Fleet Electrification Progress
Michelin’s Connected Solutions Division (CXS) has powered up its sustainability credentials with the arrival of 19 EVs, as it continues to drive meaningful change across its fleet.
The three Ford Transit Custom and 16 Ford Transit Courier EVs are equipped with MICHELIN Connected Fleet technology to reduce incidents and optimise range.
Michelin is committed to a sustainable future, and the use of telematics data has supported this journey for several years.
Andrew French, B2B Sales Director at Michelin UK & Ireland, says:
MICHELIN Connected Fleet technology has allowed us to improve road safety and driving style through measurement of harsh braking and acceleration, reducing accidents and helping us maximise our fleet utilisation.
Environmental Impact and Tyre Technology
The vehicles replace diesel-powered equivalents and will be used by its team to support customers in the passenger transport sector. The Ford vans were selected after road-testing by Michelin’s team, with the specification and range impressing.
An electric van saves approximately 2.2 tonnes of CO2 a year compared with a diesel equivalent. Michelin estimates the expanded EV fleet will save the equivalent of 79.5 tonnes of CO2 annually*.
The new arrivals are fitted with a mix of the MICHELIN Agilis 3 and the all-season MICHELIN Agilis CrossClimate tyres.
The MICHELIN Agilis 3 is a summer tyre that has improved B-rated rolling resistance compared with its predecessor to deliver reduced fuel consumption/improved range. It features kerb shields – as all the Agilis family does – for protection against sidewall damage. The MICHELIN Agilis CrossClimate fitment has leading dry braking performance and A-rated wet grip for safety. Featuring a unique V-shaped tread with large blocks and wide grooves, it is certified as 3PMSF for traction on challenging surfaces such as mud, gravel and snow.
Future Goals and Driver Training
Following an initial wave of EVs in 2024, 36 of the operational fleet’s 56 vehicles are now EVs. Michelin plans to replace more of its diesel vans during the next year as it transitions to 100% electric energy by 2030.
Michelin held a training day in Stoke-on-Trent to familiarise drivers with their new vans, the onboard technology, and how to charge them with tips on maximising their range through refinements to driving technique.
Each van features an audio-visual light bar that alerts the driver to their driving style and acts as a self-coaching tool. The vans are also fitted with forward and rear facing cameras supplied by MICHELIN Connected Fleet. These monitor the situation outside the vehicle and can provide evidence in the event of an incident, as well as allowing the driver to record a dangerous situation.
The EcoStar Incentive Scheme
Drivers with MICHELIN Connected Fleet equipped vans can also participate in the incentive scheme EcoStar, which rewards safe and economical driving. Measurement includes metrics such as fault accidents, non-speeding fines, complaints from other road users and vehicle inspections.
Drivers start as One Star (High-Quality Driving) and in a nod to the Michelin Guide, can achieve a Two Star - Excellent Driving rating, culminating in a Three Star - Exceptional Driving rating for the very best. Two- and three-star recipients receive vouchers in recognition of their achievements.
*Savings assume that each new EV replaces a diesel equivalent; charging is from the UK grid; a lease period of 48 months/80,000 miles per vehicle with no battery replacements; and a mixture of urban and motorway miles.
