Michelin has launched a new range of high-grip 17.5² 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 Michelin¹s 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).

Extensive pre-launch testing found the X Multi D offers 18 per cent more tyre life than its predecessor and 12 per cent lower rolling resistance for improved fuel consumption. Full-depth sipes offer excellent handling from the first to the last kilometre, whilst new tyre architecture delivers a notable -5dB reduction in noise.

Guy Heywood, Commercial Director of Michelin¹s truck tyre division in the UK and Republic of Ireland, says: "Our biggest challenge was designing a tyre which could offer so many improvements, without compromising performance in other areas. It takes cutting-edge technology to successfully combine all these features ­ we call this Michelin 'total performance'.

"One of the most notable achievements has been making these tyres 50 per cent quieter than the previous generation. This is a major technological breakthrough, particularly given the number of vehicles in this sector which are used extensively in urban environments."