From
Green Car Congress...
Quote:
Michelin is investing $6.8 million in a research and development project focused on further improving vehicle fuel economy by reducing tire rolling resistance. These funds will support the company’s research efforts in South Carolina and include a $1.9 million research contract with Clemson University and its International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR). The work will begin immediately and is set to be completed over the next three years.
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Of course, tire choice can be a very important decision when factoring FE. Last year, I decided on a set of Michelin "Green-X" MXV4 XSE treads. With over-inflation, FE was noted to improve. Another piece of the puzzle in adding up the many available mods and techniques in the toolbox.
The new research is good stuff. Vehicle manufacturers often choose the tire model that yields the best FE among other factors. If Michelin continues the trend, they may continue to be additionally desirable for OEM stock or replacement tires.