Vans, Cars and Leasing

Michelin has broken new ground with its latest green rubber. While rivals warn that super fuel-efficient tyres may not handle and brake as well as normal ones, its Energy Saver has shown it can be done.

Its new compound minimises the heat created through the tyre deforming as it turns, so more of the engine power is used to move the car. This is critical to fuel consumption, as around one tank in five is used just to turn the rubber.

The result is a tyre which, in independent tests, returned fuel consumption that was around five per cent better than a premium make rival. Improvement in rolling resistance and fuel economy usually means compromises elsewhere, but tests by German standards agency TUV have shown that this fourth-generation Energy Saver should last a year longer than rivals.

The Energy Saver first appeared on Peugeot’s 308 and is now available in the aftermarket. The range covers 29 sizes, growing to 42 by the end of the year covering T, H and V speed ratings (up to 150mph). Prices are the same as for the existing Energy range, which it replaces.