Arriva North West says certainty of supply, together with Michelin’s high-quality product and in-house expertise were behind its decision to switch back to the tyre manufacturer.
Arriva North West Reports Immediate Benefits with Michelin Tyre Contract
After a period of time with a rival supplier, the bus operator – which runs services in North West England and North Wales – has signed a five-year contract with the Michelin Services & Solutions division.
The agreement will see Michelin supply and fit predominantly MICHELIN X InCity EV Z tyres – its first range designed specifically for electric vehicles, but which also deliver outstanding performance for traditional buses – to its 880-strong fleet.
Another section of the fleet on 19.5” wheels are to be fitted with MICHELIN X Multi Z2 tyres, which offer robustness and damage resistance in an urban environment.
With Arriva UK Bus’ six other regional operators already on Michelin contracts, the deal ensures that all the company’s 4,000-plus vehicles are now running on Michelin tyres.
Ian Jones, Head Of Procurement at Arriva UK Bus, says; “With pressure on the supply chain in a challenging market, we wanted to ensure certainty of branded rubber for our Arriva North West buses, and we’ve made a successful move back to Michelin.
“Michelin has managed the transition from our previous supplier very smoothly and delivered on its promises.
“They have provided new tyre fitting equipment at our 15 depots across the North West and North Wales, as well as new tyre inflation cages which has enhanced health and safety.”
Jones adds; “Having Michelin’s tyre technicians providing the services creates greater control and inspires confidence that our tyre strategy is in safe hands.”
Under the new contract, Arriva North West is utilising Michelin’s multi-life policy. Once the tyres are worn, the fitments are regrooved and retreaded as Michelin Remix tyres and fitted to the rear wheels of the company’s buses to maximise the performance from each new Michelin casing.
With the low rolling resistance of the Michelin tyres, Arriva North West is making fuel consumption savings and reducing environmental impact.
Commenting on Michelin’s service, Jones adds: “We’re very happy with the added value they offer. The technical support is excellent, and we are looking at some other continuous improvements we can make to help the efficiency of our fleet as we continue to transition from diesel to electric.”
Arriva North West is already specifying MICHELIN X InCity EV Z tyres on all its new electric vehicles. Offering safety, longevity and load capacity benefits, the tyres can also help bus operators to cut CO2 emissions.
