Drogheda dealer joins Michelin MAP network

Independent Drogheda dealership Sean McManus Tyres has become the 21st tyre retailer to join the Michelin Auto Professional (MAP) dealer network in Ireland and will now display Michelin Certified Centre signage across its site - to reflect Michelin’s seal of approval, writes Trish Whelan.

As a MAP advocate dealership, Sean McManus Tyres will enjoy advantages including access to free on-site staff training and participation in Michelin’s mystery shopper programme. It will also receive a full audit of its digital presence - with expert advice from the Michelin team on maximising all online opportunities.

Commenting, Julie McManus (pictured), Manager at Sean McManus Tyres, says: “We believe in the quality of Michelin products and stand behind them as offering long-lasting performance and maximum safety. Being invited to join the network is a huge achievement for us and we take great pride in being accepted.”

Established in the 1960s, Sean McManus Tyres is an independently owned, family-run business. It provides a full range of tyres to suit all budgets, plus offers free tyre checks, puncture repairs and a 24-hour emergency roadside service. 

New summer/winter tyre from Michelin

Michelin has launched a CrossClimate tyre which is designed to be used in both summer and winter conditions, writes Brian Byrne.

The tyre is claimed to be the first summer tyre to be independently certified for winter use.

Although we don’t get the summer/winter extremes which pertain in mainland Europe countries, changes in temperature can mean that ordinary summer tyres are not as safe in winter even here.

In cold weather, a standard summer tyre’s composition will harden, meaning the tread will not grip as well. This applies at varying rates below 7degC, a temperature which is common even in an Irish winter.

In some countries, like Germany, motorists are required to change to winter tyres after a certain date. In other countries, where there aren’t such rules, most drivers don’t bother.

The CrossClimate tyre can mean not having to think summer/winter. It uses an innovative compound that grips the road in all conditions; an energy-efficient, under-tread layer with low heat build-up properties; and a unique ‘V’- pattern tread with varying ‘vee’ angles and self-locking, variable-width sipes that act like claws in snow to enhance traction.

Two Irish tyre fitters graduate from Michelin Academy

Two Irish tyre fitters from a group of nine technicians have become the first to graduate from Michelin's new Tyre Academy after a year of theoretical and practical learning.

Dion McKay from Nolan's Tyres, Ballon, Co Carlow, and Andy Cummins from A One Tyres, Dromore, Co Down, both Michelin Certified Centres, spent time in specialist workshops at Michelin's training centre in Stoke-on-Trent, learning about the technology that goes into making the tyres and how to deliver the highest levels of customer care.

As part of the course, designed to maximise the career potential of promising fitters, they also visited the Michelin factory in Dundee, which produces seven million car tyres each year, before being invited to test Michelin tyres on the Silverstone track.

Andy Cummins and Dion McKay are rewarded with a Porsche Driving Experience after graduating.

Michelin receives two major awards

Michelin has received two major awards from the Tyre Technology Expo in Cologne, writes Trish Whelan.

These awards were for 'Tyre manufacturer of the Year' and the 'Tyre Technology of the Year'. Both were bestowed on the Company by a panel of industry judges from around the world.

Michelin has spent over €600m a year on research and development. The 'Tyre Technology of the Year' accolade was given in recognition of their EverGrip technology used in their Premier A/S all-season tyre (pictured).

Its rain grooves widen as the tyre wears, reducing the risk of aquaplaning while 'extreme amounts of silica in the EverGrip compound ensure exceptional wet grip for everyday handling'.

Michelin working to consign punctures to history

Puncture problems could soon become a thing of the past when technology being developed by Michelin comes into popular use.

The tyre maker demonstrated the effectiveness of its Selfseal technology at its recent Challenge Bibendum event in China. In that country, motorists experience a puncture on average every 5,700 miles compared to Europe where the average is one every 48,000 miles. Selfseal works when a thin layer of rubber compound inside the tyre surrounds the area where a puncture has occurred to plug the hole, maintain pressure and prevent air from escaping.

Michelin has also started mass production of its Tweel - an airless tyre that comprises flexible, deformable polyurethane spokes that criss-cross between a fixed hub and the outer casing. Production will be confined to agricultural and commercial applications initially.

Michelin is putting Tweel into production

Tweel — a radial tyre for commercial and agricultural applications that runs without air — is going into production at a new Michelin plant in the United States.

Combining the words ‘tyre’ and ‘wheel’, Tweel was conceived by Michelin research engineers during their search to find an alternative to the pneumatic tyre.

