelin because the performance characteristics have a direct impact on our bottom line, in terms of each tyre’s longevity and proven fuel economy,” he adds.

Keith Simpson operates a fleet of three trucks, with the tyres managed by the local HiQ branch in Carlisle. They are responsible for carrying out weekly visual checks of each tyre, plus monthly pressure checks to ensure correct tyre inflation.

The impressive mileage recorded on the Michelin tyres is particularly notable, since the Volvo FH12 was one of the first vehicles to be delivered with the automated I-Shift gearbox. The vehicle typically operates at 30 tonnes, in conjunction with a mixture of refrigerated trailers.

The three vehicles in the company’s fleet operate primarily on Michelin XZE2 and XDE2 tyres, which are designed for medium haul operations, returning the best performance across a mixture of motorway and A and B road use.