NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Michelin has a new steer tire it says will provide 20% more mileage than any other – and it’s backing up that claim with a guarantee.

The company unveiled its new X Line Energy Z at the Technology & Maintenance Council spring meetings. It says the new design will offer 20% more mileage than leading competitive line-haul steer tires. If it doesn’t, Michelin will pay back to the customer double the price differential between the tires.

The new tire replaces the XZA3+.

“Michelin is known for providing industry-leading mileage and even wear. The Michelin X Line Energy Z continues that evolution, while also increasing fuel efficiency, so fleets get the best of both worlds,” said Adam Murphy, vice-president of marketing for Michelin Americas Truck Tires.  “Allowing fleets to get the most out of their line-haul steer tires is what the new Michelin X Line Energy Z tire is all about.”

The tire features a double compound tread that provides long life and fuel efficiency, Murphy explained. The tread features decoupling grooves and directional mini-sipes to promote even tread wear. It also comes with a new casing design that’s backed by a seven-year, 700,000-mile warranty. The new casing design provides 5% less rolling resistance, Michelin says.

Murphy said customers should be able to get three retreads out of the tire.

The tire is available beginning March 1 in 11R22.5, 275/80R22.5, 11R24.5 and 275/80R24.5 sizes in both G and H load ranges.

Murphy said Michelin is targeting the dry van truckload, dry van LTL, refrigerated, tanker, flatbed and auto-hauler segments with the new tire. He said the tire has been thoroughly tested against competitive offerings, giving Michelin the confidence to offer the unique mileage guarantee.