First introduced as a concept at the 2004 Paris Motor Show, Tweel consists of a non-pneumatic tyre and wheel assembly made in one solid unit with an outer moulded tread connected to an inner rim structure by a series of energy-absorbing polyurethane ‘spokes’.

Restricted to commercial and agricultural applications initially, it is designed to solve what Michelin describes as the ‘unavoidable challenge’ of chronic flat tyres. Experts believe the Tweel could become a common fitment on family cars.

It is being produced at Michelin’s newest plant at Piedmont, South Carolina — their 10th manufacturing facility in South Carolina and their 16th in the United States.

Michelin urges Irish motorists to be extra diligent

Tyre manufacturer Michelin is urging Irish motorists - north and south - to be extra diligent in ensuring that their tyres are properly inflated and maintained in good condition.

In a recent 'Fill Up With Air' promotion hosted by the company at four Irish sites - Galway, Naas, Dungarvan and Ballymena - motorists were given a free air pressure and tyre check, the results of which showed that one in every three vehicles was found to have tyres that were deemed to be 'dangerously' or 'very dangerously' underinflated.

Pressures between 7psi and 14psi below the manufacturer's recommendation are classified as 'dangerous' by Michelin while 15psi and below underinflation falls into the 'very dangerous' category.

In Naas, 90 vehicles presented for checking of which only 20 percent passed muster. Of the remainder, a huge 42 percent had tyres that were ranked 'dangerous' or 'very dangerous'. A marginally better picture emerged in Galway where 31 percent of vehicles had tyres that were correctly inflated with 32 percent falling into the 'dangerous' and 'very dangerous' category, while Dungarvan saw 46 percent of vehicles falling inside the 'dangerous' or 'very dangerous' categories.

In stark contract, of the 158 vehicles that presented in Ballymena, an encouraging 44 percent had tyres that were correctly inflated.

Martin Stuart, events manager for Michelin in the UK and Ireland said "We run these Fill Up With Air events to highlight just how important it is to look after your tyres. Underinflated tyres are dangerous - control and braking distances are harmed, and the risk of skidding, aquaplaning, punctures and blow-outs increases significantly.

"Underinflated tyres also use a lot more fuel, so making sure they are at the correct pressure and in good condition saves money and lives. I would urge Irish motorists to know the correct tyre pressures for their vehicles and to check their tyres regularly."

Michelin launches new trailer tyre

Michelin has launched the 385/65 R 222.5 size version of its X Multi T trailer tyre across Europe. It replaces the XTE3 which sold four million in Europe since its launch in 2007.

Popular with trailer makers and fleet operators alike, the X Multi T increases mileage potential by 10 percent compared to its predecessor. It embodies new 'Carbion' technology, a rubber compound that lowers operating temperature by 6 degrees C, reduces rolling resistance, cuts fuel consumption by 0.7 litres per 100kms, and C02 emissions.

Given that trailer tyres are responsible for almost half of the braking performance on a fully-loaded articulated vehicle, its tread pattern is designed for effective water dispersal and even wear.

Its groove design and longer ridges contribute to it being marked M+S (mud and snow), indicating its suitability for winter conditions. It also achieves a 'B' label rating for wet grip and rolling resistance, plus an external noise measurement of 69dB.

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.

I-Spy Michelin

Back seat passengers pleats note: thanks to Michelin Tyres the days of long boring car journeys may be over.

By selecting any one of its Michelin I-Spy spotter guides, young back seat passengers, and adults too, need never again be stuck for something to do.

Each book in the 60-book series contains up to 200 colour illustrations which readers are asked to I-Spy, the aim being to tick each object off as it is seen and score points for every correct answer.

Readers can challenge their friends to see who can I-Spy the most objects or, by collecting 1,000 points or more, join the I-Spy club and apply online for a certificate of achievement.

Details of the 64-page books can be viewed online at <http://www.ispymichelin.com>

Michelin Tyre boosts Port productivity

Michelin has revealed details of their new X-Straddle 2 - an innovative new tyre developed exclusively for straddle carriers that could increase marine terminal productivity by more than 30 percent.

Designed with protective belts on the sidewalls that make it more resistant to punctures and shearing and a narrower groove pattern that reduces the risk of objects lodging in the tread, the company say the X-Straddle 2 is safer and more robust than the tyre it replaces.

