Michelin’s Connected Solutions Division (CXS) has added 19 electric vehicles to its fleet, which will be used to support customers in the passenger transport sector.
The three Ford Transit Custom and 16 Ford Transit Courier EVs are equipped with MICHELIN Connected Fleet technology to reduce incidents and optimise range and are fitted with a mix of the MICHELIN Agilis 3 and the 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. The MICHELIN Agilis CrossClimate fitment has leading dry braking performance and A-rated wet grip for safety.
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.
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.
