How does driving behaviour impact tyre life?

Replacing tyres more frequently than required can drastically increase overall fleet expenses.
But tyre wear and tear are greatly impacted by driver behaviour, a fact that is overlooked quite often.
Fleet owners can’t afford to neglect this issue, because the way drivers operate vehicles has a considerable effect on the lifespan of tyres.
A systemic approach, efficient use of resources and avoidance of waste are key to supporting ‘Circular Economy.’

Rough driving
Rough driving includes rapid acceleration, sharp turns, and harsh braking, which leads to excessive strain on tyres, so they wear down faster.
It is imperative to encourage drivers to stick to proper driving habits, by providing coaching and regular feedback.

Speeding
Drivers often resort to speeding, especially if they are under stringent deadlines, or if they must cover long distances.
But high speeds generate too much heat, which impacts tyres and leads to faster wear.
Speeding amplifies the risks of blowouts and other tyre-related accidents as well.
Educate drivers about the consequences of speeding and enforce speed limits for your fleet.

Bad road conditions
If there are potholes, debris, or uneven surfaces on the road, it causes quite a lot of damage to tyres in the form of punctures, rips, and so on.
Drivers should avoid harmful road conditions whenever possible.

Heavy loads
Tyres are meant to carry loads up to a certain capacity, which can be ascertained from their load ratings.
If the vehicle carries more loads than recommended, it increases pressure on the tyre, thereby weakening the internal structure.
Drivers must stick to the weight limits for each vehicle.

Technology can help
Apart from investing in premium quality tyres, fleet owners can opt for IoT-enabled devices and sensors that can monitor driving behaviour.
This technology helps to identify driving patterns, while providing feedback and alerts to drivers via app/e-skill module, so that the lifespan of tyres isn’t severely shortened.
Anstel states that its Autonautics Connected Fleet solution is specifically designed to generate preventive analysis which encourages circular economy and reduces ongoing expenses.

For more information, visit www.anstelglobal.com or contact Neil Coomar at neil.c@anstelaustralia.com