Michelin Keeps X-One Rolling

Michelin Tire
The latest additions to Michelin’s growing line of X-One wide-base single tires are the XDA-HT and the XTE, available this fall. Both replace low-profile 22.5 duals, and both are claimed to offer significant weight and fuel savings.

The XDA-HT (pictured) is a drive tire designed to handle the high torque demands of long-haul vehicles, with a weight rating of 10,200 pounds and 26/32nds tread depth for superior mileage and traction. It will be offered in a 445/50R22.5 size as original equipment on Freightliner, Sterling, and Western Star trucks, and as a replacement tire at Michelin dealers.

The XTE is an ultra-low-aspect single trailer tire with a tread design that’s claimed to provide superior scrub resistance. Load capacity is 10,200 pounds and tread depth is 16/32nds. It’s also claimed to generate 12% less vibration than duals, and to enhance the performance of air-ride suspensions. Also in a 445/50R22.5 size, it will be available from all major trailer makers and at Michelin dealers.

Weight savings is a key benefit. A standard five-axle tractor-trailer equipped with X-One tires would save about 900 pounds compared to duals. Fuel economy can improve by 5% or so (SAE testing can prove it), a gain coming largely from less rolling resistance achieved by better rubber compounding and the simple reduction in the number of flexing sidewalls. Another advantage is maintenance: single tires mean fewer tires to inspect, rotate, and repair.
Other models in the X-One line are the XDA drive tire and the XTA for trailers. Note that the X-One and other wide single tires can only be run in Ontario and Quebec at present. Michelin’s working to have that changed.