Expert Q&A: Dig into the genius behind all-new CrossClimate 3

Combining rewarding summer handling with dependable winter grip, the CrossClimate was one of the first no-comprise all-season tyres. Now in its third generation, we go behind the scenes to find out how Michelin’s refined the recipe.

Back in 2015 when the first pioneering Michelin CrossClimate was launched, all-season tyres were still in their infancy. And, as the first summer-derived tyre to include true 3PMSF certification, it quickly rose to the top of the all-season segment.

Nowadays, though, with nearly every tyre marque throwing its hat in the ring, Michelin’s engineers had a formidable task on their hands. Not only does the latest CrossClimate 3 range need to best its decorated predecessors, but also a veritable slew of all-season challengers from across the world. 

That’s why the new CrossClimate 3 boasts a number of game-changing enhancements. From a marked 4% improvement in wet braking to a seriously impressive 15% bump in tread life, the new all-season range is already snapping up awards. 

So how did they do it? We spoke with CrossClimate 3’s New Range Development Manager, Mathieu Marechal, to look at the engineering behind the bold new claims.

Q. What are CrossClimate 3’s greatest strengths and why? 

A. “Michelin CrossClimate 3’s main strengths are the excellent balance between the snow performance required by the 3PMSF certification, wet performance, and an even better wear performance than Michelin CrossClimate 2. These strengths are mainly a product of the new tread pattern concept.” 

Q. What was the greatest challenge when developing CrossClimate 3? 

A. “The biggest challenge during Michelin CrossClimate 3 development was finding the right balance between snow (3PMSF) and wet performances.” 

Q. The CrossClimate 2 is already an acclaimed tyre, in what areas is the CrossClimate 3 most improved over CrossClimate 2? 

A. “Indeed it is, but the Michelin CrossClimate 3 improves significantly in two main areas. The first one is the wet grip, improving by 4%. The 2nd one is the mileage, with 15% of progress compared to Michelin CrossClimate 2.” 

Q. How does Michelin test this longevity/lifespan? Is it all done in the lab or on the road? 

A. “Actually, the wear tests for the CrossClimate 3 were supported by DEKRA in Europe, an external partner for this topic. This test is done on the road, in France, and with conditions representing real-world usage.” 

Q. Does an increased lifespan and greater efficiency go hand in hand? 

A. “No actually, it’s almost the opposite; but it’s very dependent on what you want to achieve with the tyre. It’s possible to increase the longevity and/or decrease the rolling resistance simultaneously, but it all depends on tweaking different parameters — which can result in trade-offs for other areas of a tyre’s performance.” 

Q. Can you explain how Michelin’s MaxTouch technology works and what inspired it?  

A. “Of course, it’s quite simple really. The MICHELIN MaxTouch Technology is a concept which looks to obtain the best contact patch — the area of the tyre in touch with the ground at any given time — possible. The ultimate goal is to have an optimised surface for grip performances (wet, dry and snow) and at the same time, to improve longevity and efficiency. This strategy comes from Michelin’s wealth of R&D knowledge garnered across every tyre segment.

Q. The CrossClimate 3 also has new Wear2Check technology. How does the Wear2check indicator work; why is it useful?

A. “The Wear2Check is an additional feature over the CrossClimate 2, and a useful one too. The Michelin Wear2check indicator helps consumers drive with maximum safety and peace of mind. As you can see from the image, there are three points built into the tyre’s tread to indicate a 25%, 50% and 75% level of total wear; each indicator disappears as the tread depth decreases” 

While no mean feat, it’s clear Michelin’s engineering team has managed to build upon CrossClimate 2’s ultra-versatile skill set to create an all-season tyre that’s just as strong in the summer as it is in winter. 

Are you ready to experience what the next generation of CrossClimate can do for your car? Let us know if you’re excited about Michelin’s latest all-weather breakthroughs.

Hero image credit:  Michelin