London’s largest private minicab firm, Addison Lee, is putting its entire fleet on Michelin tyres after a three month trial proved the rubber lasts longer.

Until recently the company used mid-range tyres on its 4,700 vehicles, but after testing Michelin tyres on eight cars, including a Ford Galaxy and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, fleet manager Rob Daniels has implemented a full Michelin policy.

He explained: "The results of the trial proved that Michelins are the best tyres for our business. We were getting at least 8%longer from the Michelins than any others – that’s a difference of 10,000 miles on our Galaxy and even more on the S-Class.

"When you have got a fleet the size of ours covering the amount of miles we do every day, that difference will translate into significantly fewer tyre replacements each year.

"That will save us money, but it will also reduce the inconvenience to drivers of changing the tyres – meaning they can spend more time on the road.

"It also puts us in a fantastic position in terms of further business expansion."

Under the new policy, around 3,800 Ford Galaxy, 30 Mercedes S-Class and 260 E-Class vehicles will be fitted with premium Michelin tyres, along with Addison Lee’s Taxybike fleet.

Michelin key account manager Martin Thompson said: "Addison Lee operates one of the best-known fleets in London and it needs quality tyres to ensure it retains its position as a market leader.

"The independent trials clearly demonstrated the longevity benefits Michelin tyres will bring to the business, and we know drivers and passengers will also enjoy higher performance, comfort and safety on Michelin rubber.

"The fact Michelins will now be fitted across the fleet, on everything from luxury cars to bikes, show us that this is a business that believes in quality across the board.

“It’s also clear to us that their ambition knows no bounds as they’ve gone from one car in 1975 to almost 5,000 today, carrying 10 million passengers each year. We’re looking forward to working with the team to maximise the value of their tyres as they continue to grow and diversify."

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