Michelin develops Energy E-V tyres for new Renault

ERJ staff report (LMH)

Clement-Ferrand, France - Michelin has developed new, highly energy efficient tyres to help increase the overall range of Renault's new model, Zoe.

All Renault Zoe models equipped with 15 and 16-inch tires will be fitted with the new Michelin Energy E-V tyres, Michelin said in a 6 March news release.

It added that these products are in line with the carmaker's Range OptimiZEr approach for the Renault Zoe, which integrates an array of innovations designed to improve the vehicle's range in all driving conditions.

In near-urban use, for example, the tyres increase the Zoe's range by up to 6 percent, depending on the type of use.

Michelin said its goal is to design tyres that help to reduce energy consumption while maintaining the same high performance in the areas of safety - especially wet grip - and longevity. “This constant focus on balanced performance was an important reason behind Renault's decision to forge the development partnership,” the French tyre maker said.

Michelin noted that with each rotation of the wheel, a tyre is deformed when it comes into contact with the road. As its structure is deformed, the components heat up and some of the energy transmitted by the engine is lost.

Reducing this heat build-up also reduces energy consumption, but the technologies developed by Michelin go much further. While the Michelin Energy E-V tyre heats up little when driving, thus reducing energy consumption, the rubber in the contact patch heats up quickly when the brakes are applied, thereby shortening braking distances, the company claimed.

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Press release from Michelin