A new all-terrain tyre developed specifically for vans and camper vehicles is helping National Grid Electricity Distribution improve off-road access to rural infrastructure, thanks to a partnership with Micheldever Fleet Solutions (MFS) and General Tire.
National Grid Electricity Distribution, which supports 20 million customers across the Midlands, South West and South Wales, required a solution for its engineering fleet, which often struggled with difficult terrain. While 4x4s offer off-road capability, they do not meet the equipment-carrying requirements of the organisation’s van fleet.
In response, MFS and General Tire developed a van-specific version of the General Tire Grabber AT3, offering all-terrain capability while retaining on-road performance. The solution ensures National Grid’s engineers can access remote locations without compromising vehicle load capacity.
Nigel Wright, transport area controller at National Grid Electricity Distribution, said: “We have one of the largest business fleets in the UK, with vehicles that have to operate in a wide range of conditions and terrains. Sometimes off-road driving was difficult for our teams, so it was great to work with General Tire and Micheldever Tyre Services to address this. They have provided us with a solution that is good news for us and our customers as it will ensure greater operational responsiveness and efficiency.”
To meet the fleet’s requirements, the tyre was designed to support higher load indices, enabling vans to safely transport the heavy cabling, parts and tools essential for National Grid’s field operations.
Peter Gittens, head of Micheldever Fleet Solutions, said: “This has proved to be a successful collaboration to address a real-world issue which will not only benefit National Grid Electricity Distribution but other fleets in the utility and fleet sector.”
Dave Dineen, director of specialist sales at Micheldever Tyre Services, added: “Listening to our customers is very important and this is a perfect example of how a supplier and a manufacturer can work together to deliver new products that meets business needs.”
The partnership has also led to the development of additional van sizes for the Grabber AT3, targeting a wider all-terrain market beyond utility fleets.
