French Postal Service Trial Michelin Uptis Airless Tyres

By 2024, nearly 40 La Poste vans fitted with the MICHELIN Uptis airless tyre will deliver letters and parcels in the Lesquin, Valenciennes and Douai sectors, in the Hauts-de-France region (North of France).

Three initial vehicles will be put into circulation as of June 27, within the framework of a two-year partnership between La Poste and Michelin, a first in France and Europe - following partnerships already formed in Asia.

 

The UPTIS prototype is a puncture-proof wheel/tyre assembly with no compressed air, intended for cars and light trucks. The compressed air has been replaced by a revolutionary structure capable of supporting the vehicle. This ensures the strength of the assembly and guarantees driving comfort and safety. This is an off-the-peg solution that allows users to drive with peace of mind, without worrying about road hazards.

Thanks to the MICHELIN Uptis tyre, which eliminates the problems linked to tyre pressure and punctures, La Poste can reduce downtime and maintenance operations on its fleet. It can therefore ensure better continuity of its activities and services. On an environmental level, the elimination of puncture and underinflation problems will allow for reducing the number and frequency of tyre replacements, thus limiting any waste.

 

Michelin’s main target market for the Uptis prototype is light truck fleets intended for professional use, and particularly deliveries.