Michelin’s Connected Solutions Division (CXS) has powered up its sustainability credentials by adding 19 new Ford electric vehicles to its fleet.

The three Ford Transit Custom and 16 Ford Transit Courier EVs are equipped with Michelin Connected Fleet technology to reduce incidents and optimise range.

The vehicles replace diesel-powered equivalents and will be used by its team to support customers in the passenger transport sector. The Ford vans were selected after road-testing by Michelin’s team, with the specification and range impressing.

The latest arrivals mean approximately two-thirds of the company’s Connected Solutions Division’s operational fleet is now electric. Following an initial wave of EVs in 2024, 36 of the operational fleet’s 56 vehicles are now EVs. Michelin plans to replace more of its diesel vans during the next year as it transitions to 100% electric energy by 2030.

Andrew French, B2B sales director at Michelin UK & Ireland, said: “Michelin is committed to a sustainable future, and the use of telematics data has supported this journey for several years.

“Michelin Connected Fleet technology has allowed us to improve road safety and driving style through measurement of harsh braking and acceleration, reducing accidents and helping us maximise our fleet utilisation.”

An electric van saves approximately 2.2 tonnes of CO2 a year compared with a diesel equivalent. Michelin estimates its total expanded EV fleet will save the equivalent of 79.5 tonnes of CO2 annually.

The new arrivals are fitted with a mix of the Michelin Agilis 3 and the all-season Michelin Agilis CrossClimate tyres.

Michelin held a training day in Stoke-on-Trent to familiarise drivers with their new vans, the onboard technology, and how to charge them with tips on maximising their range through refinements to driving technique.

Each van features an audio-visual light bar that alerts the driver to their driving style and acts as a self-coaching tool. The vans are also fitted with forward and rear facing cameras supplied by Michelin Connected Fleet. These monitor the situation outside the vehicle and can provide evidence in the event of an incident, as well as allowing the driver to record a dangerous situation.

Drivers with Michelin Connected Fleet equipped vans can also participate in the incentive scheme EcoStar, which rewards safe and economical driving. Measurement includes metrics such as fault accidents, non-speeding fines, complaints from other road users and vehicle inspections.

Drivers start as One Star (High-Quality Driving) and in a nod to the Michelin Guide, can achieve a Two Star – Excellent Driving rating, culminating in a Three Star – Exceptional Driving rating for the very best. Two- and three-star recipients receive vouchers in recognition of their achievements.