Joint Volvo-Michelin study highlights importance of wheel and tyre choices in cutting CO2
Tue 03 January 2012
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Recent research by truck maker Volvo and tyre manufacturer Michelin shows that having the right tyres, tyre pressure and wheel alignment can reduce fuel consumption - and therefore CO2 emissions - by up to 15%. The resulting savings, they say, could be as much as €8,000 per vehicle per year.
The test process was independently verified by the Technical Research Institute of Sweden to ensure strict adherence to scientific protocol. Analysis of the test results reveals that there can be a difference of as much as 14.5% in fuel consumption depending on how the wheels are aligned and equipped. Choice of tyre can cut consumption by as much as 11%; correct tyre inflation brings a reduction of 1%, while optimal wheel alignment can cut fuel consumption by 2.5%.
Arne-Helge Andreassen, business area manager for tyres and wheel alignment at Volvo Trucks' Aftermarket Department, stated: "There is a lack of awareness in the transport industry about the importance of checking tyres and wheel alignment on both the truck and the trailer."
Michelin's Technical Account Manager, Jacques de Giancomoni, explained that one-third of fuel consumption stems from the tyres’ rolling resistance. “Having the right tyres is of paramount importance, and checking tyre pressure – which has a significant effect on fuel consumption – is also important,” he said.
In related news and with EU regulation on tyre labelling at point of sale becoming mandatory on all car, van and light truck tyres from November 2012, the Campaign for Better Tyres has announced that it is to focus on public sector fleets.
The charity says it will use freedom of information requests to investigate public sector policy on tyres among fleets. The Campaign says that the information will be used to encourage public sector authorities to make the necessary improvements.
The Campaign also calls for drivers to ensure that their tyres are correctly inflated with the right amount of tyre tread depth and the correct wheel alignment. The next and final phase of the campaign will centre around individual consumers, raising awareness of the new EU tyre label and the benefits of good maintenance.
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