Michelin extends onWay to Germany, Switzerland and Austria

By David Shaw, ERJ editor

Geneva-Michelin has introduced its OnWay scheme to three more countries. The OnWay scheme acts as a free insurance service to motorists who buy Michelin-brand tyres.

Included in the cost of the tyre is an insurance premium, which covers the motorist against tyre damage-either accidental or malicious-or theft. The service lasts two years from the date of purchase, and guarantees a one-hour response time. Motorists have to register their tyres, either on-line or using a brochure supplied with the tyre.

Once registered, the motorist is given a card with a contact number, and in the event of damage or theft, calls the number. The contact number is a reduced-rate service and is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

If the tyre can be repaired then the motorist pays nothing, but if a part-worn tyre has to be replaced, following damage, then the motorist shares the cost, paying pro-rata for the amount of treadwear.

If the car has a serviceable spare tyre, then the service wil swap tyres at no charge to the motorist.

Michelin launched the scheme to French motorists in September 2003, and extended it to those in Germany, France and Austria on 1 March 2004