MICHELIN WELCOMES MIXED RESPONSES FROM TYRE DISTRIBUTORS ON THE INTRODUCTION OF TPMS
Stoke-on-Trent – July 17, 2012
Michelin has received mixed responses from three of the UK’s largest tyre distributors after asking for views on the introduction of Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) later this year.
Michelin wrote to ATS Euromaster, Kwik Fit and National Tyres asking how they intend to manage TPMS, following concern from members of the Michelin Fleet Panel about how the new legislation will affect vehicle maintenance costs.
All three distributors said they are running pilot schemes to ensure centres are equipped with the relevant equipment, as well as staff training programmes ahead of the introduction of the legislation in November 2012.
But there are mixed views on the impact TPMS will have on fleets.
ATS Euromaster said it believes the introduction of TPMS is likely to have less of an impact for fleets than consumers as the sensors have a projected lifespan of between five and seven years so servicing costs are likely to impact on second and third-life vehicle owners.
Group Sales Director for ATS Euromaster, Peter Fairlie, said: “As TPMS becomes more commonplace, vehicle running costs are bound to increase as there is a marked difference between the price of a standard tyre valve compared with the service kits required for TPMS-enabled vehicles. However, as the volumes required by the market increase, it is hoped prices will reduce too.
“Looking specifically at the cost implications for business fleets, we expect these to have less of an impact. The fact that fleets typically replace their cars on a three to five year lifecycle – and most TPMS sensors have a projected lifespan of five to seven years – means the largest element of the servicing cost is likely to borne by second and third-life vehicle owners, who will need to replace the sensors during this five to seven year window.”
But National Tyres said lessons from America where TPMS was introduced in 2006, show that a four to five year estimated lifespan is more realistic.
Group Managing Director for National Tyres, Kevin Parker, said: “In theory, it was
thought sensor valve batteries would last up to seven years. However the reality from the USA experience, where TPMS was introduced in 2006, is that many fail prematurely due to corrosion or damage, high mileage, or if repeated deflation takes place, four to five years’ life is the norm.”
Peter Lambert, Fleet Sales Director for Kwik-Fit, added: “Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems are an important vehicle safety aid. The fact they will become a standard feature on all new cars over the next two years means that it is essential that we are able to offer a service to customers that checks the systems are working correctly and rectify those that are not.
“The technology is very sophisticated and if a dashboard warning light appears – either the low pressure warning icon or system failure warning icon – drivers have a duty and responsibility to act and not to ignore the warning.”
Dave Crinson, Head of Fleet Sales for Michelin, said: “We are grateful to ATS Euromaster, Kwik-Fit and National Tyres for the comprehensive responses they provided us with, which we have passed on to members of the Michelin Fleet Panel.
“It is interesting to hear the different views, but also reassuring to know that all three tyre distributors are well prepared to maintain and replace the systems.”
Crinson added: “Although the servicing and replacement of TPMS will be an additional cost, and the exact life span and cost of the systems cannot be determined yet, the added benefits in terms of safety are undeniable, as well as the improvements in fuel consumption that can be achieved when tyres are at the recommended pressure.
“The number of motorists who drive on under-inflated tyres is a major concern so if the new legislation helps reduce that number, in turn it will help reduce the number of accidents on the road.”
To see the full responses from all three tyre distributors visit http://mymichelin.co.uk/michelin-fleet-panel/tyre-distributors-give-mixed-responses-on-tpms.
ends
Michelin (www.michelin.co.uk)
Dedicated to the improvement of sustainable mobility, Michelin designs, manufactures and sells tyres for every type of vehicle, including aircraft, bicycles, cars, earthmoving machines, farm equipment, trucks and motorcycles. Michelin employs 115,000 people, has sales organisations in more than 170 countries and operates 69 production sites in 18 countries throughout five continents. The Company also publishes travel guides, hotel and restaurant guides, maps and road atlases and offers electronic mobility support services on ViaMichelin.com. Research and development is undertaken in technology centres in Asia, Europe and North America.
For further press information please contact:
Paul Cordle, Michelin Press Office
Tel: + 44 (0) 1782 402341 Email: paul-m.cordle@uk.michelin.com
Lucy Harvey or James Keeler at Garnett Keeler PR, Inver House, 37-39 Pound Street,
Carshalton, Surrey, SM5 3PG
Tel: +44 (0)20 8647 4467 Fax: +44 (0)20 8544 4711 E-mail: lucy.harvey@garnettkeeler.com
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