Independent parcel carrier Yodel is rolling out a new generation of tyres designed to maximise the safety and mobility of its delivery vans in all weathers, including on dry, wet, icy and snow-covered roads.
Michelin Agilis CrossClimate tyres will initially be fitted across Yodel’s fleet of 550 Mercedes-Benz Sprinters, directly supporting the firm’s ability to deliver on-time to every UK postcode.
Their introduction forms part of a new three-year fully-managed Effitires contract with Michelin, which also covers Yodel’s 1,326 rigid trucks, tractor units and trailers – which will all continue to run on premium Michelin tyres.
Ian Leonard, Head of Fleet Operations at Yodel, says: “Every year we deliver more than 145 million parcels, peaking in the build-up to Christmas when our drivers can face some of the worst weather conditions. Safe mobility is paramount to keeping our promises to customers, so when Michelin introduced us to its new Agilis CrossClimate tyres, we were keen to put them to the test.
“Following a series of trials, we knew we wanted them fitted as standard across our Sprinter fleet. We’re confident they will give us a genuine competitive advantage, backed up by the great service we’ve become accustomed to since switching to a Michelin contract three years ago.”
Andrew French, Michelin’s Director of Services and Solutions for the UK, Ireland and Nordics, explains: “Yodel’s adoption of these tyres follows similar decisions taken by several major NHS Ambulance Trusts – where safe mobility 24/7/365 is essential, no matter what the conditions.”
Michelin Agilis CrossClimate tyres stand out for their rugged tread pattern which features new rubber compounds to promote flexibility in cold temperatures. This performance has earned them Three Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) certification, confirming their suitability for use on snow-covered roads.
The tyres also have enhanced sidewall and shoulder protection for improved robustness – making them perfect for vehicles on multi-drop delivery routes where there is an increased risk of kerb damage. Plus they offer long-lasting performance and high mileage potential, to support sustainability goals.
French concludes: “Yodel operates one of the hardest working fleets in the country, placing significant demands on its vehicles and tyres to deliver day-in, day-out. This was a fantastic contract to win three years ago, and we’re pleased to have retained the business on the back of our proven track-record and innovative new products.”
Michelin has appointed ATS Euromaster to supply and fit tyres across Yodel’s van fleet, and Tructyre ATS to support its heavier commercial vehicles. In Northern Ireland, A One Tyres looks after all of Yodel’s tyre requirements.
Ends
Michelin, the leading mobility company, is dedicated to enhancing its clients’ mobility, sustainably; designing and distributing the most suitable tyres, services and solutions for its clients’ needs; providing digital services, maps and guides to help enrich trips and travels and make them unique experiences; and developing high-technology materials that serve a variety of industries. Headquartered in Clermont-Ferrand, France, Michelin is present in 170 countries, has more than 125,000 employees and operates 67 tyre production facilities which together produced around 190 million tyres in 2018. (www.michelin.com)
For further press information please contact:
David Johnson, Michelin Press Office
Tel: + 44 (0) 1782 402341 Email: d.johnson@michelin.com
Dan Jones or James Keeler, Garnett Keeler PR, Inver House, 37-39 Pound Street,
Carshalton, Surrey, SM5 3PG
Tel: +44 (0)20 8647 4467 E-mail: dan.jones@garnettkeeler.com / james.keeler@garnettkeeler.com
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