Michelin has added to its electric van fleet with the addition of 19 new Ford vans.
The majority of its light commercial vehicle fleet are now running on battery-electric power.
The latest arrivals comprise three Ford Transit Custom Electric models and 16 Ford E-Transit Couriers, replacing diesel-powered vehicles used by the company’s Connected Solutions Division (CXS) to support customers in the passenger transport sector.
The additions mean 36 of Michelin’s 56 operational vans are now electric, following an initial rollout in 2024. The tyre manufacturer says it intends to continue replacing diesel vans as part of its ambition to operate using 100% electric energy by 2030.
Read our Ford E-Transit Custom review
According to Michelin, each electric van is expected to save around 2.2 tonnes of CO₂ annually compared with the diesel models they replace, equating to an estimated fleet saving of almost 80 tonnes of CO₂ each year.
The new vans are fitted with Michelin Connected Fleet telematics, designed to improve safety, monitor driving behaviour and help drivers maximise vehicle range. The system records events such as harsh braking and acceleration, while an in-cab light bar provides real-time coaching to encourage smoother driving.
Forward- and rear-facing cameras have also been installed to provide incident evidence and improve driver protection.
Read our Ford Transit Courier review
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.”
Michelin said the Ford vans were selected following evaluation trials by its drivers, with the vehicles’ range and specification proving key factors in the decision.
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The Transit Custom and E-Transit Courier models are fitted with either Michelin Agilis 3 or Agilis CrossClimate tyres, depending on their operating requirements.
Before entering service, drivers attended a training day in Stoke-on-Trent covering vehicle operation, charging procedures and techniques to maximise driving range. They will also be eligible for Michelin’s EcoStar incentive programme, which rewards safe and efficient driving through a three-tier rating system.
