Minicab firm implements full Michelin tyre policy

Increasingly, large fleet operators - whether truck, van or passenger car owners - are taking a closer look at the tyres they use when it comes to calculating costs and clocking up savings.

Latest to take an interest in the topic is London's largest private minicab firm, Addison Lee. Until recently, the company used mid-range tyres on its 4,700 vehicles. After tests, they discovered that premium rubber does last longer, delivering at least eight percent longer life which, on Ford Galaxy models, amounted to a difference of 10,000 miles and even more on their Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

As a result, the company is putting its entire fleet on Michelin tyres with some 3,800 Ford Galaxy, 30 S-Class and 260 E-Class vehicles being fitted with the premium tyres.

Well-know Irish firms that have followed a similar course include Swords-based haulier Dixon International and Annacotty-based Cosgrave Transport. The latter has adopted a Michelin tyre policy across its fleet of 27 trucks and 75 trailers.

According to their managing director, Brian Cosgrove (pictured), in tests, steer tyres needed to be turned on the rim only once during their first life in service, clocking up 220,000 km before needing to be reproved. Tyres are supplied to Cosgrove by Mid-West Tyres who collect the old casings and return them to Michelin for remanufacturing processes.