Fuel efficiency of tires called important choice for both automakers and consumers

A recent posting by the U.S. Department of Energy lists the most fuel-efficient vehicles, and tires produced by Goodyear outfit six of the eight category leaders.

“In addition to leading the way on this list, Goodyear has more OE fitments than any other tire manufacturer,” says Joey Viselli, Goodyear brand director. “This is significant because of the importance automakers place on overall vehicle fuel efficiency and CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) requirements,” he adds.

According to Viselli, no other tire manufacturer has as many standard fitments on the top gas-savers on the list as Goodyear.

In addition to being the tire of choice for the most fuel-efficient car overall – the Toyota Prius – Goodyear claims standard fitments on these category-leading vehicles:

• Mini Cooper (Minicompact)
• Toyota Yaris (Subcompact)
• Honda Civic Hybrid (Compact)
• Honda Accord (Large Car)
• Honda Fit (Small Station Wagon)

The Prius is considered the most efficient Midsize car, according to the list.

Tire manufacturers work to develop products that contribute to a vehicle's fuel mileage ratings, says Viselli. However, as the only four touch-points on the roadway, tires also must provide grip and traction for start-up, cornering and braking, along with performance in all sorts of weather and on varying road surfaces, long tread life and a comfortable ride, he notes.

The company’s role in perfecting fuel-efficient tires, Viselli says, is evident in other examples:

• Along with key fitments on the most fuel-efficient cars, development work continues on various low rolling resistance and environmentally friendly tires with distinctive rubber compounds using special ingredients such as silica, biofillers, functionalized polymers and more.

• Concept and production tires from the company have been featured on fuel-saving vehicles displayed at automotive gatherings within the past year, including the Toyota FCHV (Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle), Dodge Durango Hybrid, Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid, Chrysler Aspen Hybrid, Chevrolet Equinox Fuel Cell and more.

• Earlier this year, at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Goodyear tires were seen on many vehicles in the “fuel-saving” segment, including the Dodge ZEO Concept (electric car), Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept, and Toyota A-BAT.

• A recently announced new vehicle fitment – a specially compounded Goodyear Integrity tire – is on the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt XFE, a fuel-efficient car that claims 3 mpg savings versus a conventional Cobalt.

The importance of a vehicle’s tires at the gas pump is growing as gas prices climb. When tire care is factored in, the rising fuel prices become even more critical, Viselli observes.

Running a tire 20 percent under-inflated, only 5 to 7 pounds per square inch, can increase fuel consumption by 3 percent. A tire’s tread life is reduced by under-inflation.

The U.S. Energy Department has reported that every pound per square inch of tire under-inflation wastes 4 million gallons of gas daily in the U.S. An under-inflated tire deflects more energy and increases rolling resistance, which robs the vehicle of fuel efficiency.

At Goodyear-owned tire and service outlets, consumers can participate in the company’s “Free Air” program and have their tires checked for free, including an inspection of tread condition and tire inflation. Air will be added as needed for free.

For more information, visit www.goodyeartires.com.