Assessment of Safe and Sustainable Operation for Freight Transportation Company Based on Tire Set Configurations Used in Its Trucks’ Fleet

This article investigates the safety potential of a freight transportation company, considering tire set selection as one of the most important aspects to ensure safe driving and a reliable transportation service. The revision of tire sets selection in large vehicle fleets is attributed to a new regulation from the United Nations to maintain non-deteriorating tire wet braking performance up to a minimum allowable wear limit, encouraging both safety and sector sustainability, as a significant part of tires are currently replaced before reaching a tread depth of 3 mm. In this research, an experimental test was conducted that involved four maneuvers with a truck using ten different sets of tires (including new and retreaded) to determine which set performs better in critical driving conditions. The results are then analyzed using the TOPSIS method where the most efficient set of tires and the best alternatives are selected. Finally, the safety of trucks on the road using the appropriate set of tires is evaluated by the estimated accident reduction potential. It should be mentioned that the optimal selection of the truck tire set is also important for sustainable transportation, as the pollution of worn tires remains a relevant environmental issue.