Michelin’s new longer lasting Energy tyre
Michelin have produced new car tyres which promise to be longer lasting and offer improved fuel efficiency as well as shorter braking distances. The Michelin Energy XM2 car tyre last 20 per cent longer than its the Energy XM1.
Intended for use with a variety of sized vehicles, the Energy XM2 comes in 14, 15 and 16 inch wheel sizes. Michelin’s Alternate Bridging Technology works to reinforce the rigidity of the tread blocks so tyre wear is dramatically reduced because they don’t move as freely.
Fuel consumption is reduced by using a full silica compound reduces the friction between the rubber particles. Friction is what produces the heat, so by reducing the friction, less heat is generated and less energy is lost. This lost energy results in the car having to work harder and use more fuel, which is why the Energy XM2 is more fuel efficient.
Silica increases the flexibility of the tyre which means it is better able to adapt itself to the irregularities of the road’s surface and grip onto the road better with less vibration.
As well as the improved chemical composition of the tyres, it’s physical design has been improved. The grooves can now expel up to 20 per cent more water than its predecessor the Energy XM1. This means that more water is evacuated in the same amount of time, and the risk of hydroplaning is reduced.
The French tyre manufacturer, allocates €500 million for research and development each year, keeping them at the forefront of car tyre innovation.