Protyre: driving fleet efficiency with tyre servicing
Protyre/Micheldever, Falken Tyres’ UK distributor, has issued advice for fleet managers on how they can enhance performance and safety through effective tyre servicing.
“In the busy world of commercial vehicle operations, ensuring optimal tyre performance is key to upholding safety, efficiency and cost-effectiveness of fleets – particularly given a truck’s tyres will contribute around 30 per cent to the vehicle’s fuel economy,” said Malc Firkins, head of truck and Agri at Protyre/Micheldever.
“That’s why, when selecting tyres, it’s crucial to choose a solution which has been purposefully designed to meet the specific demands of your operations.
“The market offers various solutions for heavy-duty and commercial vehicles and, once fitted, maintaining them properly will be key to extending their lifespan and, crucially, preventing vehicles being taken off the road because of a failure. Here are five key elements of tyre servicing, that can’t be taken for granted…”
1. Proactive monitoring and inspections
“Research has found that 40 per cent of LCVs had under two millimetres of tyre tread depth in 2023 – up from 30 per cent in 2019,” said Malc.
“Regularly monitoring tyre conditions through visual inspections and pressure checks is the most important – and easiest – way to keep on top of maintenance, with early detection of potential issues preventing unexpected breakdowns and minimising costly downtime for your fleet.”
2. Proper inflation and pressure management
“In the commercial sector, in general, the load per axle is increasing due to several reasons,“ he continued.
“One of them is the limitations imposed on the length and height of vehicle classes, meaning there is a greater load concentrated on the same footprint to meet increases in demand. Regularly checking the pressure in all tyres and adjusting when needed will have a significant impact on fuel efficiency, as tests show that air pressure as little as one bar too low will increase fuel consumption by 2 per cent, while also decreasing the tyre’s service life by approximately 20 per cent. “
3. Regular alignment and rotation
Regular alignment and rotation are essential components of truck tyre servicing, says Malc, contributing significantly to extended lifespan, improved fuel efficiency and overall vehicle safety.
“Proper wheel alignment optimises handling and steering response while rotation can help achieve more uniform tread wear,” he explained.
4. Regular commercial tyre service and maintenance
Regular tyre inspections are crucial to identifying and preventing any defects which could be illegal and dangerous, he adds.
“Trained technicians can examine the tread areas and sidewall of the tyre to best determine the best course of action – be it regrooving, repairing or if the tyre is no longer fit for purpose, replacing.”
5. Understanding the impact on your journey to net zero
“Fuel-efficient tyres are of increasing importance when it comes to reducing the carbon footprint of your fleet, and that’s before we even begin to explore the unique set of demands that accompany electric light commercial vehicles.
“A report by SMMT in 2023 found that five successive quarters of market growth outlined the confidence of HGV operators in renewing their fleets with the latest fuel-efficient trucks. And, as more companies opt to switch to electric and fuel cell-powered vehicles – with electric and hydrogen HGVs representing 0.4 per cent of the market in Q2 – these heavier vehicles put greater load on the tyres, so finding the right product is key.”
6. Picking the right tyre for the conditions and duty cycle
Malc advised: “If you’re looking for a solution that has been purposefully designed to meet the specific needs of various heavy-duty and commercial vehicles, Falken’s range of commercial tyres has got you covered.
“The RI 151, which is a steer axle and trailer tyre, delivers excellent traction and high mileage on dry, wet or snowy roads. Its pattern includes smart stone ejectors and raised elements that prevent stones from lodging in the tyres.
“The BI 856 meanwhile, is the latest in Falken’s drive axle tyres, which provides superior levels of traction in all conditions – featuring a robust casing and benefitting from 3D sipes on its tread blocks that increase its mileage performance and safety.
“Elsewhere, the GI 368, represents the ideal choice for steer and trailer applications in industry sectors with high wear and tear, such as construction. It is suited for extended use on roads as well as heavy-duty use on building sites. It features a cut-proof compound and reinforced shoulders that minimise the risk of damage.”
