Four more Yokohama commercial truck tires have been added to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) SmartWay list of verified technologies. Seven of the company’s tires now meet specified low rolling resistance standards.
SmartWay Transport, a collaboration between the EPA and the freight-hauling sector, is designed to improve energy efficiency while reducing greenhouse gases and air pollutant emissions.
The Yokohama releases receiving SmartWay status are the 101ZL and 103ZR steer tires, RY587 trailer tires and the TY517MC2 drive tires. According to the company, they meet the program’s low rolling resistance criteria because they run cooler and help reduce fuel consumption, which cuts costs and benefits the environment.
The 101ZL and 103ZR are both part of Yokohama’s Zenvironment line, which consists of ultra-high-tech truck tires that last longer and are more fuel efficient, says Takao Oishi, president and CEO.
“The 103ZR, at 23/32, is the deepest SmartWay-verified tire. The RY587, which offers premium performance for long-haul trailer applications, delivers a combination of long, even original tread mileage, lower fuel consumption and outstanding durability,” he notes. “The TY517MC2 delivers outstanding traction, long even wear and superior durability while also providing excellent low rolling resistance.”
All of Yokohama’s SmartWay-verified tires, as well as its full Zenvironment line, will be on display at the March 25-27 Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Ky.
“This recognition from the EPA SmartWay program is proof that our technologically advanced tires help save fuel and protect the environment,” Oishi says. “We are proud to be recognized by the EPA for our environmental initiatives, and we look forward to being part of the SmartWay program for years to come.”
This is the second SmartWay recognition Yokohama’s commercial tires have received in just over a year: In January 2009, the RY617 steer tire, 703ZL drive tire and RY587MC2 trailer tire became the first three tires for the company to be approved for use on SmartWay-certified trucks.
Additionally in 2009, Yokohama was named a partner in the program, with status in the “shippers” category, meaning the company ships more than 50 percent 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 metric tons of carbon dioxide and up to 200,000 tons of nitrogen oxide per year by 2012. Carbon dioxide is the most common greenhouse gas, and nitrogen oxide is an air pollutant that contributes to smog.
Launched in 2004, the EPA’s SmartWay program identifies products and services that reduce transportation-related emissions, resulting in significant air quality and/or greenhouse gas improvements while maintaining or improving current levels of other emissions and/or pollutants.
The EPA says companies that participate in SmartWay Transport programs save money, reduce fuel consumption and are recognized for their social responsibility and leadership.
For more information, visit www.epa.gov/smartway www.epa.gov/smartway and www.yokohamatire.com.