In operational terms, it delivers improved productivity, thanks to a 17 percent increase in top speed (up from 30 to 35 km/h), a 25 percent increase in per-hour distance (up from 12 to 15 km/h) and a 7 percent higher load carrying capacity (from 14 to 15 tonnes per tyre).

Other improvements can be seen in grip, handling and stability and in a 15 percent increase in its useful life, thanks to its innovative new dual-compound tread with grooves that help guard against heat build-up.

A wear indicator visible on the shoulders, greater operator comfort due to reduced vibrations and easier fitting during tyre maintenance and change operations are amongst its other features.

Michelin increases network in Ireland

Michelin has increased the number of tyre specialists in Ireland whose outlets have been granted Michelin Certified Centre status, writes Trish Whelan.

Latest to have the standard of his service recognised by the tyre maker is Co Cork-based specialist Jim O'Hanlon whose O'Hanlon tyres business comprises two retail outlets, one at the company's head office in Millstreet and the other at Tralee Road, Castleisland, Co Kerry.

They join a nationwide network of 15 tyre retailers - 12 in the Republic of Ireland and three in Northern Ireland - who hold Michelin Certified Centre status.

Others are: Simon Allen (Global Tyres Carrickmacross and Dundalk); Robert Ferguson (Discount Tyres, Blanchardstown and Naas Tyre & Auto Services); Phil Flynn (Dungarvan Tyre Centre); Thom Fox (Ballinasloe Tyre Centre); Robert Frazer (Carryduff Tyres); Eamonn Gleeson (Eamonn Gleeson Tyres, Cahir); Wilson Mackey (A One Tyres, Dromore); Michael McGrath (Safeway Tyres, Ennis); Patsy Meyler (Meyler's Tyres Wexford); Cormac Nolan (Nolan tyres, Ballon, Co Carlow); and Alistair Simpson (Tyre Safety Centre, Cookstown).

Their achievements were recognised at a recent Michelin Certified Centre Business Seminar held in Mullingar, hosted by Michelin UK and Ireland Head of Distribution, Martyn Pointer, at which best practice, business trends and issues facing the tyre industry were discussed. The company intend growing the number of their Certified Centre dealers, north and south, by 2015.

They are the only tyre producer to operate a tyre manufacturing facility in Ireland with their bus and truck tyre production plant in Ballymena.

Pictured with Michelin's Martyn Pointer (seated centre) at the event were the successful Michelin Certified Centre dealers. They are (standing left to right) - Robert Ferguson, Michael McGrath, Jim O'Hanon, Cormac Nolan, Patsy Meyler, Thom Fox and Simon Allen. Seated are Jean Chambers (A One Tyres, Dromore) and Eamon Gleeson.

Michelin launches nationwide breakdown service

Michelin is introducing a new 24/7 breakdown service for truck, bus and coach operators which uses audited and approved Michelin Certified Centres to provide comprehensive nationwide coverage across both the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

The new Michelin ONCall service was officially launched yesterday, on the opening day of the CV Show in Birmingham. The company claims "No job is too big or too small, and our UK-based call centre team will keep the customer informed every step of the way.

"Fleets benefit from competitive fixed pricing, a two hour response window and Michelin policy fitment rates which will exceed 90 percent. Additional benefits for ONCall customers include a 12 month guarantee on all new Michelin tyres fitted, full access to their individual Michelin Remix casing bank and 30-day payment terms."

All invoicing is processed centrally by Michelin, which ensures a customer will be invoiced directly by their local dealer, regardless of where in the UK or Ireland the job was carried out.

To register for the Michelin ONCall service, customers should contact their local Michelin account manager or email michelin.oncall@uk.michelin.com. More information on www.trucks.michelin.co.uk.

Proper pressure saves you money - Michelin

According to tyre maker Michelin, motorists who want to keep their cash in their pocket and not waste money need look no further than the wheels of their car.

They explain that because an averagely under-inflated tyre uses roughly three per cent more fuel to force its way along the road, a driver could be wasting up to €100 a year or more all for the sake of keeping their tyres pumped up.

Ideally, Michelin recommends that drivers check their tyre pressure every month, and before each long journey.

A survey last year found that many drivers didn't know the correct tyre pressure for their car while a huge percentage relied on a partner or mechanic to check the pressure.

Michelin issues Yule tyre appeal

Parents of new drivers are being urged to consider buying tyres for their children this Christmas.

Michelin made the call after research by TyreSafe concluded that young drivers are at greater risk of being involved in a tyre-related accident than older motorists. The survey found that more than a third of drivers aged between 18 and 25 had never checked their tread depth, and two thirds hadn't checked their tread within the last month.

