Michelin presented its latest generation of green tires, the Michelin Energy Saver, at the Geneva International Motorshow, held March 6-16. The tires were recently certified on Mercedes Class B and C vehicles, bolstering prior certifications on Volvo (C30 Efficiency, S80 and V70), Fiat (500 and Fiorino), Renault (Clio and Twingo) and Toyota (Yaris). The tires represent the fourth generation of Michelin’s green tire line, and were launched in Europe, the Middle East, South Africa and South America beginning in 2008. The tires use highly dispersible silica instead of carbon black in the tread compound to reduce rolling resistance.
By generating fuel savings of nearly 0.2 liters per 100 km in combined city and highway driving*, it reduces CO2 emissions by 4 g per km and the cost of a full tank of gasoline by almost €2.00 (or CHF 3.22)**. As a result, the tire pays for itself in 45,000 km. *ISO test conducted by Germany’s TÜV SÜD Automotive in 2007 on store-bought 175/65 R14, 195/65 R15 and 205/55 R16 tires produced by five major-brand manufacturers. **Based on a diesel-powered vehicle that consumes around 6 liters per 100 km with fuel priced at an average of €1.20 (CHF 1.93) a liter.
Here is the press release.