2006.03.30 Fleet users gain fuel savings of five percent, higher tyre mileage and maximised load volume

Continental Truck Tyres Europe has today announced the launch of its wide-base tyre for the growing Megatrailer market. Designated 445/45 R 19.5 HTL1, the new tyre offers fleet operators the benefits of fuel-saving, higher mileage and maximising load-carrying volume.

Growth in Megatrailer usage is predicted to be ten percent per annum between 2006 and 2010, with a corresponding increase in the demand for specialist trailer tyres. The smaller diameter of the 445/45 tyre compared with other trailer tyres such as the 435/50 R 19.5 fitment offers a height saving of 30mm. This enables lowering of the trailer deck height to increase load volume: three metres’ internal load height (sufficient to accommodate three Europallets) is possible while remaining within the four metre vehicle height limit imposed in most European countries. Also, as the space gained under the wheel arch permits additional suspension travel, trailer manufacturers may choose to optimise their chassis design.

In addition to higher tyre mileage, long-term economy of ownership is assured by the low rolling resistance of the new 445/45 R 19.5 HTL1. According to research and development carried out in-house, Continental truck tyres set the benchmark for rolling resistance in the market: tests indicate a saving of up to five percent in fuel usage over comparable trailer tyres.

“In order to operate efficiently, fleet users must use every opportunity to reduce costs,” said Jill Rodgers, Commercial Marketing Manger, Continental Tyres. “Choosing a tyre with optimised rolling resistance reduces fuel usage and provides a continued saving over every kilometre driven.”

The 445/45 R 19.5 HTL1, which has a load carrying capacity of nine tonnes, is a complementary product to the Continental 385/55 R 19.5 HTL1 (load carrying capacity of eight tonnes) and to the 385/55 R 22.5 for MidiLiner, contributing to flexible transportation solutions for fleets.