Michelin North America is launching a US EPA SmartWay-verified aerodynamic trailer solution kit, Michelin Energy Guard, for use on 53-foot refrigerated and dry-van truckload and other long-haul and super-regional applications.
In addition, the company is introducing the Michelin X One Line Grip D drive tire for fleets looking to maximize driver confidence in harsh weather operating in long-haul and super-regional routes. The X One Line Grip D will meet SmartWay requirements for low-rolling-resistance tires and replaces the Michelin X One XDN2 wide-base single.
With the biggest drag on fuel efficiency occurring at 65 miles per hour, fleets and owner-operators look for aerodynamic solutions that cut fuel costs but do not increase maintenance costs nor require driver attention and costly repairs. Michelin Energy Guard is an easy-to-use, fuel-efficient and aerodynamic solution. Consisting of a resilient trailer skirt, trailer-end fairings, aerodynamic mudflaps and a wake reducer, the integrated kit eliminates the need for “boat tails” or combining elements from various vendors.
The fully integrated Energy Guard kit offers several innovations with its patent-pending design. The resilient trailer skirt integrates with other aerodynamic components, while its advanced technology enables coverage and stiffness without sacrificing durability. This skirt’s flexible design folds out of the way if it strikes an obstacle or debris, while trailer-end fairings direct airflow to the back of the trailer. A wake reducer minimizes the effect of the recirculation zone behind the trailer. Trailer end fairings and wake reducer function automatically—always activated requiring no driver actions. Aerodynamic mudflaps reduce vehicle drag and road spray.
Fleets looking for driver confidence in harsh weather can now depend on the X One Line Grip D. With more than 25% better snow traction, it provides grip that weathers the elements. This tire has a “three-peak mountain snowflake” (3PMSF) designation for use in severe snow conditions. Wide open shoulder grooves help deliver all-weather traction. Available in 445/50R22.5 and 455/55R22.5 sizes, this next-generation wide-base single drive tire will meet SmartWay requirements and is greenhouse-gas regulation compliant. X One Line Grip D allows fleets to carry 389 pounds of additional payload versus dual-wheel applications, critical for weight-sensitive fleets.
Access www.us.michelin.com for more details.
