Michelin Americas Truck Tires a division of Michelin North America Inc., has introduced its Michelin X Multi Energy Z, a regional steer tire that meets U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) SmartWay verified requirements. It will be available in the U.S. and Canadian replacement markets on March 1 in sizes 11R22.5 LRG, 11R22.5 LRH and 275/80R22.5 LRH.
With a 15% reduction in rolling resistance when compared with the Michelin XZE 2 tire, the new tire offers fuel efficiency, longevity and a high degree of overall durability, the company says.
The Michelin X Multi Energy Z is geared for the emerging “super regional” trucking application, which combines line-haul and regional trucking operations, says Paul Johnston, business segment manager. This application requires a tire that can withstand both irregular wear and scrub. The super regional application is emerging due to changing logistical and transportation patterns, the company notes.
The Michelin X Multi Energy Z features a dual compound tread with a mileage layer and a fuel and durability layer. It also has inter-locking, full-depth matrix sipes for traction and even wear; zigzag groove walls that provide biting edges and water and snow evacuation; and sidewall wear indicators for protection against curb damage.
The directional, wide tread distributes force; a groove bottem protector reduces stone drilling for long casing life and a rectangular bead bundle stabilizes the bead region and minimizes fatigue.
The tire has no compromises between fuel efficiency and mileage, says Johnston. It offers the “perfect combination” for fleets when combined with the previously introduced Michelin X Multi Energy D drive tire. The Michelin X Multi Energy Z can be used in all positions. Johnston notes it can be used first as a steer tire and rotated back as needed or as it wears down.
For more information, see www.michelintruck.com.