In addition, a quarter confessed they had never checked their tyre pressures.

Michelin is now calling on parents to help their children stay safe on the road. The company say while the research was carried out in the UK, they would be amazed if the same patters didn't apply to young drivers in Ireland. "Ignoring tyre maintenance cost lives," they warn adding that "Drivers who have passed their test this year may well be asking parents for upgraded in-car entertainment equipment or other accessories this Christmas, but parents should look at their children's tyres and ask if they are up to the job or are they putting new drivers at risk?"

Parents can check which tyres are suitable for their children's vehicles by using Michelin's tyre selector at www.michelin.co.uk

Michelin launch new range of 17.5" tyres

Michelin has launched a new range of high-grip 17.5” drive axle tyres for medium weight trucks and midi-coaches which are safer, more fuel-efficient, quieter and last longer than the XDE2 tyres they replace.

The all-new Michelin X Multi D tyres have been developed at the Michelin Technology Centre in Clermont-Ferrand, France, specifically to ensure end users can focus on their business, having complete peace of mind in their tyre choice.

Available in four sizes – 215/75 R 17.5, 225/75 R 17.5, 235/75 R 17.5 and 245/70 R 17.5 – the new X Multi D marks Michelin’s response to environmental, economic and regulatory changes which have been introduced since the previous generation Michelin XDE2 tyres were launched in 2005.

Michelin designed this drive tyre from the outset to keep 7.5 to 16 tonne commercial vehicles in service year-round on all types of road and in all weather conditions. As a result, the X Multi D is the only truck tyre on the market in these four sizes to give customers the added reassurance of 3PMSF (3 Peak Mountain Snow Flake) certification – awarded following tests in defined snowy conditions, ensuring better handling on snow-covered roads than tyres which are simply labelled M+S (Mud and Snow).

Vehicle growth inflates tyre choice

Growth in the variety of cars and vans being manufactured, and the number of different wheel options available for each model - all requiring a greater range of load and speed ratings - has led to a significant increase in the choice of tyres now available on the market.

At Michelin alone, the number of car and van tyre sizes and the ranges available has doubled from 400 to 800 in the last 10 years - an outcome also brought about by developments in tyre technology. In addition, the company has a further 275 lines of cold weather tyres available.

Michael is advising motorists with a specific brand requirement to book their tyre fitting appointments in advance rather than arrive unannounced.

Paul Cordle, Michelin PR Manager for UK and Ireland says: "When buying tyres, motorists should never mix-and-match or take pot luck. By arranging a fitting appointment in advance, they can be sure to get their preferred tyre brand in the size required."

Check those tyres

Six in ten motorists drive with tyres that are underinflated, according to tyre manufacturer Michelin which is currently advising Irish motorists to be sure and get a grip this winter.

According to experts at Michelin, cold weather can affect a tyre’s pressure because as air temperature drops, so does tyre pressure.

Also, with normal tyres, low temperatures can harden the tread, reducing grip on slippery surfaces so much so that, during winter, when temperatures drop below 7degC, the advice is to fit tyres designed specifically for winter conditions. These have rubber compounds that remain flexible to improve grip and braking performance.

Michelin tyre checks 'saved €11,000'

The work of Michelin's 'Fill Up With Air' tour of Ireland during the summer is estimated to have saved 700 motorists some €11,000.

The five-location tour checked the motorists' tyres and found that more than 60 percent of cars checked had low pressures, resulting in reduced fuel economy and increased tyre wear.

Michelin suggests that if all motorists made sure their tyres are at the right pressure, it could save €30 million a year on fuel and reduce national CO2 emissions by 58,000 tonnes.

Correct tyre pressures also have an important role in road safety.

Nationwide Michelin tyre checks

A Michelin team of tyre expert started off a countrywide tour yesterday at the Topaz Filling Station in Dublin Docks, giving motorists a free check of their tyres' pressure, tread legality and general conditions.

With the ability to check up to 200 cars a day, in the first 23 cars tested yesterday the team found one tyre punctured, four cars with illegal tyre tread depths, and 'numerous' instances of low pressures.

Apart from the safety considerations, low pressures cost motorists dearly in excessive fuel consumption, up to €27 million annually, it has been estimated in the case of the Republic of Ireland alone.

The 'Fill Up With Air' tour hits Topaz Clondalkin today (24th), Galway on the 27th, Limerick on the 28th, Cork on the 29th, and finishes in Waterford on September 30th.