STOKE-ON-TRENT, England—Michelin is expanding its range of Ultraflex technology tires with the launch of the CargoXBib High Flotation for trailers and farm machinery.
It marks the first trailer tire to use its patented Ultraflex technology. The new tires can operate at pressures ranging from 0.8 to 4 bar and can be adjusted depending on the type of job the trailer is undertaking and the soil conditions on the day.
Mike Lawton, commercial director of Michelin's Agricultural tire division, said: “Trailer tires need to be able to withstand intensive use in fields and on roads, carrying heavy loads—all whilst protecting the soil they are working on.
“Savvy farmers have long realized the benefits of using dedicated agricultural trailer tires for this type of work, rather than remold truck tires.”
The new tires have a larger footprint than conventional trailer ones—17 per cent larger, on average, at 2 bar and 37 per cent larger at 4 bar. This ensures “improved grip and more effective soil protection”.
The launch of the CargoXBib High Flotation range is the product of an annual R&D investment of more than $805 million—“more than any other tire manufacturer in the world”, according to Michelin.
It will be available in the UK as both original equipment and on the replacement market from Q1 2015.