In transport operations, tyres are one of the most critical components impacting safety, efficiency, and overall cost. Yet, many fleets prioritise the upfront cost of tyres over their long-term performance. This approach often leads to higher expenses, reduced operational efficiency, and lost opportunities for sustainability. The wrong tyre choice not only compromises wear consistency and total kilometres achieved but also limits the ability to retread the tyre case multiple times. By combining a structured tyre management program with telematics, such as those offered by Webfleet and Bridgestone, transport operators can uncover significant savings and efficiencies.
The Hidden Costs of Cheap Tyres
At first glance, cheaper tyres might seem like a cost-saving choice. However, these tyres often fail to deliver in key performance areas, leading to higher expenses over their lifecycle. Wear consistency is a major issue, with low-quality tyres wearing unevenly or more rapidly under the demands of heavy transport. This results in increased maintenance costs and more frequent replacements, driving up total expenditure.
Total kilometres achieved is another critical factor. High-quality tyres with advanced compounds, like Bridgestone’s low rolling resistance technology, are designed to maximise mileage, reducing the cost per kilometre. Conversely, cheaper tyres may wear out faster, negating any initial cost savings.
Additionally, lower-quality tyres often compromise the durability of the tyre case, making them unsuitable for retreading. Retreading is a cornerstone of sustainable and cost-effective fleet operations, enabling operators to extend the life of their tyre investment multiple times. Choosing tyres that cannot be retreaded results in more waste and higher replacement costs, undermining both financial and environmental goals.
The Role of Telematics in Tyre Management
Telematics is a game-changer for fleets looking to optimise tyre performance and reduce costs. By integrating tyre management into a telematics platform like Webfleet, operators gain real-time visibility into tyre usage, wear patterns, and rolling resistance. This data allows fleet managers to make informed decisions about tyre selection and maintenance, ensuring they get the best performance from their investment.
Webfleet’s platform enables operators to track tyre performance across the fleet, providing insights that help identify tyres delivering the best value. For instance, data on rolling resistance and wear rates can pinpoint which tyres contribute to lower fuel consumption. Fleet managers can also monitor tyre pressure and temperature to prevent premature wear and improve safety.
“Telematics allows fleets to understand the entire lifecycle cost of their tyres,” says Christopher Chisman-Duffy, Head of Channel and Strategic Partnerships at Webfleet. “It’s not just about the purchase price—it’s about achieving maximum mileage, ensuring consistent wear, and enabling multiple retreads from the same tyre case.”
The Benefits of Low Rolling Resistance Compounds
Tyres with low rolling resistance compounds, such as those developed by Bridgestone, play a crucial role in fleet efficiency. Rolling resistance accounts for a significant portion of a vehicle’s fuel consumption, especially in heavy transport. High-quality tyres with advanced compounds reduce rolling resistance, leading to lower fuel use and reduced CO2 emissions.
The benefits of low rolling resistance tyres extend beyond fuel savings. These tyres often wear more evenly, enhancing longevity and making the tyre case more suitable for retreading. When paired with telematics, fleets can measure the direct impact of rolling resistance on fuel economy and use this data to optimise their tyre selection.
Maximising Retread Opportunities
Retreading is one of the most effective ways to reduce tyre costs and environmental impact. A high-quality tyre case can be retreaded multiple times, extending its lifecycle and significantly reducing the need for new tyres. However, not all tyres are suitable for retreading, and those that are often require proper care and monitoring.
Telematics plays a vital role in maximising retread opportunities. By tracking tyre usage and maintenance, Webfleet helps fleets ensure their tyres remain in optimal condition for retreading. This includes monitoring tyre pressure, temperature, and wear to prevent damage to the tyre case.
“Retreading is not just a cost-saving measure—it’s a sustainability initiative,” explains Christopher. “Fleets using telematics to manage their tyres can achieve more retreads, reducing waste and cutting costs. It’s a win-win for the business and the environment.”
The Environmental and Regulatory Impacts
Choosing the wrong tyre doesn’t just affect a fleet’s bottom line—it also has environmental consequences. Tyres that wear out quickly contribute to landfill waste, while those with high rolling resistance increase fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. In an era where sustainability is a growing priority for businesses and regulators, these impacts can’t be ignored.
Telematics solutions like Webfleet allow fleets to monitor and report on their environmental performance. By selecting tyres with low rolling resistance and maximising retread opportunities, fleets can reduce their carbon footprint and align with sustainability goals. Additionally, telematics data helps fleets comply with emerging emissions regulations, avoiding fines and enhancing their reputation.
Building a Structured Tyre Management Program
A structured tyre management program is essential for fleets seeking to control costs and improve performance. Such a program should include:
- Tyre Selection: Prioritise high-quality tyres with low rolling resistance and strong retreading potential.
- Telematics Integration: Use platforms like Webfleet to monitor tyre performance, wear patterns, and rolling resistance.
- Maintenance Practices: Regularly check tyre pressure, alignment, and condition to maximise lifespan.
- Retreading: Partner with a trusted retread provider to extend the life of tyre cases and reduce waste.
By combining these elements, fleets can achieve substantial cost savings and operational improvements.
The Case for Smarter Tyre Choices
The upfront cost of a tyre is only a small part of its true cost. Wear consistency, total kilometres achieved, retreadability, and rolling resistance all play critical roles in determining the value of a tyre. Cheaper tyres often fail in these areas, leading to higher expenses and missed opportunities for sustainability.
Through its advanced telematics solutions, Webfleet empowers fleets to make smarter tyre choices and implement effective tyre management programs. By integrating tyre data with real-time fleet insights, Webfleet helps transport operators unlock the full potential of their tyre investments.
“At the end of the day, it’s about delivering value,” says Christopher Chisman-Duffy. “With the right tyres and a structured management program supported by telematics, fleets can achieve remarkable savings, improve sustainability, and enhance performance.”
For transport companies committed to efficiency and long-term success, the choice is clear: invest in the right tyres and leverage the power of telematics to maximise their value.
