HILTON HEAD, S.C. – Increasing fuel costs are prompting more fleets and owner/operators to invest in Michelin’s X One wide single tires, the company says.

The X One is being sold in record numbers, according to Michelin, as O/Os are doing whatever they can to increase fuel economy.

“Demand continues to outstrip all of our projections,” says Randy Clark, vice-president of marketing with Michelin Americas Truck Tires.

“Customers have discovered that the Michelin X One tire is the perfect combination of weight savings, performance and noticeable fuel savings. Now more than ever, fuel economy can be the lifeblood of a trucking fleet.”

Here in Canada, wide based single tires have yet to gain the widespread approval of provincial governments, meaning fewer trucks in Canada are equipped with the relatively new tire.

Michelin says recent tests indicate the X One delivers annual fuel cost savings of about 10 per cent compared to traditional duals.

The improved fuel economy results from lower rolling resistance and a decrease of overall weight by up to 1,350 lbs.