Four Additional Yokohama Tyres Earn SmartWay Verification

Four more North American market Yokohama commercial vehicle tyres have been added to the US Environmental Protection Agency's SmartWay list of verified fuel-saving technologies for tyres. This brings the number to seven of Yokohama products that are recognised as SmartWay "low rolling resistance tyres." SmartWay Transport, a collaboration between the EPA and the freight sector, is designed to improve energy efficiency and energy scrutiny, and reduce greenhouse gas and air pollutant emissions.

The Yokohama tyres receiving SmartWay status are the 101ZL and 103ZR steer tyres, RY587 trailer tyre and the TY517MC2 drive tyre. These tyres, says Yokohama Tire, meet the SmartWay program’s stringent verified low rolling resistance criteria because they run cooler and help reduce fuel consumption. The 101ZL and 103ZR steer tyres are both part of Yokohama Tire’s Zenvironment line. Furthermore, adds Yokohama, the 103ZR, at 23/32, is the deepest SmartWay-verified tyre. The RY587, which offers premium performance for long-haul trailer applications, is intended to deliver a combination of long, even original tread mileage, lower fuel consumption and outstanding durability. The TY517MC2, Yokohama continues, delivers outstanding traction, long even wear and superior durability while also providing excellent low rolling resistance.

“This recognition from the EPA SmartWay program is proof that our technologically-advanced tyres help save fuel and protect the environment,” said Yokohama president and CEO Takao Oishi. “We are proud to be recognised by the EPA for our environmental initiatives, and we look forward to being part of the SmartWay program for years to come.”

In January 2009, Yokohama’s RY617 steer tyre, 703ZL drive tyre and RY587MC2 trailer tyre became the first three tyres for the company to be named verified low-rolling-resistance tyres, approved for use on SmartWay-certified trucks.  Additionally, in 2009 Yokohama was named a Partner in the programme, with status in the “shippers” category, meaning the company ships more than 50 per cent of its products on SmartWay-designated transport carriers. According to the EPA, Yokohama’s freight efforts will contribute to the goal of eliminating 33 to 66 million tonnes of carbon dioxide and up to 200,000 tonnes of nitrogen oxide per year by 2012.