Heavy transport is the backbone of the economy, delivering products daily to factories, stores, and homes across Europe. To keep a fleet operating reliably, it’s essential to care for every component - including tires, which play a crucial role in transport safety and efficiency. Often underestimated, tires are the foundation of every heavy vehicle’s performance.
Why is tire condition so important in transport?
Tires are the only point of contact between a truck and the road. Their condition affects traction, braking efficiency, and vehicle stability, especially when transporting heavy loads. European legal regulations require a minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm, but it’s recommended to maintain at least 3-4 mm, particularly for long-distance routes and challenging weather conditions.
Imagine this scenario: worn tread, improper pressure, or damaged tire structure can result in losing vehicle control. For example, a tire with 20% lower pressure than recommended can increase braking distance on wet surfaces by 15-20%.
Consequences of neglecting tire maintenance
Neglecting tire maintenance affects not only safety but also fleet operating costs. Here are a few examples:
➡️ Increased fuel consumption – Tires with pressure 10% below recommended levels can increase fuel consumption by 2-3%. The fleet of 50 vehicles covering an average of 100,000 km annually means an additional 50,000 liters of fuel per year.
➡️ Accelerated wear of vehicle components – Tire issues strain other systems, such as suspension or brakes. For instance, unevenly worn tread can cause uneven suspension performance, shortening its lifespan by 20-30%.
➡️ Costly downtime - A tire failure on the road requires mobile service or towing. Depending on location and service availability, such an operation typically costs €500-1500.
How to care for tires in heavy vehicles?
Regular maintenance, ideally performed at specialized service centers, is key to tire care. What does such maintenance involve?
✔️ Technical inspections - Early detection of cracks, uneven wear, or mechanical damage helps prevent breakdowns on the road.
✔️ Wheel balancing and axle alignment – Improper balancing causes vibrations that accelerate tire wear and reduce driver comfort. Axle misalignment, especially under heavy loads, can lead to uneven tread wear up to 30% faster on one side.
✔️ Pressure checks and adjustments – Proper pressure reduces fuel consumption and improves ride comfort. Correct tire pressure can reduce a fleet’s CO₂ emissions by 1-2% annually.
Benefits of professional tire service
Investing in tire service brings tangible benefits in the short and long term. Above all, it enhances:
🔸 Safety – Better vehicle control, especially in challenging weather conditions. 80% of accidents related to truck technical failures result from tire issues.
🔸 Savings – Lower fuel costs, fewer repairs, and extended tire life reduce overall operating expenses.
🔸 Operational efficiency – Minimizing downtime and ensuring on-time deliveries improves customer satisfaction and fosters long-term business relationships.
Small Steps, Big Results
In the world of road transport, tires may seem like a minor component, but their impact on safety, costs, and fleet efficiency is invaluable. Regular tire maintenance is not just about caring for equipment and ensuring driver safety and road punctuality.
Invest in your fleet’s future – take care of your tires and rely on professional service to operate efficiently. Let's create a secure supply chain at every step!
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