A fourth Continental commercial truck tire, the HTL1 “super single” trailer model, has been added to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) SmartWay Transport Partnership list.

The HTL1 (Heavy Trailer Long-Haul) is a single tire that replaces duals on highway or regional trailer axle fitments.

Based upon information provided by tire manufacturers and the EPA’s own testing and research, the agency determines whether a given tire release can provide a reduction in NOx emissions and an estimated fuel savings of 3 percent or greater for line haul trucks when used on all three axles.

The EPA recently verified that that the HTL1 meets its qualifications for low rolling resistance.

The tire features a 13/32-inch tread depth, which minimizes irregular wear and maximizes fuel efficiency, along with being constructed from an advanced compound, according to Continental spokeswoman Jackie Pobiega. It also has a pyramid stone bumper/ejection system to resist stone retention and casing penetrations.

The SmartWay lineup from the company now covers all three truck axles, including the HSL2 steer tire; the Continental HDL Eco Plus in the drive position; and the Continental HTL Eco Plus and HTL1 for trailers.

Since 2008, Continental has belonged to the SmartWay Transport Partnership as a shipper, using the Freight Logistics Environmental and Energy Tracking (FLEET) Model to quantify its environmental performance level. In its first year of participation the company exceeded its goal of compliance and achieved a FLEET score of 1.14 out of a maximum of 1.25.

For more information, visit www.conti-na.com.