The Single Wide Tire Movement
The trucking industry is all about the long haul. Professional fleet operators know that the only way to run a profitable and sustainable business is by maximizing efficiency and reducing costs whenever possible. Over the course of thousands and thousands of miles, small tweaks to the operating cost of a machine can turn into thousands of dollars’ worth of savings. The biggest area of opportunity (besides labor) usually is a reduction in fuel costs.
Research indicates that the cost of fuel accounts for around 30-40% of a motor carrier’s CPM. One of the most overlooked, but perhaps most important, ways to improve this metric is by changing tires. There has been a growing trend among drivers and operators to switch from dual tires to single wide tires. The benefits of switching from an 18-wheeler to a 10-wheeler are numerous.
The first benefit is simply a reduction in weight. Switching from dual to single wide tires can save a typical truck anywhere from 800-1000lbs. This immediately can increase cargo capacity, or improve mpg. Most new single wide tires have section widths of around 17.5 inches which means they will comply with pavement laws in most states.
Single wide tires also have a much lower rolling resistance than a dual tire. High rolling resistance increases the number of horsepower required to move the vehicle and negatively impacts fuel economy. Reducing this number is important, but there are so many options available on the market that drivers and operators may want to seek help.
Bauer Built Tires offers some of the top single wide tires available. One of the most popular options is the MICHELIN X One tire. Since 2000, the MICHELIN X One tire has saved fleets across the world over 150 million gallons of fuels and lowered fuel bills an average of 10%. It is also very environmentally friendly to produce and has improved stability over dual tires. In addition, the MICHELIN X One tire provides easier dolly handling, quicker mounting, and simpler tire pressure checks. These tires are also available for retread.
How can operators and drivers rise above the cost of fuel? By looking down, at their tires! If you are interested in learning more about how single wide tires can save you money, get in touch with a Bauer Built expert today!
Categories: Bauer Built Blog, Tire Care Tips
