Word reaches Biglorryblog that Michelin and China Coal Pingshuo, China's largest surface coal mine, have signed a three-year renewable contract for the provision of a new kind of service. What kind of service I hear you ask? Well just sit back and listen. As China's leading producer of coal from open-cast mines (73 million tonnes in 2007), China Coal Pingshuo has contracted Michelin to provide and maintain the monster 63-inch 53/80R63 tyres for the Komatsu 930E trucks it operates in the mine.

The services, which Michelin will begin to provide with immediate effect, will help to extend tyre life, thereby keeping the mine's vehicles operational for longer periods. This in turn will help to reduce operating costs and increase productivity, while maintaining the highest safety standards.

Specialist Michelin technicians, in cooperation with teams from China Coal Pingshuo, will manage the service shop, where tyres will be fitted, removed and repaired. Tyre pressures will be checked and maintained at the right levels, and other operations will be carried out to ensure that tyres are used in the best possible conditions. All of which prompts BLB to say...they must use an ENORMOUS pair of tyre levers.