Fleets Save Fuel With Attention to Tire Maintenance, Upkeep

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s fleets seek to reduce operating costs to offset surging fuel prices, improving tire maintenance is near the top of the list for both carriers and tire manufacturers.

“Tire-related costs are the single largest maintenance cost item for commercial vehicle fleet operators,” the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration said in a study last year that emphasized the importance of proper tire maintenance.

Fleets are looking at several tools, including central inflation facilities and automated tire-inflation monitors, to ensure the reliability of tires. Moreover, tire manufacturers such as Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., Bridgestone Firestone and Michelin are all looking for ways to improve tire durability without increasing overall weight.

For the full story, see the Aug. 7 print edition of Transport Topics. Subscribe today.