Michelin launching X Works severe-condition drive-axle radial

GREENVILLE, S.C. — Michelin North America Inc. has developed what it's describing at its "most aggressive drive-axle tire" for use in the energy sector and logging fleets operating in extreme conditions.

Due for launch Aug. 1 in the U.S. and Canada in 11R24.5/load range H, the Michelin X Works Grip D tire is designed for on- and off-road use for fleets and owner-operators focused on traction to maximize safety, uptime and efficiency.

Michelin said development of the X Works Grip D involved a client-centric co-creation process with drivers in the Grande Prairie, Alberta, area.

Fleets and dealers in the Grande Prairie area were a "major collaborator in helping to accelerate the time to market for this new tire, which boasts exceptional traction to keep users on the road," said Justin Brock, Michelin marketing manager- construction and Tweel segment.

This customer-centric process began in 2015 with conversations between Michelin and dealers and fleets local to Grande Prairie. They provided firsthand feedback during the ensuing two years, including input on 2D- and 3D-tire prints.

The X Works Grip D tire offers three key benefits, Michelin said: "exceptional" traction, casing durability and maximum uptime.

Traction is created by staggered shoulder blocks that provide lateral grip to handle slippery conditions and sawtooth lugs with more than 800 serrated edges that maximize grip on ice and snow-packed surfaces.

Combining an extra-wide tread with an optimized rubber-to-void ratio helps maximize traction without sacrificing mileage, Michelin said.

Casing durability is enhanced through four features:

• Ejectors around the center block that fight stone retention and drilling;
• Shock-, impact- and road-hazard protection through four steel belts at the crown of the tire;
• Extra-thick sidewalls to deter chipping and scaling; and
• Co-extruded tread technology for a cooler-running tread rubber.

To maximize uptime, Michelin optimized the housing design of the tread and the positioning of the shoulder blocks, allowing for a quick and efficient installation and removal of snow-chains.

"Michelin believes in engaging consumers in the process of finding the product solutions for their on- and off-road challenges," Mr. Brock said.

"Fleets that can maximize their uptime have a competitive advantage. Michelin understood that not only are traction and durability prized assets, but that an efficient snow-chain mount and dismount solution is crucial.

"We collaborated with fleets who work in the most extreme conditions to understand their needs. We were able to deliver a design and product that allows them to work efficiently both on and off road, no matter the conditions."