Ipswich Buses has signed a three-year contract with Michelin for the supply, fit and management of all tyres across its bus fleet, along with a small number of coaches.
The deal with Michelin’s Services and Solutions division sees the municipal operator switch from a rival tyre manufacturer. A multi-life policy is part of the business’s considerations and Michelin will fit both new and Remix urban bus tyres predominantly from the X InCity range.
That product has reinforced sidewalls to protect against kerbing and other accidental damage to help reduce wheel interventions and downtime, the supplier says.
Via the multi-life approach, worn tyres are initially regrooved on site by Michelin technicians when tread depth reaches 3-4mm. Once a regrooved tyre has worn, it will be returned to the supplier’s Remix factory in Stoke-on-Trent for retreading. That doubles the casing lifespan and at the same time saves resources and supports UK manufacturing, Michelin adds.
Ipswich Buses Managing Director Dan Bassett says that experience of Michelin tyres in a previous job led him towards the supplier again.
“As the only part of the vehicle that comes into contact with the road, having the right tyre on our buses is absolutely critical,” adds Mr Bassett. “It helps to improve the quality of the ride, the safety of the vehicles, and limits any unnecessary downtime.
“We have been particularly impressed with the Remix product and the overall level of service we have received from the Michelin team has been exemplary. It is a fantastic overall package.”
