UK motorists could be losing over GBP170 million of fuel every year by neglecting to check their tyre pressures, a new survey by Michelin reveals.
Michelin’s research found 55 per cent of car and van tyres on UK roads to be under-inflated by an average of 10 per cent. This – the equivalent of a mere three PSI in a tyre that should be inflated to 30 PSI – decreases the fuel efficiency of the vehicle by one per cent. Thirty per cent under-inflation can increase fuel consumption by four per cent, which is equal to 3.4p in every litre. It also more than halves tyre life.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Discover B2B Marketing That Performs
Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.
Michelin spokesman Ian Hughes said: “Regular tyre checks can help save on fuel costs and may go some way towards making the current high fuel prices a little easier to bear. Tyre under-inflation not only increases fuel consumption but is also extremely dangerous. Few people realise that looking after tyres saves money and makes their car a much safer place for them and their families.”
Michelin also advises that tread depths are checked regularly and that fuel-efficient tyres, such as Michelin Energy, are fitted. In
independent tests the AA confirmed Michelin’s claim that Energy tyres
contribute a five per cent saving in fuel costs.
If all drivers switched to Energy tyres, a staggering GBP850 million of fuel could be saved each year.
