Anglian Water praises cold weather tyres

Anglian Water has commended Michelin’s cold weather tyres for keeping its vehicles mobile during adverse weather, following its first extensive trial of the tyres.

The company, which looks after more than six million domestic and business customers across the South East, tested Michelin’s cold weather tyres on 21 utility vehicles this winter on a mix of wet, icy, slush and snow-covered roads.

Driver feedback shows they felt the tyres improved handling and made their vehicles safer during the winter months compared to their usual fitments.

John Harding, fleet maintenance manager at Anglian Water, said: “The tyres have definitely been put through their paces this winter and our drivers have given us some very positive comments about Michelin’s cold weather tyres.

“In just a few months we’ve experienced all weather conditions, from thick snow to heavy rain, and the tyres have enhanced grip and shortened stopping distances in both circumstances.

“We are required to carry out our services all year round no matter what the weather, so it is reassuring to know that our drivers are safer and more confident carrying out their duties when they have the winter tyres fitted to their vehicles.”

ATS Euromaster began fitting a selection of Anglian Water’s vehicles with Michelin’s Alpin A4 and Agilis Alpin cold weather tyres in October 2012, as the tyres perform at their best in conditions below seven degrees Celsius.

The company, which has had a full Michelin policy for more than 12 years, is now considering fitting cold weather tyres across its 1,600-strong fleet for winter 2013/14 following the successful trial. 

Richard English, an Anglian Water driver who tested the tyres, said: “I noticed that the winter tyres had about 75% better braking capabilities and 50% more grip than normal summer tyres.

“The tyres also gave me great confidence when driving on wet grass, snow or ice, and I believe everyone who uses a van as part of their business would benefit from fitting cold weather tyres throughout winter months.”